First Avenue to require vaccine proof or test results at all concerts - Minneapolis Star Tribune

Concertgoers will have to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or negative test results to get into a show at First Avenue or any of its sister venues.

The Twin Cities' leading independent concert promoter announced the new policy Monday — effective immediately — following a steady wave of reports on rising COVID-19 cases around the country attributable to the delta variant, including news from New Orleans of two famous venues shutting down after workers there tested positive for the virus.

Patrons will have to show either proof of a full series of vaccination, completed at least 14 days prior, or proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the event.

Anyone not vaccinated will be asked to wear a mask even with a negative test.

In Louisiana, where vaccine rates are among the lowest in the country and infection rates are rapidly rising, several New Orleans music venues announced last week they would implement the same policies First Ave has announced.

Within hours of First Avenue's announcement, the Hook & Ladder's staff announced it will follow the same policies requiring proof of vaccine or negative tests for shows inside the venue.