The Christmas season is meant to bring joy, connection, and celebration, but for people in recovery it can also bring stress. Travel, family gatherings, financial pressure, disrupted routines, and environments where alcohol is present can all increase vulnerability to cravings or relapse. The good news is that you do not have to navigate the holidays alone. With the right strategies and support, you can stay grounded in your recovery and still enjoy a meaningful Christmas season.
Below are practical tips and activities for a sober Christmas that can help you stay on track, protect your peace, and create holiday experiences that support your recovery.
1. Attend Events With a Sober Friend or Ally
Attending Christmas parties, work events, or family gatherings can be overwhelming when you go alone, especially if alcohol or triggering situations are present. Bringing a sober friend or ally can make a tremendous difference. A sober friend who understands recovery can help you stay accountable, recognize triggers early, and leave situations that do not feel safe.
Your ally does not need to be in recovery. They simply need to be someone who supports your sobriety and is willing to remain substance free at the event. Whether it is a friend, sibling, partner, or coworker, having someone by your side creates a level of support that can make holiday gatherings easier and more enjoyable.
2. Practice How to Say “No” to Alcoholic Drinks
The holidays are filled with small moments where you might be offered an alcoholic drink. Practicing your response ahead of time helps you stay confident and calm. You never owe anyone an explanation, but having a few prepared responses can help you avoid feeling caught off guard.
Examples of ways to say no include:
- “No thanks. I am sober.”
- “No thanks. I am driving tonight.”
- “No thank you. I am good with what I have.”
- “I don’t drink, but I would love a soda if you have one.”
- “Not tonight, but thank you for asking.”
You can also redirect the conversation by asking a question or changing the subject away from drinking. If someone insists, you can repeat your boundary or ask for support from your sober ally. Your sobriety always comes first.
3. Bring Your Favorite Non-Alcoholic Drinks
If you attend a party where alcohol will be served, it can help to bring your own beverages. This ensures you have something tasty and familiar to enjoy. Carrying a drink also makes you less likely to receive offers for alcohol.
Non-alcoholic drink options can include:
- Sparkling water or flavored seltzer
- Kombucha
- Soft drinks or iced tea
- Holiday mocktails
- Non-alcoholic beer, wine, or spirits (may contain small amounts of alcohol)
- Warm beverages such as hot chocolate or spiced cider
Choosing your favorite drinks can reduce cravings and help you feel included in the celebration without compromising your recovery.
4. Have a Backup Plan or Exit Strategy
Knowing that you can leave at any time reduces anxiety and helps you feel more comfortable attending holiday events. This is especially important if you are concerned that the gathering may become triggering later in the evening.
Your exit strategy might include:
- Driving yourself so you do not have to wait for a ride
- Coordinating with your sober friend on when you both want to leave
- Telling the host ahead of time that you may not be staying long
- Choosing a time to leave before the event becomes more alcohol centered
- Preparing reasons such as early morning plans, caring for a pet or family member, or attending another gathering
Planning ahead gives you control over your evening and helps you protect your sobriety.
5. Review & Update Your Relapse Prevention Plan
A relapse prevention plan is one of the most important tools you can rely on during recovery and it’s even more important during the holidays. If you have been through treatment at Empowered Recovery Center, you likely created one already. Christmas may bring unique stressors, so now is the perfect time to revisit and update your plan.
Triggers during the holidays may include:
- Family conflict
- Being around alcohol
- Grief or loneliness
- Changes in routine
- Stress related to travel or finances
Make sure your coping skills are relevant to the situations you expect to face. You should also keep a copy in your phone or journal that you can refer to quickly when you need support.
6. Reflect on Your Recovery & Remind Yourself Why You Are Sober
It is easy to feel overwhelmed during the holidays. This is why it helps to regularly reflect on your progress and remind yourself why you chose sobriety. Connecting to your personal reasons can give you strength during difficult moments.
Consider writing down:
- Your recovery milestones
- What sobriety has restored in your life
- Relationships that have improved
- Goals you are now able to pursue
- The physical and emotional benefits you have experienced
Keeping these reminders nearby can help ground you and strengthen your resolve to stay sober through Christmas stressors.
7. Begin the Day With Intention & Practice Mindfulness
Starting each day with intention helps you stay centered and present. An intention is a guiding principle that supports your mindset and actions throughout the day.
Examples of recovery focused intentions include:
- “I will honor my boundaries today.”
- “I will stay present and calm.”
- “I will choose actions that support my recovery.”
Mindfulness practices such as journaling, breathing exercises, meditation, and stretching can also support emotional balance. Planning your day with healthy activities, including exercise or time with supportive friends, helps you maintain structure and stability.
8. Host Your Own Sober Christmas Event or Activity
If typical Christmas gatherings feel overwhelming or do not support your sobriety, consider hosting your own event. This allows you to create a safe, comfortable environment where guests understand and respect your recovery.
Some sober holiday activities you can host may include:
- A Christmas movie night
- Ornament decorating
- A cookie baking exchange
- A holiday potluck
- A Christmas themed game night or trivia night
- Decorating the tree with friends or family
Hosting your own gathering gives you more control over the atmosphere and helps you enjoy the season without unnecessary stress.
9. Continue Therapy & Attend Support Groups
Therapy and support groups offer important structure during the holiday season. Planning your therapy sessions around Christmas gives you dedicated time to talk through concerns, anticipate triggers, and strengthen your coping skills. Your therapist can help you prepare for upcoming holiday stress, adjust your relapse prevention plan, and process family or emotional challenges.
Support groups provide connection and accountability. Many groups such as AA, NA, SMART Recovery, and others offer both in person and virtual meetings, which is helpful if you are traveling for the holidays. Hearing others share their experiences can make you feel less alone and more supported. Whether you attend in person or online, staying connected to your recovery community can make the entire season easier to navigate.
If you already attend therapy or group meetings, consider increasing the frequency during December. Extra support can help you feel grounded and confident in your sobriety.
10. Continue Treatment During the Holidays
If you are feeling unsteady in your recovery, or if cravings are getting stronger, continuing treatment through the holidays may be the best option. Many people choose to extend their treatment to make sure they have consistent support during Christmas. This allows you to participate in safe, structured sessions while still enjoying holiday time with your loved ones.
If you have already completed treatment and have recently relapsed, or fear that you might relapse, seeking professional care right away is important. There is no need to wait until the holidays are over or until the new year begins. Getting help now gives you the chance to reset, stabilize, and regain control of your recovery before things become more stressful.
Empowered Recovery Center can help you begin treatment before Christmas so you enter the new year feeling supported, encouraged, and prepared.
Sober Christmas Events in Atlanta
Atlanta offers a variety of festive, family friendly activities that can help you stay engaged without compromising your recovery.
1. Visit the Georgia Aquarium
The Georgia Aquarium transforms into a festive holiday destination with decorations, lights, and seasonal music. It is a great place for families to explore marine exhibits in a cheerful environment. Children can also visit Santa while enjoying the attractions.
More details are available on their website:
https://www.georgiaaquarium.org/holidays-at-georgia-aquarium/
2. Go See Holiday Lights in Atlanta
Atlanta has numerous stunning holiday light displays. You can walk around your own neighborhood or visit popular holiday attractions such as:
- Holiday Nights at Atlanta Botanical Garden
- Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens
- Magical Nights of Lights at Lanier Islands Resort
- Stone Mountain Christmas
- WildWoods: AGLOW at Fernbank Museum
- IllumiNights at the Zoo, a Chinese Lantern Festival
These events provide a festive way to celebrate without a focus on substances or partying.
3. See Atlanta Ballet’s The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker is a classic holiday tradition and a favorite in Atlanta. It offers a beautiful mix of dance, music, and storytelling. Even if you have never been to a ballet, it is an enjoyable and festive way to spend an evening.
Learn more here:
https://www.atlantaballet.com/performances/nutcracker
4. Go Ice Skating
Ice skating is a fun and active holiday outing. Atlanta offers several winter skating locations, including:
- Park Tavern
- Ponce City Market
- Other metro area locations: https://discoveratlanta.com/stories/things-to-do/where-to-go-ice-skating-in-atlanta/
This is an easy way to enjoy the season with friends and family in a substance free environment.
5. Volunteer or Give Back to the Community
Giving back is a meaningful way to connect during the holiday season. Volunteering can also strengthen your sense of purpose, which is an important part of recovery.
Local Atlanta organizations that often need volunteers include:
- Atlanta Community Food Bank
- Salvation Army
- Local YMCA branches
- United Way of Greater Atlanta
Volunteer tasks may include sorting and packing food, helping with holiday programs, or supporting administrative work.
Addiction Treatment & Support in Atlanta
At Empowered Recovery Center in Atlanta, we support our patients and graduates throughout the holiday season. We help every patient create a personalized relapse prevention plan and provide one full year of recovery support after graduation, so you never need to face Christmas alone.
If you are considering treatment, our team can guide you through the admissions process, explain payment options, and help you understand how insurance can cover rehab. We offer multiple flexible rehab programs tailored to your needs so you can attend holiday events and begin recovery.
If you want support before Christmas, reach out today or verify your benefits online. Our Atlanta drug and alcohol rehab is ready to help you begin treatment.
Program Links
