Top drink-free activities to try this January

5 people playing table football

Date Published

2nd January 2025

Topics

Blog

Back

This can look different for each of us. Whether you’re cutting back or going alcohol-free this January, taking part in drink-free activities is one of the easiest ways to cut down on alcohol. You may even discover a new favourite activity. Try out some of our ideas below… 

Enjoy creative hobbies

If you're looking for inspiration to fill your free time, use January as a chance to master a new skill or pick up hobbies you’ve enjoyed in the past. 

Explore and photograph your local area 

Take a tour of your local area and challenge yourself to photograph the best sights along the way. There’s no need for a fancy camera—using a smartphone is a great place to start! 

Learn a new skill 

Make the most of your free time by exploring a new skill or refining an existing one. Try creative writing, pick up a musical instrument, start knitting, or dive into gardening. Whatever you choose, learning something new is a rewarding way to spend your day. 

Release your inner artist 

Start the new year in style by picking up a paintbrush or pencil and practising your artistic skills. If you’re looking for inspiration, start by drawing your pet or a houseplant. 

Cook up a storm 

Dive into the many recipes available online or on social media and practice your cooking skills. You could also try whipping up a menu of alcohol-free cocktails to add some pizzazz to your January reset. 

Get active and move more

Exercise is a fantastic way to boost your mood and helping you focus on new goals. Try out some of these blood pumping ideas this month.  

Get outdoors 

Getting out into nature can be a relaxing way to clear your head and catch up with friends throughout January. Try a local nature trail with a hot flask of tea and plenty of snacks at your side. 

Get your run on 

Making a start with ‘Couch to 5k’ is a great step towards moving more. If you’re looking to challenge yourself a bit further, why not create a four-week plan and track your progress? Or join a local running club like parkrun for support? 

Go swimming 

Swimming can be a fun, low-cost activity, regardless of your age or physical ability, and it’s great for your wellbeing too. Find your nearest pool through Swim England. You can also discover pools with facilities for disabled people, concessions, and free swim days. 

Refresh how you socialise

We know that socialising can often centre on drinking, but there are many activities that don’t involve a heavy night out. Trying new things with friends is a great way to stay busy and on track while resetting your drinking. 

Bring out the board games 

Board game nights are a fun way to connect with friends without drinking. Add a bit of friendly competition by keeping a leaderboard throughout the month—whoever wins the most games can earn a prize at the end of January. 

Drink-free group activities 

Hit the town on the weekend with a group activity. Lace up your bowling shoes and show off your skills or try a themed escape room with your pals. 

Host a dinner party 

Don’t let those newfound cooking skills go to waste! Host a dinner party for friends and try out a new recipe. While you’re at it, impress them with some alcohol-free drink drinks. 

Join a book club 

Diving into a new book each month—even one you wouldn’t normally choose—can be a refreshing and enriching way to spend your time. It’s a great opportunity to discover new genres, share thoughts, and connect with new people.  

Why reset in January? 

It can be helpful to take the time to check your relationship with alcohol and decide whether it's worth cutting down or taking a break. Both can bring benefits, such as improving sleep, boosting energy, and supporting your mental wellbeing. 

For more tips, guidance, and inspiration on moderating your drinking, explore our resources:

Navigating social situations

How to stay motivated while cutting down on alcohol

Your complete guide to online peer support

How to manage your mental health without alcohol