Uncork the Festive Spirit: Why NoLo Drinks are Trending at Holiday Parties
Coy Cordials
The festive season is upon us, and with it comes the anticipation of gatherings, laughter, and of course, holiday cheer. Traditionally, alcoholic beverages have been a staple at holiday parties, serving as a social lubricant and a way to unwind and celebrate. However, in recent years, a notable shift has emerged – the rise of alcohol-free and NoLo (no and low alcohol) drinks at holiday celebrations. The NoLo holiday party is gaining popularity. with alcohol-free and low-alcohol drinks becoming more commonly offered during the holiday season. With people now looking for healthier and safer drink options to enjoy their holiday parties, be a good host, and be sure to have a variety of options available. Find out why NoLo is trending, and how to incorporate non-alcoholic party options like a pro this holiday season.
Why Alcohol-Free and NoLo Drinks are Taking Over Holiday Parties
This shift towards alcohol-free and NoLo options is driven by a confluence of factors, including:
Growing Awareness of Health and Wellness: People are increasingly prioritizing their health and wellness, making conscious choices about their consumption of alcohol. According to a 2022 report by IWSR, the global low- and no-alcohol (L&NA) beverage market expects no-alcohol volumes to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of +9% between 2022 and 2026.
Changing Social Norms: The perception of alcohol consumption is changing, with more people embracing a "sober curious" lifestyle. In 2021, a NielsenIQ omnibus survey showed that 22% of consumers reported that they were cutting back on consuming alcohol and drinking less. When asked why they were drinking less, the top consumer responses noted health and wellness and shifting interest as core reasons.
Expanding Beverage Choices: The availability of high-quality, flavorful alcohol-free and NoLo drinks has exploded in recent years, offering a wider range of options for consumers seeking alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.
Toast to Wellness: Alcohol-Free and NoLo Drink Benefits
The benefits of incorporating alcohol-free and NoLo drinks into holiday parties are numerous:
Promotes Inclusivity: By offering a variety of alcohol-free and NoLo options, hosts can ensure that everyone feels included and can participate fully in the festivities, regardless of their alcohol preferences or personal health considerations.
Encourages Moderation: NoLo drinks provide a bridge between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, allowing individuals to moderate their alcohol consumption without sacrificing taste or enjoyment.
Enhances Wellbeing: Alcohol-free and NoLo drinks enable guests to enjoy the social aspects of holiday gatherings without the potential negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption.
Expands Culinary Creativity: The growing range of alcohol-free and NoLo spirits and beverages opens up new possibilities for crafting innovative and delicious mocktails and festive concoctions.
Coy Cordials
Hosting a NoLo Holiday Party Like a Pro
To ensure a successful and enjoyable alcohol-free or NoLo holiday party, consider these tips:
Stock Up on a Variety of Options: Offer a diverse selection of alcohol-free and NoLo drinks to cater to different tastes and preferences. Include dealcoholized wine, mocktails, non-alcoholic beers, and a range of NoLo spirits and mixers.
Create a Festive Atmosphere Without the Drinking Games: Set the mood of course, with festive decorations and music, but skip the activities that revolve around alcohol consumption (does beer pong really gel with the holiday party anyway?) Consider incorporating interactive elements such as an alcohol-free bar cart, or even a designated non-alcoholic cocktail-making station.
Highlight the Non-Alcoholic Options: Clearly label alcohol-free and NoLo drinks and showcase their unique flavors and ingredients. Consider using creative names and descriptions to pique curiosity and encourage guests to try something new.
Embrace the Experimentation: Encourage guests to step out of their comfort zones and experiment with different alcohol-free and NoLo options by putting the options front and center. Offer samples and provide pairing suggestions to enhance the tasting experience - whether it’s drinks with adaptogens or hemp-based infusions, there are plenty of options for your guests to explore.
Celebrate Mindful Enjoyment: Savor the focus on socializing, connecting, and enjoying the festive spirit rather than solely relying on alcohol for merriment. Celebrate the variety of choices and encourage mindful indulgence in all aspects of the party.
The increasing popularity of alcohol-free and NoLo drinks at holiday parties reflects a larger trend towards more mindful and health-conscious consumption. This approach creates a more inclusive atmosphere for all guests, fostering a sense of camaraderie and well-being that extends beyond the holiday season. This holiday season be the host-with-the-most when it comes to embracing these alternatives. In doing so you can ensure that all guests feel welcome and enjoy the celebration. Cheers to that!