And while we can only enjoy the outdoor areas at pubs for now, we can look forward to a time when life in our locals will get back to normal.
In the meantime, lets enjoy some memories of the great times we had in hostelries in the past across South Tyneside.
From band nights to sporting occasions, we have it all. See if you can spot someone you know.
1. Battle of the bands in 2009
BATTLE OF THE BANDS ... AT THE OFFICE PUB LEFT CARL FERGUSON RACHEL LARSEN AND IAN BUCKINHAM Photo: IB
2. Raising a pint at the Pickwick Arms
Back to 2004 and the new tenants of the Pickwick Arms - David Spraggon and Christine Campbell - were pictured at the pub. Photo: TR
3. Tuck in to the Sand Dancer memories
A fish and chip trailer at the Sand Dancer in 2009. Photo: SN
4. A new pint in 2006
Artist Bob Olley with pub owners Alison and Jess McConell as they pulled the first pint of a new brew called Westoe Netty in 2006. Photo: TR