Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals · Washington, DC
Generally not allowed. For a dietary need, contact the venue first
Capital One Arena food policy
Generally not allowed. For a dietary need, contact the venue first
Outside food and beverages are not allowed as a general rule. Guests with special dietary restrictions may email Guest Relations before their visit for assistance with that rule; the page does not say whether outside food will be approved.
We checked the venue’s rules on October 31, 2026. Rules can change, so check before you go.
Capital One Arena bag policy
No bags, except a small clutch
The arena has a strict no bag policy: bags, backpacks and purses are not allowed inside.
Wallet-size clutches no larger than 4" x 6" are allowed and go through security screening.
The prohibited items list may change for specific events.
Medical and diaper bags: Medical bags and parenting bags no larger than 14" x 14" x 6" are permitted and subject to security screening. Use the entrance at the corner of 6th and F Street.
Food and drinks: Outside food and beverages (including alcoholic beverages) are not allowed for any games, concerts or events. Guests may bring one empty plastic water bottle per person. Guests with special dietary restrictions may contact the Guest Relations department before their visit for assistance. Food you need for a medical diet can have its own rule: see Can you bring food into Capital One Arena?
Carry-in facts
From the venue’s page, checked Oct 20, 2026. Anything not listed here isn’t in the lines we saved from that page, so ask.
Item
Rule
The venue’s words
Backpack
Not allowed
“Bags, backpacks and purses will not be permitted inside the Arena.”
Diaper bag
Allowed if… Parenting bags up to 14 x 14 x 6 in. Screened at entry.
“Wallet-size clutches no larger than 4” x 6”, medical bags and parenting bags no larger than 14” x 14” x 6” will be permitted and subject to security screening.”
Medical bag
Allowed if… Up to 14 x 14 x 6 in. Screened at entry.
“Wallet-size clutches no larger than 4” x 6”, medical bags and parenting bags no larger than 14” x 14” x 6” will be permitted and subject to security screening.”
Food from home
Not allowed
“Fans and patrons are not allowed to bring in outside food and beverages (including alcoholic beverages) for any games, concerts or events.”
Food for a medical need
Read the line
“Guests with special dietary restrictions may contact the Guest Relations department via”
Outside drinks
Not allowed
“Fans and patrons are not allowed to bring in outside food and beverages (including alcoholic beverages) for any games, concerts or events.”
Empty reusable bottle
Allowed if… One empty plastic bottle per person.
“Guests may bring in one empty plastic water bottle per person for their personal use.”
Applies to: all events at Capital One Arena. We checked the venue’s page on October 20, 2026. Rules can change, so check the venue’s page before you go.
Fill in the date and your name, then email it or copy it. Ask a couple of weeks ahead, and bring the answer with you. Going sooner? Ask staff at the gate when you arrive.
