frequently asked questions
What is an AA Roundup?
An AA Roundup is a weekend-long gathering of members of Alcoholics Anonymous, Al-Anon, Alateen, families and friends; anyone is welcome to attend. We come together as a fellowship to share our experience, strength and hope with each other. We meet new friends and have great meals. We listen to some amazing AA and Al-Anon speakers who share their personal stories of recovery. We celebrate our AA sobriety with a sobriety countdown – a highlight of AA Roundups.
How do I get tickets?
Tickets can be purchased online, through your General Service Representative (GSR), Intergroup Representative or from Calgary Central Service Office. During the announcements section of a meeting of Alcoholics Anonymous, said representatives may indicate they have tickets on hand to sell. You may also be able to purchase your tickets at the registration table as long as quantities last.
And of course, there are always new speakers to enjoy every year. See the full schedule for more details.
What's new-ish this year for the Gratitude Roundup?
Because it was such a big hit, we're excited to host an ice cream social event again on Friday night where guests can enjoy ice cream sundaes (7th tradition).
And of course, there are always new speakers to enjoy every year. See the full schedule for more details.
What is a "countdown"
An AA Countdown is a process through which we identify the collective years of AA sobriety. We begin with the most years of AA sobriety asking those to stand when their length of time is called (then they sit down) and we then "count down" through the decades, years and days. At the end, the person with the most amount of sobriety time of presents the "Big Book" of Alcoholics Anonymous to the person with the least amount of sobriety.
What if I don't know anyone?
We suggest you register and indicate that you will want a buddy and we will arrange this for you. There are many opportunities to meet new people during the weekend.
Can I bring my children?
Children will be welcome and expectations will be as for any public event with speakers. We regret that we will not be able to provide child care.
Do I have to be a member of AA?
You do not have to be a member of AA. You can come as a friend or family of a member or simply because you have a desire to stop drinking.
The only meal provided will be at the banquet on Saturday night. The banquet requires a separate ticket available for $100 and includes full access to the weekend's events. Coffee is available throughout. There is also a number of restaurants at the hotel.
Are food and beverages provided?
The only meal provided will be at the banquet on Saturday night. The banquet requires a separate ticket available for $100 and includes full access to the weekend's events. Coffee is available throughout. There is also a number of restaurants at the hotel.
Are the speakers recorded?
All of the speakers are recorded and available on CD for purchase immediately following the last speaker on Sunday morning through Upper Room Communications. Please follow up with them after the Roundup for orders.
What do I wear?
Be comfortable and come as you are. People do tend to dress up for the banquet.
Will there be a "Gratitude Globe" at this year's Gratitude Roundup?
Yes. All contributions will be donated to the General Service Office.