O‘ahu on Friday loosened many restrictions on social activity, conferences and nightlife now that more than half its population has been vaccinated against COVID-19.
The new rules allow outdoor social gatherings of up to 25 people and indoor gatherings of up to 10—under tier 4 of the City and County of Honolulu's reopening plan.
Karaoke bars and nightclubs may operate at 50% capacity if all attendees are tested for the disease within 48 hours of the event or show proof they have been fully vaccinated.
"This section applies to establishments that allow for consumption of food and/or beverages on premises that are not strictly limited to seated table service (e.g., dance/social/nightlife/karaoke establishments)," according to the city.
Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi said the requirements for nightlife and other businesses are mainly trust-based and he hopes the community continues to cooperate.
Arcades are now allowed without capacity limits, except restaurant/bar rules apply if food and beverage consumption is allowed.
The city also announced indoor events such as concerts, meetings and conventions are allowed with a mitigation plan and 50% capacity if all attendees are tested or show proof of full vaccination.
People must wear face coverings at all times when indoors, except when eating or drinking, the guidelines said. Patrons are considered fully vaccinated two weeks after receiving the second dose in a two-dose series, or after receiving a single-dose vaccine.
Indoor organized sports are also allowed with spectators up to 33% capacity—subject to Department of Parks and Recreation permitting and availability of the facility. Outdoor weddings of up to 200 people are allowed.
Road races and triathlons are allowed with a permit, starting group size subject to gathering size limit.
“We continue to make solid progress as a community in our fight against COVID. At this point vaccinations are key to easing restrictions, and hopefully ending the tier system altogether,” Blangiardi said. “We are in this fight together, and if you have yet to get your vaccination, I strongly urge you to do so as soon as possible.”
The city will allow social gatherings of 25 indoors and 75 outdoors once 60% of the population has been vaccinated. All restrictions will be lifted when the vaccination rate tops 70%.
Honolulu reported 25 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, down 25% from two weeks earlier.
