DC Area Concert Venues Toughen Vaccination Policy For Patrons

WASHINGTON, DC — The operator of several concert venues in the Washington, D.C., area will be toughening its vaccination policy by allowing only children under 12 and those with qualifying medical conditions the option of providing a negative COVID-19 test. Everyone else attending events at I.M.P. venues will be required to show proof of a full vaccination against COVID-19.

The new policy takes effect Oct. 17. Until then, the venues’ previously announced policy requiring proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative test from the past 72 hours, along with a matching photo ID, will remain in effect.

The policy applies to all I.M.P. venues: 9:30 Club, Merriweather Post Pavilion, The Anthem and Lincoln Theatre.

Patrons should check individual show webpages because some artists may require a stricter vaccination policy.

For patrons under 12 or with a qualifying medical condition, a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test taken within 48 hours of the show date will be accepted. The FDA has yet to approve any type of COVID-19 vaccination for children under 12.

“Our hope is that all patrons attending shows starting October 17 will choose to become fully vaccinated during this time if they are not already,” I.M.P. said in the announcement Thursday.

All patrons at The Anthem, 9:30 Club and Lincoln Theatre must wear a mask at all times inside the venue regardless of vaccination status until further notice under D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s order that went into effect on July 31.

At Merriweather, masks are not required, but I.M.P. is encouraging everyone to wear one.

RELATED: The Anthem, 9:30 Club Require Vaccination Proof Or Negative Test