News

The best sober bars and events for Dry January in Chicago

These five spots are shaking up some of the city's best zero-proof drinks this month.

Lauren Brocato
Written by
Lauren Brocato
Contributor, Time Out Chicago
mocktails
Photograph: Dogu Tuncer/Unsplash
Advertising

Every year, well-meaning people resolve to give up alcohol for a month. As winter drags on, boredom creeps in and social outings tempt, they waver and fall off the Dry January train. It’s a tale as old as time. 

This year, though, there are plenty of zero-proof cocktails, spirit-free alternatives and low- to no-alcohol options (ever heard of Damp January?) to get you through the month. With these zero-proof drinks and alcohol-free events on deck, you'll be questioning why you didn't give this whole sober thing a try sooner.  

So no matter what your plans may be, these drinks and events are sure to get you through Dry January. 

RECOMMENDED: The best Chicago bars—the essential spots, ranked

Arbella

Cocktail den Arbella in River North has one of the best Dry January lineups in the city. With six zero-proof cocktails, like the ice-cold Smoking Kills (bubbly rose kombucha, ginger beer and lime), you won’t even miss the alcohol.

Dearly Beloved

On Sunday, January 18, Dearly Beloved is celebrating Dry January with its Spirit-Free Cocktail Fest. Head to the River North spot from 7 to 10pm to indulge in eight inventive zero-proof drinks, courtesy of some of Chicago’s top mixologists. Tickets are limited, so grab one here to guarantee your spot. 

Foxtrot

Foxtrot’s selection of N/A sips never disappoints. This market is the perfect place to stop for a carbonated can of soda, a CBD-infused tea or a specialty drink you won’t find anywhere else in the city. We recommend grabbing a few different things from the shelves and making a mocktail at home—you won’t regret it.

Miller Lite’s Damp January Club

miller lite damp january keg
Photograph: Courtesy Miller Lite

Just dipping your toes into Dry January this year? Join Miller Lite’s Damp January Club. By joining the club on their site, you’ll be entered to win money and merch. Plus, 100 lucky members will win the Dampest Keg, a mini keg that gives you light pours and low-alcohol sips. Created to encourage group hangs, the Damp January club and mini keg offer a low-alcohol option for the sober curious at your next Bears watch party. 

No I.D. Alcohol-Free Cocktail Competition

The third annual No I.D. Alcohol-Free Cocktail Competition is taking over Artifact Events on Thursday, January 29. A portion of the proceeds benefits Ben’s Friends, a Chicago sobriety support group for those in the hospitality industry. So grab your sober crew and get your tickets here before they sell out. 

Latest news
    Advertising