The Oshkosh Arena is adopting a new, mandatory clear bag policy effective immediately to enhance patron safety, facility management firm VenuWorks announced in preparation for the busy holiday season.

Under the new rules, which are a strategy aimed at ensuring a safer and more efficient entry process for all guests, clear bags with dimensions no larger than 10 inches by six inches by two inches will be permitted inside the venue. 

“This policy helps us create a safer environment while ensuring that guests can still bring essential items in a way that is quick and efficient during entry,” Andy Linton, VenuWorks Executive Director, said.

While the clear bag rule is strict, the arena will allow bags of any size that are used for medical purposes, in addition to lactation bags and diaper bags. 

The new bag restriction is one component of the arena’s comprehensive security policy, which prohibits a variety of items to maintain a safe environment, including weapons of any kind, as well as alcohol and illegal substances.

“Our top priority is the safety and security of everyone who visits Oshkosh Arena,” Linton said. 

VenuWorks announced the new patron policy as the venue prepares to host two shows this week — Ozzy’s Birthday Bash featuring Crazy Train Dec. 3 and Lonestar Christmas and Hits Tour with Collin Raye Dec. 4. 

Also in December, the Harlem Globetrotters’ 100 Year Tour will be using the facility on New Year’s Eve, and the UW Oshkosh’s basketball teams will be hosting the BSN Winter Classic Dec. 28-29.

The Wisconsin Herd, the NBA G-League team for the Milwaukee Bucks, hosts the Grand Rapids Gold (Dec. 13) and the Iowa Wolves (Dec. 14 and 16) at the arena later this month.

“Oshkosh is a safe and welcoming community, in part, because community members come together in the spirit of keeping it that way,” Linton said. “That’s what we are asking everyone to embrace with this new bag policy.”