Chicago’s Metro to require vaccination for all concertgoers

Music fans heading to upcoming shows at the Metro will be required to show proof of vaccination in order to enter the Wrigleyville concert hall.

The popular indie and alternative music venue announced the new policy Tuesday amid concern over rising COVID-19 numbers in Chicago and other parts of the country due to the Delta variant and slowing vaccination rates.

Unlike Lollapalooza, which allowed unvaccinated attendees to enter by providing a current negative COVID-19 test, Metro says it won’t allow anyone into the venue who cannot show proof of vaccination. Everyone will also be required to show a government-issued photo ID, and it’s recommended that all patrons wear masks.

It’s possible the mask recommendation also becomes a requirement in the near future, as Metro noted “these policies are subject to change based on city and state guidelines.” Health officials are currently recommending that everyone above the age of 2 — vaccinated or not — wear masks indoors to limit spread of the Delta variant of the coronavirus.

Chicago has not yet taken the same measures as New York City, which recently announced it’ll soon require proof of vaccination to enter restaurants, gyms, theaters, and other indoor spaces.

Mayor Lori Lightfoot said Tuesday she doesn’t regret allowing Lollapalooza to be held and isn’t concerned it will become a super-spreader event.