Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Denver with These Amazing Alcohol Alternatives

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, reflection, and kicking off the next chapter. But let’s face it: not everyone wants to toast with alcohol in hand. Whether you’re going booze-free for health reasons or simply want to explore new flavors, Denver has you covered with some incredible bars and restaurants serving up creative and delicious alcohol-free mocktails. Join us in raising a glass (a non-alcoholic one!) to the vibrant, health-conscious options around our city. Here’s where you can sip and celebrate this New Year’s Eve in Denver.

1. Forget Me Not and Ay Papi – Cherry Creek

Elevate your celebration with the impeccable service and stunning mocktails at Forget Me Not and Ay Papi in Cherry Creek. Both part of the Culinary Creative Group, these spots are known for crafting beverages that are just as beautiful as they are delicious. Whether you’re enjoying a fruity, herbaceous mocktail or a more indulgent, creamy creation, these locations ensure you’ll never feel like you’re missing out. The Culinary Creative Group’s dedication to top-notch service and beautifully curated menus makes these stops a no-brainer for a fun and festive night out.

2. Golden Hour - Highlands

For a space that’s unapologetically feminine, Golden Hour is your go-to destination. Co-founder Julie Dinsdale has infused this spot with her passion, creating an environment that’s as empowering as it is inviting. Whether you’re sipping on a refreshing alcohol-free cocktail or soaking up the vibrant energy, Golden Hour is all about celebrating, connection, and joy. I had the pleasure of working with Julie on a nonprofit project, and her enthusiasm for creating this space was absolutely contagious. Golden Hour is more than a bar—it’s an experience that will make your New Year’s Eve unforgettable.

3. The Nest Café and Bar at Nurture - Sloan’s Lake

New Year’s Eve doesn’t have to be all about the night. Kick off your celebrations during the day at The Nest Café and Bar at Nurture, a wellness-focused café that provides unparalleled coffee and non-alcoholic options. The Nest is the perfect spot to start your day with intention, whether you’re enjoying a nutrient-packed drink or simply soaking in the calming, health-conscious ambiance. It’s a great way to set the tone for a mindful and refreshing start to the new year.

4. Death & Co - RiNo (River North)

Denver is lucky to have a Death & Co location, a name synonymous with incredible cocktail experiences. But did you know they also offer non-alcoholic alternatives on their menu? Death & Co proves that alcohol-free doesn’t have to mean flavor-free. Their innovative approach to crafting mocktails ensures that everyone can enjoy an elevated beverage experience. Whether you’re looking for something bold and complex or light and refreshing, their menu has something for every palate.

5. The Ambrosian Pantry – Your Local Mocktail HQ

For those looking to continue the celebration at home,The Ambrosian Pantry is a must-visit spot. This local gem is more than just a store—it’s a treasure trove of hand-selected non-alcoholic beverages, bar snacks, and artisanal products designed to elevate your dining and drinking experiences.

For those avoiding alcohol, the pantry features an incredible collection of non-alcoholic beverages, including favorites like Surely, Kally, Tost, Eleven Madison Home, Eins Zwei Zero, Unified Ferments, Proxies, Ghia, Monday, Pentire, Almave, Curious Elixirs, Aplos, St. Agrestis, Mocktail Club, Seedlip, and Blind Tiger. If you’re new to non-alcoholic drinks, consider picking up a copy of their recommended book, Good Drinks, which offers inspiration for crafting alcohol-free beverages at home.

6. The Power of Adaptogens

If you’re new to adaptogens, consider this your introduction to a world of functional ingredients that can take your mocktails to the next level. Adaptogens are natural herbs and plants that help your body manage stress and promote balance—perfect for kicking off the new year with intention. From calming ingredients like ashwagandha and reishi to energizing options like maca and ginseng, adaptogens can be incorporated into your drinks to provide both flavor and function. These ingredients have roots in ancient wellness traditions and are now making waves in modern non-alcoholic beverages. Whether you’re sipping an adaptogenic lavender lemonade or a zesty citrus tonic with a hint of ginseng, adaptogens are a great way to turn your mocktail into more than just a drink—it becomes a moment of self-care. Many of Denver’s non-alcoholic offerings feature these ingredients, or you can create your own at home with products from The Ambrosian Pantry.

Cheers to a Health-Conscious New Year

This New Year’s Eve, Denver makes it easy to celebrate in style with incredible alcohol-free options. From the curated mocktails at Forget Me Not, Ay Papi, and Death & Co, to the unapologetically feminine vibes of Golden Hour and the wellness-first focus at The Nest Café and Bar, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re staying in, The Ambrosian Pantry is your one-stop shop for stocking up on non-alcoholic beverages, bar snacks, and even adaptogens to craft your own delicious creations. Here’s to starting the new year with health, happiness, and a glass full of flavor!

Cheers!

XO,