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Dry January encourages millions to abstain from alcohol for the entire month of January. This public health campaign, originating in the UK, promotes healthier habits and a fresh start. Commit to a month of sobriety, explore new non-alcoholic options, and discover the benefits of mindful drinking.
Want to sponsor Dry January? Learn how
Expected Dry January Deals
As Dry January gains momentum each year, expect a surge in promotions for non-alcoholic beverages and wellness products. Brands like Athletic Brewing Co., Seedlip, and Ritual Zero Proof will likely feature special deals on their alcohol-free beers and spirits. Major retailers such as Whole Foods Market and Trader Joe’s often highlight non-alcoholic sections. Wellness apps and services, including meditation and fitness programs, may also offer discounts. Look for unique mocktail kits from companies like Lyre’s and adaptogen drinks from Recess. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January approaches.
Platform Guide for Dry January
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #DryJanuary. Share your favorite mocktail recipes, progress updates, or tips for staying sober.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #DryJanuary. Post visually appealing non-alcoholic drinks, healthy meals, or wellness routines you’re adopting.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #DryJanuary. Join or create a community group to share experiences and support with others taking on the challenge.
Dry January Hero
Richard Piper
History of Dry January
While the name “Dry January” is fairly recent, the idea of setting a month aside to abstain from alcohol has been around as far back as the 1940s. At the time, the Finnish government introduced “Sober January” as part of the country’s war efforts.
Dry January does not aim to encourage teetotalism, which is the total personal abstinence from alcoholic beverages. The campaign only lasts a month, and while a small percentage of people stay abstinent, most participants return to drinking after the month. However, the majority of participants find themselves able to manage their drinking better after a month of abstinence.
While alcohol does play an important social role in many cultures across the world, it is a depressant that acts like a drug. In small quantities, it reduces anxiety and makes it easy for people to socialize. However, as the body adjusts to the alcohol, larger quantities are required to produce the same effect. In larger quantities, alcohol can cause alcohol poisoning, unconsciousness, and even death. Most people resort to harmful drinking episodes during difficult life periods, and this drinking is exacerbated if they already have an established drinking habit.
For those who recognize that their drinking habit is veering into the territory of being harmful and out of control, Dry January is an excellent opportunity to reset their drinking habits. During this month people can see how their lives can be without alcohol and take the time to build healthier coping mechanisms for day-to-day difficulties and celebrations. This empowers them to reserve their drinking for occasions and reign in the desire for a drink when situations become difficult to process.
Dry January timeline
As part of their war effort, the Finnish government introduces the idea of ‘Sober January.’
A writer at the Seattle Times, Brodeur writes an article and uses the term ‘Dry January,’ which gains popularity.
A charity called Alcohol Concern based in the U.K. registers Dry January as a trademark.
The Dry January campaign becomes a part of the government’s official health program, and Alcohol Concern works with Public Health England to promote the campaign.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Dry January
Local businesses can support Dry January by offering a diverse menu of sophisticated non-alcoholic beverages, including mocktails, craft sodas, and specialty coffees. Cafes and restaurants can create ‘Dry January Specials’ to highlight these options. Wellness centers and gyms can promote special membership deals or classes, emphasizing the health benefits of sobriety. Retailers can curate sections dedicated to non-alcoholic drinks, healthy snacks, and self-care products, catering to those embracing a healthier start to the year.
Dry January FAQs
When is Dry January?
In 2027, Dry January is observed for the entire month of January, from Friday, January 1 to Monday, January 31. This annual campaign encourages a fresh start to the new year.
How many people participate in Dry January?
Participation in Dry January continues to expand globally, with estimates showing that around 13% of US adults attempted the challenge in recent years. This figure is expected to rise in 2027 as awareness of its benefits grows.
What are the health benefits of Dry January?
Beyond the immediate physical benefits, Dry January can lead to improved mental clarity, reduced anxiety, and a healthier relationship with alcohol in the long term. Many find it’s a valuable reset for their overall well-being.
Is Dry January a global movement?
The concept of a month-long alcohol detox is increasingly recognized globally, with variations and similar initiatives emerging in many countries. Its universal appeal lies in the shared desire for improved health and mindful living.
How to Observe Dry January
Give away all your alcohol
You cannot drink if you do not have any alcohol! One of the easiest ways to participate in Dry January is to give away your alcohol or use whatever is left in your cooking before January.
Find a great overnight cafè
When you head out to a pub, you are just looking for a place to socialize, which happens to have alcohol. Pick out a great overnight cafè that you can hang out at and you will get rid of temptation.
Tell everyone you know
You cannot build a habit without help. Let everyone you hang out with know that you are abstaining and accept their support and encouragement.
5 Facts About Dry January That Will Surprise You
In the beginning, 17,000 people participated
17,000 Britons participated in Alcohol Concern’s first campaign in 2014.
Some countries have Dry February
In countries like the Czech Republic and Canada, the campaign is for Dry February instead of Dry January.
4% of people stopped drinking altogether
In a study conducted by the University of Sussex, the researchers found that 4% of people were able to stay abstinent even after Dry January was over.
The number of participants is increasing
In America, the number of adults participating in the campaign in 2021 was 13%, a step up from 11% of the years before.
Dry January was launched in Switzerland
In 2021, a coalition of non-governmental organizations came together to organize the campaign for Dry January in Switzerland, including Blue Cross Switzerland.
Why Dry January is Important
We want to be healthier
We all know that drinking too much is not the greatest idea. We think that abstinence for a short time is a great way to get healthier.
We need a break
The holidays are a busy time for socializing, eating, and drinking. We need a break from the rich food, people, and the large quantities of alcohol!
We want to be more aware
We do not want to drink indiscriminately. We want to be conscious of how much we drink, and when we drink. This allows for better control.
Social Media Tips for Dry January
Individuals
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