ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The City of St. Petersburg is busy this weekend with a lot of events.

The big one is the return of the Firestone Grand Prix and there’s also World Series watch parties for the Tampa Bay Rays.

 Safety and security is always a top priority at these events, and even more so in 2020.

What You Need To Know

  • Busy weekend in downtown St. Pete with Firestone Grand Prix, Rays watch parties

  • Coronavirus security measures will be in place

  • What You Need To Know: Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

Although the races will go on, fans and residents will see a lot of changes. Here's what you can expect: 

  • There will be a festival with live entertainment and activities. 
  • Attendance is limited to 20,000 people. 
  • There's a "no mask, no entry" policy -- indoors and outdoors while at the Grand Prix. 
  • Fans were sent pre-screening questionnaires that ask about any potential COVID-19 symptoms they may be experiencing. 
  • You're encouraged to fill out the questionnaire beforehand, but you can still fill it out at the event before being admitted. 
  • There will be temperature checks at the entrance. 

Even though things are going to be different this year, organizers say there's definitely reason to be excited about this year's race. 

Like everything else, the annual Grand Prix is different in 2020.

For one, it’s not usually in October and of course covid-19 restrictions are in place as well. For instance, there is a mask requirement.

 

In addition to usual safety measures, police, firefighters and race officials will be out all weekend making sure social distancing and masks are being used where appropriate.

Bars and restaurants will also be monitored and owners could even face fines if there’s no social distancing.

"We’re hoping everyone stays in compliance," said St. Petersburg Police Chief Anthony Holloway. "But if they’re not, people call in, we go in, educate the owners, of the businesses. What they need to do, and if they’re still not in compliance, then they will be fined."

For fans planning on attending, it is expected to be less crowded than usual thanks to covid.

However, there are still a lot of road closures in downtown.

One option for parking is using Tropicana Field. Fans can park there and take a free shuttle to the races.