Concerts, music festivals, weddings, reunions–the pandemic has effectively canceled or postponed them and other forms of celebration for months. And while people are finding ways to get together in person safely, the usual crowd of thousands coming into close contact seems like a faraway dream. Some countries that have eased social distancing rules have seen increased infections spread through nightclubs and other types of social gatherings. With new strains of the COVID-19 virus closing borders again, there’s no telling when the old normal will allow people to engage in parties the way they used to. That doesn’t mean, however, that people are idly waiting for the pandemic to pass.
Partying in the coronavirus era will see a rise in innovation, both practical and sci-fi-like, to help people manage their fear of contracting the disease while dancing the night away.
Introducing Functional Protective Gear
Surgical masks and gloves won’t cut it anymore. With the dire need for events to resume as soon as possible, numerous organizers and innovators are coming up with secure but fashionable answers for party-goers. In particular, nightclubs embrace the idea of personal protective gear that allows for close contact without people feeling like they’re dressed to be in the operating room.
Many designs are popping up that enable people to consume drinks and converse freely without fear that they’ll leave with the virus in their system. These suits that can be worn over someone’s clothes may seem like a thing of sci-fi movies–and pioneers aren’t shy about designing them to look like one–but they’re not far from becoming the most practical solution. After all, aren’t parties a form of escapism? Themed protective gear won’t be the most unusual sight in social gatherings, and if that’s what it takes to party again, people won’t hesitate to put them on.
Some innovations that lean more on practical daily use are also being considered. The tech that was originally meant for work safety is also being considered. There are now devices that can detect people who are not maintaining the recommended six-foot distance from you and smartwatches that discourage you from touching your face. There are plenty more that can solve the problem of contaminated surfaces, body temperature detection, and safe dining, which, when used strategically, can give parties a semblance of the old normal they miss.
Say Goodbye to Closed Spaces
When you’re contacting party rentalsfor an upcoming reunion, local concert, a celebration that involves a lot of dancing, you’ll want to steer clear of closed spaces. This means tents and outdoor furniture that allows the air to circulate. This is a toned-down version of what people around the world have been resorting to in terms of outdoor partying. There have been circles drawn on the floor and cordoned dance floors that separate dancers. Others are going under the radar by hosting parties in the woods and closed-off underpasses. A nature reserve in the UK has been used, leading to an arrest, and law enforcers can see the rise of more underground gatherings that don’t follow safety protocols.
For those who want to stay on the safe side, it could mean increased ticket prices. Governments aren’t relenting to allow more people in even outdoor venues that can hold thousands of guests. 800 is the magic number, and even less in some places, which means organizers will have no choice but to rely on increased ticket prices for revenue.
Still, the more creative ones are getting their inspiration from drive-in theaters by isolating people in their cars. This allows for concert-type events to transpire with fewer risks of contagion while still enjoying a live show.
Enhanced Virtual Experiences
When all else fails, people can rely on the endless possibilities technology has to offer to quench their party thirsts. It’s not only private events that are hosting their own social entertainment online. Clubs are turning virtual and enabling people to have their usual dose of nightlight from the comfort of their own homes. They’re making up for the absence of personal contact by feeding people with impressive visuals and audio that can get them into the mood. It’s safe to say that until a PPE gear for partying is approved or everyone is vaccinated, virtual alternatives will continue to step up their game.
Safety First
It can be depressing for most who find joy and opportunities in social gatherings to see that the end to their misery is not yet in sight. Rest assured, event organizers, party rentals, and innovators across the globe are looking for ways to help people socialize safely despite the pandemic. Until this side of the new normal gains traction, you can be glad that at least partying alone at home allows you to go all out on the dance floor safely.
