2020 is coming to a close, and for that, people will be celebrating. This year has been difficult in so many ways. People have lost their jobs, their home, and their businesses. Some have even lost their own life or a loved one. Many of us have been unable to see our family and friends, and vacations have been canceled. The start of a new year will bring hope of vaccine and life as we knew it before the pandemic. While it may seem like all of this calls for a large celebration to say good riddance to this difficult year, we must not forget that we are still living in a pandemic. With all of this in mind, and so many people having conflicting opinions floating around, there is certainly an elephant in the room – Should you have a New Years Eve party during COVID?
Should You Have a New Years Eve Party During COVID?: Staying Safe in a Pandemic
Risks and Safety
The CDC is urging people to stay at home this holiday season. This is the only sure way to avoid COVID. When people from different households get together, they are risking being exposed to Covid. The more people there are at a gathering, the higher the risk is. According to the CDC, “The size of a holiday gathering should be determined based on the ability of attendees from different households to stay 6 feet apart, wear masks, wash hands, and follow state [and] local… guidelines.” If you must see others that do not live with you, so so outdoors, with masks, spread at least 6 feet apart.
Of course, what the party attendees have been doing for the past few weeks before your party also need to be taken into consideration. If they have been doing a hard quarantine and not seeing anyone outside their household for 2 weeks, they are not going to pose a big risk. On the other hand, if your guests have been mingling with other people, choosing to not wear a mask, or not taking precautions, they could present a higher risk of spreading the virus. Take all of this into consideration when you decide if you should have a New Years Eve Party during COVID.
Alternatives
If you must through a New Years Eve party during COVID, you will need to make adjustments to do so safely. For example, you could have a zoom party instead. While that is not ideal, there are definitely things we all must sacrifice during a pandemic. Plus, it will make next years in-person party that much more special. Have a virtual toast, and count down to the new year together even though you’re apart. You can even blow air kisses! Many big events, including the NYC celebration in Times Square, will be virtual as well.
Another option is to just have a celebration with the people in your household. Grab your roomies or your family that share the same roof as you, and celebrate together. While the crowd may be smaller than you were hoping, you can still make it a really festive event. Serve hors d’oeuvres, dress up, and go all out.
