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PHOTOS+VIDEO: This huge crowd gathered for a Vancouver drum circle during COVID-19

Elana Shepert
Elana Shepert
third-beach-drum
(via Twitter/@schaaptop)

Despite multiple warnings from health authorities against mass gatherings, a massive crowd of well over 60 people congregated on Vancouver's Third Beach for a drum circle last night (July 21).

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry has ordered that no more than 50 people may gather at mass events, regardless of whether they are indoor or outdoor. However, videos and pictures from the gathering show a sprawling crowd of well above 50 people.

In addition to the number of people, the videos and images show that very few people were practicing physical distancing. What's more, very few people wore face masks, if any. 

Henry tells Glacier Media in a news briefing that there has been a great deal of confusion over what constitutes an event versus a gathering. 

"There is a difference between events, where people go for a period of time in one area, versus going to a hardware store or a grocery store that's quite large where people are in and out. The're not with each other gathering and doing specific things," she said.

A number of residents have vocalized their frustration and anger on social media, with many remarking that the people who attended the circle were selfish.

One person said, "This is just offensive."

Have a look at some of the images and videos from last night's gathering.

The Mass Gatherings Events Public Health Act does not apply to the presence of workers at a worksite when engaged in their work activities, or to customers in a mall or retail establishment.

It also does not apply to individuals attending an episodic vending market or to individuals at a campsite, in a park or at any other outside location when not attending an event. Read HERE.