Alcohol-free socialising

Are you a social butterfly, a reluctant guest or somewhere in between? No matter where you sit on the socialising spectrum, navigating get-togethers without a drink can be daunting when you’re changing your relationship with alcohol. The good news is that from cocktail parties to family gatherings, there are plenty of ways to have fun at social events so read on.

When it comes to enjoying social events without alcohol, attitude is everything. Try reframing not drinking as an opportunity for a different, but positive experience. Focus on the plus side such as having more clarity, more energy for staying awake, and deeper connections with others. You can wake up refreshed the next morning, without a hangover, and no regrets about the night before. Plus, you can also drive to and from the event, and get others home safely too.  

The next important step is strategy. One of the keys to successful sober socialising is having a game plan in place. Before heading to a social event, take some time to think about how you'll handle any potential triggers to drink or challenges that may arise. Maybe you'll bring along your favourite alcohol-free beverage to sip on, or perhaps you'll have a trusted friend or family member by your side for encouragement and support. Whatever it is, having a plan in place can help you feel more confident and prepared to navigate the social scene with ease.

Now, consider alternatives. Just because you're not drinking alcohol doesn't mean you can't enjoy a tasty beverage at a social event. In fact, there are plenty of delicious alcohol-free options to choose from these days, ranging from sparkling waters and soft drinks, to mocktails and virgin cocktails. Get creative and experiment with different flavours and combinations beforehand to find your new go-to drink. You might start a new trend.

Of course, navigating social events without alcohol isn't just about what you're drinking—it's also about how you're engaging with others. Focus on making genuine connections with the people around you. Asking questions, listening attentively, and showing genuine interest in others' lives and experiences can be much more meaningful and fulfilling when you're fully present and engaged.

Social events can be fun and exciting, but they can also be draining, especially if you're an introvert or if the event goes late into the night. Be sure to prioritise self-care by taking breaks when you need to, setting boundaries around your time and energy, and knowing when it's time to call it a night. Remember, it's okay to put your own needs first and take care of yourself, even in social settings. So be confident that enjoying social events without alcohol is totally possible and even enjoyable! By adopting a positive attitude, having a game plan in place, exploring alcohol-free alternatives, focusing on genuine connections, and looking out for yourself, you can shine bright and have a great time at any social gathering, all without a sip of alcohol in sight.

Alcohol-Free Drinks you can order at a bar

Not sure what to order when out at a bar? Not looking forward to drinking water the whole night?

Here’s a list of drinks that you can order when out with your friends:

• Virgin Mojito
• Virgin Mary
• Diet Coke
• Lemon Lime and Soda
• Sparkling Water with Lemon
• Soda with Fresh Lime
• Half Grapefruit Juice, half Tonic
• Diet Bunderberg Ginger Beer
• Soda, Lime and Bitters

Alcohol-Free Cocktail Recipes

Check out our these AF recipes that you can try at home or when entertaining guests!