Off Radar discusses the popularity of sober communities and nonalcoholic beverages in modern media and social circles.
Sober Communities, Zero-Proof
Drinks: How Non-drinkers are
Changing the Social Landscape
Written by Shai Alise Davis
Photo Courtesy of Kin Euphorics
For centuries, alcohol has been a cornerstone of social events. From weddings, pool parties, holidays, and work events – alcohol plays a central role. For non-drinkers, this can make socializing difficult.
In 2020, Carrie May created Chicago AF for this reason. The nonprofit serves as a space for sober people to connect, whether in recovery or abstaining for other personal reasons. The group hosts different events throughout the Greater Chicago area, such as an annual boozeless cruise, an upcoming sober Oktoberfest, and holiday parties.
“Attending in-person recovery meetings was the only way to meet other sober individuals. Social activities were limited to meeting for coffee or breakfast,” May said. “I needed more. I desired a vibrant social life that continued to excite me and included activities and events that I couldn’t wait to attend.”
Photo Courtesy of Glou
Communities like Chicago AF are on the rise. In Austin, there’s Sober and Funky, Third Place Bar in New York City and the Sober Girls Society in the United Kingdom, to name a few. These organizations host various lively social events, ranging from dating mixers to dance classes; all of which are advertised on Instagram.“Community is everything in sobriety. You have to find your people, people who light you up and will support and celebrate with you,” May said. “Community is what gives meaning and purpose to staying sober.”
In 2023, Gallup reported that young adults in the U.S. are drinking less compared to previous decades. One reported reason is mental and physical health concerns, so it isn’t surprising that functional beverages have exploded in popularity over the years. Companies market functional drinks as beverages with health benefits, although the science is mixed. Think Bella Hadid’s Kin Euphorics or the zero-proof line from Recess, two brands you might be familiar with if you have ever been on the beverage side of TikTok. Both brands make use of adaptogens and promise a fun, zesty drink without the drawbacks of alcohol. Years ago if you wanted a nonalcoholic option,, your choices were limited to soda or a Shirley Temple. Now there’s a spectrum of options at your at your you can find at your local grocery store.
It’s unclear what the future of sober spaces and nonalcoholic drinks will look like, although May believes they will continue to grow. “The public is increasingly aware of the harmful effects of drinking and more people are becoming mindful of their drinking. You see others in your social circle role modeling that you don’t need alcohol to have a good time.”As more people become mindful of their drinking and aware of alternatives, there’s hope the social landscape around alcohol may continue to change.