Biden attends tree lighting ceremony after day out in Nantucket

President Biden on Friday spent about an hour strolling around downtown Nantucket, where his family spent Thanksgiving, before attending a tree lighting ceremony.

Joined by some of his grandchildren, Biden posed for photos and appeared to make some purchases at shops, The Associated Press reported.

Passersby shouted "Hey, Joe" and "We love you, Joe," according to the AP.

He also went to lunch with first lady Jill Biden as well as his children, Hunter and Ashley, and grandchildren. Following his walk, the family attended Nantucket's annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, the wire service added.

Earlier in the day, Biden discussed the new COVID-19 variant and travel restrictions he imposed on people coming from South Africa.

"As a precautionary measure until we have more information, I am ordering additional air travel restrictions from South Africa and seven other countries. As we move forward, we will continue to be guided by what the science and my medical team advises," Biden said in a statement about the restrictions on Friday.

He also called on unvaccinated Americans to get their shots and for others to get boosters.

"Boosters are approved for all adults over 18, six months past their vaccination and are available at 80,000 locations coast-to-coast. They are safe, free, and convenient. Get your booster shot now, so you can have this additional protection during the holiday season," the president's statement added.