(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Chicago’s New Year's Eve plans are still on, despite the surge in COVID-19 cases across the city.
City leaders confirm that Chicago's official New Year's Eve fireworks show -- which was canceled last year because of the pandemic -- will be back.
Mayor Lightfoot's office said the fireworks show will be Chicago's "largest ever" and will be set off at midnight from eight separate locations, including just south of Navy Pier and seven sites along the Chicago River.
The statement from the mayor's office notes that the display will be outdoors, where the spread of COVID-19 is less likely.
The city's encouraging people planning to come downtown for the free show to be fully vaccinated, and to get tested for coronavirus before attending.
Those visiting Navy Pier on New Year's Eve will be required to wear masks indoors, regardless of vaccination status. The mask must completely cover the mouth and nose when not actively eating or drinking, a press release from Navy Pier stated.
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Guests entering either the Offshore or "New Year on the Pier" parties must also show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or negative test result achieved no more than 72 hours in advance of the event.
Guests attending the "New Year on the Pier" party in the Aon Grand Ballroom also must pass a temperature check. Those exhibiting an elevated temperature will be required to take a free, onsite rapid COVID-19 test before entering.
Anyone with a positive result will not be admitted and will be issued a refund. Any "New Year on the Pier" guest, regardless of temperature result, may ask to take the free COVID-19 test before entering. Guests will be required to wear face masks for the entirety of the party when not actively eating or drinking.