10 Fun Sober Summer Activities for People In Recovery
Written By: Gabrielle Smith
August 9, 2024
Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to enjoy the sunshine and have fun with friends and family. If you're in recovery and looking for fun and creative activities that don't involve alcohol or drugs, there are plenty of exciting things to do. Here are 10 fun ideas to make your summer memorable.
1. Picnic Party Gather your favorite snacks like sandwiches, fruits, and chips, and head to a local park for a picnic. You can relax on a blanket, play games like tag or hide-and-seek, and enjoy the fresh air.
2. Movie Marathon Have a movie day or night with friends! Choose your favorite films, set up a cozy space with blankets and pillows, and munch on popcorn and your other favorite snacks. It can also be fun to watch a movie in your backyard or at a community outdoor screening. Either choice is a great way to laugh together and enjoy each other's company.
3. Explore Nature Take a hike on a nearby trail or visit a nature center. You can look for birds and animals, collect cool rocks or leaves, and feel the excitement of being outdoors. Spending time in nature is also a great way to practice mindfulness. Sunshine is also known for its positive impacts on mental health as it stabilizes mood, sleep, and stress levels.
4. Cool Off at the Pool Swimming is a fantastic way to beat the heat. Whether it's in a local pool, water park, or a natural swimming spot, splash around, play water games, or simply float and relax.
5. Arts and Crafts Get creative with arts and crafts! Visit a craft store for supplies and make things like friendship bracelets, scrap book, tie dye shirts, painted rocks, or even create your own comic book. If you prefer to enjoy instead of making art check out a local museum or art gallery. You can learn about history, science, or see amazing artwork. Some museums even have interactive exhibits that are really cool!
6. Visit the Library Cool off indoors at the library! Borrow books about your favorite subjects, join a story time session, or participate in fun library activities like puzzles and games. Many local libraries also have interactive workshops that help with skill building and other topics.
7. Sports Day Organize a sports or field day at a nearby park. Play soccer, basketball, or try fun games like relay races or tug-of-war. It's a great way to stay active and bond with friends.
8. Volunteer Together Help others by volunteering! You can clean up a local park, visit elderly neighbors, or volunteer at an animal shelter. Giving back to your community can help to develop a sense of belonging.
9. Have a Cooking Party Gather friends for a cooking or baking party. Choose a recipe everyone likes, like homemade pizza or cookies, and enjoy the delicious results together.
10. Star Gazing End your day by looking at the stars. Find a spot away from city lights, spread out a blanket, and gaze at the night sky. See if you can spot constellations or make a wish on a shooting star.
Resources to Explore:
SAMHSA's National Helpline - Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for support and to find local resources for recovery and sober activities.
Meetup.com - Join local groups that focus on sober activities and meet new friends who share your interests.
Recovery.org - Explore resources and articles about sober living, support groups, and tips for enjoying life in recovery.
Summer is a time to have fun and make happy memories. By trying these activities and connecting with supportive friends and communities, you can enjoy a sober summer that's filled with joy and positivity. Remember, taking care of yourself and staying engaged in enjoyable activities are important parts of your recovery journey. Have a wonderful summer!
“If you are struggling with substance use and looking for support, give us a call at 217-203-2008”