Alaska State Fair implements security measures for 2022 concerts

PALMER — The Alaska State Fair recently announced that public safety inspections will be conducted during the 2022 AT&T Concert Series at the ConocoPhillips Borealis Theatre this year to ensure the security and safety of its guests.

According to a recent press release, anyone entering the concert area is subject to a metal-detector screening, visual inspection, bag inspection, and pat down from security personnel.

“We thank our loyal fairgoers for their patience and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for our guests, performers, and staff. This has been a long time coming as headlining artist’s management have been requiring more enhanced security measures at large venues,” Alaska State Fair CEO Jerome Hertel stated in the press release. “Our goal is to keep patrons and artists safe while providing a more enjoyable concert experience for years to come.”

Concerts typically open up to guests 60 to 75 minutes before showtime. To help facilitate a smooth and efficient process, concert-goers are asked to arrive early and prepare for additional security measures.

Bags, backpacks, and purses will not be allowed under the Fair’s no-bag policy. Wallets and small, clutch-style, single-pocket purses no larger than 4 inches by 7 inches will be permitted but subject to inspection.

Concert guests with specific needs will receive accommodations for items that are medical in nature.

Guests are asked to have phones, keys, and any other metal objects ready to place in the tray and unzip all jackets for security screenings.

Each person should carry their own ticket instead of having one person carry all the tickets for the group.

According to the press release, the Fair cannot guarantee on-time entry if the majority of the audience arrives close to showtime.

Concert-goers can continue to wear hats, belts, shoes and jewelry. They’re asked to limit items brought to the venue and to leave all bags and prohibited items at home, or return them to their vehicles.

For a list of prohibited items and general information, visit alaskastatefair.org.

Contact Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman reporter Jacob Mann at jacob.mann@frontiersman.com