Sacramento – September 07, 2026 -- The California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) will hold its 34th Annual Recovery Happens event on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at California State Capitol Park in Sacramento, marking the state's official kickoff for National Recovery Month.
The free, public event runs from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM in Area 33 of the park and is expected to draw hundreds of people in recovery, their families, and behavioral health professionals.
A free breakfast and live music open the day
Attendees can enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast starting at 8:00 AM, followed by a live performance from COLOSO. Community exhibits will feature resource tables staffed by treatment providers, advocates, and peer support specialists.
Organizers call it one of the state's largest anti-stigma gatherings
CCAPP describes Recovery Happens as one of California's largest advocacy events dedicated to reducing stigma around addiction and increasing public awareness of available treatment options. By gathering at the State Capitol, organizers aim to send a direct message to policymakers that recovery is achievable and worth continued investment.
CCAPP CEO Pete Nielsen said the 34th annual event demonstrates the resilience of the recovery community, bringing thousands together at the Capitol to show that recovery is not only possible but actively thriving. He added that showcasing personal transformations remains the most effective way to reduce stigma and build a supportive environment for people in recovery.
The event has become an annual tradition bridging clinical addiction treatment services with broader public awareness efforts across California.