People jam-packed next to each other, jumping and jostling with the rhythm of the music, embody the idea of a concert. Said concerts paired with the current social distancing protocol seems like an oxymoron, so how are the concerts opening now ensuring safety against COVID-19 for their audiences?

At many outdoor venues such as Hollywood Bowl and the Greek Theatre, masks are still required; that doesn’t mean every person wears them once they enter the venue. Although most popular venues do require a proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test, the risk of catching COVID or even getting sick is still very high, according to Cleveland Clinic

Furthermore, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci, Omicron might just get everyone. Events like Coachella announced that this year’s music festival will still be happening even with Omicron. 

Sophomore Avery LaSota went to the Hollywood Bowl last October for the We Can Survive 2021 concert. She described her experience as nonideal.

“I noticed that a lot of people weren’t wearing masks, even when they weren’t eating, and it was a bit uncomfortable so I kept my mask on,” LaSota said. 

Given that most venues have a no bag, small bag or clear bag policy, bringing certain items essential to COVID safety may be difficult. 

“I advise people going to concerts during COVID to bring a small bag with phone, money, charger, extra mask and some hand sanitizer. With so many people everywhere I always sanitized my hands,” LaSota said. 

When picking tickets, areas with less people, such as the end of aisle seats, are better for social distancing purposes.

“I sat at the end of an aisle which was really good so I could leave easily and avoid big crowds at the end of the concert. But, I chose an area where there were a lot of people which made it very crowded and busy,” LaSota said. 

According to LaSota, another tip to reduce the risk of getting COVID is to eat before the concert.

“Depending on when the show is, I like to eat before so I don’t have to take off my mask to eat all the time at the actual show, unrelated to covid, but concert food is also way more expensive,” LaSota said. 

Going back to concerts after COVID can always be difficult and you might not be sure what to do. LaSota has some advice on how to help you.

“My advice to any teens planning on going to a concert with their friends is to pick isolated seats if possible, bring extra masks, hand sanitizer, and bring your vax card or negative covid test. Also keep your mask on!” LaSota said.