New security measures at Millennium Park will be implemented “in the wake of terror attacks in major cities and entertainment venues across the globe,” the city of Chicago announced Tuesday.
Starting May 19, the bustling destination, which hosts a large amount of concerts and cultural events, there will be a bag check and security perimeter for all events at the Jay Prtizker Pavilion, the city said. No firearms knives or other weapons will be allowed in the perimeter.
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“In the wake of terror attacks in major cities and entertainment venues across the globe, the City’s public safety officials have reassessed and strengthened the security measures at one of Chicago’s busiest tourist and cultural destinations,” said Office of Emergency Management and Communications Executive Director Alicia Tate-Nadeau. “We want everyone to enjoy their experience in a safe and secure environment.”
Outside alcohol will be prohibited at seven of the pavilion’s events with the highest attendance:
• May 26: Chicago House Music Festival
• June 8–10: Chicago Blues Festival
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• June 24: Chicago Mariachi Festival
• July 4: Grant Park Music Festival Independence Day Salute
• August 9: Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me
• August 13: Broadway in Chicago Summer Concert
• August 29–September 2: Chicago Jazz Festival
Booze brought from outside the venue will be allowed at the other 70 concerts and programs over the summer, officials said. Attendees will have food and beverage options for purchase at the events where outside alcohol is restricted. Guests will continue to be allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to all events at Millennium Park's Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
"We want everyone who comes to Millennium Park for one of the 80 free summer cultural programs to have a great experience," said Mark Kelly, Commissioner of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, which manages the programs in Millennium Park. "DCASE will be working to implement the new security plan and alcohol policy with the visitor's experience in mind."
Visitors at Millennium Park are reminded that if they see something suspicious to say something to on-site security personnel or call 911.
