MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- When it comes to celebrating St. Patrick's Day and attending a Milwaukee Bucks game, a lot of alcohol tends to be involved in most celebrations.

"This is my first NBA game, so it’s kind of nice to have a different option, not have to go to a basketball game and feel the pressure of having to have a drink, or you know, be around it," said Hilda Valencia, who is two years sober. "This is like a really cool safe space, and we get to just kind of breathe."

Valencia says having a space supporting sober fun has been a game changer.

"Knowing that there’s an actual space dedicated to folks that just want to have a good time, get together, eat some good food and then just walk over to the game," said Valencia.

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The Phoenix St. Patrick's Day Recovery Night provided food, games and resources for those in recovery to enjoy themselves before cheering on the Bucks and celebrating St. Patrick's Day.

"Have a fun, sober time at an event that historically has been kind of tough for folks if they’re drinking or partying, and you know, and kind of like amplify that sober experience for them,” said Tim Rabolt, manager of recovery at Marquette University

Amy Molinski, who's celebrating 16 years of sobriety, says the event helps her connect with other people who are recovering.

"I’ve been able to create spaces for myself, but to know that spaces are being created for me and for people like me," said Molinski. "It’s incredibly overwhelming to know that I can come with a group of friends that are all in recovery and we can have a killer time together without alcohol involved, and it’s in a space where we’re not going to feel that pressure for it."

She says the ongoing sober events allow her to try things she's never done before in a safe space, with people she can rely on.

"I’ve never been to a Bucks game before, so that’s kind of exciting," said Molinski.

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