The growing outbreak of COVID-19, caused by Omicron Edition, has forced many European governments to adopt new measures restricting Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
Here are some of the restrictions recently announced across the continent:
France Large outdoor events and gatherings have been banned on New Year’s Eve. Consumption of alcohol in public places will also be banned and traditional New Year’s fireworks and concerts will be called off.
In NetherlandsA strict lockdown began on 19 December. Except for Christmas and New Year’s Eve, when this limit is increased to four guests, indoor gathering is limited to a maximum of two guests until January 14. All school and extra-curricular activities will also remain closed till at least January 9.
Belgium Indoor events and activities including indoor Christmas markets and villages, cinema shows and shows starting on Sunday have been cancelled. Those measures extend to the indoor spaces of amusement parks and zoos.
In Germany, Strict contact restrictions rule out any large New Year’s Eve gatherings. From December 28, a maximum of 10 people will be allowed to meet in groups, regardless of whether they have been vaccinated or cured. Non-vaccinated people can use public transport only with daily negative COVID-19 test. Nightclubs and discos will remain closed in Germany. Football matches will once again be played without spectators.
From Monday, only people with a vaccine passport or proof of recovery are allowed inside restaurants and indoor event venues Switzerland And the mask must be worn at all times unless food or drink is consumed. Private gatherings are limited to 10 people if there is one person over the age of 16 who is unvaccinated or has not recovered from COVID-19.
Austria The new closing time of 10 pm will be applicable on the hospitality sector on December 27, which will remain in place on New Year’s Eve. Only vaccinated or cured people are allowed into Christmas markets. People who have no evidence of vaccination or recovery can only leave their housing for vital supplies, going to work, and exercise.
Denmark Theatres, cinemas and museums have been closed, while the sale of liquor after 10 pm has also been banned and hospitality places have been asked to close earlier.
Spain From Christmas Eve – with the exceptions of sports and large areas – the wearing of masks outside has been restored to its nationwide mandate. Meanwhile, at the regional level, some governments are tightening the restrictions even more.
Italy From December 30 to January 31, we will close nightclubs and ban people from eating in public squares. The outer facade mandate is back and the use of the COVID pass will be expanded from 1 February.
Schools, bars and clubs will all remain closed Portugal From 26 December to 10 January. People have been asked to work from home, and gatherings like weddings as well as all cultural and sporting events will require negative tests.
,