LET’S GET CLEAR, ON OUR NEW CLEAR BAG POLICY
Rochester, NY – As a part of an ongoing commitment to safety and security, aligning with the best practices at regional and major entertainment and athletics venues, the Blue Cross Arena will institute a Clear Bag Policy
Effective January 5, 2026, for all Events held at the Arena.
• Each guest may carry one bag that is clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC, no larger than 12” x 6” x 12” or a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc bag or similar).
• In addition to one of the clear bags noted above, guests may also carry in a small clutch purse no larger than 4.5" x 6.5", approximately the size of a hand, with or without a handle or strap, subject to search.
• Each ticket holder, including children, will be able to carry an approved clear bag and a clutch purse.
• Metal detector screening and a search of all items being carried in will take place at the Blue Cross Arena entrances. There are no provisions available at the Blue Cross Arena to store or safeguard any prohibited bags. Guests will be asked to return prohibited items to their vehicles.
• Diapers and wipes may be carried in a clear bag; however, diaper bags are not permitted.
• Additional clothing, blankets, etc., are permitted if carried loosely or in an approved clear bag.
• Blankets should be carried over the shoulder to be screened more quickly.
Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial, 1 War Memorial Square, Rochester, NY. 14614
• Small approved cameras, binoculars, and cell phones are permitted if carried in a loose or in an approved clear bag.
• An exception will be made for credentialed staff, approved media, and medically necessary items that cannot fit into a clear bag, after proper inspection.
Bags that do not meet the policy will not be permitted to enter the Blue Cross Arena. Disposal/relocation of non-permissible bags will be the responsibility of the owner. No bag check will be available.
Clear Bay Policy Q &A
Below are some frequently asked questions and answers to help guests prepare for the changes.
Why did Blue Cross Arena adopt this policy?
Fan Safety and Experiences for our guests are a top priority of the Blue Cross Arena. In the interest of enhancing existing security measures at events, the Blue Cross Arena will implement a new security policy regulating the size and type of bag that may be carried. Not only is the clear bag policy an important step towards enhancing public safety it will also improve efficiency at our arena entrances. We frequently review our policies against industry standards for arena safety, and clear bags are among the best practices endorsed by security experts, along with metal detection.
What’s allowed into the Blue Cross Arena?
Answer: Clear, uncolored plastic tote bags will be permitted, or guests may use a one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (Ziploc or similar). Additionally, guests may also bring opaque small or clutch-sized purses/wallets, not to exceed 4.5 inches tall by 6.5 inches long, after proper security screening. Only one bag is allowed per ticket holder.
What is not allowed inside the Blue Cross Arena?
Answer: No large purses, bags, diaper bags, backpacks, or fanny-packs will be permitted inside any venue. Staff members are not allowed to hold or store bags during an event.
Can I place my oversized purse inside my clear plastic bag and still gain entrance?
Answer: No. Only bags approximately the size of a hand or smaller will be permitted after proper search. Everything else must be easily visible within the clear plastic bag upon entering the security line.
What if I accidentally bring a bag or item that is not permitted?
Answer: In the event a guest arrives with an unapproved bag, they will be asked to return it to their vehicle or dispose of it at their discretion.
What if I carry medical items that will not fit into a clear plastic bag?
Answer: Staff members are happy to make special accommodations for bags with medical necessity. However, each bag will need to be properly searched and tagged by security before entering.
Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial, 1 War Memorial Square, Rochester, NY. 14614
How do I get through the security line quickly?
Answer: Arrive early. Doors for events typically open 60 minutes prior to the event. Lines can get bogged down with last-minute arrivals, so budgeting extra time for security can help ensure patrons have plenty of time to get in and find their seats.
Where can I purchase an additional clear plastic bag?
Answer: A limited number of bags will be available for purchase at the Blue Cross Arena ticket office. Bags are also available on many online stores.
Tickets can be purchased at the Blue Cross Arena Ticket Office or Ticketmaster.com
Blue Cross Arena is managed by VenuWorks of Rochester, LLC. For more information on Blue Cross Arena, visit: www.Bluecrossarena.com.
About VenuWorks
Since 1996, VenuWorks has specialized in managing and revitalizing venues in mid-sized communities across the U.S. As the nation’s only employee-owned facility management company, VenuWorks takes a community-centered approach, offering tailored strategies for venue operations, programming, marketing, and management to drive cultural and economic growth in the cities it serves.
Blue Cross Arena at the War Memorial 1War Memorial Square Rochester, NY 14616