As Mississippians get ready to celebrate the 4th of July, remember that this year’s festivities may look a bit different due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Mississippi’s statewide ‘safe return’ order, which was recently extended, places guidelines on businesses and social gatherings, including your 4th of July BBQs and get-togethers.
The Department of Health is reminding you that there are limits on the number of people allowed at a gathering and they change based on the ability to socially distance.
- Social gatherings indoors are limited to 20 persons if social distancing cannot be assured, and 50 if social distancing can be maintained.
- Social gatherings outdoors are limited to 50 persons if social distancing cannot be assured, and 100 if social distancing can be maintained.
- Arena attendance is limited to 25% or less of full capacity.
Also, health officials urge you to wear a mask at all times during these gatherings, especially if social distancing cannot be ensured.
As for fireworks, the MSDH says that it is strongly recommended that those watching displays remain in their automobiles and not interact with others outside of their vehicles. The numerical limit on outdoor groups from the Executive Orders do not apply to those remaining in their own vehicles.
