St. Patrick’s Day is a cultural and religious celebration that commemorates Saint Patrick and the arrival of Christianity in Ireland. It’s also is a holiday that celebrates the culture and heritage of the Irish in general. And drinking excessive alcohol in Ireland is the social norm. Which may be why St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is notorious for drinking. In fact, the mantra “St. Patrick’s Day Today, Hungover tomorrow” is often splashed across T-Shirts everywhere.
It can be difficult to embrace this holiday if you’re sober. Temptations to indulge in booze are everywhere, and it can be a challenge for those in recovery. But you can still have a fun and festive day without losing your sobriety date!
Host a Sober Gathering
Hosting a sober party at your own house puts you in control. Invite your friends and family and ask them to remain sober with you so that you can enjoy this holiday together. The people that love you will support your sobriety. Cook Irish-themed foods and desserts while serving a variety of alcohol-free drinks. Need some inspiration? Head on over to Delishably, they have a list of the top non-alcoholic drinks to serve on St. Patty’s Day!
You can plan games, contests, and spend time watching the St. Patrick’s Day parade with your guests. Make it a family friendly party and welcome the kiddos as well! Check out these ideas for the little leprechauns!
Attend a Meeting
If you are unable to gather a group of friends for a party, consider attending a local meeting during the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day. Meetings are ideal places to express yourself openly and honestly without the fear of judgment or shame. Connect with other people and learn how to cope with the feeling of ‘missing out.’ Chances are, you’re not the only one having a hard time getting through St. Patrick’s Day without the use of alcohol.
Stay Busy
With St. Patrick’s Day right around the corner, be proactive in planning your day. Here is a list of activities you can do to stay busy.
- Take your pup and head to the park. Hanging out with dogs has proven to reduce anxiety and stress!
- Free your mind and take a meditation or yoga class.
- Read that book that you have been meaning to get to. Yes, that one!
- Get a jump on your spring cleaning! As we have learned from Marie Kondo, throwing out anything that doesn’t bring you joy can be life changing!
- Writing and journaling can be deeply cathartic, so give it a try!
- Jump in your car, destination unknown, and have an adventure!
- Volunteer at a homeless shelter! Check out this homeless shelter directory for locations near you.
- Go to the movies, even if you must go alone. You won’t have to share your popcorn and that is always a good thing.
- Go to McDonald’s and order a Shamrock Shake. Trust me, it’s delish!
- Search the web for local activities that are focused on fun and not drinking.
Historically, your memories of St. Patty’s day may have included passing out in your neighbors’ bushes, but that should serve as a reminder of why you got sober in the first place. Keeping your sobriety date may not be easy, but it’s a testament to your desire to live a healthy and sober life. With some planning and support, you can still have a magical and fun St. Patrick’s Day without the use of green alcohol. Bonus – you will actually remember everything tomorrow!
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