Which corona rules apply – tightening is coming
The gastro in NRW and thus also in Cologne can currently only be accessed with 2G+. There are a few exceptions to the Corona rule. But over carnival it gets even stronger.
Cologne – Anyone who currently wants to visit a restaurant, pub or café in Cologne not only has to be vaccinated or recovered, but also needs a negative corona test. The 2G+ rule for gastronomy has been in effect since January 13th. However, certain people are exempt from the testing requirement. During the time of the Cologne carnival, the corona measures for bars and co. are tightened again. An overview of the gastronomy rules in Cologne.
Cologne: 2G+ for gastronomy – since January 13, 2022
- Even immunized people need a current test negative proof
- Exception: Anyone who collects food and drinks does not have to provide proof of a corona test
Cologne: What are the exceptions to 2G+ in gastronomy?
The additional test obligation does not apply to persons who
- boosted in addition to the full basic immunization or
- are vaccinated and recovered or
- have two vaccinations; the second vaccination more 14 days but less than 90 days ago (also applies to people vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson who have not yet had a third vaccination) or
- have recovered where the PCR test confirming the infection is more than 27 but less than 90 days ago
Gastro Cologne: Corona rules about carnival stronger – was valid from February 24th to March 1st
- All of Cologne becomes a “traditional zone”: During the carnival days, 2G+ will apply everywhere in the cathedral city. Boosted users are exempt from the test requirement outdoors, but not indoors. In addition, there may be special cordoned-off protection zones (at hotspots such as Zülpicher Viertel and Heumarkt). Exceptions apply, for example, to residents.
- Corona rules for pub carnival: In bars, pubs and restaurants even 2G++ will apply during the carnival days. This means that in addition to proof of immunization, each person must also present a negative corona test – without exception. The only exceptions to this are restaurants that are “pure dining establishments”, i.e. only offer food.
Gastro in Cologne: Further corona rules – overview
- Mask requirement outside of fixed seating or standing areas
- Exceptions to the 2G+ rule in the catering trade: Picking up ordered food and drinks and supplying professional drivers at rest stops
Corona virus: 2G+ in restaurants, pubs, cafes – IG Kölner gastro cap “snout full”
Not everyone shows understanding for the 2G Plus rule in pubs, cafes and restaurants. Cologne hosts reacted with anger to the new corona tightening. “Now the point has just been reached […] when we’re fed up”, the association “IG Kölner Gastro” begins its Facebook-Post on the occasion of the new Corona tightening. For the catering trade, the 2G+ measure is “another nail in the coffin in our economic struggle for survival,” it said.
Gastro in Cologne: Corona tightening also for vaccinated and recovered – 2G + is “quasi-lockdown”
In addition to IG Kölner Gastro, there was also harsh criticism from the Dehoga industry association. The hotel and restaurant association in North Rhine-Westphalia announced in Neuss that the new Corona rule was a “quasi lockdown” and a “disaster for the catering trade”. Dehoga Regional President Haakon Herbst said his industry is not a pandemic driver.
He considers this a disproportionate step. He also expects enormous economic consequences for restaurateurs, who are increasing their existential fears. “Large parts of the year-end business have collapsed, liquidity is no longer available in many places. Many companies have their backs to the wall,” says Herbst.
Corona in Cologne: is there a threat of closure of the catering establishments?
The gastronomy will at least remain open despite the recent rapid increase in corona numbers and other restrictions for those who have been vaccinated and those who have recovered. Clubs and discotheques in Cologne, on the other hand, have had to remain closed since December 4th. Since December 17, the ban has also applied to public dance events. (jw/dpa) More news on the 24RHEIN homepage. Tip: Informed daily about what’s happening in Cologne – simply subscribe to our free 24RHEIN newsletter. This article was updated and brought up to date on January 11th. Innovation: reference to carnival.