Festivals in a post-COVID-19 world

Published: 01/27/2021 Times Read: 3556 Comments : 0

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we live. It’s changed the way we socialize with friends and family, where we work, and how we shop. Our daily lives look a lot different than they did nine months ago, but our day-to-day routines aren’t the only things that have changed. Since March, nearly every concert, live performance, festival, fundraising gala—you name it—has been canceled. It’s probably safe to say that until there’s a vaccine, we won’t be going to any big events like these. However, it’s important for industry leaders, those in charge of huge events and live entertainment, to consider what they will look like when they do return.


What will festivals look like post-COVID?


While it may not feel like it right now, life will eventually get back to what we consider ‘normal.’ As we look toward those days, it’s crucial to take what we’ve learned from this pandemic and apply it to big social gatherings. So what are some health measures event planners should keep in mind? We took a look at some safety-musts for the return of festivals and concerts.

Temperature checkpoints

As we’ve learned from COVID-19, a fever is one of the first signs of infection. If a person has a fever, it’s very likely they’re also contagious. Having body temperature monitoring devices at your points of entry is the perfect way to make sure all guests are healthy. As a business owner, this precaution gives you the confidence of a safe environment, while it also reassures attendees that their health matters. Having a self-operating temperature reader won’t slow down the flow of traffic—it’s very similar to walking through a security checkpoint, and can even be done at the same time as metal detection.

Hand sanitation stations

Anyone who’s ever been to a concert or festival knows what a nightmare finding a bathroom can be. If you’re simply trying to wash your hands, waiting in a long line can turn into a big waste of time. Having hand sanitation stations set up throughout your venue is a great solution to this common issue and an easy way to encourage frequent hand sanitation. Some devices can even take people’s temperature while dispensing hand sanitizer, making them an ideal product for large events. If we’ve learned anything from this pandemic, it’s that frequent hand washing and sanitation really does work. Now’s the time for business owners to make those things accessible to protect both their customers and employees.


Pros and cons of implementing these safety measures


Like anything, there are advantages and disadvantages to putting these safety measures into effect at your event. In the end, you need to do what’s best for your business, your employees, and your customers. But it’s still important to weigh the pros and cons of all safety measures so you know what to expect.

Pros

When you invest in temperature monitoring devices and sanitation stations, you invest in the health of your guests and your employees. Everyone who attends will feel assured that they, and everyone around them, are healthy. Both temperature checks and frequent sanitation are great ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold. These devices aren’t intrusive and they don’t interrupt the flow of traffic at your event. Top-of-the-line products are an investment, but they’re a worthwhile one that will last. Plus, without them, it’s possible you won’t be able to throw your event. It’s better to prepare for the upcoming rules and regulations now and put safety first than to be scrambling in a few months when things begin to reopen again.

Cons

Unfortunately, there are plenty of people who will be turned off by the idea of these safety measures. As we’ve already seen while COVID-19 is still prevalent around the world, there are people who believe having to wear a mask in public, get their temperature checked, etc. is a human rights violation. While under normal circumstances this could be argued, we are not living through regular circumstances. The CDC classified COVID-19 as a direct threat to the public, which means temperature checks are no longer an invasion—they’re necessary in keeping the public safe. This debate will likely continue as vaccines are distributed and numbers decline. As the old saying goes, you’d rather be safe than sorry. Putting safety measures in place may have cons, but the benefits—keeping everyone safe—far outweigh them.


Invest in a healthy future


Life looks a lot different these days, and right now, it’s hard to imagine a world without masks and social distancing. But eventually, life will return as we remember it. When we can once again hear our favorite musician live or attend a cocktail party with our friends, we’ll all do so happily. First, though, we all have to do our part to invest in safety devices that will protect us all when we gather again. Without them, we’re taking a risk. If there’s one thing everyone should be able to agree on it’s this: we don’t want another pandemic. Any changes that are implemented at events aren’t made to inconvenience the public—and with the proper devices, they won’t—they’re meant to protect us all so we can return to life as we know it.

If you’re ready to find the right device for your situation, get in touch today.

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