Dry January in Riverside County
January is the perfect time to refresh and embrace new habits. Whether you’re cutting back or cutting out alcohol altogether, the key is making sure you don’t feel like you’re missing out. Fortunately, Riverside County is packed with places and activities to help you stay on track.
Plan a night out, host a movie night, or just get out and explore—there’s plenty to keep things exciting (and dry) this January!
A Drink-Free Day Out in Riverside
Start the perfect day with a hike at Mount Rubidoux Park or Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park. Both spots offer scenic trails and stunning views, perfect for clearing your mind and exercising.
Prefer biking? The Santa Ana River Trail provides miles of fresh air and beautiful landscapes. Next, stroll through the Riverside Farmers Market, where you’ll find fresh produce, artisanal goods, and many unique finds—all while supporting local businesses.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, stop by Ontario Mills, Southern California’s only indoor outlet shopping center. End the day at the Van Buren Drive-in or the Rubidoux Drive-in. Pack a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a movie without the crowds or distractions!
Best Mocktails in the County
Across the county, you’ll find plenty of places serving up incredible mocktails that make skipping alcohol easy. Whether you want to pair a drink with dinner or enjoy something sweet after a long day, you’ll find exactly what you’re in the mood for.
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The Lobby is a fantastic spot for non-alcoholic options. Their menu includes drinks like the Very Merry Unbirthday and the Goonies Never Say Die, perfect for Sunday brunch or a late-night treat.
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The Rustic Fork Eatery features alcohol-free signature drinks like their apple crisp and pomegranate bubbles.
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The Happy Hour Saloon may not be a full sober bar, but their mocktail menu says otherwise, with favorites like the Mock-a-rita and the Bucking Mule.
Tips for Making It Through (and Enjoying It!)
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Focus on Your Why: Whether it’s for your health, to challenge yourself, or something else, keeping your reason in mind makes it easier to commit.
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Find Alternatives: Swap out alcohol for mocktails, sparkling waters, teas, kombucha, or juice. Think of the health benefits, too!
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Plan Social Outings: Instead of skipping out on socializing, plan activities that don’t involve alcohol. There’s plenty of fun to be had, alcohol-free.
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Buddy Up: Bring a friend along for the challenge. It’s more fun, and it always helps to have a partner in crime.
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Celebrate Milestones: Celebrate your achievements as you work toward your goals. Reward yourself with a special dinner, a relaxing wellness outing, or a meaningful gift when you reach the finish line.
Must-Try Mocktail Recipes
Espresso No-tini
- 1 shot of cold brew concentrate
- 1/2 cup oat milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
- Ice
- Coffee beans for garnish
Combine cold brew, oat milk, and vanilla syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with a few coffee beans.
Mango Mule
- 1/2 cup mango purée
- Juice of 1/2 lime
- Ginger beer
- Crushed ice
- Lime wheel and mint sprig for garnish
Combine mango purée and lime juice. Fill the glass with crushed ice, top with ginger beer, and stir gently. Garnish with a lime wheel and a mint sprig.
Spicy Watermelon Agua Fresca
- 2 cups fresh watermelon chunks
- 1 cup cold water
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon agave syrup
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Ice
- Lime wedge and mint sprig for garnish
Blend watermelon chunks with cold water until smooth. Strain into a pitcher and stir in lime juice, agave syrup, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Serve over ice and garnish with a lime wedge and mint sprig.
New Year, New You!
Dry January isn’t about giving things up—it’s about trying something new. And with incredible food, fun, and mocktail options across Riverside County, you can start the year off right. Who knows, you might even decide to stay dry all year long. Stay tuned to our events calendar for more ideas about what to do in Riverside.