It’s been a long haul without gathering with family and friends over the past year and a half.
Since the pandemic began, household gatherings have been put on hold, and outdoor visits were extremely limited, to avoid the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
During today’s press conference, BC health officials announced a four-step ‘return to normal life’, outlining different phases that are a part of a gradual restart, including gatherings.
With more than 60% of adults vaccinated with their first dose and COVID-19 case counts and hospitalizations steadily declining, the province is moving forward with the first step of their plan for a careful and safe restart.
This includes the reopening of indoor dining today which has also been extended to up to 6 people per table – those at your table do not have to be within your household bubble.
“British Columbians have sacrificed so much over the last 15 months to help keep people and our communities safe,” said Premier John Horgan.
“We have made tremendous strides with our vaccination program, and we are now in a position where we can move forward with a plan to slowly bring us back together.”
Beginning today, May 25th, the following gatherings will be permitted:
- Maximum of 5 visitors or one household allowed for indoor personal gatherings
- Maximum of 10 people for outdoor personal gatherings
- Maximum of 10 people for seated indoor organized gatherings with safety
protocols - Maximum of 50 people for seated outdoor organized gatherings with safety
protocols
As of June 15th, Step 2 of the proposed plan, the following is expected to be permitted:
- Maximum of 50 people for outdoor social gatherings
- Maximum of 50 people for seated indoor organized gatherings (banquet halls,
movie theatres, live theatre) with safety protocols - Spectators for outdoor sports (50 maximum)
As of July 1st, Step 3 of the proposed plan, the following is expected to be permitted:
- Returning to usual for indoor and outdoor personal gatherings
- Increased capacity for indoor and outdoor organized gatherings, with safety plans
The fourth and last phase of the ‘return to normal life’ expected to happen in early September, will see the following:
- Returning to normal social contact
- Increased capacity at larger organized gatherings
- No limits on indoor and outdoor spectators at sports
Although the stages have been announced, it is important to remain patient and follow the guidelines and restrictions in place. Follow mask guidance, stay home and get tested when you’re sick and consider others in your decisions.
