Understanding Open and Closed AA Meetings

A gray-haired woman in a green dress, wearing thick-rimmed glasses and a serpent-shaped chakra necklace, approaches the podium. "When I was 10," she begins, "I drank an entire bottle of whiskey from my parents' liquor cabinet. I never drank whiskey again—the smell still makes me sick." Yet Jenny, as she introduces herself, continued to drink heavily for the next 50 years. Now three years sober, she shares her story at an open speaker meeting in a local school auditorium. About 100 people listen—some sit up front and speak with her afterward, while others linger near the door and slip out quietly a few minutes early. Though on different paths, everyone is respectful and inspired by Jenny’s hopeful message.

Down the hall, in the same school, another meeting is taking place. This one is in a classroom, with about 20 people seated in a circle. As the meeting begins, some sip coffee while others catch up. It’s a closed meeting, and the atmosphere is distinct, with conversations about steps, sponsors, and an upcoming AA convention for young people.

While all AA meetings share the same goal, there are subtle differences between open and closed formats. What exactly is an open AA meeting, and how does it compare to a closed one? Let’s explore the details, and we’ll also look at alternatives if neither option feels right for your journey—and that’s perfectly okay!

What Is an AA Meeting?

Before diving into the differences, let’s briefly review what AA and its meetings are all about.

• AA is a fellowship: It’s a peer-led group where members support each other in quitting drinking, founded in 1935 by Bill W. after alcohol nearly cost him his life.
• It’s anonymous and free: Anonymity helps reduce stigma, making it easier for many to take the first step toward recovery.
• It’s based on the 12 Steps: These steps guide members to admit powerlessness over alcohol, address underlying behaviors, make amends, and embrace a responsible, honest lifestyle.
• Sponsorship and mutual support are key: Many members work with a sponsor and rely on group support to stay on track.
• AA is global: With millions of members worldwide, AA’s foundational text, the Big Book, has been translated into over 70 languages.

Meetings are central to AA, offering a space to share recovery stories and combat alcohol’s hold—both physically and mentally.

What Is an Open AA Meeting?

Open meetings welcome everyone, regardless of whether they have a drinking problem. Attendees may include:

• People in recovery
• Newcomers exploring AA
• Friends and family offering support
• The sober-curious
• Those simply curious about AA

Pros and Cons of Open AA Meetings

• Pros: Great for newcomers; allow outside support; provide a broad overview of AA.
• Cons: May feel less private; can be distracting with people coming and going.

What Is a Closed AA Meeting?

Closed meetings are reserved for those who have a desire to stop drinking. This includes:

• Former drinkers who are happily sober
• Those who’ve stopped drinking but still struggle with obsessive thoughts
• Recent quitters
• People who are still drinking but want to stop

Pros and Cons of Closed AA Meetings

• Pros: Easier to share deeply; ideal for forming bonds and finding sponsors; more focused atmosphere.
• Cons: Can feel intense or intimidating; may pressure members to adhere strictly to AA principles.

Open vs. Closed AA Meetings: Which Is Right for Me?

Ask yourself these questions:

• What are my goals regarding alcohol?
• Do I plan to listen or share?
• Do I prefer a specific meeting format?
• Would I like to bring someone with me?

If neither type of meeting appeals to you, there are other options available.

AA Meeting Alternatives

If AA isn’t the right fit, consider these alternatives:

• Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help address thought patterns and stress related to alcohol misuse.
• Other support groups: SMART Recovery uses science-based techniques and group support.
• Mindfulness practices: Meditation, yoga, and mindful living can help manage cravings and impulses.
• Technology: Apps like Quitemate offer research-backed tools, coaching, and community support right at your fingertips.

An Open Mind

Whether you choose open meetings, closed meetings, or an alternative path, the most important thing is to keep an open mind. Everyone’s journey is unique, so explore what works best for you. Consider Quitemate as a supportive companion along the way.