7 Ways to Celebrate the Holidays Sober
The winter holidays are a magical time filled with joy, togetherness, and celebrations. However, for many, these festivities are marred by the dangerous and often tragic consequences of impaired driving. Whatever your reasons for avoiding drugs and alcohol this holiday season, here are seven ways to celebrate the holidays sober.
Holiday Movie Marathon
Gather your friends and family for a cozy movie night. Pick classic holiday films, make some delicious snacks, and enjoy a night of laughter and togetherness. Don your coziest pajamas or wear your best ugly sweater. This is a great way to create cherished memories without the need for alcohol.
Seasonal Crafts with Friends
Embrace your creative side by making holiday-themed crafts and decorations. From handmade ornaments to DIY wreaths, crafting can be a wonderful way to bond with the ones you love. Use your creations to decorate your home for the season, or share the holiday spirit when you donate crafts to a local hospital, assisted living facility, or homeless shelter.
Bake Festive Treats
Gather your loved ones for a baking extravaganza. Whether you’re making cookies, gingerbread houses, or a Yule log, baking together is a fun, rewarding, and delicious way to celebrate – no alcohol necessary.
Give Back in Your Community
Spread the holiday cheer by volunteering at local charities or shelters. Helping those in need not only makes a positive impact on others but also provides a fulfilling way to celebrate the spirit of giving.
Themed Potluck
Gather your friends for a themed potluck dinner. Each person can bring a dish that represents their cultural background or favorite holiday tradition, making it a culinary celebration that everyone can enjoy. Serve non-alcoholic mocktails or spirits, or your favorite hot cocoa recipe.
Game Night
Games are a fantastic way to bring family and friends together. Board games, card games, or even charades can provide hours of entertainment, laughter, and a great way to have fun while staying sober.
Gift Exchange
Gift-giving is a central part of the holiday season. Organize a gift exchange with coworkers, friends, or family to exchange thoughtful and meaningful presents – or hilarious gag gifts. Add an element of surprise when you make it an anonymous “Secret Santa” exchange.
Sober-Friendly Community Events
Many communities offer non-alcohol-focused or even alcohol-free holiday events, from tree lighting ceremonies to winter festivals. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit while ensuring you’ll get home safe. Try NoCo Winter Wonderland, Winter Wonderlights, the Sweaty Sweater 5K, or the Onesie Dash in northern Colorado.
The winter holidays are meant to be a time of joy, love, and togetherness, and you don’t need drugs or alcohol for an entertaining celebration. If you do choose to drink or use drugs, remember: If you FEEL different, you DRIVE different.
Hand over the keys. Together, let’s make this holiday season a safe and memorable one.
No DUI Larimer encourages all of our readers: Educate yourself about how substances affect you and how you can avoid driving impaired – take charge of your future. Make the Right Call.
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