North Carolina Moves Into Phase 3 on Friday: Here’s What That Means

Changes are coming for bars, outdoor entertainment venues, and amusement parks

Today, N.C. Gov. Roy Cooper announced that the state will be moving into Phase 3 of its reopening plan on Friday at 5 p.m.. Here’s what that means:

* Bars can operate outdoors only at 30-percent of each’s outdoor capacity or 100 guests (whichever is less).

* Large outdoor venues with seating greater than 10,000 may operate with 7-percent occupancy.

* Smaller outdoor entertainment venues can operate outdoors at 30-percent of outdoor capacity or 100 guests, whichever is less.

* Movie theaters and conference centers may open indoor spaces to 30% of capacity or 100 guests (whichever is less).

* Outdoor amusement parks can open at 30-percent occupancy.

* The limits on mass gatherings will remain at 25 indoors and 50  outdoors.

“The 11 p.m. curfew on alcohol sales for in-person consumption in locations such as restaurants and outdoor bars will be extended,” Cooper also noted.

A face covering is mandatory for those over the age of 5. “Our stability is fragile, and with cooler weather and flu season comes new challenges,” Cooper said. “While we are methodical and cautious about easing restrictions, we need to keep using proven measures: wearing a mask, waiting 6 feet apart and washing our hands often.”