Anonymous wrote:Just say you can’t go. Don’t get judgy or preachy. No good will come from it and it might even be counterproductive. Just say no and that’s it.

This, unfortunately. The ones that most need the lecture are the least likely to hear it.

Just say no thanks but send them a ventilator along with your rsvp.

How exactly are you privy to the number of invited guests? And FWIW, just because the host has invited 50 people doesn’t mean they will all show up.

Anonymous wrote:“Sorry, per CDC Covid pandemic recommendations, I will not be able to attend.”

You can only control you.

This is what I'd say.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:"Sorry, we're not socializing in person at this time because of the pandemic."

Except I'd say "indoors".

But yes, I'd 100% let her know that it's because of COVID. Don't let them off the hook because this is stupid and dangerous.

That's what I would say, too. "Thanks for inviting us. We're not socializing because of COVID. Hope to see you next year."

Where is this taking place? Local?

Thank you for the invitation, can't make it. That's it.

OP, this isn't hard. Just say no. You're not going to be the only people declining. Hopefully, the vast majority of the invitees have some common sense.

Anonymous wrote:Just say you can’t go. Don’t get judgy or preachy. No good will come from it and it might even be counterproductive. Just say no and that’s it.

np People could die. If this isn't the time to "not get preachy or judgy" than I don't know when it is. I would tell them if they continued to have the party that I would report them to the police.

Anonymous wrote:"Sorry, we're not socializing in person at this time because of the pandemic."

Except I'd say "indoors".

But yes, I'd 100% let her know that it's because of COVID. Don't let them off the hook because this is stupid and dangerous.

RSVP no. And avoid all people who go. I see more as building here immunity for those of us smart enough not to attend.

For much smaller event invites - I just stated clearly that we are not meeting people indoors and with the rising numbers have decided not to be part of any events with such a large number of attendees. And then wished them to have fun at the party.

After that I just made it a point to stay clear of those people because this one big party you know about, they are definitely having more get togethers that you are unaware of.

Why is this even a question? Nobody and their event is worth us risking the future of our families. So we have stopped going since March to even any outdoors meeting with friends.

Nope. You say "sorry, we are not attending any events due to the pandemic. Hope to see you in person when this is over. Thank you for thinking of me".

God knows we have exposure enough with essential things like medical appointments, groceries, gas stations, work, day care, exams etc, which we may not be able to get out of. Why increase the exposure?

Of course they are irresponsible and foolish. And on some level, they probably know this, so they will be very defensive and angry if you say anything. I'd respond in a pretty neutral manner, just saying that I can't come. And I probably would not express regret or say I'm sorry, as I would with a normal invitation. Just, "I won't be able to attend the party." No moralizing, no explanation.

They absolutely know what they are doing and simply choose not to respect recommendations for whatever reason. Being preachy won't help. Simply reply "No thank you" and leave it at that.

And absolutely avoid anyone who does attend for the foreseeable future. There could be a chain reaction of infections for many weeks after this.