AA meetings come in many formats, but they all share the same goal: supporting each other in recovery from alcoholism. Here’s a practical guide to how meetings work.

Common Meeting Formats

Speaker meetings: One member (the speaker) shares their story — what their drinking was like, what happened, and what they’re like now. These are often open meetings and great for newcomers.

Discussion meetings: A topic is introduced (often from AA literature), and members take turns sharing their thoughts and experiences related to that topic.

Big Book study: Members read passages from the AA Big Book and discuss their meaning and relevance to recovery.

Step study: Groups work through the Twelve Steps together, often reading from the Big Book or Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.

Meeting Etiquette

• Arrive on time when possible (but coming late is better than not coming)
• Silence your phone
• Listen when others are sharing — don’t interrupt or give advice (this is called “crosstalk”)
• Share from your own experience, not about others
• Respect anonymity — don’t repeat what you hear outside the meeting
• The phrase “take what you need and leave the rest” is commonly used

What to Bring

Just yourself. Some people bring a notebook, but it’s not expected. Coffee and refreshments are usually provided. There’s no dress code.

Search AA meetings by day of the week to find one that fits your schedule. If you need additional support, Red Door Recovery Network offers directories for treatment providers, peer support, and more.

Find Meetings Near You

• Find AA Meetings
• Official AA Website
• Browse All Meeting Articles

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