Five Years After COVID Lockdowns: The 5 Most Bizarre ‘Stop-the-Spread’ Moments

As we hit the five-year mark since the U.S. entered its first COVID-19 lockdowns, a retrospective on the most head-scratching “stop-the-spread” moments reveals a blend of controversy, confusion, and unintentional comedy. From mask mandates to food loopholes, the pandemic’s most bizarre measures are still a talking point.

The Mask Debate: Former NIAID Director Dr. Anthony Fauci became a household name, both revered and ridiculed, as he navigated the nation through the pandemic. His shifting stance on mask-wearing left many scratching their heads. Back in March 2020, Fauci warned against masks on "60 Minutes," citing potential "unintended consequences" like people touching their faces more often. Not long after, masks became a must-have accessory, with Fauci even suggesting double masking at one point. While some felt reassured by his evolving recommendations, others accused him of mixed messaging. Senator Marco Rubio dryly noted that Fauci’s job was to advise, not scare or confuse the public. Fair point, Senator.

The Cuomo Chip Crisis: New York’s then-Governor Andrew Cuomo introduced a rule requiring bars to serve "substantial food" alongside alcohol. Chicken wings, a sacred snack for many, were deemed insufficient. Outrage ensued, with New Yorkers questioning Cuomo’s culinary logic. Bars cheekily fought back, selling single croutons or deli meat slices to comply with the rule. The "Cuomo Chip" loophole became the punchline of the year, proving that even in a pandemic, New Yorkers will find a way to keep their drinks flowing.

Skate Parks Get Sandy: In California, skate parks were filled with sand to deter gatherings. Los Angeles’ iconic Venice Beach skate park was buried under tons of sand, prompting skaters to grab shovels and reclaim their turf. Professional skater Paul Rodriguez called the move "aggressive," but noted the pandemic called for extreme measures. Meanwhile, in Pittsburgh, skaters scaled fences and cut locks to access their beloved bowls, proving that skate culture doesn’t bow down easily.

Rest Areas Closed, Chaos Ensues: In Pennsylvania, rest areas along highways were barricaded, forcing truck drivers to park dangerously on shoulders. Senator Doug Mastriano called the closures absurd and noted the irony of creating new hazards while trying to "stop the spread." The Keystone State’s lockdown measures also included a law from 1955 being used to fine a woman for taking a Sunday drive. Talk about creative enforcement.

State Line Liquor Drama: With Pennsylvania’s state-run liquor stores shuttered, thirsty residents flocked to Delaware for booze. Total Wine near the state line became a hotspot, until Delaware police began pulling over out-of-state vehicles. The "Naamans Road checkpoint" became a symbol of the lengths people would go to for a drink. Because apparently, even in a pandemic, some things are non-negotiable.

From mask debates to skate park rebellions, these moments remind us how surreal and, at times, absurd the pandemic years were. In hindsight, some measures make us laugh, while others make us question the logic of it all. Either way, they’re unforgettable chapters in the COVID-19 saga.