Bars and patrons celebrate night one of NC's eased COVID restrictions, but challenges await

For businesses like Raleigh Beer Garden on Glenwood Ave., they’ve been waiting a year for a night like this and have gotten things ready without much time to prepare.

"We’ve had 48 hours to prepare, so it’s been a whirlwind," said Gillian Shepherd, Raleigh Beer Garden general manager.

Shepherd told WRAL News she’s worked in this industry her whole life, yet the notion that they’re open until 2 a.m. again gives her goosebumps.

"We all want it to feel normal again,” she said.

That excitement comes at a cost as her number one priority is ensuring her patrons are safe.

“We actually have increased staff and increased security and doormen to make sure that there’s a presence walking around to let people know, 'we’re just excited as you are, but we still are not quite there yet.' We still have rules to follow,” she said.

For patrons like Raleigh's Kiya Sowers, it was the first time out in months. Sowers said it's the first time she’s put on makeup in nearly a year.

“It’s almost like an animal locked in the cage, and let out to be able to run wild in the yard,” Sowers said.

As places along Glenwood South begin to enjoy the increased capacity, it’s not that simple for the Durham Bulls.

Scott Strickland, assistant general manager of operations at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, said safety is still the priority.

"As of now this whole row you can’t use," Strickland explained. “That’s where the numbers game kicks in.”

As it stands with 6-feet of social distancing, the Bulls won’t get close to 50% capacity at the DBAP, making it tough on business and the fans.

But for the time being, they’re grateful for the increase and will add tables to squeeze in as many people as they can.