Dry January in Greensboro
January isn’t just about New Year’s resolutions, it’s a great time to embrace Dry January and explore the city’s evolving scene of Greensboro bars, Greensboro nightlife, and Greensboro mocktails. Whether you’re committed to staying alcohol‑free, curious about wellness culture, or just want fresh ways to socialize without a drink in hand, Greensboro has something for you.
Here’s your local guide to making the most of Dry January right here in Gate City.
What Is Dry January?
Dry January is a global trend where folks take a break from alcohol for the first month of the year. Locally, it’s become more than just abstaining — it’s about connecting with friends, trying new flavors, and supporting businesses that offer thoughtful non‑alcoholic options.
Thankfully, Greensboro’s hospitality scene is responding with delicious alternatives and welcoming nightlife spots. From cozy lounges to mocktail workshops, you can stay social without the spirits.
Top Spots for Greensboro Mocktails
Whether you’re out with friends or planning a chill night, these Greensboro bars and restaurants serve standout options — from crafted mocktails to NA beers and zero‑proof experiences.
Best Bars with Mocktail Options
These local favorites serve creative, alcohol‑free drinks alongside their usual menus:
- Bitters Social House – This downtown lounge is big on craft drinks, and their bartenders are happy to mix up zero‑proof mocktails just as thoughtfully as their cocktails.
- Dram & Draught – A go‑to neighborhood bar where you’ll find spirit‑free drinks like the Morning Mojito and Sunday Spritz on the menu.
- GIA: Drink.Eat.Listen – A modern restaurant with inventive drinks and NA options, great for Dry January dinners.
- Freeman’s Grub & Pub – Known for its laid‑back vibe on Spring Garden Street and solid choices in NA beverages.
- NA Beer Finder
More Places Where You Can try dry january
These aren’t strictly mocktail bars, but these Greensboro nightlife spots are still great places to socialize and request non‑alcoholic options:
- Muddle. – Craft cocktail lounge with a chill vibe. Bartenders can craft NA versions of classics.
- Cocktail Cove – Cozy cocktail bar in Downtown perfect for a Dry January date night.
- The Abbey Taphouse – Gastropub with NA beers and flavorful mixers.
- The Bearded Goathttps://www.thebeardedgoat.bar/ – Classic bar vibes with staff open to custom mocktails.
- Clubhouse – Casual spot where NA beers and sodas help you stay social sans spirits.
Tip: Most Greensboro bars will happily create a custom mocktail or serve non‑alcoholic beer if you ask. It’s becoming a common part of the city’s nightlife culture.
Try Something Different: Sober‑Focused Events & Workshops
Dry January doesn’t have to be all about bar hopping. There are creative, wellness‑driven ways to celebrate too:
Mocktail Workshops & Wellness Events
- Herbal Mocktails Workshop – On January 3, The Pear Tree Wellness Center hosts a hands‑on herbal mocktail workshop where you’ll learn to mix flavorful, health‑focused drinks at home. Greensboro Holistic Collective
Beyond Mocktails: Places to Grab NA Beer or Easygoing Sips
Not into mocktails? Greensboro also has options for NA beer and easygoing social spaces:
- Local bottle shops like Gate City Growlers and grocers have a good selection of NA beers to pick up if you’re gathering friends at home.
- Breweries and taprooms often carry NA beers or sodas , great for watching a game or grabbing lunch.
Tips for a Fulfilling Dry January in Greensboro
Pair your nights out with great food. Many restaurants — like Machete or Print Works Bistro — make excellent dinner spots before an evening of mocktails.
Make it social. Invite friends or family to join your sober nights — many locals appreciate the break from alcohol too.
Explore outside nightlife. Dry January is a great excuse to check out wellness events, coffee lounges, art exhibits at the Greensboro Cultural Center, or a casual brunch
So!
Dry January in Greensboro doesn’t mean missing out on nightlife or culture. With an expanding scene of Greensboro bars, thoughtful Greensboro mocktails, and fun sober events, you can have a vibrant social life while sticking to your goals. Whether you’re downtown, in the Westover area, or along Spring Garden Street, there are plenty of ways to stay social without the spirits.
Make this Dry January memorable: support local businesses, try new spots, and share your favorite Greensboro mocktail experiences with friends (and on social!).
