Sand Stew Inc.

Did you know that Sober in the Sun is brought to you by Sand Stew Inc.? Established in 1998, Sand Stew Inc. is a non-profit organization with a mission rooted in the recovery community. Our name reflects our values: “sand” symbolizes being dry or sober, and “stew” represents a diverse mixture of people coming together.

While Sober in the Sun has become a beloved annual event, many don’t realize the bigger vision behind it. Sand Stew Inc. is more than just a sponsor—we’re a community. And now, we’re growing that community by rebranding and expanding our reach in the recovery world.

Our goal is simple but vital: to raise funds and provide support to halfway and sober houses in our area. These homes are lifelines for so many on their journey to recovery, and we want to do our part to ensure they thrive.  

For over 36 years, Sober in the Sun has been powered entirely by volunteers—many of whom are residents of halfway and sober houses. Now it’s our turn to give back, ensuring they find a home in our community and stay here forever. 

Our flagship event, Sober in the Sun, began in 1989 when four founding members planned the first festival on a paper napkin in just three weeks. They paid out of pocket for everything, lost their shirts, and loved every minute of it. Festivalgoers embraced the event and demanded another the following year. After months of hesitation, the founders began planning again, and what started as a spontaneous idea became a beloved tradition. It took several years to break even, but the festival quickly grew into a hit.

The organization was incorporated in 1991, and a few years later, it adopted its current name, Sand Stew, Inc. While Sober in the Sun remains our flagship event, we’ve expanded our reach over the years, hosting sober dances, live music, parades, and so much more—all in support of the recovery community.