Cinco de Mayo, which is Spanish for May 5, rolls around every spring. The holiday celebrates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. This holiday also provides a perfect excuse for many people to hoist a few drinks as part of the celebration. For those in recovery from alcohol addiction, Cinco de Mayo can be a risky day.
Alternatives to Focusing on Drinking During Cinco de Mayo
Some holidays consider a focus on alcohol as part of their appeal. Cinco de Mayo, St. Patrick’s Day, and New Year’s Eve are popular types of annual celebrations that heavily feature alcohol. People who have chosen recovery from alcoholism don’t necessarily have to avoid any holiday which might typically feature drinking. Instead, they can consider these alternatives:
- Dinner at a Mexican food restaurant
- Downloading and enjoying popular Spanish music
- Searching for a documentary or dramatic film to watch that tells the story of the infamous battle
- Hosting a potluck meal of Mexican foods in your home
- Have a Zoom party that allows you to drink non-alcoholic beverages as you spend time with friends and family
- Check out Youtube for how-to instructional videos on popular dances that originated in Mexico
It’s Fine to Skip This Year’s Festivities
Remember that if you know in your heart that you aren’t ready to indulge in a holiday celebration, that’s perfectly fine. Decisions about events like this involve knowing your limitations. You may know that drinking alcohol will be a featured part of a get-together you’re considering attending. If so, weigh the pros and cons of going. Talk to your sponsor or someone else who understands the risk to benefit ratio for someone in recovery. If you feel it’s a risk to attend a Cinco de Mayo party or a public celebration, you can decline the invitation. One missed party will not make or break your social life. Take care of yourself first and foremost.
Cinco de Mayo can offer the temptation to drink alcohol as part of the celebration. For someone in recovery from addiction to alcohol, this can be trouble. Consider your options and make the choice that puts your sobriety first. The Detox Center of Colorado provides professional programs that help you achieve detoxification and prepare to enter recovery from alcohol addiction. We offer a safe landing space in an intimate setting that focuses on your personal needs. Call our Denver area center today at (303) 952-5035 to get started on celebrating every day without alcohol.
