LEWISTON, N.Y. — Artpark announced Wednesday that they will only allow fully vaccinated patrons to be admitted to events with a capacity of more than 500.
Artpark says they made decision following a review of New York State's updated reopening mandates for large-scale outdoor events.
"In response to the new guidelines that were just issued on May 19th we adopted this policy that makes sense for our specific venue," said Sonia Kozlova Clark, the president of Artpark.
We have seen venues such as Sahlen Field with vaccinated and unvaccinated seating. Artpark says financially and in terms of health and safety that doesn't make sense for them.
"It would be close to impossible to separate everyone in the way that would be comfortable," Kozlova said. "The social distancing guidelines in a free standing setting general admission setting such as Artpark is about four times less than no distancing so that also went into our consideration."
Those attending events at Artpark ages 16 and older must provide proof of having completed the COVID-19 vaccination series at least 14 days prior to event date.
These are the events scheduled so far with an anticipated capacity of more than 500:
- Strawberry Moon Festival (June 19)
- Blackberry Smoke (July 1)
- Fitz and the Tantrums (July 6)
- Chicago (July 31)
- Brothers Osborne (August 3)
- Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (August 20)
- King Crimson (August, tbd)
- Wilco + Sleater-Kinney (August 26)
- Blues Traveler (August 29)
- Glass Animals (Aug 30)
Vaccinations will be verified by either the NYS voluntary Excelsior Pass or a vaccination card with photo ID.
Temperature checks and a COVID health questionnaire are also required.
Patrons will not have to wear a face mask, and social distancing will not be required.
Children under 16, who are not vaccinated, may attend with a vaccinated adult, but are required to wear a mask.
Artpark reminds people there are smaller events this summer where vaccination won't be required.
"World class performers coming and doing some performances in our new music in the park series our Fairy House Festival, we'll do outdoor movies," said David Wedekindt, vice president of Concerts and Marketing at Artpark.
What about other concert venues?
"All venues have the option of going to 100 percent capacity for fully vaccinated people," said Governor Andrew Cuomo.
Darien Lake says as concerts approach later this summer, venue guidelines will be shared with ticket holders and be posted online.
Shea's still says they plan to reopen in September.
If you purchased tickets for an event, and either do not intend or do not expect to be fully vaccinated by their event date, you are able to obtain a full refund for your ticket purchase.
For questions regarding refunds, you can contact Artpark's box office at artpark@artpark.net or (716) 754-9000.