Spend time with people you care about – without alcohol
Be more mindful and present with these substance-free alternatives.
Volunteer Work
Helping out at a soup kitchen or animal shelter can be a great way to distract yourself from after-work cravings. Instead of going to your usual bar, you can replace this behavior with something that will leave you feeling fulfilled–not to mention, you’ll be able to meet people in your community.
Cooking Class
Cooking classes are a fantastic alternative to traditional happy hours because they provide a fun and interactive way for people to come together. Instead of sipping drinks, you'll get to engage in a hands-on activity and enjoy some delicious food.
Fitness Class
Sign up for a fitness class such as yoga, Pilates, or a group workout session. Some research suggests that weightlifting and aerobic exercise can help those who are early in recovery by reducing drug cravings and relapse.
Game Night
Host a game night where you can play board games, card games, or video games. Without alcohol, you may find you’re more present during these games and can engage with your friends and coworkers in a more genuine way. We recommend team games like Giant Jenga, Codenames, and Reverse Chardes.
Art Class
Take an art class where you can learn how to paint, draw, or create something new. Even if you can only manage to draw stick figures – you can still get a lot out of art classes. With an emphasis on self-expression and collaboration, these classes provide a relaxed space for people to bond over a common interest while honing their artistic skills.
Movie Night
Grab some popcorn! This alternative eliminates the pressure to drink alcohol, and provides a cozy and entertaining space for socializing. It’s the perfect way for colleagues to unwind, bond over a favorite film, and engage in lightheated discussions.
Team Building Activities
Escape rooms, scavenger hunts, and obstacle courses are all unique ways to promote teamwork. They offer a fun way to build communication and problem-solving skills. Unlike traditional happy hours, these activities encourage active participation and mutual support.
Do Something Outside
Whether you’re enjoying a picnic in the park, embarking on a hiking adventure, or organizing a beach day – these activities can foster a sense of connection and well-being between your colleagues. By steering away from substances, these activities allow you to make lasting memories with friends and colleagues.
Print your own list of happy hour alternatives
You can keep a physical version on hand, or print several to share with coworkers.
