This week Premier Ford introduced new pandemic restriction ‘levels’ and at midnight Ottawa moved into the ‘orange level’. This allows restaurants, bars, gyms and fitness centres to open under restrictions. It also allows movie theaters to open, but most in Ottawa are choosing not to do so.

Cineplex and Landmark cinemas have announced they will remain closed despite having the option to reopen under restrictions. According to the new framework for Ontario, theaters must screen people coming into the building, require contact information and are limited to 50 people per building.

Cineplex and Landmark stated that limiting the entire building to 50 people puts a massive financial strain on their operations. Fewer patrons also means less food and drinks sold, and ultimately it is not worth the cost to reopen.

However, that does not mean if you are in the mood to catch a movie this weekend that you are limited to your couch! Ottawa’s Mayfair Theatre and ByTowne Cinema will be opening their doors this weekend!