Celebrate freedom. Celebrate mindfully.
This weekend America celebrates its 250th birthday. As backyard barbecues and patriotic parties fill up calendars, people also fill up their cups. In 2024, 71% of Americans bought alcoholic beverages for their Fourth of July celebrations. Beer is the most popular drink, with about 68 million cases consumed on the Fourth alone. During Independence Day, celebrating the red, white, and blue can quickly turn into celebrating red wine and booze. It’s important to stay safe during the holiday, whether you choose to drink or stay sober.
If you are abstaining:
If you are celebrating your independence from alcohol this year, it is important to be prepared. Many gatherings and events for the Fourth of July include drinking, but you can still have fun while participating safely.
Ask for support
Talk with the host or another guest attending the event. Share your feelings and situation with someone you trust. This may include bringing a sober friend, talking with your sponsor, or asking someone to observe your behavior to keep you accountable. Asking for support can help relieve some of the stress and set you up for success.
Have an exit plan
Never be afraid to just leave. If you are in an uncomfortable situation, remove yourself for a bit or head home for the evening. It’s important to take initiative and prevent a potential relapse. You can be prepared with an excuse but remember you do not owe anyone an explanation for leaving. It is okay to put yourself first.
Participate in sober activities
It can be triggering to be in an environment where others are drinking. Do research to find sober parties or events in your area. You can also throw a sober party yourself. Invite family, friends, and others in recovery. Tell guests the event will be alcohol free and enjoy quality time without worry.
If you are drinking:
If you choose to drink alcohol this Independence Day, it is still important to be mindful while you consume. Reducing alcohol risk does not have to reduce fun.
Drink responsibly
Be conscious of how much you drink and do so in moderation. Have water between drinks and eat a hotdog or two to help protect your stomach and liver. Choose drinks with a lower alcohol content. Count your drinks and set a limit for yourself.
Don’t drink and drive
If you are planning to drink away from home, make a plan for a sober ride home. Have designated drivers or schedule a ride share from Uber or Lyft. If you are the one hosting a gathering, check to see how guests are getting home. Help designated drivers by having non-alcoholic beverages as options. From 2020 to 2024, 2,719 people were killed in car crashes during the Fourth of July holiday. Even if you’ve only had one or two drinks, get a ride from someone sober. Buzzed driving is still drunk driving.
Firework safety
For some Americans, this will be their last Fourth of July with all ten fingers. In 2025, there were 13,000 firework injuries and 15 firework deaths. Never attempt to use fireworks or sparklers while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Always have someone sober handle the pyrotechnics.
No matter how you choose to celebrate Independence Day this year, make sure you do so safely. Everyone deserves the freedom to relax and enjoy America’s 250th birthday!