Gathering sizes grow to 300 for Shawnee County with new COVID-19 health order

Posted: Feb 10, 2021 / 03:55 PM CST / Updated: Feb 10, 2021 / 04:10 PM CST

People throng a market to shop ahead of the Diwalli festival in New Delhi, India, Thursday, Nov. 12, 2020. Authorities in New Delhi have banned firecrackers and are appealing to people to celebrate the Hindu festival of lights at home. Coronavirus infections have been rising in the capital and authorities are worried large festival crowds will worsen the virus situation.(AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNT) – Beginning Friday, mass gathering limits in Shawnee County have increased to 300 participants or 50% of total capacity, according to a press release.

Restaurants, bars and nightclubs can increase their hours until 12:00 a.m. Karaoke is now allowed as well as other live performances. Consumption of food and beverage at counters is also allowed with appropriate social distancing and barriers.

Organizations that are planning events that are expected to go over 300 participants must submit a written plan for the COVID-19 Incident Response Team and the Shawnee County Health Officer to review. Forms can be sent to covid19info@snco.us.

Any questions can be sent to covid19info@snco.us or call (785) 251-4848.