When To Expect Looser Coronavirus Restrictions For RI Weddings

PROVIDENCE, RI — With Rhode Island's coronavirus data continuing to improve, the state could see looser restrictions on large events, just in time for wedding season. On Thursday, Commerce Secretary Stefan Pryor said the department hopes to allow 100 people or more at events by April.

Under the current restrictions, catered events can have up to 30 attendees indoors or 50 people outdoors. Weddings have slightly more flexibility and can have up to 50 people in attendance.

The final decision and timing of changes will depend on the state's coronavirus data, including how prevalent more transmissible variants, such as the one first found in the United Kingdom. However, Pryor said that his department anticipates expanding all catered events, not just weddings, to 100 people indoors or 150 people outside.

Strict safety restrictions are expected to remain in place, such as mask requirements, social distancing of guests and requirements that all attendees get tested for COVID-19 before the event.

Are you a newlywed in Rhode Island? Patch wants to hear from you! Fill out this form and email a photo to rachel.nunes@patch.com. (Please use a photo taken by you or a member of your wedding party and include a photo credit. If taken by a professional, please include their contact information.)

Coronavirus in Rhode Island: Read more

• Rhode Island To Receive More Coronavirus Vaccines Next Week
• Declining Coronavirus Cases, Hospitalizations In RI Spark Hope
  
• Where To Get The Coronavirus Vaccine In Rhode Island
  
• Severe Weather Causes Shipping Delay For RI Coronavirus Vaccines
  
• When To Expect New Appointments For RI Coronavirus Vaccine Sites