Mask Requirement Lifted At United Center, Proof Of Vax Remains

CHICAGO — After months of being required to wear masks to enter the United Center for Bulls and Blackhawks games, as well as concerts, arena officials announced on Monday that face coverings will be optional starting this week.

While fans will be permitted to show their faces, they will also be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to gain entry, officials said Monday.

The new entry regulations will go into effect for Thursday’s Blackhawks-Oilers game and for the Bulls’ game against the defending the NBA-champion Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. The United Center said that the regulations requiring proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test will remain in place until further notice.

“The United Center has taken a proactive approach to health and safety measures during the COVID-19 pandemic,” officials said in a statement. “The decision to continue to require proof of full vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is representative of the continued commitment to providing the best environment for all plans and employees.”

In addition to the upcoming Bulls and Blackhawks games, the entry policy will be in place for the upcoming Sweet 16 and Elite 8 NCAA Tournament games, which will be played at the United Center in March.

The Centers For Disease Control and Prevention released guidance last week recommending masks in indoor environments in areas where there is a high transmission rate of COVID-19. The City of Chicago is currently in a low-risk area, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.