China’s biggest beer festival goes ahead as coronavirus cancels out Oktoberfest
- Visitors to annual Qingdao event told to wear masks and observe social distancing rules
- State broadcaster calls it a chance for people to get back to normal
This time, though, visitors will have to present a green health QR code to show they are free of the virus, according to the organisers. They will also have to wear masks, have their temperature taken on entry and observe social distancing rules. In addition, the festival, which attracted more than 7.2 million people last year, will run at half capacity.
But footage on the event’s social media account and released by state broadcaster CCTV showed unmasked visitors close together on the opening day on Friday.
The World Health Organisation has warned against holding mass gatherings, saying they could increase virus transmission.
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‘Asia’s Oktoberfest’ goes ahead in Qingdao as China coronavirus case numbers stay low
The festival features more than 1,500 types of beer and 200 cultural and sporting events, including live music and on-site camping.
State broadcaster CCTV said the event gave visitors a chance to get “back on track of normal life”.