Protocol for the Mass Gathering at Festivals during COVID-19 (Adapted from CDC Guidelines)

Managing Epidemiological Risk 

Large gatherings bring together many people from multiple households in a private or public space. Large gatherings are often planned events with a large number of guests and invitations. They sometimes involve lodging, event staff, security, tickets, and long-distance travel. CDC’s large events guidance might apply to events such as conferences, trade shows, sporting events, festivals, concerts, or large weddings and parties.

The more steps you can take, the safer you will be at the gathering. No one measure is enough to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19 Vaccination Regulations 

All attendees to festivals in Anguilla must be vaccinated. Unvaccinated persons are not permitted to attend festivals due to the high risk of transmission of the virus in this setting.

Organisers of festivals and large events approved by the Ministry of Health must ensure that all attendees present evidence of full vaccination before entry is allowed. 

Mask Wearing 

• Wear a mask with two or more layers to stop the spread of COVID-19 to protect yourself and others.
• Wear your mask over your nose and mouth, secure it under your chin, and make sure it fits snugly against the sides of your face.
• Keep a spare mask in case your mask becomes wet from moisture in your breath or from rain.

Social Distance (Stay at least 3 feet away from people who do not live with you)

• You are more likely to get or spread COVID-19 when you are in close contact with people who do not live with you.
• Remember that people without symptoms or with a recent negative test result can still spread COVID-19 to others.
• Choose safer outdoor venues if possible.
• Choose venues that limit seating and allow for social distancing and select your seat or place to stand based on your ability to stay at least 3 feet from others.
• Arrive to the event early or at off-peak times to avoid crowding and congested areas.
• Avoid using restroom facilities or concession areas at high traffic times, such as intermission, half-time, or immediately after the event.

Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated indoor spaces

• As much as possible, avoid crowds and indoor spaces that do not offer fresh air from the outdoors.
• You are less likely to get or spread COVID-19 during outdoor activities. Look for seating options that are outside or have proper ventilation with outdoor air, such as tents that have open doors or rolled up sides.

Sanitary Conveniences 

• Sanitary conveniences must be provided for all attendees in keeping with the size of the event and the expected number of patrons. This shall be regulated by the Department of Health Protection.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing and before eating.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Bring extra hand sanitizer with you.
• Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose, and mouth.

Outdoor events 

• If you do gather with people who do not live with you, gatherings and activities held outdoors are safer than indoor gatherings.
• Participate in an outdoor festival or gathering where attendees are wearing masks and staying at least 3 feet apart.
• Watch an outdoor sporting event where you are seated more than 3 feet away from others.
• Attend a drive-in event.

Follow food safety measures

• Eat outdoors, if possible. You are less likely to get or spread COVID-19 during outdoor activities.
• Wear masks at all times except when you are actively eating or drinking. Masks help protect both you and those around you.
• Limit alcohol consumption. Consuming alcohol may make you less likely to follow COVID-19 safety measures.
• Minimize the time you spend in the restaurant, bar or concession area. The longer you stay, the more you increase your risk.
• Bring your own food, drinks, plates, cups, utensils, and condiment packets, if possible/allowed.
• Use single-use options, like salad dressing and condiment packets, and disposable items like food containers, plates, and utensils.
• Self-serve and buffet style food options are not allowed at festivals.
• Use a touchless garbage can, if available.

What to do if You Become Sick after Attending a Large Gathering/Festival

• Get tested for COVID-19. You can contact the Ministry of Health to get the latest local information on testing.
• Know when to quarantine. Attending a large gathering or event increases your chance of being in close contact with people outside your household and being exposed to COVID-19. If you had close contact with people you don’t live with:
  • Stay home for 14 days after your last contact with a person who has COVID-19.
  • Watch for fever (100.4°F), cough, shortness of breath, or other symptoms of COVID-19.
  • If possible, stay away from others, especially people who are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19.

Questions or concerns can be directed to the Ministry’s hotlines at 476-7627 (476 SOAP) or 584-4263 (584-HAND). The Ministry of Health also provide information our official Facebook page or at www.beatcovid19.ai.