Sober Dating Gains Popularity Ahead of Valentine's Day 2026

Do'Mo highlights cultural shift towards alcohol-free romance as younger daters prioritize emotional clarity and authentic connection.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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As Valentine's Day 2026 approaches, a growing number of singles across the U.S. are choosing to date sober, driven by Millennials and Gen Z who prioritize emotional clarity, mental wellbeing, and authentic connection over liquid courage. Recent data shows that sober dating has moved firmly into the mainstream, with activity-based and alcohol-free experiences now preferred by the majority of younger daters. This shift reflects a deeper cultural recalibration, as singles seek to feel confident, connected, and emotionally safe on their dates.

Why it matters

The rise of sober dating highlights a significant cultural shift in how people approach romance, moving away from the long-held assumption that love requires alcohol. This trend is driven by younger generations who want to build genuine connections without the distractions and potential downsides of drinking on dates. The growing popularity of alcohol-free bars, sober dating apps, and functional zero-proof drinks designed for social occasions suggests that sober dating offers a way to celebrate intimacy with clarity intact and without next-day regrets.

The details

Recent U.S. data shows that 67% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennial daters want to build romantic connections without relying on alcohol, signaling a move away from bar-centric dating culture. Matchmaking company Tawkify found that first dates centered around activities are 25% more likely to lead to a second date than traditional meet-ups at bars or restaurants, suggesting that when alcohol is removed, connection often improves. Alcohol has long been positioned as a social shortcut, but research and lived experience increasingly point to its downsides when it comes to dating, as it can dull emotional awareness, blur communication, and create a sense of false chemistry.

  • Valentine's Day 2026 is approaching.
  • A 2025 study from Hinge revealed that 67% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennial daters want to build romantic connections without relying on alcohol.
  • Tawkify's 2025 report found that activity-based and alcohol-free first dates are 25% more likely to lead to a second date than traditional meet-ups at bars or restaurants.

The players

Do'Mo

A U.S.-based drinks brand creating Zero Proof Elixirs designed to support calm, confidence, and connection in social settings — without alcohol.

Susie Perry

A food scientist and co-founder of Do'Mo, with over 30 years' experience in the functional food and drink industry.

Hinge

A matchmaking company that conducted a 2025 study revealing that 67% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennial daters want to build romantic connections without relying on alcohol.

Tawkify

A matchmaking company that found in a 2025 report that activity-based and alcohol-free first dates are 25% more likely to lead to a second date than traditional meet-ups at bars or restaurants.

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What they’re saying

“We're seeing a real reset in how people think about romance. Singles want to feel confident, connected, and emotionally safe on their dates. Sober dating isn't about taking something away, it's about removing the static so real chemistry can come through.”

— Susie Perry, Co-founder of Do'Mo (businessinsider.com)

The takeaway

The rise of sober dating reflects a deeper cultural shift towards prioritizing emotional clarity, mental wellbeing, and authentic connection in romantic relationships. As younger generations lead the way in redefining dating norms, this trend suggests that romance can thrive without the need for alcohol, offering a more intentional and fulfilling approach to finding love.