Outdoor sports and event arenas/stadiums will now be allowed to reopen starting April 1. This announcement came from California Governor Gavin Newsom on March 3. The capacity that these arenas can hold depends on the state-defined “tier” that a specific county is in. In the purple tier, the amount is capped at 100 people. In the red tier, 20% capacity is allowed, in the orange tier 33% is allowed and in the yellow tier, up to 67% capacity is permitted. Indoor venues will remain closed for the time being. 

The decision comes as the number of people vaccinated increases and the COVID-19 case rate decreases.

“With case rates and hospitalizations significantly lower, the arrival of three highly effective vaccines and targeted efforts aimed at vaccinating the most vulnerable communities, California can begin gradually and safely bringing back more activities,” California Health and Human Services Secretary Dr. Mark Ghaly said.

The San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels and Oakland A’s have all announced that they will allow fans in the stands for their opening games. 

Concessions will be delivered directly to seats and cash will not be accepted in the stadiums.

The long closure of these large stadiums, have resulted in layoffs and furloughs to stadium employees. With stadiums back in business, employees are now able to serve fans and receive their paycheck.  

“Today’s announcement is focused on building in some of the compelling science about how the virus behaves, and how activities when done a certain way can reduce risk,” Ghaly said.

The announcement has California sports fans thrilled.

“I’m super excited,” Oak Park High School junior and Dodgers fan Evan Einbund said. “I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to attend.”