Most people don’t really care, they’re just asking out of curiosity and once you’ve answered most people won’t push further.

If they do, it’s about them, not you.

However, having something prepared to say can make you feel more confident.

Here are a list of our fave answers to “Why aren’t you drinking?”:

1.  I’m driving.

2. I’ve got an early morning tomorrow.

3. I’d rather get a buzz from good vibes.

4. I’m taking a break from alcohol right now.

5. I like being fully present for good company.

6. It messes with my sleep, so I’m skipping it.

7. I’m just not in the mood for it.

8. I’m focusing on fitness right now.

9. It interacts with a medication I am on.

10. I’m happier without it.

What are nonalcoholic beverages?

When we say nonalcoholic beverages, we’re talking about more than water!

Nonalcoholic beverages are drinks crafted to give you flavor, complexity - without alcohol.

Today’s options are vast! It’s a growing world of alcohol free wines, beers, spirits, botanicals, kombuchas, craft sodas, and ready-to-drink mocktails. All of the flavor, none of the hangover.

What does it mean to be 0.5% ABV?

For a drink to be legally non-alcoholic, it has to be 0.5% alcohol by volume or less.

While this doesn't make it totally alcohol-free, it does mean it is impossible to experience any intoxication or other psychoactive effects from alcohol.

For context, a slice of sourdough bread or a ripe banana has more alcohol by volume than a 0.5% ABV beverage!

Why do some people avoid drinks labeled “non-alcoholic” or 0.5% ABV?

In some religions, especially Islam, alcohol is completely prohibited. Because of this, many people avoid beverages that contain even trace amounts of alcohol (such as up to 0.5% ABV) or drinks that were produced through fermentation and then had alcohol removed.

Fully alcohol-free beverages are drinks that are made without fermentation and contain 0.0% alcohol — such as juices, sodas, sparkling water, and other non-fermented drinks.

We love a great nonalcoholic menu… but not every place has one.

When options aren’t listed, think spicy, bitter, or sour (pickle lovers, you get it). Those flavors help recreate what can feel “missing” without the alcohol.

Here are 5 easy orders you can get almost anywhere:

1. Nonalcoholic beer — most bars carry at least one option.

2. Tonic with lime — crisp, bitter, citrusy, and very “bar vibe.”

3. Nonalcoholic mule — ginger beer + lime. Feeling bold? Ask for muddled fruit, mint, or a flavored syrup.

4. Shirley Temple — a classic for a reason.

5. Cranberry + soda water — lightly sweet, refreshing, and simple.