Health

Pop-up parking lot parties in high-risk communities causing COVID-19 concerns

EVERETT, Mass. — Videos posted this week on Instagram show hundreds of people partying in a parking lot not far from the Encore casino in Everett.

It’s clear in the video and pictures from this night that most people are not wearing masks or social distancing.

Boston 25 News notified Everett city leaders about this gathering, and the mayor’s office sent this statement in response:

“Any and all gatherings that go against the guidelines set forth by the Governor are frowned upon and will not be tolerated in the City of Everett. While we have not been made aware of these large gatherings due to the remote nature of them, the Everett Police will increase enforcement at locations where these parties can occur,” said Mayor Carlo DeMaria.

The organizers behind the party in Everett posted a flyer on social media for another party planned for Oct. 10 in Revere.

Their flyer in Portuguese translates to “the Coronavirus never drove me away.”

Boston 25 News reached out to Revere city leaders about this planned party, and a city spokesperson says: “The City of Revere would not allow a party that does not comply with Governor Baker’s gatherings order. We plan to be in touch with the organizer this week to inform them of the City’s position on large gatherings.”

Revere city leaders also want to remind the public that you cannot have more than 50 people at an outdoor party, and everyone should be social distancing and wearing a mask.

Those who don’t comply with these rules you could face a fine of $490.

Both Everett and Revere are still in the ‘red’ with a high risk for COVID-19 according to the latest health data from the state.

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