This is probably going to sound silly, but here it goes…
I’m dreading an upcoming Vegas trip for my best friend’s bachelorette party. Although I am strong in my sobriety (5 years sober) I can’t dodge the anxiousness that comes with a place like Vegas. It will be my first time going back there completely sober and I’ll probably be the only one who doesn’t drink. Ugh. 
You’re aware of your feelings over this situation, which is great. You’re mindful about the anxiety. I think you should look for some meetings in that area and plan on attending at least one. Also keep in contact with a sober sister to keep yourself accountable. Since it’s your best friend, she knows you are sober. Just let her know ahead of time how you’re feeling. Let her know you love her and want to be there for her at this special event, but that you may need to catch a meeting while you’re there. I’m sure she will understand. Have you talked to your sponsor? Definitely pray about this. Your prayers will be answered.
And remember to breathe. You got this!
Wishing you all the best. I know the feeling of being out with childhood friends who drink. It’s kind of uncomfortable, even though they are so proud of me and completely support me in my recovery. They wouldn’t ever do anything to disrespect me or do anything to jeopardize my sobriety.
Think of yourself as the chaperone. You’re in charge of making sure no one gets into trouble. It may not be the funnest job, but it will be a necessary one, give you purpose, and you will be very thankful you were there even if they don’t recognize your contribution (although I suspect they will).
Here are some suggestions, Sara. They have worked for me in similar situations and saved me. They may save you too.
Keep those numbers on speed dial, and call just to say hello, even when there’s no crisis.
Take breaks to attend meetings, if you don’t find one nearby, there’re plenty online.
Pray! Every time I have prayed before going to similar situations where I thought I was going to be the only one not drinking/using, the Higher Power sent someone my way to keep me company. I’m not kidding. Happened twice. Once at a wedding after party, I overheard another guest saying to the host that he was in recovery, we ended up sticking together the entire party. And another time at a Thanksgiving weekend when I let the hosts know that I don’t drink, a family member discretely took me aside and told me she doesn’t drink either, to support someone in her family. Miracles!!!
Last but not least, enjoy your time there! 
You can still have a great time. I always look at the drunk people now and feel bad for them. You can always do a zoom AA meeting when you are in Vegas.
There are some great suggestions here! I hope you still have fun and get to appreciate all the things to do there while sober. When everyone is is hung over or too numb to appreciate all the attractions, you will have the gift of presence . So many times I have regretted missing out on details or just enjoying the moment on a vacation or a girls trip because I was either buzzed/numb or hungover. So much regret on all the things I missed out on. Good luck and hope you get a meeting in as well as some sober fun 
I can relate Sara! I think you are feeling what any person in recovery would be feeling about this trip. So, it’s not silly at all!! No matter how many years sober, or how wonderful a program you have, going away for a weekend of partying with friends is going to feel weird. I completely understand. We’ve all done one night, one event…but a weekend of it is ughh. Like others have said, you have your tools and you know how to use them. Not to minimize the risks of relapse, but I think the anxiety comes from being different or not connected to the rest of the ladies. Reality is you are part of. You just won’t be partaking in the drinking. You can still have fun! Drink some ginger ale and dance your behind off like everyone else. The greatest part of it is you will remember it all, you will go to sleep sober and sane, you will wake up without a hangover, and you will be so grateful that you are a recovering alcoholic!! You’ve got 5 solid years under your belt. You know how to have a good time without alcohol. One last thing, maybe you will have the opportunity to show another suffering alcoholic that sobriety is a beautiful option. Maybe there is another friend that is struggling with this disease. Maybe you will plant the seed for someone else’s sobriety. After 5 years, you know your higher power will take care of you, and will present you with opportunities to help others. Again, your feelings are completely ok. Just try and replace a little of the fear with a little bit of faith 
Good luck. It makes me anxious just thinking about it. Be safe.
I lived in Vegas for 6.5 years. There are endless amounts of beautiful things to do outdoors and sober. Mt Charleston. Red Rock Canyon.
There are also amazing restaurants with incredible food all over the place.
And all the advice is solid. I would add that it’s fine to bail on any activity you think is going to be ruined by drinking. It doesn’t have to test your sobriety. It can just not be something you’re interested in. If they want to go to a club, you can go to a show.
Wow, you had me at bachelorette. Vegas is just another trigger. Is it absolutely necessary you attend? 5 years or not, a trigger is a trigger.
I’ve had months clean and made the mistake of going back to Vegas only to end the trip with my number reset to 1!! Personally I would skip it.. Rule number 1.. sobriety comes first every time.. maybe I’m just getting old but looking back there’s not one bachelor party I remember that I would want to relive.. no judgement.. I know nothing about you or your friends.. but just speaking from experience.. sounds like a shit show and recipe for trouble.. I guess I wouldn’t want to be the one holding hair and hands.. if it was me.. I would take your friend who is getting married out for a nice lunch and take her to get her nails done before the trip.. might save yourself a couple hundred plus as well.. wow I sound like a bitter old man.. and I’m not! Haha
You are an old man joe. Old in recovery. Be proud of that wisdom you’ve earned.
Kimmie, you’re awesome. :pleading_face: I really needed to hear everything you said. Your advice is full of wisdom and is so appreciated. I will definitely pray about it for sure. My best friend and I are now talking openly about the possibility of me sitting this one out and I’m okay with it. Thank you so much for the sweet message! Sending you a big hug!
You’re absolutely right, Joe. Sobriety comes first and I understood what you meant without thinking you were passing judgement. Your honest response to my post is appreciated because it’s one of the reasons why I decided to write it in the first place; to get feedback from those in my community who have advice to offer. I needed to hear a lot of what I’m reading on my feed. My best friend and I are now talking openly about me sitting this one out and she totally understands. Thank you for reminding me that I would never be going into the lion’s den to be a hair-holder or babysitter. Lol. It put things into perspective.
Thank you so much, Renee! Great advice.