Reopening Updates, Restrictions, and Creative Safety Measures
We’ve said it before, and we’ll repeat it: the only constant is change, and it’s no secret that COVID-19 has changed our world.
With that in mind, it’s hard to keep up with what’s allowed and not allowed during this pandemic. We’re here today to share some developments from Eventbrite’s “Events Industry Report.” We’ll be highlighting the latest updates regarding reopenings across the U.S., along with new safety measures put in place that directly affect the sports and entertainment industries.
Vaccine Updates
With new brands and a greater supply of COVID-19 vaccines now available, the U.S. has started to see a decline in new cases. Johnson & Johnson recently released results about its upcoming vaccine from their late-stage study. Single shot, meaning more vaccinations and a quicker distribution rate.
BREAKING: Johnson & Johnson says it has asked U.S. regulators to OK its one-shot COVID-19 vaccine. https://t.co/sm6o2rhy7D
— The Associated Press (@AP) February 4, 2021
Managing COVID-19 Restrictions
Ongoing restrictions are forcing venues and events to implement creative new ways to operate safely. The Flaming Lips, during their live concert in Oklahoma City, performed in actual bubbles – in front of their fans who were inside their own clear, giant spheres as well.
NFL
The results from a joint study done by the NFL and the CDC were recently released – shining a light on league protocols, including COVID-19 testing, mandatory mask use, and consistent contact tracing. See the graphic below for key study data.
A quick look at some states…
California
While the state is still in the midst of raging a battle against coronavirus, stay-at-home orders have now been lifted. Outdoor dining and selective activities can resume, however LA establishments were prohibited from offering TV viewing of the Super Bowl to avoid crowds of loitering fans. Another hard pill for music fans everywhere, Coachella was cancelled for the second year in a row.
Due to the pandemic, Public Health Officer Dr. Cameron Kaiser today (Jan. 29) signed a public health order canceling Coachella Valley Music and Arts, Stagecoach Country Music festivals planned for April 2021. We look forward to when the events may return. https://t.co/YAIn8uTea9
— Dr. Cameron Kaiser (@RivCoDoc) January 29, 2021
Tennessee
Indoor gathering restrictions expired as of January, with school and sporting event restrictions lifted soon after.
New York
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced recently that restrictions on large scale weddings will be lifted soon. Effective Mar. 15, couples will be allowed to celebrate with up to 150 of their family and friends – as long as mandatory testing and monitoring are in place. Indoor dining also resumed at 25% occupancy beginning Feb. 12, allowing restaurant owners to take advantage of Valentine’s weekend. Not noted in Eventbrite’s Report, New York stadiums can open at 10% capacity to fans on Feb. 23.
Nebraska
Indoor gatherings have returned in Nebraska – with maximum capacity increasing to 100%. Events with over 500 people will be required to submit a reopening plan and get prior approval from their local health department.
While the only constant is change, the best weapon is knowledge when planning events. For more information on how we can help, click the button below.