2024 COVID Safety Plan and Attendance Policy

Safety Plan

COVID-19 is still with us, but cases and fatalities have declined dramatically. The OLF Conference has therefore decided not to impose additional requirements for vaccination or face coverings on attendees beyond what is required by applicable authorities. We do recommend that all attendees complete a self-screening before coming into the event space.

By “applicable authorities,” we mean the government (City of Columbus, Franklin County, State of Ohio, and United States governments) and the Hyatt hotel where the event is being held. Please note that as the Hyatt is located on the site of the Greater Columbus Convention Center, it is subject to regulations from the convention authority and county which may go beyond requirements imposed on private businesses.

It is our understanding that there are no current requirements for vaccination or face coverings to attend events at the Hyatt hotel. This may change if an outbreak occurs, so we will keep tabs on the situation and update this page as necessary.

We understand that some people may be uncomfortable with in-person events, or may be unable or unwilling to observe the requirements below. In this case, you are welcome to join us virtually by registering for the Online Only Pass.

BY PURCHASING AN IN-PERSON TICKET AND ATTENDING THE OLF CONFERENCE, YOU ARE AGREEING TO BEAR ALL RISKS OF CONTRACTING COVID-19 OR ANY OTHER HEALTH CONDITION AND ANY ASSOCIATED COSTS. YOU AGREE TO HOLD THE OHIO LINUXFEST CORPORATION, EVENT STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS, AND HOTEL PERSONNEL HARMLESS IN CONNECTION WITH YOUR ATTENDANCE.

Attendee Guidelines

Self-screening recommended We recommend that all attendees perform a self-screening for symptoms and risk factors. Please do not come if you are ill.
Masks encouraged We recommend that all attendees wear a mask covering their nose and mouth. We will have some available at the registration desk if you forget yours.
Vaccination encouraged We recommend that all attendees be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccination and receive the seasonal influenza shot. Talk to your physician on the best course of vaccinations for you prior to travel and attending large gatherings. You can find a provider at vaccines.gov.

Travel Planning

Hospitals If you have a medical condition that puts you at greater risk (such as immunocompromised persons or those with respiratory ailments), you may want to consider attending virtually instead.
Hotel As well as a venue partner, we recommend the Hyatt Regency Columbus as a lodging option. The Hyatt’s cleanliness and safety protocols include frequent cleaning and disinfection of public areas as well as use of filtration, air ionizers, and ultraviolet light in HVAC systems to remove/deactivate microbes.
Parking Covered parking is available at the South Garage of the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Those who stay at the Hyatt may take advantage of the valet parking or self-park at the Chestnut garage at a discounted rate. More parking details are on our hotels page.
Swab test The CDC provides safety recommendations for protecting yourself and others.

At The Event

Social distance While most seating will be traditional theater-style, we will provide some socially distanced seating. You should also maintain distance in other areas of the event.
No handshake You must respect the personal space of others. Consider limited contact gestures such as elbow bumps and waves.
Virtual attendance You may consider attending virtually for some or all of the event to reduce risk of exposure. We are trying to make the virtual experience fulfilling. Not everyone is ready to attend in person. It is a personal choice if on-premises attendance is right for you.

Attendance Policy

Self-Screening

Please consider self-screening before you attend the event (no more than 24 hours in advance).

We do not want you to attend sick. We will cancel your registration and offer a refund if you indicate that you are unwell.

Hotel Accommodations

We hope that you can stay with us at the Hyatt Regency Columbus. Please remember that should in-person activities be cancelled, your hotel reservation will not automatically be cancelled as well. The hotel has a 48-hour cancellation policy if doing so via your reservation email. After that time, you may call the front desk and explain the circumstances at +1 614-463-1234.