The above image shows the scenery that unfolds during an average music festival at its peak.
| |

Can You Enjoy a Festival Sober?

Typically, festivals and alcohol go hand in hand, and some of us do not imagine doing festivals without drinking. Although it isn’t easy, enjoying a festival sober is still possible. Despite the history that exists, you don’t need to be drunk to enjoy a music festival. There is much more to music, as music festivals are about the way you feel when engulfed by the music you enjoy, played live in a crowd of thousands. Sometimes, all you need is an open mind, a love for music, and friends who are also sober.

If you haven’t been in a stable recovery for at least a year, think twice before booking a ticket for a music festival. In the meantime, other drug-free festivals might be more appropriate for you as it’ll be easier for you to meet people who are sober like you. Consider opting for festivals that do not promote partying under the influence but offer activities you like, such as art festivals or food festivals. The feel-good chemical that is released sets you on a natural “high”.

An ecstatic crowd tends to pull you in, and you feel united in your enjoyment with hundreds of strangers experiencing the same amazing vibes. Very often, people don’t just have a few drinks or other substances while they’re dancing, but go overboard. The fun ends quickly for the person who overdid it. The experience wouldn’t be an incredible one, especially since, most probably, you would end up struggling to remember what happened. Moreover, there is also the danger of feeling sick, and, for some, it’s hard to stop once they start.

Ignoring Temptations Is Better Sometimes

As you ignore the temptations and refuse what they offer, you feel more accomplished about your choice to withstand impulses. Keeping the right company by trying to avoid people who mock your sobriety or make you feel bad about your preferences helps to enjoy a music festival. Remembering that music festivals are about music and focusing on the fun parts of the festival also helps. When sober, you can experience everything around you, such as the crowd, the visuals, and the dancing. To avoid spoiling the fun by getting dehydrated, consider keeping some water on you.

Conclusion

Finally, consider finding moments to ground yourself by meditating or drawing each day. You can also consider speaking with your support network and therapist before attending such festivals.

If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue, you can reach out here.

Johanna Cutajar is a Master in Counselling graduate from the University of Malta. She works with children and adolescents as a counsellor within the education sector on a variety of issues, including relationship issues, trauma, bereavement, transitions, and general mental health.

References

Transcend Recovery Community (2023). Enjoying Music Festivals Sober. Retrieved from https://www.transcendrecoverycommunity.com/blog/enjoying-music-festivals-sober

Similar Posts