As part of the Netherlands’ loosening of COVID-19 restrictions, Dutch music venues and bars will require a “Corona-Pass” for entry.
Beginning on September 25th, Dutch officials will drop social distancing requirements. Those who attend gatherings will need to show proof of vaccination using a new system dubbed the “Corona-pass,” however. On top of this, establishments must institute a 12:00 AM-6:00 AM curfew.
During a press conference, Prime Minister Mark Rutte said, “I am happy that we today can announce that we can scrap social distancing as an obligation everywhere starting on September 25th.” Dutch citizens still must wear masks at school and on public transportation. Citizens are encouraged to work from home whenever possible.
The move comes as the country hits a milestone: 70% of the population (about 12.6 million people) have had at least one shot, while 65% have two. This is in stark contrast to the last time when the Dutch government removed restrictions, resulting in a 500% increase in infections. Authorities believe that Verknipt, an annual electronic music festival taking place in the city of Utrecht, resulted in 1,000 new cases.
In July, clubs closed once again and festivals were limited to a single day and 750 attendees. The restrictions resulted in protests around the country attended by roughly 80,000 people. Venues were originally told the earliest opening date would be in November, but that has since changed thanks to the promising vaccination numbers.
