After a mammoth 2020, this festive season is giving many families a chance to unwind and celebrate together for the first time in many months.

But as people gather for holidays and end-of-year events, what are the rules and guidelines for a COVID-free Christmas?

If you’re planning a big event, it might be worth scoping out the local park.

Up to 50 people can attend a party at a private property (including those you live with), but up to 100 people can gather in public outdoor spaces.

Queensland Health recommends hosting Christmas gatherings outside or in a well-ventilated area.

Food should be served on individual plates and guests should avoid sharing glasses and utensils.

Guests are urged to stay home on the day if they’re feeling sick.

Bars and restaurants hosting Christmas events must follow a COVID-safe plan.

Is Hugging allowed

The festive season is a time for affection, but when it comes to elderly relatives, Queensland’s Chief Health Officer Jeannette Young says the 1.5 metre rule is still best practice.

“People should use their common sense — if you have vulnerable people, don’t fall at the last hurdle,” Dr Young said.

“Wouldn’t it be awful if unknowingly we had a case that had come out into the community and it was your grandmother that got it?”

Families are advised to visit vulnerable relatives in smaller groups and avoid meeting in busy public places.

Visiting Hospitals and Aged Care

Queensland Health says generally you should be allowed to pay a visit to both of those places.

However, you’ll be denied access if you:

Are unwell

Have returned from overseas in the past 14 days or been asked to self quarantine

Had contact with a person with COVID-19 in the past 14 days

Have been tested for COVID-19 and are awaiting a result

Have COVID-19 symptoms

Visitor conditions can vary between facilities, so it’s also advisable to check before you stop by.

Travelling domestically and visiting relatives

You sure can.

There are currently no declared COVID-19 hotspots in Australia, meaning you can travel throughout the country without having to quarantine upon your return to Queensland.

Some states require you to register before arrival.

Domestic travellers are no longer required to complete a Queensland Border Declaration Pass before entering the state.

Taking the kids to see Santa

The traditional shopping centre snap on Santa’s knee is no more.

Families can still have their photo taken with the man in red, but will need to sit 1.5 metres away with no physical contact.

Visits should be booked in ahead of time to minimise crowds and queues.

Group photos and selfies with family and friends are allowed because standing together for a short time is considered low risk.

Get togethers on New Years Eve and what about the traditional midnight pash ?

It’s safe to say most of us will be happy to see the back of 2020.

Many large-scale fireworks displays have been cancelled to prevent big crowds from gathering.

Bars and nightclubs are expected to be busy with Queensland’s dance ban now lifted.

As for a New Year’s kiss, Queensland Health says “pashing a stranger at the pub at midnight is not advisable at this time”.