INDOOR CONCERTS COMING BACK TO CALI

Following news that New York entertainment venues would be allowed to start reopening comes word that California will permit indoor concerts, theater performances and other gatherings starting 4/15.

Citing a significantly lower rate of positive COVID tests, the California Department of Public Health on 4/2 announced a distinct pivot from the state's comparatively slow pace as regards the lifting of COVID restrictions.

While such rules are being relaxed somewhat, attendees at affected venues will have to either be tested or show proof of full vaccination. The size of crowds allowed at these gatherings will depend on the level of restrictions in place in each county. The state divides counties into four tiers based on COVID levels; this map from the Mercury News shows where the state's counties stood as of 3/30.

The purple tier is the most restrictive—indoor concerts and theater performances aren't allowed in this tier. They are allowed in the red tier, but at 10% capacity for venues of up to 1,500 people and 20% capacity for venues with larger caps.

Capacity limits increase in the lower tiers. Private events, including receptions and conferences, are allowed only outdoors in the purple tier and will be limited to 25 people. They're allowed indoors in the red tier but limited to 50 people. However, that capacity increases to 200 people if all guests are tested or show full proof of vaccination.

In the meantime, California Governor Gavin Newsom is continuing to urge vigilance about wearing masks and maintaining social distance. And if you're meeting him at The French Laundry, he highly recommends the duck.