With the onset of winter break, everyone is overjoyed to be able to spend a couple of weeks off. Whether it is skiing down Mt. Hood or watching Christmas movies non-stop until New Years’, many people will be spending these two weeks with friends and family. A month ago, Governor Inslee announced several new safety regulations on various social activities due to the continued spread of COVID-19 statewide.

Gyms, bowling centers, movie theaters, museums, zoos, aquariums, and other miscellaneous venues are closed, excluding outdoor services.

For restaurants, eating indoors is not permitted, but dining outdoors and ordering food-to-go are still allowed.

Stores and religious or personal services have reduced their indoor occupancy limit to 25%, and indoor visits to long-term care facilities are not allowed, with a few exceptions.

In terms of sports, games/contests and indoor activities are not allowed, and only outdoor team practices are allowed (with required facial coverings).

Social gatherings are also restricted, where outdoor gatherings are limited to only 5 people other than those that live with you.

For indoor gatherings, people who do not live together will have to quarantine before seeing each other, and optionally test for COVID-19 to decrease that time.

As this is a quick summary of what is (or is not) currently allowed, be sure to read through the official guidelines issued by Inslee. It is possible that these rules will be updated in the future, so be sure to check the Washington State COVID-19 Response site as well for new updates. Stay safe, have fun, and happy holidays!