Trying to tell a sober person to stay home on New Year’s Eve is like trying to tell an HIV-positive man he can’t have sex anymore. It is natural that people are going to want to go out and be a part of something on this wonderful night, but NYE has so much relapse and suicide surrounding it, and we want to change that. #BOOM! is  an alcohol and drug-free safe haven for people who want to ring in the new year more festively and with other sober or non-drinking people. That’s what #BOOM! is all about! It is a free party being held at the West Hollywood Auditorium at 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard, opening at 9 p.m. New Year’s Eve and going until 2 a.m.

Many times in our lives we are marginalized—for being gay, lesbian, transgender, disabled, alcoholic, a drug addict or just as someone who “doesn’t drink.” Well, New Year’s Eve’s #BOOM! 2014 aims to change that by bringing all these groups together in a joyful and sober celebration!

When we think about those we have lost this year to relapse, suicide and overdose, we also think about those who have stayed sober and survived. It is possible, and with events like #BOOM! we can provide everyone a safe and supportive sober environment. We must be accountable as a city and community, and be dedicated to our brothers and sisters.  Crucial times like New Year’s Eve and other high relapse times must always be acknowledged and we must be of service.

Thanks to the West Hollywood City Council and many, many wonderful groups and volunteers, #BOOM! promises to be a free and unique New Year’s Eve experience with DJ Alexander, ambassadors The WeHo Cheerleaders, stilt walkers, live painters, a midnight toast (apple cider), door prizes, amazing swag, the crowning of ‘Miss #BOOM! 2014’ and so much more! Please come and join the most sober fun you’ll have in Los Angeles.

Here is how some of our community members intend to stay clean and sober for the holidays:

“I am being proactive for my sobriety by planning ahead for the 12-step meetings I will be attending both in WeHo and while traveling. Putting clean and sober events on my calendar and talking to my sponsor and sponsees will be part of my plan.” —Dan W.

“I intend on staying sober during the holidays by attending meetings, spending time with my family and counting my blessings!” —Hussein T.

“So much love and energy is going into #BOOM! My heart is filled with complete gratitude for our community and my life today. Spending time with loved ones and at sober events will be part of my plan!” —Robert G.

“Being of service to those in need, increasing my meetings and seeing those I cherish and love.” —John D.

“By volunteering in my community,  being in contact with a sober environment, people and places and attending sober events.” —Enrique M.

“For the holidays I plan on staying sober by doing what I normally do—going to meetings and surrounding myself with sober loved ones.” —Brendon O.

“After more than 23 years of sobriety, staying sober during the holidays is like any other day for me, with sobriety my priority. It's all about love and service. I pray/meditate, go to a meeting, help others.” —RJS

The holidays are tough for many people. Let yours be a little less stressful and a lot more fun! Join us for #BOOM! You will be glad you did!

RSVP for #BOOM! here