Enjoying the holidays without alcohol

You don’t need a drink in hand to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re skipping alcohol for your health or simply because you don’t feel like it, you can still enjoy every celebration, no explanation needed.

Here are a few practical ways to navigate parties, social pressures and family gatherings while feeling confident and comfortable.

Have a plan before you go

Knowing what to expect can make social events easier. If someone offers you a drink, a simple “No thanks, I’m good” works just fine. If you’re attending with a partner or friend, let them know you’re not drinking so they can offer support.

Bring your own beverages

Showing up with a fun alcohol-free option takes the pressure off and gives you something festive to sip on. Sparkling water, cider and mocktails are all great choices.

You can also find a wide variety of nonalcoholic beers, wines and spirits that taste surprisingly like the real thing. Many grocery and liquor stores now carry alcohol-free options — making it easier than ever to enjoy something sophisticated without the side effects.

Keep it simple and speak with confidence

You don’t need to explain why you’re not drinking. A polite “No, thank you” is enough. Most people won’t think twice about it.

If someone presses, you can redirect the conversation or change the subject. Remember: choosing not to drink is a personal and healthy decision.

Focus on connection, not cocktails

The holidays are about your people, not pours. Shift your attention toward good conversation, games, music or food. If you’re hosting, plan an activity that naturally takes the spotlight off the drinks — like a cookie exchange, board game night or holiday movie marathon.

You might find you’re more present and energized without the added effects of alcohol.

Leave when you’re ready

If a party starts to revolve around drinking or you’re simply ready to head out, it’s perfectly fine to leave early. If you’re able, drive yourself and set a time in advance to leave. Staying true to your boundaries is an important part of taking care of yourself.

Remember your “why”

Whether you’re prioritizing your health or experimenting with an alcohol-free season, whatever your reason, be proud of it. You’re celebrating on your own terms, and that’s something worth raising a glass (of sparkling water) to.

Support for your well-being

If you’d like to learn more about healthy lifestyle changes or want support for alcohol use, Boulder Community Health offers a variety of behavioral health and wellness resources to help you feel your best year-round.

Learn more about the BCH PILLAR program, providing free assistance to Boulder County residents with health care matters relating to chronic pain and/or substance use disorders, here.

BCH also offers inpatient withdrawal management, medically monitored withdrawal from dependence-forming substances and drugs, like alcohol. Learn more here.

Try this fun, festive mocktail for your next holiday gathering!

Holiday Spritzer

Serves two

Ingredients
1 sprig rosemary

1 cup 100% pomegranate juice

2 teaspoons lime juice

½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 ½ cups seltzer

Additional rosemary and pomegranate arils for garnish

Tools

Muddler

Shaker

Champagne flutes

Preparation

1. Muddle the rosemary in the bottom of a shaker.
2. Add the pomegranate juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar and ice.
3. Shake vigorously for 30 seconds.
4. Strain the mixture into two champagne flutes.
5. Top with seltzer.
6. Garnish with rosemary and pomegranate arils.