Barclays Center, as of now, requiring even vaccinated guests/fans to wear masks, except while eating or drinking

Shortly after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 7/27/21 updated its guidance, "recommending that vaccinated people resume wearing masks in public indoor spaces in areas where the virus is raging" (as per the NY Times), the Barclays Center apparently updated its policies, requiring masks even for vaccinated guests.

As of 6/4/21, according to the Barclays Center's web site, patrons vaccinated for the coronavirus were not required to wear a mask if they were sitting in their seats in the Vaccinated Fan Sections.

Former policy

As of 7/29/21, however, that advice was updated. "Subject to change, vaccinated and non-vaccinated patrons are required to wear a mask at all times unless eating or drinking," the policy says. (Note: that was the date of the NBA draft, and mask wearing does not seem to have been required--not that the CDC recommendation was a requirement.)

Current policy

Raising risk, changing guest experience

That raises two issues. First, given the apparent transmissibility of the Delta variant, even by vaccinated people, the number of people unmasked while eating or drinking raises the level of risk to all somewhat.

Second, the masking requirement changes the fan/guest experience significantly, diminishing the ability to cheer New York Liberty games (which resume Aug. 18)  and, if it remains in place, diminishing the ability to sing along and shout with concerts, scheduled to resume Sept. 19. 

The mask policy, as noted below, is "subject to change and may vary per event." All guests who are not vaccinated must get or show proof of a negative nest. Note that New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio "strongly recommends" indoor masking but has not issued a mandate, the Times reported.

Those getting vaccinated across the street from the arena get free Nets swag.

Ahead of the Garden

Even if the Barclays Center seems to have waited until after the draft, they've updated their policy ahead of Madison Square Garden, which offers a 7/26/21 update stating that "government mandates and our venue protocols are subject to change, so be sure to continue to check back for the latest information. COVID-19 vaccination and testing requirements may also vary by event, so it is important for you to continue to check your specific event page."