Libations preside over much merriment during the holidays. But not everyone is on board with imbibing alcohol: Plenty of us are hitting the pause button to reassess what works best for our well-being. But just because we opt out of sipping traditional cocktails doesn’t mean we stop having fun or quit looking forward to refreshing beverages.
“People are looking for fresh alternatives for overall health and wellness benefits and wanting to make more authentic connections in their social lives,” says Beth Hutson, a Fort Worth producer/publicist and creator of The Elevated Elixir, which introduces her social media followers to mocktail videos and recipes, as well as the explosion of brands bringing booze-free ingredients to mixologists everywhere. “We’re finding thoughtful options that appeal to drinker and nondrinker alike—there’s a lot for everyone to enjoy.”
A look around Texas turns up several restaurants and bars offering zero-proof drinks that please the palate and the eye. Here’s where to enjoy mocktails in any season; you might also find inspiration for creating your own holiday parties at home, as well.