5 Ideas for a Fun, Sober Holiday Party

 This time of the year can be challenging for those who are trying to stay sober. Many holiday parties include alcohol, and watching peers drink can put a lot of pressure on individuals recovering from alcohol dependency. 

By contrast, substance-free parties are respectful of everyone. They bring the chance to connect and celebrate the season without individuals worrying about what will be served. Here are five ideas for how to throw a fun, sober holiday party:

1.   Send Clear Invitations

 

The first step to throwing a substance-free party is to let everyone in on the plan. Whether you’re sending out paper invitations, Facebook messages, or texts, make sure you explain that this will be a zero-substance event. That way, people will have a heads up, and no one will be disappointed when they arrive.

 

Substance-free parties can be just as fun, if not more so, as parties with alcohol and other mind-altering substances. Guests will drive home more safely, and they’ll wake up feeling refreshed the next day. As the host, you’ll also have less to worry about at an alcohol-free party – if someone acts out or gets hurt, it won’t be because of substances you provided.

2.   Set the Mood

 

People like having alcohol at parties because it helps them relax and open up. You can achieve that same effect and help your guests feel comfortable by thoughtfully setting the mood for the party. Lighting is a big contributor to this – try dimming the lights so that people feel less exposed. Candles and a fireplace are another great way to bring ambiance and a sense of rest to your event.

 

Music is another helpful tool for setting the mood for your party. Choose the soundtrack with your party vibe in mind. Ask yourself if people will have trouble talking over the music you choose. Do you want them to be able to sing along, say to Christmas music? What are you trying to achieve with your sound? In conjunction, music and lighting can do a lot to help your guests relax and enjoy the party.

3.   Create Several Spaces

 

Some people come to parties to talk to everyone, while others prefer to sit in a corner and engage one-on-one. To help everyone feel comfortable and keep the energy flowing, make sure there are several spaces for guests to move through.

 

If you’re hosting in one small room, rearrange the furniture to create natural separations so several groups can form. That way, guests have somewhere to go if they want to switch up conversation partners or be alone for a moment. Creating numerous spaces will help people feel safe and encourage natural movement.

4.   Serve Good Food

 

To help fill the space usually occupied by alcohol or other substances, ensure there is plenty of good food at your gathering. Serve a robust menu of holiday treats, proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to keep your friends from feeling any alcohol cravings.

 

It’s also a great idea to serve fun drinks like hot chocolate, cider, and punch. That way, there’s something to reach for and sip during conversation time. Making mocktails sounds fun, but they can be a trigger for those weaning off alcohol dependency. To be safe, it’s best to stick to drinks that aren’t reminiscent of alcohol at all.

5.   Plan an Activity

 

To round out your party and ensure no one is missing a drink, plan one or two group activities. These can range from complicated board games to simple ice-breakers like charades. Try to get everyone involved with games that require teamwork, provoke laughter, and are easy for everyone to pick up. To make your sober holiday party even more exciting, consider incorporating customized gel blasters for a fun, interactive activity that guests of all ages can enjoy.  

 

Planning a party is a delicate balance of directing your guests and also letting them do their own thing. Your guests came to relax, not to feel like they’re at work, so it’s best to keep your planning simple. However, organizing a few group activities can give purpose and direction to your event.

Celebrate the Holidays Sober

 

Although a sober party is not everyone’s idea of a good time, it can be a lot of fun if you plan it well. As the host of a holiday event, you have the power to create an environment where friends can connect without feeling pressured to partake in alcohol and other substances.

 

Follow these five tips to throw a fun, relaxed holiday party that will support your substance-free friends, foster meaningful connections, and encourage people to come back year after year.