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For many, Christmas is a time of celebration — a season to be merry, gather with loved ones, and enjoy festive food and drink in abundance. Homes are filled with laughter, lights, and the familiar cheer that defines the holiday period.
However, for some, Christmas is not a time for celebration but a time of dread. For individuals living with alcohol addiction or in recovery, the festive season can feel like something to endure rather than enjoy. With alcohol present at nearly every social gathering, surviving Christmas without drinking can be one of the hardest challenges of the year.
We spoke to people who have battled alcohol addiction and won. They shared how they managed to get through the Christmas period without touching a drop of what they now consider poison — and how sobriety has transformed their lives.
“I have something better than alcohol now — a new lifestyle and a new community through my faith in Jesus that has brought a fuller life. I no longer need alcohol to enjoy myself or feel comfortable in my own skin. I have true contentment and joy in Jesus.”
— David Hughes
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Staying sober through healthy routines and connection to nature
“I do a lot of cycling and nature walks. Where I live is very lovely and has lots of nature spots. I practise Tai Chi in the morning and a bit of yoga. I don’t go out — I’m performing in Manchester at the end of December — and I write every day, which helps me purge my system. I’m trying to finish my book, which is all about addiction, trauma, and the coping mechanisms addicts develop.
I go to Sefton Park every day and walk around there or through Sudley House fields — a lovely, quiet, tranquil place in Aigburth. It keeps me sane and connects me to nature and God. I also visit the Chinese Gardens and what my granddaughter and I call ‘the magic forest’ near St Michael’s Station.
I drink lots of water too. Every morning on an empty stomach I take pure virgin olive oil, garlic, and lime. I never get colds or flu. I’m going to start fasting again after Christmas.”
— Jimmy Bongo
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Planning ahead to protect sobriety during the festive season
“I hide myself away for 10 days. My birthday falls just before Christmas, so I celebrate that alcohol-free, then I have Christmas itself, New Year’s, and on the 2nd of January it’s my sobriety birthday. This year will be three years clean.
I plan lots of bike rides, jogging, and dog walks, combined with indoor activities like a main jigsaw puzzle, audiobooks, and Christmas-themed reading. I also stock up on non-alcoholic drinks — fruit alternatives to wine and gin substitute mocktails. I make sure I have large ice cubes, fresh fruit, attractive glasses, and long straws so it still feels special.
My main sober strategy is having my diary prepared for the next year, with the 2nd of January highlighted as a day to celebrate.”
— Alison Little
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Avoiding triggers and leaning on faith
“I make plans to keep myself safe by not surrounding myself with triggers, like people who drink, and keeping them at arm’s length. I pray to the Lord for strength and focus on my recovery, staying one step ahead of my triggers.”
— Jimmy
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Staying Sober: Seven Christmases of Clarity, Faith, and Growth
I am approaching my seventh Christmas sober, and I can honestly say it was the best decision I ever made. It wasn’t easy at first, and there were moments when I felt like I was missing out. Over time, I realised there is far more to Christmas — and to life — than getting hammered and not remembering what you’ve done.
Rediscovering my Christian faith became my bedrock. Learning to enjoy life without alcohol showed me that there are plenty of ways to have fun, to socialise, and to fully take part in the season. Being around positive people, joining in with parties, games, food, and music, and staying present for it all gives me far greater satisfaction than alcohol ever did.
I also discovered the power of thinking about and helping others. When I focus on making others happy, I become a much happier person myself. Life truly takes on a brighter light when you live with faith and a heart for others.
When I look back at the hangovers, the carnage, and the regret that followed my drinking binges, I see only wasted time. Choosing sobriety has pushed me to invest in meaningful things instead of slowly destroying my liver — and for that, I am deeply grateful.
However you plan to stay sober this Christmas, make it your own. Borrow tips and strategies from others, then adapt and develop new coping mechanisms that work for you. With preparation, self-awareness, and support, it is possible to enjoy a sober Christmas and New Year — carrying that ear-to-ear grin well into spring and beyond, knowing you’ve proven to yourself that you can do it.
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