New Rules For Large Events In RI Heading Into Summer Months

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Islanders can expect a far different summer in 2021 than last year, thanks in large part to the state's quickly moving vaccination campaign. The Department of health announced new, updated guidance for large events such as concerts, weddings and graduations that will go into effect in the coming months.

The new guidance is based on the estimate that 70 percent of residents aged 16 and older will have gotten at least one dose of a coronavirus vaccine at least two weeks before by May 15. By June 5, that number is expected to expand to 70 percent of all Rhode Islanders.

Graduations and proms will be allowed this year, Dan McKee said Thursday, though there will be some coronavirus-related requirements such as mask-wearing, 6-foot distancing and dancing only within pods.

More broadly, mask-wearing and social distancing are here to stay at large events until further notice, said Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott. Proof of vaccination or testing requirements may be required at certain indoor functions, as well.

Catered events

Under the current regulations, catered events can have 100 attendees inside or 200 people outside. Up until now, events with 15 or more people had testing requirements, explained Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor, though starting now that has been changed to 50 attendees. Dancing is allowed, though it must be within a "pod," or the people at a single table.

Starting May 15, capacity limits will be raised to 150 people inside or 200 people outside. The limits will again be raised June 5 to 200 people inside or 300 people outside, with more flexibility for dancing outside of set pods.

Events without food

Events that will not serve food will have higher capacity, Alexander-Scott said, with limits rising in three phases.

As of now, events such as concerts can have up to 250 people inside or 500 outside. Starting May 15, this will increase to 500 people inside or 1,000 people outside, followed by 500 people inside or 2,000 people outside on June 5.

Anyone currently planning an event with 500 people or more must reach out to the Department of Business regulation to ensure safety regulations are followed, Alexander-Scott said. Certain exemptions may be made for events that exceed capacity requirements, if a plan is made in advance.

Attendees of indoor events are strongly encouraged to get a coronavirus test 48 hours in advance, Alexander-Scott said, to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in the state.