Holiday gatherings are a tradition for many families and friends. But with COVID-19 cases continuing to spike in Colorado, it is critical that our community remain vigilant during the upcoming holiday season.

Here are some tips for safer holiday celebrations:

The safest way to celebrate the holidays this year is to spend them with those you live with. However, if you do plan to gather with people outside of your household, here are some tips:

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Bells and  Music
  • Get vaccinated: Protect those not yet eligible for vaccination such as young children by getting yourself and other eligible people around them vaccinated.
  • Keep gatherings small.
  • If weather allows, host an outdoor gathering. Outdoors is safer than indoors.
  • If you are sick, have COVID-19 symptoms or have recently tested positive for COVID-19, don’t host or attend a gathering.
  • People at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 should consider taking extra precautions.

Here are some virtual ways to celebrate!

Virtual celebrations and outdoor activities are a great way to connect with friends and family.

  • Host a virtual holiday meal with friends and family who don’t live with you. 
  • Tune into a holiday performance and watch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve
  • Grab a thermos of hot cocoa, and head out for a stroll to check out your neighborhood holiday decorations.
  • Dine outdoors at a local restaurant.
  • Shop local for gifts to send to your friends and family.
  • Make treats and deliver them to your neighbor’s door.
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Holiday Lights

COVID-19 mainly spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, sings, talks or even breathes. If you must go into public indoor spaces or crowded outdoor spaces, wear a facial covering that fully covers your nose and mouth, wash your hands frequently and keep at least six feet of distance from people not in your household.

Because COVID-19 is spreading quickly throughout the state, Colorado is considered a high-risk place to live right now. Anyone who is five and older can get vaccinated and anyone who is 18 or older who would like to get a COVID-19 booster and is due for one should make a plan to get one.

For more ideas and guidance on how to safely celebrate winter holidays safely this year, visit the state’s website. Visit the Boulder County Public Health website for the latest information on vaccine clinics, local public health orders, current case numbers and more.