A number of new rules have come into force in Scotland on Boxing Day, with more to come in the upcoming days.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced a string of restrictions while addressing Holyrood last week.
As well as the formal restrictions, Scots have been given guidance on how best to protect themselves and their family over the festive period.
It comes amid concern about the rapidly spreading Omicron variant, with Ms Sturgeon hoping the restrictions will slow the spread and protect public health and critical services like the NHS.
No new restrictions on Christmas Day gatherings were announced, but life will look a little different from Boxing Day onwards as a result of the changes.
Here’s a rundown of the restrictions, and when they come into force:
Boxing Day
From 5am on December 26 attendance at large events will be limited, which the government hopes will ease pressure on the emergency services as well as prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The new changes are:
- Indoor standing events will be limited to 100 people
- Indoor seated events will be limited to 200 people
- All outdoor events, like football games, will be limited to 500 people
December 27
From 5am on December 27 some new rules affecting the hospitality and leisure industry will be put in place, including the reintroduction of one metre social distancing.
This will affect pubs, bars, restaurants, cafes and other settings where food and drink is served.
In addition, venues that serve alcohol will be limited to table service only.
Social distancing measures will also be enforced at gyms, theatres and cinemas. Museums and other visitor attractions will have to put social distancing measures in place too.
Physical distancing will not be required in places of worship or on public transport.
Nightclubs will also be closed for three weeks from December 27, meaning Boxing Day will be their last day of trade.
Deputy First Minister John Swinney said venues will shut from December 27 in an attempt to stem the spread of Omicron, unless they are able to operate with social distancing and table service.
How long will these restrictions last?
All measures will be reviewed on January 11. The Scottish Government says at this point protection from booster vaccines will be maximised if it meets its target of reaching 80% of over 18s.
