With exams now (hopefully) a distant memory, the UK’s festival season is in full swing. It’s a time of endless music, vibrant energy and unforgettable experiences that will live long in the memory.

Traditionally, music festivals and alcohol have gone hand-in-hand. However, amidst the allure of partying, there’s a growing trend of partygoers choosing to go sober at festivals and nights out. 

If this is you, we’re here to help. We’ve got a three step-strategy to help you not just survive the UK’s summer festival season, but thrive in it - without any alcohol.

1. A little bit of planning can go a long way

Alongside dusting off your dancing shoes and packing all of your festival essentials, why not take some time to plan ahead? Most festival organisers will send out a full festival guide in the days building up to the event. They’ll also share key experiences across their social media, so keep your eyes peeled…

You could look at the festival's policies around alcohol and identify if you will have easy access to ample non-alcoholic refreshments. If not, make sure you pack your own so you’re not caught short.

Setting expectations for yourself is key to planning, and you could even consider letting your friends know so they can support your sober adventure. You never know: this may encourage others to take the same action. If you do choose to share your plans, communicating them clearly will help you stay committed to your sober experience.

2. Seek out alternative experiences and connect with like minded people.

With so many festivals on the scene, each and every festival organiser is attempting to one-up their competitors by adding unique experiences to their repertoire. This is great news for you! There will be bundles of non-alcohol-led experiences at any summer festival worth its salt.

Think immersive art installations, workshops and non-music-led performances that you can immerse yourself in. If you’re going sober, it’s an excuse to embrace the more unique aspects of the event that have nothing to do with alcohol.

These activities are a great opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar values and are also seeking sober experiences. When given the opportunity, join in on the discussion, attend meet-ups or participate in the workshops where you can connect with others who can appreciate the festival without relying on alcohol.

If these communities don’t already exist at any festivals you attend, why not look to create your own and pave the way for an incredible experience?

3. Embrace the music & dance like nobody's watching.

Music is the beating heart of the UK festival scene and it can bring a huge sense of joy and connection - even more so when you are approaching it in a considered and intentional way. 

As you encounter some of your favourite music artists,soak in your surroundings, immerse yourself in the atmosphere and dance like nobody’s watching (because they’re probably not)! 

By embracing the fact that you are experiencing the euphoria of a summer festival without relying on alcohol, you can amplify the magic of the music and retain a sense of wellbeing throughout the weekend.

In conclusion…

Music festivals are about much more than just alcohol!

They’re celebrations of culture, music, friends and living your best life during the hazy summer months. For these reasons alone, we believe that thriving during festival season whilst staying sober is entirely possible. What’s more, you’ll be able to better recollect these magical moments rather than them being a hazy distant memory.

Enjoy : )