
We’re halfway through Dry January and who else is struggling? Most of my friends and family have given up after “accidentally” finding themselves in a pub, but I persist. Helping Brummies over the finish line, a non-alcoholic bar is popping up in the Bullring.
The shopping centre is partnering with Exhale Conscious Bar – the non-alcoholic bar known for its sober raves – next week (January 20 – 26) to bring alcohol-free beverages to busy shoppers. Whether a dedicated teetotaller or simply sober-curious, these innovative and inspired non-alcoholic drinks should intrigue everyone – which includes lion’s mane beer and tonic elixirs.
The sobriety movement has never been bigger. A substantial 34% of Gen Z now identify as non-drinkers, reflecting a shift in generational attitudes towards alcohol consumption. But even if you’re a Millennials, Gen Xer, or Baby Boomer, anyone can enjoy a health-conscious alternative to the booze.
Exhale, whose permanent location is on Queensway, is dedicated to promoting a vibrant lifestyle that doesn’t need alcohol. The pop-up menu features a non-alcoholic craft beer infused with ‘cognitive-boosting’ lion’s mane mushrooms, alongside a Reishi mushroom beer, both crafted in Birmingham
To continue that sober ‘buzz’, savour handcrafted alcohol-free cocktails, like the Cherry Sour, featuring a botanical elixir, and the Tropical Paradise, infused with CBD. Toping off the selection, there will be alcohol-free ciders and wines, alongside health-focused options such as Turmeric and Ginger Shots, Catalyse energy and immunity blends to keep crowds energised.
What events are on?
Throughout the week, expect a wide range of activities from arts and crafts, wellness talks and live music. Crowds can expect Conscious Creatives’ art workshops, running at 1pm and 6pm on Tuesday, January 21. Then on Thursday evening, from 5pm to 8pm, Philosopher’s Yard will host a talk on sobriety and wellness – where you can discover the benefits of a sober lifestyle.
Saturday afternoon welcomes a casual meet-up for sober and sober-curious individuals, hosted by the Midlands Sober Society from 2pm to 4pm. And on Sunday, round off the week with a soothing mini-Kirtan event. Two one-hour sessions, held at midday and 3pm, explore the meditative and musical traditions of this practice all whilst enjoying a day out in the Bullring.