Sober and Social: Alcohol-Free Events for a Fun Summer June 7th
By Jennifer Russo
Many people are shifting toward alcohol-free living, whether it be because they are in recovery, are pregnant, they want a healthier lifestyle overall, or any number of other reasons. While society may push people to believe that it isn’t possible to have fun without drinking, it really couldn’t be further from the truth. It’s about the people you are with and an attitude of mindfulness and being completely present in the moment. And, in fact, many events are hosted that are considered sober events, cultivating connection, celebrating creativity, and setting the scene for an exciting time – without the “buzz”. Check some of them out below.
The SAFE Coalition of Massachusetts is a nonprofit that hosts events throughout the year. On June 7th at 6:30 p.m., they have SAFE Café After Dark featuring music by the Zajac Brothers – located at 31 Hayward St in Franklin. They also host a weekly Sober Moms club for those moms navigating or exploring an alcohol-free lifestyle. Learn more here: https://www.safecoalitionma.org/
The Circle of Friends Coffee House, located in the First Universalist Society Meetinghouse in Franklin, has monthly concerts with some of the best local acts around. Check out their schedule here: https://www.circlefolk.org/schedule
Plum Island Sober Sunset Cruises – an Alcoholics Anonymous cruise that sets sail from Newburyport on Tuesdays. Hot dogs, beverages including coffee, and snacks provided. Learn more here: https://www.captainsfishing.com/cruises-events
Held weekly on Sundays, a free 11:30 a.m. Stretch and Restore yoga class hosted by Namastay Sober at Serenity in the City, located in Stoneham. Check this and other events out here: https://namastaysober.org/events/
The Sober in the Sun Festival is celebrating its 37th year. Held on Labor Day Weekend at the Treasure Valley Scout Reservation in Rutland, you can get a weekend pass and camp out or a day pass to enjoy the live music. Get more info here: https://soberinthesun.org/
Additionally, if you find yourself being invited to a restaurant or brewery and you’d prefer a zero-proof (non-alcohol) but are comfortable being around others who do want to have a libation, many places have alcohol-free options. For example, Castle Island brewery in Norwood offers hop-water and craft sodas. Odd by Worcester in Worcester collaborates with Woo Juice for some amazing mocktails, and all locations of Tavern in the Square have a dedicated selection of non-alcohol options. Most places can make you something delicious without the hard stuff, just ask.
Invited to a house party or BBQ? Stick to iced tea or bring your own mocktail! Here are a few easy and refreshing recipes for the summer) and we guarantee that people will wish they were having what you’re having):
‘I Carried a Watermelon’ Mule: one cup muddled watermelon, ginger beer or ginger ale, mint, lime, and honey. Sweet with a gingery bite.
You’re a Peach: Club soda or Sprite, muddled ripe peaches, simple syrup, and a squeeze of lemon. Simple and summery!
NOjito: 4 or 5 mint sprigs, ginger ale, lime juice, and pure maple syrup. Add some blackberries too if you like it fruity.
Espresso Mocktini: For those who love coffee and chocolate, try chilled espresso coffee shaken with some chocolate syrup, seltzer, and ice. Strain into a glass and top with whipped cream and crushed Oreos if you’re feeling fancy.
More events and activities are constantly popping up that offer a completely sober and present good time. And lots of activities are alcohol-free by default, such as visiting museums, zoos, and art galleries. There are also great local groups for sober events that you can join on meetup.com, like Adventures Without Alcohol and Sober Hour. Whatever your reason for choosing sobriety, we are happy for you and think it’s a wonderful choice!
A reminder to friends and family of those who are choosing not to drink alcohol…please, be supportive of their decision.
