When it comes to New Year's Eve celebrations, the first thought that probably springs to mind is boozing it up with an NYE cocktail. And while there's nothing wrong with sipping some bubbly (if that's your inclination), those of us who prefer to keep things non-alc may feel like there are no New Year's-appropriate activities for our preferences. We say that nothing could be further from the truth! Whether you're pregnant, abstaining, or just taking a break from the booze, here are 10 fun ideas for ringing in 2024, the sober way.
Attend A Silent Disco
A few years ago, just as the sober-curious movement was gaining steam, companies like Daybreaker brought 6 a.m. sober dance parties to the masses. In a similar vein are remote silent discos – events where you put your headphones on and dance it out to the music of world-class DJs right in the comfort of your own home (or in person, if you feel like venturing out).
A quick Google search will reveal that there are tons of options to shake it off on New Year's Eve, whether remotely or in-person in your city. Because silent discos have an alternative vibe, they're much more sober-friendly than traditional clubs and dance parties.
Make A Tea Bar
If you've ever been to a party where they had a Prosecco bar or something similar, you know how fun themed bars can be. Why not make a NA equivalent with a tea bar? We're not just talking about hot water and tea bags... include exciting staples like bubble tea, kombucha, Southern-style sweet iced tea, and more!
Do A Goal-Setting Ritual
Not in the mood to party this year? Celebrate the New Year with some introspection by doing a goal-setting ritual. You can design the ritual in whatever manner you like, but we recommend something along the lines of:
- Light a candle and sit quietly for a few minutes.
- Whip out your journal and take inventory of the last year: What were your best memories? What are you grateful for? Where do you think you could've improved?
- In your journal (we have some killer prompts to start you off), mindfully list out your goals for 2024. They don't have to be New Year's resolutions, exactly, but include small steps you can take in the new year to help you achieve your goals!
Make A 2023 Scrapbook
Before New Year's Eve, head to your local craft store and pick up some supplies for making an old-fashioned scrapbook. Print out some photos from your most treasured memories of the year (we like printing with Walgreens), and gather any magazines you purchased or journal entries you wrote.
You can also look up some news headlines that made an impact on you, and print out the article as well as photos of any notable celebs or politicians who made the news. On New Year's eve, put together a scrapbook of what made 2023, 2023.
Good, bad, or otherwise, the year was one to remember — so create a momento that will help you re-live the past year in the years to come.
Plan A Costume Party
Believe it or not, masquerade balls, dressing up in costumes, and concealing one's identity have a long history in the historical celebrations of Christmastime. So we think a New Year's costume party is a fully appropriate idea for a sober New Year's Eve.
Who needs booze to have fun when you can dress up as whoever you want for a night of merriment and mystery?
Karaoke It Up
Another fun party pastime that's fun with or without booze? Singing! Grab some friends for a sober karaoke night either at your house or a private karaoke room. The singing's bound to be better than it would be if you were imbibing... who knows, maybe you'll steal the show with your rendition of "I'm Just Ken."
Cook A Fancy Meal
Whether you're spending the evening with your S/O or your BFF, cook a fancy dinner for two. New Year's Eve is the perfect time to get fancy with food, so use this opportunity to ring in 2024 with only the finest cuisine. Don't forget to make a mocktail to go with!
Host A Game Night
Bring all your besties over and host a board game night that's sure to be one for the books. Have everyone bring their favorite game – from Cards Against Humanity to Codenames – for a riotous evening that will remind you that you absolutely don't need booze to have a rowdy night of laughter!
Play 2023 Trivia
Before New Year's Eve, compile a long list of trivia questions about 2023. Alternatively, have a friend do it for you, or do a quick Google search... there are a lot of trivia quizzes out there. On the big night, gather your squad together to see how much you remember about 2023. The results may surprise you!
Host A Murder-Mystery Dinner
Murder-mystery dinners are still one of the best ways to facilitate a heart-racing and mind-boggling party. Pick up one of the many murder mystery dinner kits out there and have your besties over for a night of thinking on your toes — to be fair, it's probably best to skip the booze for this idea anyway, for the sake of your mental acuity.
Are you planning a sober New Year's Eve party this year? Tweet us @BritandCo to share your plans, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more booze-free hacks and party ideas!
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This post has been updated.
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