4 Alcohol Alternatives: A Sober Curious Guide

More people than ever are rethinking their relationship with alcohol, not because of a calendar event, but because of how they feel the morning after. In 2025, 22% of American adults participated in Dry January, a 5% increase over the year before. Sober October draws millions more. And beyond those seasonal experiments, a growing number of adults are simply choosing to drink less, more intentionally, or not at all.

If you're curious about what that looks like in practice, you're in the right place. Here are four alcohol alternatives that work any day of the year: CBD relief gummies, non-alcoholic drinks and mocktails, kava and botanical beverages, and alcohol-free rituals. Each offers a different way to unwind, socialize, and stay present — without the downsides.

Why More People Are Skipping the "Buzz"

From backyard cookouts to weeknight wind-downs, alcohol tends to show up everywhere. But alcohol can leave you feeling groggy, disrupt your sleep, and make it harder to show up fully the next day. When that tradeoff stops feeling worth it, alternatives become worth exploring.

The "sober curious" movement and "low and no" drinking culture have grown significantly in recent years, with adults seeking ways to socialize and unwind without relying on alcohol. And alcohol alternatives can still feel festive, relaxing, and special. When hosting a gathering or attending one, having thoughtful options means everyone can enjoy the evening on their own terms.

Alcohol Alternative #1 – CBD Gummies For A Calm, Clear-Headed Evening

CBD relief gummies offer a gentle way to unwind after a full day and transition from the day's busyness into restful relaxation.

What CBD Relief Gummies Are (And How They Fit Into The Holidays)

CBD (Cannabidiol) and low dose THC are naturally occurring compounds found in hemp and cannabis plants. Many adults use CBD gummies as a way to relax after a full day during the hectic holiday season. These products are intended for adults 21 and older and should not be combined with alcohol or used before driving.

CBD relief gummies are perfect for quiet evenings at home—think movie nights by the tree, reading with a cup of tea, or simply decompressing after hosting a holiday dinner. 

1:1 and 2:1 Treadwell Relief Gummies

Treadwell Farms offers two CBD relief gummy options that provide different experiences based on the ratio of CBD to THC.

Relief CBD Gummies (1:1) feature a balanced 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC, meaning equal amounts of each compound. This balanced approach may appeal to those looking for a gentle, even experience. The key lime flavor adds a bright, refreshing note that pairs nicely with a quiet evening indoors. You might reach for these after a demanding day or a long social week.

Relief Peach CBD Gummies (2:1) offer a 2:1 ratio of CBD to THC. They have half the amount of THC as our Relief CBD Gummies (1:1). This ratio provides a different balance that some people prefer, especially if they're newer to THC or want a milder experience. The peach flavor is sweet and comforting. Consider these when you're ready to settle in for the evening and want something on the gentler end. 

Safe Use, Legal Considerations, And Listening To Your Body

Before trying CBD gummies as an alcohol alternative, check your local laws regarding hemp-derived THC products. Always purchase from trusted, tested sources that provide third-party lab results. If you're new to THC products, start with a low dose and see how your body responds before taking more. Effects can take 30 minutes to 2 hours to appear, so patience is important.

If you take medications or have health concerns, talk with a healthcare professional before using CBD or THC products. Gummies are an option for relaxation, not a medical treatment. Anyone with a history of substance use disorder should consult with a professional first.

Alcohol Alternative #2 – Non-Alcoholic Drinks And  Mocktails

Non-alcoholic drinks have come a long way from sad sparkling water with lime. Today's mocktail scene includes zero-proof spirits, herbal syrups, and creative recipes that hold their own in any glass. Whether you're hosting or just making something for yourself at home, the ritual of a well-made drink is completely intact with no alcohol required.

Building an Alcohol-Free Bar

Creating an inviting selection of non-alcoholic drinks makes everyone feel included at your gathering. Stock up on non-alcoholic spirits, sparkling waters, zero-proof wines and beers, and flavored tonics. 

For a well-rounded setup, keep fresh citrus, herbal syrups, ginger beer, and honey on hand. They work in dozens of combinations year-round. For seasonal flair, include cranberry juice, pomegranate, fresh citrus, and spice-based mixers like ginger beer or cinnamon syrup.

Presentation matters just as much as ingredients! Serve mocktails in beautiful glassware with thoughtful garnishes –– fresh herbs, citrus wheels, and a well-rimmed glass all make non-alcoholic options feel just as special as their boozy counterparts.

Pear and Honey Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 0.5 oz pear syrup

• 5 oz ginger ale

• Rosemary for garnish

• Pear syrup for glass rim

• Granulated sugar for glass rim

Instructions: Place a small amount of sugar on a plate. Lightly coat the rim of a coupe glass with pear syrup, then dip the rim into the sugar until evenly coated. Pour the pear syrup into the glass, followed by the ginger ale. Stir gently to combine. Add ice if desired, then garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

Cucumber Mint Spritzer

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 8 fresh mint leaves

• 1 oz fresh lime juice

• 1 tsp honey or agave syrup

• 6 oz sparkling water

• Ice

• Cucumber ribbon and mint sprig for garnish

Instructions: In the bottom of a highball glass, muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves with the honey until fragrant. Fill the glass with ice. Add the lime juice, then top with sparkling water and stir gently to combine. Garnish with a thin cucumber ribbon and a sprig of fresh mint. Optional: add a dropper of Everyday Essential CBD Extract for a calming, fragrance-free addition.

Citrus Ginger Fizz

Ingredients:

• 2 oz fresh-squeezed orange juice

• 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice

• 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water, stirred to combine)

• 4 oz ginger beer

• Ice

• Orange slice and fresh rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions: Combine the orange juice, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake briefly to chill. Strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass. Top with ginger beer and stir gently. Garnish with an orange slice and a rosemary sprig. Optional: add a dropper of Citrus Spice CBD Extract to lean into the citrus terpene profile.

For gatherings, batch any of these in a pitcher so guests can serve themselves. Non-drinkers will appreciate not having to ask for something special.

Alcohol Alternative #3 – Kava And Botanical Drinks

Kava and herbal drinks are botanical options that have been used for centuries in various cultures and are gaining popularity as modern alternatives to traditional drinking.

What Kava Is And How People Use It

Kava is a root traditionally used in some Pacific Island cultures to promote a calm, social feeling. In recent years, kava bars and ready-to-drink kava beverages have become more common in the United States. You can also find kava mixes designed for home use.

People describe kava's effects as more grounding than stimulating—a gentle relaxation rather than the buzz of alcohol. However, effects vary significantly from person to person, and kava isn't right for everyone.

Important Safety And Quality Considerations

Kava carries some risks, particularly for people with liver issues or those taking certain medications, so research is important. Look for brands that provide third-party testing and source their kava responsibly. Talk to a healthcare professional if you're uncertain whether kava is safe for you, and never mix kava with alcohol or other substances.

Other Herbal And Botanical Sippers

Beyond kava, gentler herbal options can fit beautifully into evening routines. Chamomile tea, lemon balm tea, or magnesium-based drinks can all support a calm evening. Try peppermint herbal tea after dinner or a chamomile blend as part of a wind-down routine.

Kombucha is another popular option that brings a fizzy, celebratory feel to non-alcoholic relaxation. This fermented tea offers a complex flavor profile and the social experience of cracking open a bottle, making it a satisfying stand-in for beer or wine. Look for small-batch brands with interesting flavors — ginger, lemon, or berry are great starting points. We love Big Dog Kombucha and Living Vitalitea for their bold flavors and quality ingredients.

Alcohol Alternative #4 – Rituals That Actually Help You Unwind

Sometimes the best alternative to alcohol isn't another beverage at all. A practice or routine can help signal to your body and mind that the day is done, without needing a drink to get there. 

Swap The Nightcap For A Nighttime Ritual

Instead of a nightcap, build a nighttime ritual that signals to your body it's time to wind down. A warm bath with Epsom salts, journaling, reading a great book, or gentle stretching can all help you transition into rest mode.

Scent plays a bigger role in that transition than most people realize. Rolling a calming botanical blend onto your neck, shoulders, or wrists before bed — something with lavender to ease tension, frankincense to quiet a busy mind, cedarwood to ground you — gives your nervous system a consistent cue that it's time to slow down. That's the idea behind our RESTORE CBD Roll-On: a blend of those aromatherapeutic botanicals with our full-spectrum CBD extract, in a format that takes about ten seconds to apply and travels anywhere.

Rituals create structure and comfort without relying on alcohol. Some adults might include a CBD gummy in this routine if it fits their needs and local laws allow, but the ritual itself is what matters most.

Alcohol-Free Ways to Socialize

Drinking doesn't have to be the activity. An evening walk, a game night, cooking something new together, afternoon coffee and dessert — none of these require alcohol to be fun. Connection, laughter, and shared experiences are what people remember.

If you're attending a gathering and want to bring something thoughtful, a well-chosen bottle of zero-proof sparkling wine or a set of quality mocktail mixers makes a great host gift — and often sparks a conversation about the alternatives you've been exploring.

How To Choose The Right Alcohol Alternative For You

Selecting the right alcohol alternative depends on your personal goals, lifestyle, and how your body responds to different options. Taking time to consider these factors will help you find what works best for your holiday season.

Consider Your Goals And Your Body

Ask yourself what you're looking for. Do you want to relax at the end of a long day? Stay energized for morning activities? Simply avoid hangovers? Your answer will guide which alternatives make sense.

Everyone reacts differently to CBD, low dose THC gummies, kava, and even caffeine. Start with small amounts or milder options and pay attention to how you feel over several days. What works beautifully for one person might not suit another, and that's completely normal.

When To Seek Professional Support

These alternatives are tools for relaxation and socializing—they're not substitutes for medical care or treatment for alcohol use disorder. If you feel you "need" alcohol to cope with stress or social situations, or if you're experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you try to cut back, please talk to a healthcare professional or counselor.

There's strength in asking for support, and you deserve compassionate care. These alternatives can be part of a healthier lifestyle, but they work best when you're in a good place mentally and physically.