As pandemic restrictions loosen, event organizers prepare for comeback

During a press conference on Wednesday, Gov. Roy Cooper said people are still encouraged to wear masks outside when they're in large groups with little social distancing.

The loosening of restrictions by Cooper means events are coming back to the Triangle.

Triangle events to look forward to in 2021

Kerry Painter, director and general manager of the Raleigh Convention and Performing Arts Complex, helps oversee a number of venues, including Red Hat Amphitheater. She said she believes that, after a year of inactivity, events are coming back in a big way.

"In my heart, I always felt like it was going to come back raging, and we are starting to see that people have really realized the value of being together," said Painter. "Five years ago, people would've told you, 'Conventions are going away.' Well, we know that's not true now. We've had enough virtual, and we want to be back in the room."

Will summer festivals, events return full force this June?

Downtown Raleigh Alliance President and Chief Executive Bill King said many festival staples will be back within the next six months.

"Obviously, the International Bluegrass Festival that happens in September, that's one that people love," said King. "I know that we also have Hopscotch, which is a big music festival."

King added that some events will be coming back even sooner, such as the Moore Square Farmers Market on Sunday.

"It's bringing back energy to downtown, but we are doing it in a thoughtful and safe way, so we are not just like it was before," said King. "We are being really thoughtful about following all the guidelines."

"Now that we are seeing the light at the end of the tunnel on June 1, it's allowing us to book things, so that's really wonderful," said Painter.

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