What happens at a meeting?
Members share their experiences with drinking and recovery. Openings and closings vary; readings, silence or prayers may be included. Introducing yourself is optional.
Choosing a meeting
Open meetings - Anyone may attend; nonalcoholics attend as observers.
Closed meetings - For AA members and people with a drinking problem who want to stop.
• Groups choose their formats and keep discussion focused on alcohol recovery.
After the meeting
You may stay to talk and meet people, or leave when the meeting ends. It may be helpful to ask for a phone list.
Keep coming back!
We have many meetings in our area. We hope you’ll find one that is right for you.
WAYS TO ATTEND
In person, online or by phone.
Meetings gather in rented rooms, community spaces and outdoors. Online groups may use video, audio only or telephone access.
Different meeting formats
Discussion
A chair introduces a topic, often drawn from AA literature.
Speaker
Members describe their drinking and recovery journeys.
Beginners
Newcomer-focused meetings, sometimes exploring the first three Steps.
Step, Tradition or Big Book study
Groups read and discuss AA recovery literature.
Referred to AA?
People referred by courts or treatment programs are welcome. Membership remains voluntary.
Proof of attendance
Each group decides whether and how to confirm attendance. Ask before relying on verification; returning it is your responsibility.
