D.C.'s ban on indoor dining expired at 5 a.m. Friday, which allowing restaurants to welcome diners inside for the first time since before Christmas.
Restaurants can serve customers until they reach 25% of regular indoor capacity, Deputy Mayor John Falcicchio said.
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Mayor Muriel Bowser shut down indoor dining to combat the potential for more virus spread over the holidays, then extended the ban until after Inauguration Day over security concerns, she said.
Many restaurants are jumping at the opportunity to drum up business.
The Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington will begin its Winter Restaurant Week promotion on Monday. This year, dine in and takeout specials will be available.
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Bowser said Thursday public libraries will continue offering only pickup and drop-off services.
Indoor operations at Department of Parks and Recreation facilities are limited to individual reservations for swimming and fitness rooms. Socially distanced, non-high-contact activities are allowed outside for adult and youth sports groups and individual exercise.
The DC Circulator Route to the National Mall remains canceled for now, she said.
Bowser's administration expects to give more guidance on museums soon. Museums were also directed to close over the holidays and during the inauguration.
