This week in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the country’s largest free music festival is doing something new: offering an alcohol-free area. Musikfest has been held annually since 1984. But now it’s making a dedicated space called SoberPlatz for nondrinkers.

Recovery isn’t about missing out

“Recovery isn’t about missing out—it’s about showing up fully, and having a great time while you do it,” Laura Waits, executive director of Sync Recovery Community, said in a press release. “The SoberPlatz at Musikfest is a place to connect, recharge, and celebrate—no alcohol needed. We’re thrilled to partner with Musikfest to make sure everyone has a place to feel welcome, included and part of the fun.”

Whether you’ve been sober for years or just want a break from rowdy drinkers, concertgoers are welcome to join meetups and wellness activities in SoberPlatz.

SoberPlatz talent

Nelly, Third Eye Blind and Polkadelphia are a few of the acts playing this week.

Thank you, Musikfest, for thinking about those of us who like to enjoy life without beer sloshing on us from every direction! I hope SoberPlatz will become a new annual tradition at this long-running music festival.