Every year on March 17th, you can find people around the country celebrating St. Patrick’s Day by wearing green to avoid getting pinched, attend their local parade, and start drinking excessive amounts of green beer for a holiday they probably do not even know the origination of. Many people who do not normally drink will take their drinking to a whole other level on this widely recognized drinking holiday. While this may seem like a great day to “party” for most, those of us who are addicted to drugs and alcohol will use this holiday as just another day to abuse drugs and alcohol while trying to blend in a little better.

One of the best things you can do for yourself on this day is to make new traditions that do not involve drinking. Taking the time to explore other activities that you can enjoy can help you to maintain your sobriety and have fun doing it!

Eat Irish

Whether you eat corned beef and cabbage or some traditional Irish stew, you can find restaurants that will offer foods that are in the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day. Do a Google search to find the restaurants who have a special St. Patrick’s Day menu and go from there.

Walk or run a 5k

You may think that running a 5k race may be too competitive for you, but typically a holiday 5k is meant to generate some early morning fun. Everyone dresses up for the race and you may even see a Leprechaun with a four leaf-clover stuck in his hat creating a festive environment. Plus, you will be getting your endorphins going with some exercise while getting some bling just for crossing that finish line.

Watch a movie

Turns out that St. Patrick’s Day is not a huge day for theatre sales. Seeing a movie on this day can assure you plenty of parking, less time in line for concessions, and a full-range of seating in the theatre. Pick a theater that does not serve alcohol to keep you from triggered to order a cocktail.

Staying sober can be your personal fete on St. Patrick’s Day especially if you are newly sober. Keeping your distance from bars and people who are drinking is probably the best solution for you during this time. The longer you stay sober, the more you will realize that you do not need to observe St. Patrick’s Day except to keep from getting pinched and to be in the community to enjoy the parade with a top ‘o’ the mornin’ spirit with the rest of the crowd.

The Kimberly Center offers a variety of recovery programs to cover your every need during our extensive treatment for drugs and alcohol. We offer a unique recovery experience while providing a safe place to practice the principles of recovery that you will need in the real world.

Call us today to get started: 855-4-KCENTER (855-452-3683)