Reminder issued on coronavirus guidance for those holding Christmas events

Organisers of Christmas events are being reminded to take extra precautions due to coronavirus restrictions.

Under Welsh Government guidance, Christmas activities such as winter wonderlands, light shows, reindeer trails and other similar activities are highly likely to constitute an event under coronavirus restrictions.

Following restrictions brought in on December 4, the sale and consumption of alcohol is restricted, and organised activities should not include alcohol.

For an event wholly or mainly indoors, no person may be involved in organising an event at which more than 15 people are in attendance, excluding those under the age of 11 or those working or providing voluntary services at the event.

For outdoor events, no more than 30 people may be in attendance excluding those under 11 or those working or providing voluntary services at the event.

However, exceptions include the showing of a film; a market, including Christmas markets; a religious service; and a sporting event at which only elite athletes are competing.

Cllr Mark Young, Denbighshire County Council’s Lead Member for Planning, Public Protection and Safer Communities, said: “Following a difficult year many people are looking forward to the festive period. To ensure the safety of our communities and to stop the spread of coronavirus it is important that those organising or attending events this Christmas are aware of the guidance.

“Anyone planning to organise an event will need to consider and plan very carefully especially in relation to how numbers will be managed to ensure that they do not exceed the maximum number of attendees at any time.

“It is important to remind organisers that it is your responsibility to ensure that your event is safe and within current covid-19 guidelines.

“We want residents in Denbighshire to enjoy Christmas this year but it is vital they do so in a safe and responsible way by following the guidance, practicing good hygiene and following social distancing rules.”

Anyone organising an event will be required to undertake a risk assessment and take reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus, including taking all reasonable measures to ensure a 2m distance is kept between persons not of the same household and not to sell or supply alcohol at the event.

Christmas markets are not treated as events for the purposes of the regulations, but those organising a Christmas market must take all reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to and prevent the spread of coronavirus.

If a Santa’s grotto is part of a number of separate attractions, it is highly likely the rules on events will apply.

Anyone attending or organising an event this festive period is asked to visit the Welsh Government guidance at https://gov.wales/guidance-for-tourism-and-hospitality-businesses-coronavirus-html#section-56295

Top pic: An event in North Wales last year in more normal times.