Indie Nashville Venues Band Together To Enforce COVID Entry Requirements

Last week the 5 Spot and City Winery were among the first independent Nashville venues to announce new COVID-19 entry protocols. These new protocols, which have begun to pop up widely around the country, require patrons to provide either proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test obtained within 48-72 hours of entering the venue or event.

Yesterday (Aug. 10) a wave of new venues and event organizers banded together through the movement #Keep615Live, announcing similar requirements that are set to go into effect over the next week. Among the growing list of independent venues that have adopted these new COVID protocols are the Bluebird Cafe, Exit/In, 3rd & Lindsley, the Basement, the Basement East, the End, the East Room, and the Cannery Complex–the Cannery Ballroom, Mercy Lounge, and the High Watt.

“We love music. We believe in science. Please get vaccinated. Yes, it’s a personal choice, just like holding the door for someone behind you, saying thank you, picking up after your dog, tipping your bartender, and being a decent person who cares about others,” Exit/In shared with patrons on their website. “To enter our establishments, you are required to provide proof that you are fully vaccinated, or proof of a negative COVID-19 test that was administered by or under the supervision of a healthcare provider within 48 hours of the date on which you are attending a show at Exit/In.

Other venues took to social media to share the news to fans, including the Basement and Basement East saying, “The health and safety of fans, artists and staff are paramount to The Basement & The Basement East anytime but especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.⁠.. We will continually assess the information and recommendations provided by the CDC and update our policy as needed.”

The Bluebird Cafe joined the folds as well saying, “We are joining many other local venues in making the health and safety of our staff, songwriters and customers our highest priority. Below you will find a summary of actions we are taking to help ensure we are lowering the risk for spreading COVID-19 as much as possible.”

We’re joining local venues in making health & safety our highest priority. Effective 8/20/21, all patrons artists & staff are required to present proof of Covid-19 vaccination or negative Covid-19 test administered by a healthcare provider and taken within 48 hours of show entry. pic.twitter.com/ehE3qpDsng

— The Bluebird Cafe (@BluebirdCafeTN) August 13, 2021

Over the last week, other events and entertainment companies have made similar announcements, including the three-day outdoor music and arts Bonnaroo festival and Live Nation, which said it will allow artists to mandate their own shows as they see fit.

Tennessee currently has one of the lowest rates of fully vaccinated populations at only 39.7%, placing the state at No. 42 overall, according to the Mayo Clinic. For more information about COVID-19 and how to receive a vaccine, click here.