It takes more than luck to get what you want out of a celebration with friends! No matter your plans for celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, watching March Madness games, gearing up for graduation, or something else happening this spring, make a plan to Stay in the Blue.
Make a plan
Check out the U-M Events Calendar for a variety of events and activities. Can’t find something you’re looking for? Try searching by date or keywords.
Make sure you talk to your friends about how they want to connect. Not everyone’s plans will include alcohol or other drugs, so it’s important to create options for everyone to feel included - whether they choose to drink or not.
Attending an event
It takes time for alcohol to work itself into your system, and more alcohol doesn't always mean more good times. Download the new and improved Stay in the Blue app (it even has dark mode!) to get more of what you want from drinking while avoiding the things you don’t want. Remember, non-drinkers are always in the blue!
- Eat and hydrate.
- Set a drink limit.
- Count your drinks.
- Pace yourself — sip your drink rather than chugging it.
- Avoid shots and drinking games.
- Pour your own drinks and keep your drink with you.
- Know how any prescribed medications or other drugs you’re taking can interact with alcohol.
- Travel with a buddy. It’s less risky to walk home with people you know, especially at night. You can always call SafeRide for free, late-night transportation.
If cannabis use is part of your plans, having some of these Cannabis Conversations with friends before using can help you have the best (and safest) experience. You can also try using a tool like Clear30 to explore your relationship with cannabis — use your U-M email to sign up for a free account!
Hosting an event
There’s a whole range of experiences on campus, with thousands of students choosing not to drink. Be thoughtful about how your celebration plans could impact others in our shared environment.
- Make sure the people around you are comfortable with the plans you have made with them.
- Include alcohol-free options and food at your events so everyone feels welcome, regardless of whether they choose to drink or not. Maybe even try an alcohol-free gathering for an extra inclusive space!
- Know how to respond if someone experiences an overdose. This includes having naloxone on hand, just in case. Remember that it only works for overdoses caused by opioids, such as heroin, fentanyl, and some pain medications. Get naloxone for free around campus.
- Become familiar with local laws, policies, and ordinances. Remember, it's illegal to have an open container of alcohol, including BORGs, on public property (streets, sidewalks) — even if you’re 21.
Did you know? The State of Michigan has a Medical Amnesty Law. This makes it easier for you to call for or seek help for someone at medical risk as a result of alcohol intoxication or overdose.
Check out our Social Gathering Guide for more ways to create the best possible experience, whether attending or hosting an event.