Here's Ontario's Advice For Hosting Holiday Get-Togethers Based On Your Zone

The holidays are bound to look different for almost every household this year, and Ontario's holiday gathering guidelines are evidence of that.

From region to region, Ontario's rules for get-togethers vary.

It's also important to note that the province's advice for all Ontarians is to celebrate with just your household this year.*

Here's what you need to know before you celebrate, depending on which zone you live in.

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Green, Yellow, and Orange Zones

The official gathering limits for these zones are 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors, and you cannot combine these numbers to host a larger event.

An indoor gathering will require some planning in advance. The province asks that you determine how many people can keep physical distancing in the space and stick to that number of people.

Officials also recommend having tons of sanitizing supplies on hand, keeping windows open, wiping down shared surfaces in between uses, and avoiding potluck or buffet-style dining.

Before guests arrive, ask if they have experienced any symptoms as of late and to stay home if they have. 

Red-Control Zone

The rules are a little different in the province's red zones. The official indoor gathering limits are reduced to 5 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

Technically, leaving your home should be reduced to essential trips only.  Social in-person gatherings should be avoided, according to the province.

Instead, virtual events are recommended to stay connected with friends and family.

If you do need to have up to five people inside your home, it is essential that you keep a two-metre distance from those you do not live with and wear a mask when that isn't possible.

Grey-Lockdown Zone

Holiday get-togethers are not permitted in the grey zone in Ontario.

Officials are saying to avoid all interactions in any other household and to not allow visitors in your home. However, exclusive close contact with one other household is permitted if you live alone.

Leave home only for essential reasons, including work, school, grocery shopping, health care, assisting vulnerable individuals, or exercise and physical activity outdoors.

If you choose to celebrate with friends, family, or co-workers, you must do so virtually.

Non-essential travel should also be avoided, especially to lower-transmission zones. 

*This article has been updated.