The Presidential Inauguration Committee, responsible for producing the official inaugural events for the swearing-in of President-elect Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States on January 20th, urged Americans not to travel to the nation’s capital for the inauguration in light of the coronavirus pandemic, CNN reports.

“Our goal is to create an inauguration that keeps people safe, honors the grand traditions of the Presidency, and showcases the Biden-Harris Administration’s renewed American vision for an inclusive, equitable, and unified citizenry,” committee CEO Tony Allen said in a statement.

While previous inaugurations have taken place on the steps of the Capitol, typically with large crowds of people crammed into bleachers and along the National Mall.  (The Trump inauguration had a smaller than typical crowd.)

The January 20th program will largely be virtual, with speeches and entertainment produced for viewing by people around the nation.  The events have not yet been announced, but many traditional inauguration galas will likely be canceled.

People will not be barred from attending the swearing-in on the Capitol steps, but the number of people on the platform will be significantly reduced.  All will be expected to take instant diagnostic tests and wear masks.  At least four traditional attendees–the current president and vice-president and their current wives–are not expected to attend.

People who gather on the National Mall will be expected to wear masks and maintain safe social distancing.  The Inaugural Committee is working with medical professionals to develop guidelines, but they are urging people to skip this year’s festivities.

“The pandemic is continuing to have a significant public health impact across the nation,” Dr. David Kessler, the former commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration who is working with the Inaugural Committee, said. “Americans everywhere must do their part to slow the spread of the virus: wear masks, stay home, and limit gatherings. We are asking Americans to participate in inaugural events from home to protect themselves, their families, friends, and communities.”