Expect Extra Security At This Weekend's Bears Game And The Mag Mile Lights Fest
By Kate Shepherd in News on Nov 20, 2015 9:40PM
A week after the tragic attacks in Paris that left 130 people dead, security is being beefed up at two major events downtown this weekend. Extra precautions are being taken at the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival on Saturday and the Bears-Broncos game at Soldier Field on Sunday.
Nearly a million people are expected downtown on Saturday for the annual lights festival and parade and while authorities say there's no specific threat to the event, they want to make sure everyone is safe, according to ABC7.
Dozens of police in uniforms, in plain clothes or special units will be out on Michigan Avenue. during the event and they might even search bags. The event's organizers are asking attendees to say something if they see something suspicious.
The Bears also aren't taking any risks during their game against the Denver Broncos Sunday afternoon and are asking that fans arrive to the stadium up to two hours before kickoff. The NFL has recommended enhanced security procedures at all stadium gates that will require extra time for inspections and screening at security checkpoints, the team said on their website.
The gates will open at 10 a.m. and they're asking fans to be patient while entering the stadium. Fans and their belongings may be searched and anyone who does not consent to a search will be denied entry.
More information on the NFL's bag policy can be found on the Bears' site.