Alberta bans social gatherings as COVID-19 cases rise

Alberta – Alberta has banned social gatherings provincewide and strengthened public health measures to address the growing number of cases in the province.

Calgary and Edmonton are among areas under stronger mandatory restrictions starting on Nov. 27.

Restaurants, bars, pubs and lounges in these zones will be open with restrictions if they follow all public health guidance in place including:

• Maximum of six (6) people from the same immediate household at a table and no movement between tables.
• People who live alone can meet with up to two (2) non-household contacts as long as they’re the same two throughout the duration of these restrictions
• Only seated eating and drinking is permitted. No other services or entertainment will be allowed, including billiards, games or darts.
• Liquor can be sold until 10 p.m. and food-serving establishments must close to in person-dining at 11 p.m. Liquor sales apply to casinos, but casinos are not required to close at 11 p.m.

The government is encouraging Albertans to use takeout, delivery, drive-thru and curbside-pickup options.

Health officials are monitoring the situation and will adjust measures if required. Inspections will be stepped up to verify that public health measures are being followed and businesses that don’t comply may face orders and fines.

More details are available on the Alberta government’s website.