Artpark Amphitheater will be a fully vaccinated site in 2021

Popular summer venue is ready to go live

Artpark & Company on Wednesday announced, “Following careful review of New York state’s recently updated reopening mandates for large-scale outdoor events, Artpark & Company upon consultation with the Office of New York State Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, has made the decision that only fully vaccinated patrons will be admitted to public events of a capacity above 500 persons in the Artpark Amphitheater this season.

“The policy has been made in accordance with the New York state reopening guidelines issued May 19 and will be in effect until further changes in the New York state-sanctioned guidelines. This policy will help ensure all patrons, artists, employees and volunteers feel safe at concerts at the Artpark Amphitheater this summer.”

Patrons ages 16 and older must provide proof of having completed the COVID-19 vaccination series at least 14 days prior to the date of the performance/event, which will be verified by the New York Excelsior Pass app, or by presenting a vaccination card and photo ID. Temperature checks and a basic COVID-19 health questionnaire are also required at the present time. Social distancing will no longer be required and patrons will not be required to wear facial coverings. Children under 16 who are not vaccinated may attend with a vaccinated adult, but are required to wear a mask.

Ticketholders who either do not intend or do not expect to be fully vaccinated by their event date are able to obtain a full refund for their ticket purchase. For questions regarding refunds, contact the box office at [email protected] or 716-754-9000. Ticketholders will also be contacted via email.

Artpark & Company said this policy only applies to medium- and large-scale events in the Artpark Amphitheater (over a total capacity of 500 persons in 2021). Events currently include: Strawberry Moon Festival (June 19), Blackberry Smoke (July 1), Fitz and the Tantrums (July 6), Chicago (July 31), Brothers Osborne (Aug. 3), Joe Russo’s Almost Dead (Aug. 20), King Crimson (August, TBD), Wilco + Sleater-Kinney (Aug. 26), Blues Traveler (Aug. 29) and Glass Animals (Aug. 30). More concerts will be announced in the coming weeks.

A press release continued, “Artpark is respectful that some are unable or not willing to receive the vaccine, and understand this may be upsetting. As Artpark Amphitheater is an open, general admission venue, with only two public entrances/exits, shared restrooms and concessions areas, it would be very difficult to guarantee a safe, comfortable and equitable environment. Separation of audiences would also diminish the communal and relaxed experience of a live concert for both the audience and performers. We look forward to the time when COVID-19 is no longer a threat to the public and all our visitors will be welcome to our big crowd events.

“In building this season, Artpark also offers a great variety of programs and events accommodating all audiences in smaller gatherings of under 500. These events will include: Artpark Fairy House Festival (June 12), So Percussion (June 13), JP Jofre and the Hard Tango Chamber Band / Alarm Will Sound (Aug. 7), and other new “Music in the Park” concerts (July/August); a Torn Space Theater production (June 18 and 20); Jon Lehrer Dance Co. (July 17); Artpark “Sonic Trails” (now September); outdoor movie series (July-September); camps; and other art, music and theater events held in various locations around the park.”

For events with fewer than 500 in attendance, proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test are not required. Patrons will just be required to maintain social distance and wear a mask if they are not fully vaccinated.

Venue admission policies may continue to change over the course of the summer as New York state and CDC guidance continues to evolve. For a current list of policies and other frequently asked questions, click here. Visit Artpark’s website to find more announcements in the coming weeks.

The Earl W. Brydges Artpark is operated by Artpark & Company Inc. for the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation under a long-term collaborative agreement.