Want to take advantage of the beautiful weather and longer days? Looking for fun activities to do with friends or family this summer? If you’re in recovery, there are plenty of ways to have fun without drugs or alcohol. Finding new ways to get your fill of summer fun and adventure can help strengthen your sobriety and create lasting memories.
Our Alumni Association hosts events and activities all summer long if you want to stay connected to a recovery community while having fun, and the ideas for sober fun below can get you started with planning your summer. Whether it’s your first sober summer after alcohol detox and residential treatment program or you’ve been in recovery for years, these ideas can help you stay on track.
9 Ways to Have a Fun Sober Summer
1. Volunteering
Helping others is more than just a good deed—it can also bring joy and fulfillment to your life. Look for local volunteer opportunities that align with your interests or passions, such as working at a food bank, participating in a beach clean-up, or volunteering at an animal shelter.
Tip: Make it a group activity and invite friends to join you in giving back to the community.
2. Join a Book Club
Lots of book clubs start up in the summer. Check out Facebook, your local library, or Meetup for book clubs that focus on a genre or theme you enjoy. Reading is a great way to stay entertained and expand your knowledge while connecting with others. Ask about their alcohol policy—if there’s alcohol at their get-togethers, it’s likely not the right fit for you.
Please note that the Recovery Centers of America is not responsible for the organization, safety, or conduct of external events and activities suggested in this blog. Participation is voluntary and at your own discretion.
Tip: Start your own book club with sober friends if there aren’t any in your area.
3. Take a Class or Get Creative
Discover a new hobby or passion just by trying new things. Do a search online to see what kinds of classes or clubs are going on in your area. You could learn about things like metalworking, glassblowing, computer programming, or model making, to name a few. Like art? You don’t have to be a painter or a poet to enjoy art and make some of your own. Express your creativity through coloring, DIY crafts, or pottery.
Tip: Get a group together and sign up together for a fun class or workshop.
4. Host a Sober Dinner Party
Summer is the best time to light up the grill and invite friends over for a backyard cookout. No backyard? Host a picnic potluck in a park or beach. Don’t love to cook? Order pizza from your favorite place and have a sundae bar for dessert. Have everyone bring their favorite dish and enjoy a sober evening together with good food and conversation. Ensure all gatherings are alcohol-free to maintain a supportive and safe environment for everyone involved.
Tip: Plan some fun outdoor games like cornhole, frisbee, or a water balloon toss to keep the party going.
5. Take Up Outdoor Activities or a New Exercise Program
There are so many opportunities for neat things you can do outdoors now that the weather is at its best. You could train for a 5k or a 10k—even if you’re not a runner, hiking, camping trips, and kayaking are great ways to enjoy the summer sun. Growing a garden is also a great outdoor hobby that you can do right at home, or you can get together loved ones for a picnic. Needless to say, sunshine is great for keeping your spirits up.
Participation in physical activities mentioned in this blog is at your own risk. Please consult with your healthcare provider before engaging in new physical activities, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Tip: Join a recreational sports league for some friendly competition and fitness.
6. Go on a Road Trip
Looking for an adventure? Plan a road trip with some friends and explore new places. You can plan out your route, stops, and accommodations ahead of time.
Tip: Pack snacks, drinks, and games to keep you entertained during long stretches of driving.
7. Set a Standing Lunch Date
Structure and routine can be beneficial in recovery. Pick a day of the week and invite friends or family to join you for lunch every week. It’s a great way to catch up, try new restaurants, and enjoy each other’s company without alcohol.
Tip: If possible, choose a place with outdoor seating so you can enjoy the nice weather while dining.
8. Explore New Places in Your Hometown
You don’t have to travel far to have fun. With a little research, you can discover hidden gems and unique activities right in your own backyard. Check out local museums, galleries, parks, or historical sites that you’ve never visited before.
Tip: Look for free or discounted admission days to save money on local attractions.
9. Get Involved in Sober Events and Activities
Recovery Centers of America’s Alumni Association offers various events and activities throughout the summer for those in recovery, like service opportunities, alumni meetings, and support groups.
Tip: Contact your Alumni Coordinator to discover upcoming events and ways to get involved in your local recovery community.
Reach Out to Recovery Centers of America for Help and Support
Summer is a great opportunity to create new memories and have fun in sobriety. But if you’re struggling with staying sober or need additional support, Recovery Centers of America is here to help. We offer clinically proven addiction treatment programs and support services to help you achieve lasting recovery. Call 833.926.5486 or reach out online today to learn about our resources and how we can assist you on your journey toward a healthier, happier life without drugs or alcohol.
