Alexandria's Birchmere Requires Vaccination Or Negative Test

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The Birchmere, an entertainment venue in Alexandria's Arlandria neighborhood, implemented a COVID-19 vaccination requirement on Wednesday.

Effective Wednesday, all attendees, artists and staff will need to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test 72 hours before attending an event. The venue will accept three types of documentation: a physical vaccination card, digital copy of a vaccination card that matches a person's photo ID or negative test within the past 72 hours that matches a person's photo ID. A physical or digital test will be accepted.

Upon announcing the policy on Aug. 17, the venue said the vaccination policy intends "to help protect our patrons, artists and staff."

Per city and CDC guidance, attendees should wear a mask when not seated. The Birchmere will update policies as it sees fit. For more information and upcoming shows, visit The Birchmere's website.

The Birchmere joins other DC area venues with a vaccination requirement. I.M.P. venues — 9:30 Club, Merriweather Post Pavilion, The Anthem and Lincoln Theatre — require proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative test from the past 72 hours. But starting Oct. 17, the venues will only allow children under 12 and those with qualifying medical conditions the option of providing a negative COVID-19 test. Jiffy Lube Live's vaccination or testing requirement will take effect on Oct. 4, although certain artists may have their own vaccination requirement for attendees. Wolf Trap will implement a vaccine or testing venue for shows at its indoor venue, The Barns at Wolf Trap.