The Holidays are a big draw for casinos in Connecticut. However, there may be some regulations in place for the holiday season. While vaccination rates are rising in the state, many positive COVID tests are still being reported.
Patrons of Connecticut casinos should be well-informed on state and casino recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Current COVID-19 numbers and recommendations
Back in May, Connecticut lifted COVID restrictions on businesses such as:
- Capacity limits
- Mask requirements for vaccinated individuals
On Nov. 30, Connecticut had a positivity rate of almost 6%, the state’s highest rate of positive tests in months.
The state’s latest COVID-19 guidance only requires that masks be worn indoors by unvaccinated individuals. Vaccinated adults can go mask-free indoors and are not needed outdoors for anyone.
Recommendations to stay safe from the spread of COVID-19
Both Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun recommend frequent hand-washing and reasonable social distancing while inside casinos.
CT casinos are following CDC recommendations that individuals should stay home if:
- they’ve had close contact with an individual who tested positive for COVID-19
- you are showing symptoms of COVID-19
What casinos in CT are doing to keep patrons safe
Even though the state’s COVID-19 requirements are fairly relaxed, Connecticut casinos have had different safety approaches since May. Mask requirements and other COVID precautions in the casinos have fluctuated over the past several months.
Foxwoods Resort Casino COVID-19 restrictions
Foxwoods remained cautious despite the statewide lift on business restrictions on May 19. The casino required masks to be worn by both guests and employees for months, even after the lifted requirements.
Masks are now only required for unvaccinated individuals on the property. All patrons should bring a mask as specific event venues require them for all attendees, regardless of vaccination status.
Foxwoods will indicate the areas where masks are required to be worn by patrons with signage.
Mohegan Sun COVID-19 restrictions
Mohegan Sun began allowing vaccinated guests and employees to go mask-free. Temperature checks are conducted at casino entrances and sanitizing stations are set up throughout the property.
Also, live entertainment is in full swing as of this past July. The Mohegan Sun has issued no change in restrictions going into the holiday season.
Vaccination availability and percentages in Connecticut
Announced in Nov. COVID-19 vaccines became available for all residents ages five years or older.
As of Dec. 2, more than 70% of CT residents are fully-vaccinated and more than 80% have received their first dose.
How Connecticut is addressing the Omicron variant
State officials have concerns regarding the Omicron variant, despite vaccination rates continuing to climb in CT. Governor Ned Lamont made a statement on Nov. 28 and encouraged citizens to get vaccinated and wear masks indoors for the holiday season.
“This news of the Omicron variant reminds us about the importance of being vaccinated and getting a booster,” he said. “We have now entered the winter holiday season and still need to mask while in indoor public places, practice proper hand hygiene, get tested, and stay home if you feel sick.”
Connecticut casinos have not announced any changes to their relaxed COVID-19 restrictions, but the situation is still fluid. Guests should stay up-to-date on both state and casino recommendations when planning a visit to CT casinos.
