You may notice some changes in Capital One Arena this season after undergoing $40 million in renovations during the offseason.

Though the talk-of-the-town was new cupholders in the 400-level section, the new Pour Your Own Beer stations is worth discussing.

This new feature could be a brilliant addition to the arena or a potential logistical and technological nightmare. Here’s how it works.

After buying a cup at a nearby vendor stand, fans can then scan the cup at one of the tap stations. The screen then displays to tilt the cup, pull the handle, and watch the beer flow out.

There were a few new beers listed on the screens that haven’t been sold at Capital One Arena in the past, including a Bold Rock Cider, Lonerider Brewing Shotgun Betty, and Hershey, PA local Tröegs Independent Brewing DreamWeaver Wheat.

The PYOB stands, which can be found near section 420, weren’t open yet at the last preseason game but should be up and running for the home opener on Wednesday.

New Bag Policy

Another new change at the arena that could affect your game-day experience is a new bag policy. Like other DC venues, the Capital One Arena bag policy has been lax due to many fans coming straight from work. This year, that will change. Upon entering the game with a small handbag on Sunday, I was given a business card stating my bag was oversized and would not be allowed in the future.

Although my bag did not surpass the size listed, I saw many ladies being handed the card upon entry. After talking to a Capitals ticket representative, he confirmed the policy change but said any rumor of an only clear-bag entry was false.

The bag policy online states:

Only bags that are smaller than 14 inches long, 14 inches tall and 6 inches wide are permitted at Capital One Arena and all bags will be searched upon entering the arena. Capital One Arena reserves the right to refuse items which may cause a danger or disruption to the event or to other guests, or which are in breach of building policies and/or the list of prohibited items. Any guest who declines to be searched or is in possession of prohibited items may be denied entry or ejected from the facility. Please reference the Capital One Arena code of conduct.

Photos: Cara Bahniuk