Bridge House/Grace House will host New Orleans’ very first alcohol-free music festival, Sober Fest. The event will take place on Saturday, November 12, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the River City Plaza within the complex of Mardi Gras World on the Mississippi riverfront.

“Sober Fest aims to raise awareness that recovery is possible and fun in recovery is achievable,” said Else Pederson, CEO of Bridge House/Grace House. “We were founded on the principle that on one can attain and maintain sobriety without having 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 the community.”

The lineup of performers will include Camile Baudoin of The Radiators, Cha Wa and the Trombone Shorty Academy Brass Band. Additional acts will announced at a later date. Baudoin, a member of The Radiators for 33 years, has overcome his own struggle with addiction and he voiced excitement to be part of this this first of its kind festival.

“Very simply, there came a time when I could not stop drinking once I had started,” he said. “I would not be playing music today if it were not or 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 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, a variety of food trucks and vendors, as well as mocktail options to purchase from local vendors.

Proceeds from Sober Fest will go directly toward 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 the organization’s services.

Volunteers are also needed for Sober Fest in two shifrts, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Assistance is also needed for the merchandise tent, drinks tent and festival information booth as well as the Memorial Wall. If interested in these volunteer opportunities, register here.

A special Memorial Wall will be reserved for Sober Fest, honoring those who lost their battle to addiction or who have passed away during recovery. A loved one’s name may be submitted here by October 1.

To learn more and follow updates about Sober Fest, follow Bridge House/Grace House on Facebook or at their website.