Last month after what felt like an eternity for the events and hospitality industry, New York state announced some great news, weddings and events would again be able to take place in the state, Yay!
Whilst this isn’t an end to the Covid19 pandemic restrictions, it is a huge step in the right direction and it means that with a few changes and consideration, the time of indefinitely postponing events is at an end. We’ve broken down the protocols and restrictions into bite sizes pieces to give you a head start on your pandemic event planning and organization.
What procedures and restrictions are in place for event venues?
To ensure enough space for social distancing venues is restricted to 50% of their maximum capacity. So for example, if the venue can accommodate up to 500 people, your event can have a maximum of 250 people in attendance. The maximum number of attendees currently allowed per event is 250 for indoor events and 500 for outdoors. All venues also have a responsibility to notify the local health department of large events taking place in advance.
All of the venues we work with have responsibly implemented increased and robust hygiene and safety standards.
Will attendees have to be tested for Covid19?
Yes, a negative test is required for all guests over the age of two years, hosts, vendors, and event planning staff. Antigen tests are also acceptable providing the results are no older than 6 hours at the start of the event.
Will vaccinated attendees still need to provide a test result?
We would recommend checking this with your venue. Proof of vaccination (at least 14 days prior to the event) may be accepted but as vaccination developments continue to be monitored, some venues may insist that vaccinated guests also provide a negative test result.
What about face masks?
Again, it’s a yes. Everyone should wear a face covering over their nose and mouth at all times unless seated for drinks or meals. Exceptions to face coverings apply to children under the age of 2 and those attendees with medical exemptions.
How will contact tracing effect my event?
As with testing and face coverings, all event attendees must provide contact tracing information, before or upon arrival at an event. Everyone including guests, vendors and hosts will need to provide their full name, date of birth, address, and telephone contact information. In addition, attendees can expect to be asked some health screening questions regarding potential recent exposure to the Covid19 virus. Information for children in attendance should be provided by a parent or guardian.
What about entertainment?
Live music and entertainment is allowed to take place, provided performers are able to be separated from attendees by a distance of 12 feet.
Are things likely to change?
As the state continues to monitor potential Covid19 outbreaks and hot spots, event numbers can be curtailed depending on state cluster zones. We would strongly recommend working with an experienced event planner or venue finder to make sure you have cancellation or amendment options in your venue contract should a new cluster outbreak occur.
How can an event planner help me negotiate the new regulations?
The Best venues New York team have recently become Certified Covid Compliance Officers, this means that in addition to extensive venue sourcing and event planning experience, we’re now certified to help make your conference or event as Covid19 safe as possible. We can guide you through the regulations as well as giving you the best advice on how to make your event a success during the ongoing pandemic. Get in touch with Anna and the team today to discuss your individual requirements.