Locals take NY eve celebrations indoors to stay safe

Chennai

For those having parties at homes, restricting the size of invitees and ensuring that there is minimal contact between guests would be crucial, hence most are looking to host their friends on their terraces for the ventilation and ease of hosting. “We have been careful to invite friends that we know did not come in contact with a lot of people over the last few weeks. We’ve decided to use disposable plates and cutlery and order in food rather than cook so that there is less chances of contact. The only issue is that we need to wipe down every surface and clean the entire house the next day,” said Teresa, a resident of Adyar.

While heavy restrictions have been imposed on celebrations along the ECR and OMR stretches, a popular destination for NYE parties at resorts and farmhouses, those with beach houses are allowed to host private parties. A few families have opted for this option with a small group of family and friends.

Others, however, are looking at travelling to surrounding states and cities to spend New Year’s Eve and ring in January 1 with their families and friends. Many are looking at driving down to Bengaluru over the next few days and return on the first Monday of 2021.

“We have family in Bengaluru that we have not seen in very long. We have taken COVID-19 tests and the results were negative. To avoid coming into contact with others, we are going to drive to and back. It’s going to be a subdued celebration there as well, but it’s better to spend the time with family rather than being alone,” said a resident of Anna Nagar.