This time of year, mocktails are all the rage. During the first month of the new year, thousands of Americans participate in Dry January — a month-long challenge that encourages people to refocus, cleanse their systems + abstain from alcohol consumption for one month.

We get it — this challenge can be tough. That’s why we’re offering up our favorite mocktail recipe, as well as our favorite spots around town to snag a booze-less beverage.
Out on the town
Belle’s Cocktail House, 156 Market St.

Naked in the Garden — cucumber-infused seltzer, lemon juice, strawberry kiwi shrub, lemon slices, strawberry halves, cucumber slices + a flower garnish
Strawberry Mojito — seltzer muddled with strawberries, lime + mint with a fresh mint garnish.

Mirror Twin Brewing, 725 National Ave.

Mango Mule — cucumber, honey, mango juice, fresh lime juice, non-alcoholic ginger beer + ice
Virgin Paloma — lime juice, grapefruit juice, agave syrup + kosher salt

The Thirsty Fox at Zim’s Cafe, 215 W. Main St.

New Age Old Fashioned — Spiritless whiskey, Angostura bitters, demerara sugar
Funny Wood — grapefruit juice, lemon juice, grapefruit syrup + sprite

At home
The Mock Mint Julep
This recipe is a refreshingly booze-free rendition of a Kentucky classic. It found a place in our hearts because it uses our favorite local soda — Ale-8-One.
Ingredients

Four mint sprigs
2 cups of cold water
48-oz. Of Ale-8-One
1 ½ cups of sugar
¾ cup of fresh lemon juice
Thin lemon slices

Instructions

Rinse the mint + trim off stems
Combine sugar, water + lemon juice in a large bowl
Clap mint leaves to release flavor + stir into bowl. Let stand for 30 minutes.
Fill a large pitcher with ice + stir in the liquid.
Add Ale-8-One + lemon slices.
Pour over ice in your favorite mocktail glassware.