CLEVELAND — The Grog Shop announced that it, along with more than a dozen regional music clubs and theaters, will require proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry into their establishments, according to an announcement on Facebook.
The Grog Shop said the decision follows a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases statewide and a growing number of similar announcements by cities and other venues.
RELATED: The Agora in Cleveland requiring customers to be vaccinated by Oct. 1 to attend shows
On Tuesday, the Ohio Department of Health reported 3,235 COVID-19 cases. There have been three days in the last week with more than 3,000 newly reported cases. Prior to the past week, ODH said there hadn’t been a single day with over 3,000 newly reported cases since February.
Beachland Ballroom, located in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood, is among the local venues that will require a vaccination card or a negative test.
"Many national touring bands are now requiring that venues have a policy of only vaccinated staff members on site during their show and that patrons also prove they have been vaccinated or are COVID negative,” said Cindy Barber, Co-Owner of Beachland Ballroom & Tavern.
“And some may still require masks, but this policy may help keep our schedules mostly intact," she added. “As Northeast Ohio venues, we all want to have the same base policy so our fans can understand and feel protected when they come out to support live music."
The new policy will go into effect no later than Sept. 7. Patrons will be required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test within hours of entry at venues through Northeast Ohio.
The Grog Shop said it will have specifics related to the policy by the end of the day.
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