Can a sober Halloween be fun and scary? You are not the only person asking this question. Once they embrace a long-term path of recovery, many people wonder whether old favorites like Halloween and New Year’s Eve will still have the same spirit. However, at Tarzana Treatment Centers (TTC), we are here to reassure you of a frightening reality.

Yes, a sober Halloween is both fun and scary. By avoiding intoxication with drugs and alcohol, you lose absolutely nothing. In contrast, you gain more than you might imagine, opening doors to new realms of excitement. We understand that traditionally drinking and holiday celebrations go together. Moreover, this connection is even more true for a person with a substance use disorder. Despite past prejudices, a sober Halloween is tons of fun.

To help you make the transition from every holiday being another reason to get loaded, here are five tips to make a sober Halloween fun and scary.

Three Tips for Making a Sober Halloween Totally Awesome

These three tips are just the tip of the iceberg. Watch out if you are on the Titanic! Okay, we are being a bit silly, but the point is that we believe in your imagination and creativity. Please use our suggestions as jumping off points for your own fun and scary sober Halloween.

1. Host a Rarely Seen Horror Movie Frightfest for Your Friends

You start by asking each of your friends what is their favorite horror movie that most people have never seen before. You will get some great suggestions that might surprise you. Then, load up on the snacks and non-alcoholic drinks and get ready to be scared.

Please remember to let your friends that drink and use know that the Horror Movie Frightfest is a sober event. Also, most of these films are not for kids. These are real scares for adults.

1. Create Your Dream Costume and Celebrate Your Creativity

A sober Halloween gives you the chance to make the ultimate costume that you have always wanted to wear. By celebrating your creativity, you replace getting loaded with an artistic endeavor. Why not try to make a zombie costume that is even better than The Walking Dead? By planning for a sober Halloween, you have the time to shoot for the stars and express yourself fully. Indeed, you never know how creative you can be until you go for it. Also, if you want to learn more about how Halloween became a holiday, here is an informative resource page from the Library of Congress that helps put everything in historical perspective.

1. Go Trick or Treating with a Bunch of Kids

Whenever it comes to doing anything with minors, always get permission from the parents or legal guardians. Never take for granted that you have permission, and this reality applies to everyone. Whether you go trick or treating with your kids or a friend’s kids or your nieces and nephews, this simple choice often opens the door to wonder and amazement. After all, there is nothing like experiencing the thrill of Halloween through the eyes of children. Also, take the experience to the next level by going in a costume and sharing the joy.

A Sober Halloween is Your Chance to Shiver and Shine

If you come to the offices of Tarzana Treatment Centers in early October, you will see Halloween preparations in full swing. Although we are one of the foremost nonprofit healthcare providers in Southern California, we also know how to have fun. Indeed, Halloween decorations are everywhere. We know how to make a sober Halloween awesome.

However, if you are worried about staying sober during Halloween or have a friend or loved one who needs help with a substance use disorder, please contact us today. On Halloween or any other day of the year, we are here to help.