For one night, bar will go alcohol-free
They’re turning off the taps and turning up the music at a Calgary bar later this month.
What began as something Ryan Gudwer admits seemed like a “crazy idea” at first will now become a reality, as the Atlantic Trap & Gill pub at 510 Heritage Drive S.W. hosts a booze-free bash Feb. 26, featuring bands and sober banter.
“If you think in Calgary how many places are available to drink, there’s a lot. But for people who don’t, there’s not many options,” said the 35-year-old entrepreneur.
“What’s interesting is I’ve heard from a lot of young people who are excited about this, which is the part that really resonates with me.”
Gudwer is all too familiar with the bar scene.
He said he spent about 15 years becoming increasingly dependent on booze before moving on to hard drugs. Those addictions became the overriding part of his life.
“I think for the last five years it was just like I was almost waiting to die,” said Gudwer, who is now two years sober. “I was living from moment to moment — anything that would numb the pain.”
Despite his own battle, however, Gudwer said the sober celebration — which will feature three bands from his native Red Deer who’ve volunteered to perform for free, as well as some motivational speakers — is not just aimed at those recovering from addiction. It’s also for those who just want to gather together without alcohol being the primary reason.
Trap & Gill owner Jill Johnson got on board with the plan, Gudwer said.