

Groups of people seek shelter from the chill of the crisp evening inside bistros, pubs and cocktail lounges, where they let inhibitions loose with laughter and libations. On a mid-November weekend night in the Colorado capital, the streets bustle with energy and boisterous activity that is both unrestrained and stimulating. Gaining traction across the country, abstinence from mind-altering substances is becoming the cool thing to do, and innovative business concepts are on board with the paradigm shift.

Whether it be bar atmospheres that substitute alcohol for NA options but don’t sacrifice style, community resource hubs that host recovery-related events, or brands that center on a holistic lifestyle, folks are speaking up and showing up to support the niche market of sober partying. While people maintain sobriety for a variety of reasons, the demand for spaces to enjoy nightlife minus the booze is growing. Alcohol-free bars are growing in number and popularity, providing those who are sober, in recovery or just want a booze-free night with a place to connect
