Tue Sep 10 16:58:00 UTC 2024: ## Bennington Celebrates Sobriety at First Annual SoberFest

**BENNINGTON, VT -** The inaugural SoberFest, a joyous celebration of recovery, took place at Willow Park on Saturday, September 7th. The event, organized by Turning Point Recovery Center of Bennington, drew a large crowd eager to enjoy music, food, and activities highlighting the positive aspects of sobriety.

The festival, featuring over 35 wellness-focused vendors, a “Wellness Village,” and live music, provided a platform for members of the community to connect, learn about resources, and celebrate recovery. The highlight of the event was the Circle of Hope candle-lighting ceremony, honoring those who have faced and continue to grapple with addiction.

“Recovery is life-changing,” shared Heidi Moore, a Turning Point Recovery Coach, emphasizing that the festival was about demonstrating that sobriety is a path to freedom, joy, and peace. “This event is to celebrate sobriety and show the town what sobriety looks like,” she said.

Marcel Holland, a Turning Point Recovery Coach and event organizer, explained the broader purpose of SoberFest. “This is about sobriety, life, love, and community. We wanted to celebrate our community and give them a place to come and see what sobriety can look like,” he stated.

The event, sponsored by numerous local organizations and businesses, offered activities for all ages, including fly fishing lessons, face painting, cornhole competitions, yoga, and wellness coaching. The spirit of the event remained high despite an afternoon rain shower.

Both Moore and Holland emphasized the importance of reaching out for help. “There are people here in our community to help,” said Moore, referencing the various support organizations in Bennington. Holland added, “The messages here are that recovery resources are everywhere…We can all live together under the same sun and enjoy this life together.”

The resounding success of SoberFest signifies a growing commitment to supporting recovery and fostering a sense of community in Bennington. The organizers hope to make the event an annual tradition, further shining a light on the possibilities that come with sobriety.

**For those seeking assistance with addiction, Turning Point Recovery Center can be reached at 802-442-9700 or info@tpcbennington.org. More information can be found on their website: http://www.tpcbennington.org.**

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