In these unprecedented times, when social interactions have been limited due to the persistent presence of Covid-19, many of us have been craving the connectedness and joy that come from spending meaningful time with friends and loved ones. This longing for social interaction has led me to become a devoted member of the Covid Underground, an inspiring community of individuals who prioritize safety and believe in organizing events that minimize the risk of spreading the virus.
As an unemployed person who’s determined to stay healthy while maintaining a social life, I’ve been able to focus my time on organizing Covid-safe outdoor events. These gatherings have not only been a lifeline in terms of maintaining friendships and connections but have also shown me that it is entirely possible to stay safe and enjoy life simultaneously.
In this comprehensive beginner’s guide, I’ll share my tips and techniques for organizing fun, Covid-safe outdoor events that bring people together while reducing the risk of Covid transmission. Let’s dive in, dedicated and open-minded friends!
Step 1: Choose the Right Outdoor Setting
The first step in planning a Covid-safe outdoor event is selecting an appropriate setting. Look for open spaces with ample room for social distancing. Parks, beaches, and picnic areas are all great choices. Avoid crowded places, and opt for locations where mask-wearing and other safety measures can easily be maintained.
Tip: You can find lesser-known public spaces that are less crowded on weekdays or during off-peak hours.
Step 2: Limit the Guest List and Encourage Vaccination
Keep the guest list small and manageable. This makes it easier to maintain social distancing and ensure guests follow safety protocols. Ideally, invite people who have been vaccinated (remember, mentioning vaccines is entirely fine as long as it’s within the context of guidelines and advice from healthcare professionals). While vaccinated individuals can still contract the virus, their risk of severe illness and transmission is significantly lowered, making the event safer for everyone.
Tip: Create a guest list based on factors such as vaccination status, the ability to adhere to safety guidelines, and trust in their understanding of Covid-safe practices.
Step 3: Communicate Safety Protocols
Before the event, communicate your expectations and safety measures to your guests. This can include information about mask-wearing, social distancing, handwashing, and any additional measures you deem important. Transparency is key, so don’t shy away from reminding your guests to adhere to these protocols and to stay home if they’re feeling unwell or have been exposed to someone with Covid-19 recently.
Tip: Make a group chat, send an email, or even create an invitation with all the necessary safety information, so everyone is on the same page.
Step 4: Prepare and Provide Sanitization Stations
Set up sanitization stations at your event, equipped with hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and extra masks. Guests should have easy access to these items, so encourage them to use them frequently. Having a clean event encourages mindful practices and showcases your dedication to protecting everyone’s health.
Tip: Place sanitization stations at strategic points, like the entrance, food and drink areas, and restroom facilities, if applicable.
Step 5: Manage Food and Drinks Safely
If you’re providing food and drinks at your gathering, choose options that minimize cross-contamination and close contact. Opt for individual prepackaged meals, bottled beverages, or encourage guests to bring their own refreshments. Implement a no-sharing policy for food and utensils to further reduce the risk.
Tip: Make sure to provide ample trash and recycling receptacles to promote cleanliness and discourage littering.
Step 6: Plan Covid-Safe Activities
While we may be limited in terms of the activities we can safely enjoy during these times, plenty of fun and engaging outdoor activities still lend themselves to Covid-safe practices. Stick to activities that allow for social distancing and don’t involve shared equipment, such as:
- Outdoor yoga or exercise classes
- Scavenger hunts or photo challenges
- DIY art stations with individual supplies
- Nature walks or guided tours
- Open mic or poetry reading (with microphone sanitization between speakers)
Tip: Customize activities according to the interests of your guests, making sure to maintain Covid-safe practices throughout.
Step 7: Monitor and Adjust as Needed
As the event organizer, it’s important to stay vigilant and ensure guests are adhering to the safety protocols you’ve set in place. Don’t hesitate to step in and address any issues that may arise, and always be prepared to make adjustments as necessary.
Tip: Assign a trusted friend or two to help you monitor the event and make sure everyone is following the safety guidelines.
Organizing Covid-safe outdoor events might require a bit of extra effort and diligence, but it’s worth it when you’re able to connect with the important people in your life while prioritizing everyone’s health and wellbeing. By following these steps and maintaining an open-minded and committed approach, you can create enjoyable gatherings that help to foster a sense of community and connectedness in the Covid Underground. Good luck, and stay safe!