Events & Gatherings
Events and gatherings are high risk activities at this time. Anyone considering participation in a gathering with individuals outside their immediate household should take additional precautions to keep themselves and their family safe. This includes wearing a mask over your nose and mouth at all times when not eating or drinking, regularly washing your hands and maintaining a social distance of at least 6 feet at all times.
Event and Gathering Approval
On Dec. 11, the City of Independence implemented the Safer Independence Guidelines. Under these guidelines, any events with more than 10 individuals are asked to submit a Gathering Protocol to the City at least 7 days prior to the event. This includes religious organizations. If you have previously submitted and received approval for an upcoming event through the County a new form is not required. If you have questions, please call (816)325-6965 or email covid19@indepmo.org.
Gathering Protocol online form
For more information on the current order and phase from the City, click here.
Events that may meet criteria for Gathering Protocol requirements include:
- Sporting events
- Weddings
- Funerals
- Church services
- Luncheons or meetings
If you have questions about your event and if it qualifies for this type of approval in Independence, please email covid19@indepmo.org.
Safer gathering tips
Looking for safer ways to get together with family and friends? Here are a few tips to help make these gatherings safer:
- Consider meeting in a park, a backyard or the driveway where there is plenty of fresh air.
- Choose a location with plenty of room, so households can easily stay 6 feet apart.
- Have everyone bring their own meal and utensils.
- Wear masks when not eating or drinking.
- And, avoid handshakes or hugs, instead using words to let them know how much you care.
Spanish translation available here.
A Safer Holiday Season
The Holidays will look different this year. Families and friends are strongly encouraged not to gather in groups outside your immediate household and as of Dec. 11, gatherings are limited to 10 or fewer people. Learn more about the Safer Independence Guidelines at the link above.
If you are looking for tips on how to do a virtual event, this article has several suggestions.
AP News - Apart but together: tips for a cozier Zoom Thanksgiving
The safest way to celebrate winter holidays is to celebrate at home with the people who live with you. Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. The CDC has also provided an overview of things we should all consider before having events and gatherings during the 2020 Holiday Season.