Father’s Day Ideas for the Modern Alcohol-Free Dad
Dads can toast with non-alcoholic beers as the growing trend of millennial dads drinking less alcohol coincides with a tremendous uptick in the availability of alcohol free beers, non-alcoholic wines and zero proof spirits | Unsplash
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Father's Day may evoke various memories and emotions depending on your past experiences in June. Barbecue and beer have long been associated with American Father's Day, but times are changing. Millennial dads are consuming less alcohol than their predecessors, marking a shift in the modern dad's lifestyle. Let's raise a toast to the evolving role of the contemporary father.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of millennial dads drinking less alcohol. (According to a recent study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the number of millennial dads who are abstaining from alcohol has increased by 25% since 2010.) There are several reasons why millennial dads are drinking less alcohol and yours or your dad’s may be unique but whatever the reason, dads who are cutting back or eliminating alcohol entirely are in good company when opting out.
Reasons Millennial Dads are Drinking Less Alcohol
Focus and Clarity: Nowadays there are plenty of alternatives to drinking alcohol when socializing. In the past, non-alcoholic beer just didn’t taste as good. But now, people can satisfy their cravings without losing their focus and clarity, which is crucial as this generation is working longer hours and being on the go more than ever before.
A Desire to Be More Present for Their Children: Kids are busy these days! And so are their parents. Millennial dads are more likely to want to be more present for their children than previous generations. They want to be able to participate in their children's activities - be it coaching their sports or driving them all over town - and they don't want alcohol to get in the way.
Health Concerns: Millennial dads are more health-conscious than previous generations of dads. They are more likely to be concerned about the effects of alcohol on their health, both physically and mentally.
Changing Social Norms: Millennial dads are also more likely to be influenced by changing social norms. There is a growing trend of people, including dads, choosing to drink less alcohol. This trend is being driven by several factors, including the rise of the sober curious movement and the increasing awareness of the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
Better Education About Wellness: Thanks to the growing wellness movement, more and more dads have been educated on the many benefits to drinking less alcohol, including improved health, increased energy, better sleep, increased productivity, and improved relationships.
Financial Concerns: Inflation anyone? Millennial dads may feel the pinch no different than the rest of us and choose to spend that beer money on something else.
The trend of millennial dads drinking less alcohol is a positive development. Social norms around drinking are changing, and there is less pressure on people to drink alcohol. This is making it easier for millennial dads to choose not to drink. By drinking less alcohol, millennial dads are setting a good example for their children and helping to create a healthier environment for their families.
With so many tasty alcohol free alternatives the modern dad can still enjoy a beverage without the buzz. Get the family together and enjoy a beverage at the barbeque, baseball game, round of golf or whatever favorite pastime is in store. This Father’s Day, dads can still tell their dad jokes over a non alcoholic beer, or kick back with a zero proof scotch. There are plenty of ways to celebrate Father’s Day and let dad kick back with a non alcoholic drink this Father's Day.
Ways to Celebrate Dad Without Alcohol This Father’s Day
Make a mocktail: There are many recipes for mocktails and non-alcoholic cocktails available online. These drinks are often just as delicious and refreshing as alcoholic cocktails, but they don't contain any alcohol so you can keep going for the whole day. Want the simple route? Try one of these pre-mixed varieties of non-alcoholic cocktails - the lime margarita from Recess, or the Free AF Cuba Libre, a non alcoholic rum & cola sparkling cocktail that comes in a can, perfect for the cooler or pre-stocked in the fridge.
Have a sparkling water: Sparkling water is a great alternative to soda, and it can be enjoyed on its own or used to make mocktails. Try the DRY Non-Alcoholic Botanical Bubbly in ginger, it’s sparkling and ready to sip or use as a mocktail mixer. Better yet – have a sparkling water with adaptogens to really treat your body to the gift of calm for Father’s Day such as the Wowie Hemp Infused calming sparkling beverage which comes in a 12-pack of four great flavors.
Sip a glass of zero-proof wine: Whether you go for red or white, there are a plethora of non-alcoholic options for wines that give up nothing on taste. Try varieties from Ariel: the Ariel Non-alcoholic Wine Two Pack (includes Ariel Cabernet and Ariel Chardonnay.)
Pop some bubbly: It’s a day to celebrate afterall! Bring out some sparkle and celebrate those years you’ve been a dad. Grab a 2-bottle pack with the Surely Non Alcoholic Sparkling Brut and Rosé combo of dealcoholized California wine. Both varieties are full of flavor, yet low sugar and gluten free.
Try a new tea: There are many different types of tea available, and they can be enjoyed hot or cold. Tea is a great way to relax and unwind, and it can also be a healthy way to hydrate. Feeling like you want a cold brew? Try the exotic Enroot Organic Non-Alcoholic sparkling cold brew iced tea in flavorful Raspberry Mint White Peony.
Crack a cold beer: With plenty of non-alcoholic beer options available now, that barbeque and beer combo is still available to anyone who is cutting back on alcohol. Have an IPA or a craft brew without the alcohol and you won’t miss a beat the whole day. This IPA from Partake balances the citrusy hops with a sweet malt backbone to make it an all-day sipper that packs a lot more flavor than most non-alcoholic brews on the market.
No matter what you choose to drink, make sure to relax and enjoy your Father's Day. You deserve it. Cheers!
(Side note: If you are struggling with alcohol abuse, there are resources available to help you. You can talk to your doctor, a therapist, or a support group. There are also many online resources that can provide you with information and support.)