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Fans take photos during annual red carpet event outside the United Center. Credit: Chicago Blackhawks Photos

CHICAGO — Blackhawks and Bulls fans can return to games at the United Center.

The United Center hasn’t welcomed fans since the coronavirus pandemic came to Chicago in March 2020, as large gatherings of people created more risk for the spread of COVID-19 — especially when people are indoors. The stands have remained empty even as players returned to play.

But the United Center — and other large indoor venues — can now have a limited number of fans return, officials announced Thursday. The city is loosening its coronavirus restrictions as more people get vaccinated and new cases fall, among other metrics.

Larger indoor venues for seated spectator events — including the United Center, theaters and concert venues — can now operate at 25 percent capacity. Smaller indoor venues for such events can operate at the lesser of 50 percent capacity or 50 people.

RELATED: Festivals Are Back, United Center Can Reopen And More As Chicago Loosens Coronavirus Restrictions

The White Sox and Cubs were able to reopen Guaranteed Rate Field and Wrigley Field to fans this spring, but with coronavirus safety rules, like a 20 percent capacity limit. Those stadiums are also outside, where it is harder for COVID-19 to spread.

Over the year, the United Center has been used as a citywide polling place and its parking lot is a mass vaccination center.

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