PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (CNS) — The 2022 Palm Springs International Film Festival will require all attendees and employees to be fully vaccinated, organizers announced Friday.

The Palm Springs Film Society released updated COVID-19 guidelines for January's festival, specifying that proof of full vaccination will be required.

People with medical or religious belief exemptions from the vaccine will be asked not to attend the festival or events held by the organization, according to the Palm Springs International Film Society website.

Theater capacity will be reduced to no more than 75% and masks will be required inside all venues and events. Masks will be strongly encouraged for outdoor events. Organizers specified that masks can be removed while people are eating or drinking.

Those who cannot wear a mask due to a disability or medical condition may fill out a mask exemption form that can be found on the organization's website. 

 

"Until we are past this pandemic, we must all do our part so we can get back to enjoying what we love. For us, it's the sense of community being together in a theater enjoying a film with others, and honoring the artists who have put their heart and soul into making their passion project and sharing it for us to see on the big screen," according to the Palm Springs Film Society.

The Palm Springs International Film Festival is scheduled for Jan. 6- 17, with the Film Awards Gala kicking off the festivities opening day.

Information is available online at psfilmfest.org/film-festival-2022.