The purpose of these guidelines is to limit the spread of COVID-19. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that spreads through person-to-person contact, or (less likely) by contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus. People infected with COVID-19 may become symptomatic anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure. Limiting the number of people gathered in one area limits the spread of disease, reduces the number of people who become severely ill and protects our health care system.

These guidelines apply to all public and private gatherings. A “gathering” is any event that brings together people in a single room, or space at the same time such as auditoriums, stadiums, large conference rooms, meeting halls or any other indoor or outdoor space.

There is no evidence to date that demonstrates that outdoor gatherings are completely safe. The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and COVID-19 spreading.

The impact of a pandemic—such as that presented by COVID-19—can be best managed through limiting exposure to the virus. This imperative requires public health to recommend that all citizens and businesses limit the situations where the virus can spread rapidly

By “social distancing,” and not offering or attending events that bring large groups of people together, we will save lives, particularly of those most vulnerable to the virus, such as older residents.

Let’s all do our part to keep our community and visitors safe!



CDC Considerations for the Events and Gatherings