Wrigley COVID-19 rules to know as it opens to full capacity originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Friday will be a special day at Wrigley Field as 100 percent fan capacity returns for the first time since September 2019.
The Cubs started the season hosting 25 percent capacity before shifting to 60 percent late last month. The increase to 100 is just in time for their first series against the Cardinals at the Friendly Confines this season.
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Friday’s atmosphere is sure to be “rockin’,” as outfielder Joc Pederson said Wednesday. It’s a big step in a return to normalcy, but here are some COVID-19 rules fans will still have to follow.
Masking
While face masks are no longer required at Wrigley for fans and staff who are fully vaccinated, they are required for those who are not fully vaccinated — unless actively eating or drinking while seated.
Masks should fully cover one’s mouth and nose, and neck gaiters and masks with exhalation valves are not permitted.
The Cubs recommend those at severe risk for COVID-19 to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status.
Physical distancing
Although capacity restrictions have been lifted, the Cubs ask fans not congregate on the concourse. Wrigley staff members will be positioned on the concourse to direct traffic and minimize congestion.
Entry to the ballpark
With the change to full capacity, Wrigley’s gates will now open two hours before first pitch. Tickets are still exclusively mobile, so the touchless entry process/self-scanning system implemented at the start of the season remains in place.
Each mobile ticket includes a specific gate to enter to limit congestion.
Bag restrictions
Bag restrictions implemented at the start of the season also remain. Medical and diaper bags are permitted, while only purses and wallets smaller than 9-by-5 inches are allowed.
Under the touchless entry process, phones, wallets and keys do not have to be removed before going through the metal detector at the gate.
Cashless transactions
All ballpark purchases are cashless, including from concession stands, vendors and retail shops. Payments can be made via credit card, debit card or mobile wallet. Fans can also use the MLB Ballpark app to make purchases, including ordering food and beverages to their seats.
Reverse ATMs are stationed at the ballpark to convert cash to a card for purchases at Wrigley or elsewhere. Wintrust ATMs are also stationed for those who need cash after leaving Wrigley.
Cleaning and disinfecting
Wrigley Field staff will perform a deep cleaning of seats and utilized areas before and after each game, as well as throughout each game in high-traffic spaces and high-touch surfaces.
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