Alberta orders closure of bars, restaurants, gyms & more amid rise of COVID cases

Unfortunately, despite the government’s most recent effort to flatten the curve, COVID cases have continued to rise. Today, in hopes of leaving little-to-no room for the virus to spread any further, Alberta placed several familiar restrictions on everything from dining to outdoor gatherings.

In a press conference held this afternoon, the government ordered the closure of all casinos and gyms, made masks mandatory in indoor public spaces province-wide, and banned all dine-in service at restaurants and bars.

Retail services, however, will be allowed to remain open while operating at a maximum capacity of 15%.

While the new limits on social gatherings along with the new mandatory mask mandate will come into effect immediately on Tuesday, December 8th, the majority of new restrictions will kick in this weekend.

Effective 12:01 AM on Sunday, December 13th, eateries may only offer take-out and curbside pickup, as well as delivery services – but may not let people into their establishments.

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Gaming centres, such as bingo halls, horse tracks, bowling alleys, clubs, pool halls, and legions must also shut down for the time being.

In addition to these facilities, pools, spas, gyms, studios, indoor rinks, libraries, science centres, museums, galleries, arenas and all businesses offering personal and wellness services must also close their doors to the public on Sunday, December 13th.

Finally, the province has issued a ban on all outdoor and indoor social gatherings (effective Tuesday, December 8th) and is imposing mandatory work-from-home measures beginning Sunday, December 13th- so we hope you’ve got a clean pair of sweatpants.

As of right now, these restrictions are to stay in place for (at least) the next four weeks. Sadly, this does mean Christmas will look much different this year, with Kenney asking that everyone re-think their holiday plans.

We know this sucks, guys. We’re right there with you – but it’s for the best. Please continue to be kind to one another, support local, be patient, and above all, be understanding.

For more information, you can check out the official Government of Alberta website here.