Can There Be Holiday Cheer Without Spirits?

How do you navigate the holidays without drinking?

There's no question - your mind + body will thank you for not drinking over the holidays. But, how do you do it??? Do you want to feel festive but don't know how without a cocktail? Do you have FOMO on the holiday fun? Here are my thoughts on navigating the holidays without drinking ⬇️

Pick your parties, new traditions + keep it brief

Pick your parties

A lot can be jammed into the holiday season but, does it have to be? It's a season of SO MUCH and your energy can be depleted. And who has fun when they're exhausted? Save your energy for the people you want to see and the gatherings you want to go to. Don't be afraid to say no to a party you're not feeling up for. Or, create a different kind of party…one that highlights fun 💃 and doesn't revolve around a bar. When you're feeling good, chances are better you won't hijack your plan to not drink.

Start a new tradition

In my family, we had a tradition that involved lots of my husband's “famous” Manhattans on Christmas Eve. As you might guess, this sometimes led to some “infamous” behavior and some serious headaches on Christmas morning. A new tradition this year will be an AF bar with lots of fun mixers and garnishes that everyone in the family can enjoy. The bonus will be a hangover-free Christmas day🎄.

Keep it brief

When I was young my parents told me, “Nothing good happens after midnight.” As an adult pushing 50 I've turned that into “Nothing good happens after 9 pm.” If I'm feeling wild I might stay out until 10. The thing is, I love my mornings so much I won't sacrifice them for late nights. A holiday party after 10 pm usually means a few people saying the same things over and over (very close to your face) and possibly spilling on you. I like to enjoy the party and the people early and then be tucked into bed with a book or a show before the close-talking happens 😴.

Yes, Virginia, there can be holiday cheer without spirits.