Ideas for alcohol-free nights in and out
Whether you like to stay in or love going out, we’ve rounded up some fun ideas for enjoying a night in or out to help you stay on track
When you’re rethinking your relationship with alcohol, it’s easy to feel like your only option is to stay in. But the truth is, not drinking can inspire you to try new activities and hobbies that you may never have thought of! So, whether you’re trying to include more drink-free days or looking to take a break from drinking, here are some ideas to help you let your hair down while sticking to your goals.
Ideas for nights out
Plan a group activity
Say goodbye to the pub crawl and try something new. Round your friends up for a themed escape room or hit the lanes at a bowling alley. If you want to get competitive, axe throwing, board game cafes and shuffleboard are excellent choices. If you’re looking for something arty, keep an eye out for gallery “late” openings—perfect for soaking up some culture while catching up with friends.
Hit up a food market
Liven your culinary senses with a bustling food market! From tacos to bao buns, it’s both a feast for your taste buds and a great way to socialise without the pressure of ordering drinks. Get there early and enjoy sampling the cuisines at the different stalls.
Try alcohol-free bars
If you want to meet a friend over a drink without the temptation of peer pressure, it could be worth exploring the growing trend of alcohol-free venues. Many now offer alcohol-free cocktails, beers, and other creative drinks! Check out our top recommendations here.
Sweat it out
Who said the evening can’t be spent getting active? Many gyms offer workout classes in the evening, so grab your yoga mat and head down for a class.
You could even make a new group of mates too. Joining a local run club, dance classes and community sports groups is a great way to get moving while socialising!
Laugh out loud
Swap the bar for a comedy club or theatre and enjoy a night filled with laughs or drama. Stand-up shows will lift your mood, while theatre performances offer everything from gripping plays to feel-good musicals.
Venues might have late-night or discounted tickets, making it a fun and budget-friendly option.
Ideas for nights in
Host a games night
A fun night doesn’t have to be spent out on the town. Sometimes the best nights are the ones spent at home. Pull out your Jenga or old Monopoly board and get lost in a board game with a group of your pals.
Make your home a cinema
Snuggle up for a night of your favourite films, not complete without cosy blankets and popcorn of course. Add a spin on it by hosting a themed movie evening, try a thriller night or a marathon of your favourite fantasy series.
Relax with a pamper
Enjoy an evening to properly switch off. Run a hot bath, try some gentle yoga, and relax. Swap scrolling for a good book or a favourite podcast and enjoy some time to yourself.
Lose yourself in a hobby
There are a bunch of hobbies that can be enjoyed at home, from painting, journaling, knitting, or learning a new language. If you want to enjoy it with friends, invite them round for an alcohol-free sip-and-paint night.
Come dine with me
Challenge yourself to cook a new recipe from scratch or host a "Come Dine With Me" or "Bake Off' night with friends or family.
Fancy something sweet? Try baking a dessert you’ve never made before, it’s a great way to get creative and your bound to impress your friends!
Find out more
How cutting down can save you money
Where to drink when you’re not drinking
How to stay motivated while cutting down on alcohol
The benefits of drinking less