celebrating 420
alcohol alternatives go mainstream
In a world where wellness and mindfulness continue to be priorities, younger consumers are leading a shift in social culture. Whether driven by a desire for healthier lifestyles or more meaningful social interactions, they are seeking out alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages. From sipping on botanical-infused mocktails to exploring cannabis in drink form, what it means to ‘drink’ socially is being redefined. Let’s explore some brands and bars providing alternatives to alcohol:
CANN SOCIAL TONIC
As the 420 holiday rolls around, cannabis enthusiasts and curious newcomers are exploring the latest trend in the industry: cannabis-infused drinks. These beverages offer a new way to partake in the festivities, with a variety of flavors and effects to suit any preference. For those who are seeking a buzz but want to avoid a hangover,CANN’s Social Tonic is a THC and CBD infused beverage. The standard version of the drink has 2MG of THC and 4MG of CBD, but there are dosage options to fit a variety of preferences – a “Lo Boy'' has 1MG of THC and 15MG of CBD and a “Hi Boy” has 5MG of THC and 10MG of CBD. The beverage comes in a variety of flavors such as ginger lemongrass, grapefruit rosemary, lemon lavender and blood orange cardamom. The combination of THC and CBD creates what CANN calls a “relaxing-yet-sociable buzz”.
HEKATE CAFÉ & ELIXIR LOUNGE
While plenty of alcohol alternatives are available to enjoy at home, options at bars and restaurants can be limited to soda or juice. EnterHekate Café & Elixir Lounge – a completely sober bar in the East Village in Manhattan. Hekate says they are the only of its kind in all of New York City, creating an intimate experience whether you are sober, sober-curious or simply looking for an alternative to your traditional sports bar. Sip on your choice of creative mocktails, non-alcoholic beer and wine, tea or coffee.
HIYO SOCIAL TONIC
Hiyo is a mindful alternative to alcohol that’s created to boost your mood without any negative effects. Even in the absence of alcohol, Hiyo provides a stress-relieving lift. “The float”, as the brand likes to call it, comes from the combination of organic adaptogens, natural nootropics, and functional botanicals. The beverage comes in a variety of flavors, including Peach Mango, Watermelon Lime, and Blackberry and Lemon. “In a world where things are getting faster, more convenient, and more excessive, it’s so easy to lose sight of our health. We’re so excited to help empower people so they no longer need to feel guilty, ostracized, or excluded when they choose to take control of their life and not drink,” saidco-founder George Youmans.