The Coronavirus pandemic has changed how we socialize and gather depending on the state that we live in. As we head into mid-spring with warmer weather at the Jersey Shore, we are typically preparing for packed festivals, boardwalk strolls, and lazy days on a busy beach soaking up the sun.
While we’re still straddling the line between being vaccinated and unvaccinated with the coronavirus variants continuing to threaten some of the peace of mind that comes with the former, the types of fun we can have at the Jersey Shore will certainly look a little different this year.
Despite a continuing pandemic, the community event boards are still looking quite full. Frequent email notifications from Ticketmaster and Stubhub have made it clear that live music intends to make its comeback this year.
I’m personally being bombarded with sales from amusement parks like Jenkinson’s and Six Flags calling for my return — and the contents of my wallet. Please don’t tell my kids just yet.
Let’s take a look at what else to expect and how to plan while attending events in the spring and summer of 2021.
Prepare to be outside…a lot.
Most venues will opt to host events outdoors where there is less concern about ventilation and allows for a higher capacity of people. As long as the weather is nice, this is what most of us strive for in the summertime, so this shouldn’t be a risky changeup from what we’re used to.
You should plan to dress accordingly and look into rain dates or cancellation policies due to bad weather for these events.
Hybrid Events
Like we’ve seen with SXSW and NY Comic-Con, most large-scale events are already implementing this model, combining live events with access to online alternatives. While it helps the event recoups some of what they lost last year, it’s expanding access to those who can’t attend or are still uncomfortable venturing out into this new world. There are sure to be options for everyone.
Limited Attendance and Registration requirements
Although Governor Murphy has decreased the capacity limitations on events statewide, with so many suffering from COVID fatigue and anxious to get out, there is still a need to monitor how many people are within a space. Expect registration requirements for many events, even those that never had that type of requirement before.
Consider going in smaller groups and book simultaneously to ensure your group can get in at the same time. Assigned seating or mandatory spacing To meet CDC guidelines of required spacing of three to six feet between people, attendees may be assigned to seats or tables to ensure proper social distancing.
Call ahead to gauge expectations if you’re not sure how it works for groups.
Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test
A vaccine passport is unlikely to become a requirement for New Jersey residents. Still, private businesses, venues, or maybe even the bride and groom of that summer wedding you were invited to may require a negative COVID test or proof of vaccination to cover themselves and guarantee the safety of those in attendance. If you’re not vaccinated, be sure to schedule a test in advance to ensure you have results by the deadline.
Wear a mask
No matter what side of the political aisle you stand, a mask is sure to be a requirement for many venues. If you cannot wear a mask, call ahead to check on each location’s expectations and conditions. Whatever happens this season, the changes will keep happening as we continue heading in a direction that reduces the spread of this virus and increases the wellbeing of people everywhere. Remember that these alterations to our pastimes are to get us to reach the precipice of whatever normal will be moving forward. We have to embrace that new routine and get back to enjoying the things we love to do, even if we do have to do them a little differently than what we’re used to.
Hang in there, folks. We’re almost there.