Bridge House/Grace House Announces Inaugural Sober Fest
NEW ORLEANS– Bridge House/Grace House is excited to host New Orleans’ very first dry music festival, Sober Fest. Sober Fest will take place on Saturday, Nov. 12, 2022 from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m at Mardi Gras World’s River City Plaza.
“Bridge House/Grace House’s Sober Fest aims to raise awareness that recovery is possible and fun in recovery is achievable,” says chief executive officer Else Pedersen. “We were founded on the principle that no one can attain and maintain sobriety without having their basic needs met, and that includes providing safe spaces for entertainment. In a city that hosts numerous festivals, where music is celebrated, we are excited to bring the first dry festival to thecommunity.”
The artist line-up will include Camile Baudoin of the Radiators, Cha Wa and the Trombone Shorty Academy Brass Band. Baudoin who has been part of the Radiators for over 25 years has overcome his own struggle with addiction, and he is excited to be a part of this first of its kind festival.
“Very simply, there came a time when I could not stop drinking once I started,” says Baudoin. “I
would not be playing music today if it were not for special organizations and friends who
helped me find sobriety while continuing my career. I am so happy and honored to be part of
the Sober Fest celebration. Had I not found help, I wouldn’t be here playing music and enjoying
life more than ever.”
Admission to Sober Fest is free, but registration is encouraged here. The family friendly festival will include a kids tent, variety of food trucks and vendors, as well as mocktail options to purchase from local vendors. A special announcement on the headlining artist will be coming soon.
Proceeds from Sober Fest amenities will go directly towards Bridge House/Grace House’s mission to provide treatment to men and women at no cost. Bridge House/Grace House treats predominantly homeless, indigent, uninsured and unemployed men and women. In 2021, 861 individuals were treated through services.
Volunteers are also needed for Sober Fest from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Positions are needed for the merchandise tent, drinks tent, festival info booth as well as the Memorial Wall. If interested in these volunteer opportunities, sign up here.
A special in memoriam area will be reserved at Sober Fest honoring those who lost their battle to addiction or have passed away during recovery. People can submit their loved one’s name here by Oct. 1.
To learn more follow updates on the event and register follow Bridge House/Grace House on Facebook or visit their website here.
*Editors Note: Link to photos from today’s announcement can be found here ##
About Bridge House/Grace House:
Bridge House/Grace House is a nonprofit organization that provides a community-based residential substance abuse treatment program. With two housing facilities, (Bridge House for males and Grace House for females), Bridge House/Grace House welcomes all individuals who meet the admissions criteria and choose to participate in its residential program.