Tips for Throwing an Inclusive and Fun Summer Party for Sober Guests
- Jenny Halupnik
- Jul 4
- 1 min read
Summer parties are upon us - and we often hear of the turmoil that impacts One Eighty recoverees as they try to negotiate tricky gatherings that often include alcohol or other mind altering substances.
Your party can sizzle, even while you create an inclusive atmosphere that supports all your guests - sober or not. And when you support your sober friends, you’re not just throwing a party, you’re showing love that lasts.
Here are 4 ways to host with heart, keeping your sober friends in mind:
Stock the good stuff. Load your cooler with fun non-alcoholic drinks—mocktails, sparkling waters, slushies, you name it. Make “not drinking” just as festive.
Don’t make it awkward. Never ask why someone isn’t drinking. No pressure. No jokes. Just let people do their thing.
Give a heads-up. If someone in recovery is invited, let them know privately what to expect. Share what you’ve planned to make it inclusive (like their favorite NA drink or games that don’t revolve around drinking). Then let them decide if it’s a good fit.
Honor their boundaries. If they leave early—or skip it altogether—that’s okay. Reach out later and plan something low-key, just the two of you.
When you truly love someone, you don’t just cheer for their change—you champion it. Thanks for caring enough to make your party a place where everyone can feel safe, welcomed and valued.
Comments