Published December 16, 2016 · Updated July 6, 2026
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How Do I Stay Sober During the Holidays Like Christmas and New Year's Eve When Everyone Around Me Is Drinking?
You can stay sober through Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and other holidays even when everyone around you is drinking, the key is planning ahead and protecting your recovery. Decide which events to attend and for how long, bring or order a non-alcoholic drink, prepare a simple response for when someone offers you alcohol, arrive with an exit plan, and keep a sober friend or sponsor reachable. Focusing on the people and meaning of the holiday, rather than the drinking, helps you stay present and in control.
It also helps to plan sober-friendly alternatives: host or attend alcohol-free gatherings, keep up your recovery routines and meetings even during the busy season, and give yourself permission to skip events that feel too high-risk. The holidays can be an emotional, triggering time, so leaning on your support network and having a plan in place makes it much easier to protect your sobriety and actually enjoy the season.
Staying sober during the holidays, can be difficult. The holiday season can be a stressful one. In early sobriety, these factors can make staying sober during the holidays difficult.
- Parties – Many people have stress around family and office parties during the holidays. First, being around alcohol can be hard. Answer– Bring a trusted or sober friend.
- Finances – Presents, travel or time off from work causes financial stress. Answer- Make a budget before going.
Parties and finances are listed as the top two holiday stressors. THE RECOVERY BOOK list three simple ways to stay sober during the holidays:
- Take it easy! Get plenty of rest, watch what you eat, get your usual exercise, and take time for meditation. Maintain your recovery routine as much as possible.
- Plan fun other than sitting around and gabbing. In many families, sitting around and drinking happens. Plan other options now. Movies, museums, concerts, skating, walks, sledding, sports events can all help fill the time and limit stress. If weather keeps you inside, do things that will keep everyone busy and focused. Such as decorating holiday cookies, board games, or old movies.
- If you’re traveling, go to meetings. Find a meeting long before you get there. This will give you the support you will need: the chance to say, “Sure, I love my family, but sometimes they drive me up the wall,” or to talk about whatever else it is that almost drives you to drink.
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