The start of a new year brings resolutions, new opportunities, and challenges for many, one of the most popular being Dry January. The last couple weeks of December are usually holiday-party-packed, and then, of course, New Year’s Eve brings a brutal hangover the next day (or maybe two days). Entering the New Year with a hangover isn’t a great way to start off, however, if you are participating in Dry January this year, that might be a different story for you.
While I’m not participating in Dry January this year, I certainly will do it in the years to come, because TBH, my body needs a break. But if you’re a twentysomething-year-old and are participating in Dry January, chances are you need some tips and guidance on sober activities to do.
Now listen, I know that might sound a bit extreme, but it can be difficult to cut out alcohol if you’re in college or recently graduated. Many events people look forward to, such as happy hours, themed parties, dinners, and more, 99% of the time involve alcohol. And of course, if you’re in a relationship, or go on dates, getting a fun cocktail at a restaurant is probably something you’re used to doing. Not anymore!
If you’re worried about changing up your routine of going out, going on dates, and attending events sober, here are seven Dry January date night ideas to try out.
- Go to a winter village.
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Something I’m terrible at is ice skating, but it makes for one of the best winter dates. Throw on a cute outfit and get ready to get on the ice! It’s a great way for you and your partner/person you’re seeing to bond because, let’s be honest here, ice skating can be difficult. And it’s a lot more fun if you’re with somebody you like.
- Title Start doing Mocktail Mondays.
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This is a cute way to have a routine of trying different mocktails and also sets down a day in the calendar every week for you and your boo to have some quality time with one another. There are endless mocktail recipes on TikTok, and a lot of them look delicious! One of my favorite accounts is @mocktailgirlie. She has tons of great ideas there, and I think it would be a wonderful page to follow if you are participating in Dry January, or are sobercurious!
- Create vision boards.
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I think creating vision boards on Pinterest is such a great date idea, and can really help you and your partner map out the rest of your year! And while you make one, sip on your favorite mocktail.
- Go to a bar. Seriously.
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You’re probably asking yourself, WTF? While they can be hard to come by, there are some bars that are 100% alcohol-free. If you can’t find one like this near you, I would advise looking up “Best mocktails in [insert city].” You’ll be surprised at the amount of options there are! But, for the most part, all bars have alcohol-free options, and even some super cute mocktails, too!
- Go to a museum.
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I love going to museums. I could stand in there for hours looking at all of the amazing artwork, and I think a date night at a museum is right out of a movie. If you want to make it extra fun, try dressing in the color palette as one of your favorite pieces in the museum.
- Have a movie marathon.
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If there’s one thing to know about me, it’s that I like to dedicate a few days a year to lying in my bed or sitting on my couch and watching movies all day. Movie marathons are a great way for you and your partner to relax, and take a break from going out and drinking.
- Go to the movies.
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While I love watching movies in the comfort of my own home, nothing can beat seeing a movie in theatres. There are lots of great movies out right now, and even more are coming out soon, so pick a few to see with your partner during the month of January, and have a great night.
While doing Dry January can be challenging, these date ideas are a great way for you to start it off right. So, time to get the ingredients for mocktails, schedule a movie marathon, and enjoy your month!