Per guidance from the CDC and based on Chicago's current local COVID-19 data, the Chicago Department of Public Health is requiring that everyone age two or older, regardless of vaccination status, wear masks in public indoor settings, effective this Friday. The requirement allows masks to be removed while patrons are actively eating or drinking.

The new mandate will impact fans attending Saturday's Bears-Bills preseason game. Some areas considered indoors at Soldier Field include the United Club, Miller Lite Midway, Pro Shop, North Garage, bathrooms, elevators and enclosed hallways. Open-air concourse areas and the seating bowl are considered outside. This protocol will remain in place until the Chicago Department of Public Health determines the mask mandate is no longer necessary.

Masking remains optional in outdoor settings, though masks are recommended for unvaccinated individuals in crowded outdoor settings.