If you're like many people these days, you're struggling with retaining a semblance of normal life and protecting yourself and your loved ones from contracting COVID-19. Like others, you've probably eliminated or severely curtailed visits to restaurants, bars, and other potentially crowded venues in favor of spending time at home with family. However, social isolation can take its toll even among members of the closest families. and you may be tempted to throw caution to the wind just once and host a gathering because you miss spending time with your friends and neighbors.
One of the safest and easiest ways to entertain is by hosting a summer happy hour in your home cocktails, nonalcoholic options for designated drivers, and a few hors d'oeuvres. You probably already know that you should have plenty of disposable masks and hand sanitizer available for your guests, but there may be other things you haven't thought about. Fortunately, strategies exist designed to keep gatherings as safe as possible. Here's what you need to know about throwing a COVID-safe summer happy hour gathering.
Hold Your Gathering Outdoors
Research suggests that outdoor socializing may be safer than meeting with friends in an indoor setting, so hold your happy hour gathering outdoors. Be sure to only invite those who understand the importance of social distancing and other precautions.
Limit Your Guest List
Be sure to keep the number of guests at a level where everyone can comfortably social distance during your gathering. All tables should be spaced at least six feet away from each other, so use that as a blueprint for how many guests you should invite.
Keep the Hour in Happy Hour
Shorter gatherings provide less time for anyone who might be unknowingly infected to spread the virus. As an added bonus, everyone is more likely to be more mindful of reasonable precautions—standards often relax as the evening wears on.
Use Disposable Glasses
Disposable glasses not only help make cleanup easier and quicker, but they also limit your contact with any type of germs that guests may have left behind. Simply slip on a pair of disposable gloves, put the glasses in a trash bag, and close the bag securely.
Have the Liquor Delivered to Your Home
Having liquor delivered directly to your home is a far better alternative than shopping in a crowded liquor store. You'll be able to purchase your favorite brands in the quantity of your choice. However, it's important to note that someone over the age of 21 will need to be home at the time the package is delivered in order to be able to sign for it. For more information, contact liquor delivery services.
