This year's festive table, is expected to be different, given that pandemic and families are already making plans for the evening of the Christmas, adapted to the new circumstances.
The first and most important amendment concerns the time limits, since the evening is moved to noon, given that the curfew is in effect from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
However, restrictions also apply during the rest of the day, and sending an SMS to 13033 is required for holiday travel, with no more than 9 people allowed per household.
More specifically, according to the GOVERNMENT GAZETTE According to the announcement, anyone who wishes to leave their home must send SMS in 13033, with code 6, which is equivalent to physical exercise or a walk with a pet, as we know.
Meanwhile, the traffic ban will remain in effect, both for the evening of Christmas Eve as well as that of New Year's Eve, there aren’t many options for getting back, given the curfew. In other words, if someone is away from home on the two days leading up to the holiday (or any other day), they must either return by 10:00 p.m. or spend the night at the friend’s (or relative’s) home where they have decided to spend the evening. Furthermore, Travel outside the prefecture is prohibited.
Here are answers to some questions in anticipation of the holiday gatherings.
- Who is eligible to change their regional unit?;
The four categories for which travel outside the prefecture will be permitted, on an exceptional basis, are as follows:
- return to permanent residence
- family reunification
- health reasons
- professional reasons
- When we say "9 people" for New Year's Eve, does that include children?;
Yes
- How late can we stay?;
The ban is in effect starting at 10:00 p.m.
The decision regarding New Year's Eve celebrations and churches
Gathering until 9 people from 2 families in homes for the revelation of Christmas – New Year's Day and 3 Divine Liturgies with a maximum number of worshippers 25 in churches and 50 in metropolitan sees, as defined by the decision the government's statement published in GOVERNMENT GAZETTE regarding the restrictions due to the lockdown and the measures to limit the spread of the coronavirus. At the same time, infectious disease specialists are concerned about the risk of widespread transmission of the virus due to New Year’s Eve gatherings.
- According to the Government Gazette published in the official government newspaper, regarding New Year's Eve celebrations and specifically on the days December 24–25, 2020 and 1 January 2021 Gatherings of up to 9 people from 2 households are permitted.
- Church services are scheduled to be held December 25, 2020, January 1, 2021, and January 6, 2021 with the congregation present. One believer per 15 square meters with a maximum number of 25 believers for places of worship and the maximum number 50 people for metropolitan churches.
- On Epiphany, the blessing of the waters is prohibited in outdoor areas. It is permitted only inside churches.
