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Thousands flock to clubs and festivals in England as restrictions are lifted

July 26, 2021

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Thousands flocked to clubs and festivals in England this weekend as COVID-19 restrictions on mass gatherings were finally lifted after more than 16 months.

England is the first country in the United Kingdom to green light dancing and remove social distancing requirements. Large events including the 40,000 capacity Latitude Festival in Suffolk, and Tramlines in Sheffield, all went ahead as planned.

In the club scene parties were in full swing from the early hours of Monday morning, 19th July, and again throughout the weekend. Several spaces, including London’s fabric and The White Hotel in Manchester, ran day and night non-stop — respectively for 42 and 54 1/2 hours to mark the return of dancing.

Many venues are asking for either proof of a negative coronavirus test or double vaccination for entry, with mask-wearing encouraged. From September, venues will be required by law to check for full inoculation in order for crowds to be allowed inside.

While coronavirus rates in the UK have been in decline over the past week, infection levels remain worryingly high, leading many to brand the decision to press on with reopening as irresponsible. Dr. Gabriel Scally, who sits on the independent scientific advisory panel SAGE, has labelled the move “immoral and unethical”. Last week, DJ Mag spoke to promoters and venue owners across England about the measures they are introducing to help keep staff, artists, and audiences safe.