My first experience with this non-profit was that of a patron. I attended my first festival in 1996 and have had the pleasure to return every year since in different capacities. After attending in "96" I sought out those responsible for event with the purpose of volunteering in any capacity needed. From that meeting with representatives of the organization I became one of the festivals ticket outlets for a period of two years. Soon thereafter I relocated, a move which brought me closer to the organizations "hub", affording me the ability to do more with this non-profit and further it's worthwhile mission. After more than a decade of serving side by side with wonderful individuals I found it necessary to separate from the organization due to relocating once again. My professional experience in the field of Substance Abuse has provided me with unique insight and perspective as it relates to this organization and those it serves. I would encourage any and all who wish to attend to do so, for a day or the entire weekend. Those that wish to get involved, do not hesitate. Carpe diem!
My first festival was back in 2010 and I have to say that I had a great time. I volunteered for the event and got to spend the weekend with old friends and got to meet some new friends. I loved how organized the event was and how comfortable I felt from the time that I got there, until the time I left. I was kind of bummed to have to leave, but I had to get back to my regular daily routine. The workshops that I attended were outstanding and the sense of fellowship was undeniable. Today I am a volunteer on the board and it was because of that experience a couple of years ago, that I decided to get active with Half Moon.
Four star's as they're always trying to get better. My first Half Moon was 2001, 3 months sober and hateing life. Work, meetings and home( an '89 van) then studio Apt. Was so bummed that this was sobriety, then got a ticket to the Half Moon Sober Festival. From the moment I arrived my view of being sober started to change, by the end of the four days I was convinced that I could stay sober and that events like this were going to be a part of my sobriety maintenance, well that was 11 years ago. I've never missed a Half Moon in all that time and now I'm the President of Half Moon Sober Festival, Inc. Come on out and join us this 2012 Memorial day weekend.
The first time I went to Half Moon Sober Festival I was 'living' in a shelter for homeless, newly-sober women. I had to get special permission to be gone for the weekend and be able to return and have a bed when I came back. Being that it was a sober event, I was allowed to go. I had only camped a few times in my life before this. My friends and I piled into a car and drove up. We got lost on the way and got there very late at night. The gentleman at the gate set up his own tent for us to sleep in because ours was borrowed and none of us knew how. When we woke up and asked our neighbors about grocery stores nearby, they instead shared their food with us. Every person we met that weekend had a smile on their face and a kind word to say. We enjoyed music and danced in the rain. It was the first time in my life I felt like I could be myself and let loose (even just a bit) without being under the influence. Every year since this, I have made a point of looking out for new campers nearby to help, I make sure we have extra food for those in need, there is always an invitation to join us at our fire, I invite shy people to get up and dance with me. I was so inspired by the kindness strangers showed me that I make sure others see that in me. This event truly changed my life and I recommend it to everyone who is trying to enjoy life sober one day at a time.
This was my 1st event in sobriety, and to this day is still my favorite. Now with our new location up in the white mountains. It's back to the camping experience that we all want and love. God Bless
Half moon festival is my favorite event of the year. A kick off to summer with a weekend of dedicated volunteers providing warm welcomes and a safe and nurturing atmosphere to all ages with one rule no drugs or alcohol, plenty of music, educational workshops from 12 step recovery to yoga and spiritual topics, Kids activites, hiking, horseshoes, you name it there is a possibility its there. Don't feel like cooking? The main stage has food venders, and always unique items and services. I have attended solo, in small gruops and with my family. I have vended, taught workshops and learned how to dance. My favorite music performer is Leroy White with his inspiration of love and light and helping each other and all those suffering thruogh out the world to those willing to make a difference. The festival is a camping adventure I have attended 11 staright years I have been at 4 or more locations from race tracks, boy scount camps, to now being in the heart of the white mountains. The weather is the only thing they can't control been in rain storms, wind storms and heat waves. The endurance of the staff all volunteer don't quit.