Happy Sober October to everyone celebrating!
If you’re not familiar, the idea actually goes back further than you might think. An Australian charity called Life Education was encouraging people to give up alcohol for October as part of a fundraising campaign called Ocsober as early as 2008.
In 2014, the UK charity Macmillan Cancer Support launched its own “Go Sober for October” fundraising campaign, which helped turn the idea into the Sober October tradition.
What began as a charity fundraiser has since evolved into a broader alcohol-free challenge that people take on for all sorts of reasons, from saving money and trying something new to simply seeing how they feel without alcohol for a month.
It should come as no surprise that I don’t know anyone in Buffalo partaking in Sober October, but I figure someone out there is 🙂
As someone who loves a good mocktail (although I don’t love the word “mocktail”), I wanted to share some of my favorites if you’re looking for ideas.
What Makes a Good Mocktail?
Everyone’s definition of a good non-alcoholic drink is different. I look at it the same way a vegetarian or a vegan approaches plant-based products.
Some may want something that tastes like the original; an Impossible burger vs. a black bean burger.
When you’re thinking about drinks, some mocktails still taste like alcohol, while others do not. No matter what camp you’re in, choosing something that’s full of flavor is key.
Luckily, the world of non-alcoholic drinks has come a long way, and you can make or buy delicious mocktails that won’t leave you feeling left out.
Recipe Guides for Homemade Non-Alcoholic Drinks
My own love for non-alcoholic drinks has led me to create recipe guides for seasons and occasions of all sorts; no one should be without something delicious to sip!
Here are some seasonal options available in my Etsy Shop; they are digital downloads, so they’re delivered instantly to your inbox, and you can print them on demand (or use them digitally).
Each one includes the drink visuals and comes with 3-5 pages with the ingredients and directions for each drink.
Fall Mocktails
The Fall Mocktails List relies on familiar seasonal flavors, including pumpkin, apple, cranberry, and cinnamon, among others. Some of my favorites from this one are the Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini, Apple Cider Margarita, and S’mores Latte!
Cozy Mocktails
The Cozy Cocktails + Mocktails List is exactly what it sounds like: 5 alcoholic drink recipes + 5 non-alcoholic drink recipes. This list is great for fall, but can spill over into winter, the holidays, or anytime you need a cozy moment.
My favorite non-alcoholic drinks on this list are the Maple Cinnamon Steamer, Orchard Glow, and Brown Sugar Oatmilk Latte. Yum!
Fall Dirty Sodas
“Dirty Sodas,” or sodas mixed with all sorts of flavors and other ingredients, have recently gained popularity. As a result, I’ve added some recipes to the shop. On the Fall Dirty Sodas List, my favorites are the Chai Spice, Apple Pie, and Toasted Marshmallow.
Alcohol-Optional Nightcaps List
I wanted to create a nightcaps list years ago after I started making myself the viral “Sleepy Girl Mocktail” (cherry juice + magnesium + soda water) and loving how well it helped me sleep! On this list, the recipes are alcohol-free, but I include a suggested spirit if you want to add one.
My favorites from the Alcohol-Optional Nightcaps List are the Twilight Tonic, Reishi Hot Chocolate, and Spiced Cranberry Hot Toddy.
Campfire Mocktails List
The Campfire Cocktails + Mocktails List is another mixed bag, but all of the drinks are meant to be enjoyed around a bonfire or a fireplace, likely on a crisp night. My favorites from this list are the Cherry Crush, Sparkle & Sprig, and Cocoa & Coffee.
My Favorite Canned Mocktails
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If you don’t want to make mocktails from scratch, some great canned options are available. Here are some I enjoy:
Athletic Brewing Co. Non-Alcoholic Beer: This stuff tastes like the real thing! Perfect for tailgating, pizza or taco nights, etc. I’ve never had one I didn’t like, but my top picks are the Upside Dawn, Cerveza Athletica, and Free Wave.
Parch Agave Cocktail: I’ve had their Desert Agave Margarita Mocktail, and it is chef’s kiss! Perfect for any occasion, and tastes perfect straight out of the can.
Ghia Le Spritz: I could GUZZLE these! They are unique and so refreshing. I started with the Lime & Salt but recently tried the Blood Orange. Both are good; I know the original soda is popular, too.
Aplos: I’ve only tried their canned beverages, but the Chili Margarita tastes like a craft cocktail from a high-end bar, right from the can. It also has adaptogens to help you relax.
…And there you have several mocktails to choose from for Sober October! I’d love to know what you’re drinking this month if you’re participating.
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