A recent Reddit thread on r/electricforest asked a simple question: can you enjoy Electric Forest without drugs or heavy drinking? Short answer from longtime attendees: absolutely.
The OP said they don’t do well with drugs and aren’t into heavy drinking. The replies were overwhelmingly encouraging — festival regulars pointed out that Electric Forest has plenty of sober-friendly infrastructure and activities, and many people go completely dry or only drink lightly and still have an amazing time.
What fans reported from the thread
– Sober camps and meetups: Several commenters mentioned an organized sober camping group (often referred to as “Camp Traction”) and daily sober meetings near the Ranch area during the festival. Plenty of folks offered sober company for first-timers.
– Community support: Multiple replies noted that a sizable portion of attendees either attend sober or spend whole days sober. Several people said their favorite festival experiences happened while sober.
– Activities galore: Electric Forest isn’t just stages — the festival is full of daytime workshops, arts-and-crafts stations, interactive immersive areas (Dream Emporium), sound-bowl sessions, scavenger hunts, mini-golf, pop-up plays, hammocks and chill zones, piano hangouts, and more. These non-music offerings make it easy to fill your days.
– Safety & memories: A few posters liked being sober so they could remember sets and stay safe. One commenter said a sober day often ends up being one of the best festival days.
Practical tips from the thread (and a few extras)
– Look up and join sober groups before you go — it’s easier to find friends and meetups that way.
– Pack electrolytes and easy snacks: festivals are physically draining and staying hydrated matters more than anything.
– Plan a mix of activities: workshops, art areas, immersive experiences, and chill spots give structure to the day when you’re not drinking.
– Have a meeting spot or phone plan with your campmates; if you’re going solo, there are people who volunteered to meet up in the thread.
– Don’t feel pressured: many people use festivals as a place to enjoy extras, but most agree you don’t need them to have a great time.
Why this matters
Electric Forest has always leaned into immersive experiences beyond music, which makes it naturally friendly for sober attendees. Whether you want a fully sober weekend, one sober day, or just to cut back — you’ll find community and activities that support that choice.
If you’re thinking of trying Electric Forest dry, you won’t be missing out. There’s a real, visible sober scene and enough programming to keep you entertained, energized, and safe.
Have your own sober-festival tips or favorite sober Forest memories? Drop a comment on our site or share with a friend planning their first year.
Source: https://www.reddit.com/r/ElectricForest/comments/1qqky42/dry_forrest/