Noticing a growing demand for fun nights out minus the next-morning regret, a young entrepreneur from Hartlepool is leading a new wave of alcohol-free parties across the North East of England.

Josh Newton, just 28, has launched Refresh Sober Parties, a business aimed at providing the party atmosphere without the booze. With a decade behind the bar making cocktails—including with his own mobile bar, Tipsy—Josh saw the shift in what people want. More and more are seeking a night out with all the energy, music, and socialising, but none of the after-effects of alcohol.

Why the UK Is Turning to Sober Parties

Gen Z has become known for rejecting the tradition of alcohol-fuelled nights out. Josh noticed this first-hand from behind the bar.

“I saw how nice it was waking up on Sunday morning knowing everybody else was hung over and I wasn’t,” he explains. “People started asking for mocktails more and more—even when they weren’t the designated driver. With the whole culture around alcohol, people are much more aware of the harm it can do.”

The trend is clear. Young adults from Hartlepool to London are making sober parties the new normal. These events, now popping up in clubs and venues across the country, offer an answer for anyone who wants a lively night (or afternoon) without alcohol.

Alcohol-Free Parties: What Sets Refresh Sober Parties Apart

Josh is on a mission to ensure that going alcohol-free doesn’t mean missing out on any of the usual fun. Each Refresh Sober Party features:

• Expertly mixed mocktails: Creative, delicious drinks designed to impress
• Live music and entertainment: From DJs to acoustic sets, each event is all about bringing people together
• Hand-picked venues: From classic pubs to garden parties and city centre clubs
• Opportunities to network and make friends: Breaking down social barriers, minus the alcohol

His approach is drawing attention from a wide range of ages. “It’s about socialising but not needing alcohol to feel more confident and approachable,” Josh says. “People want to enjoy themselves and be outgoing, but alcohol shouldn’t be a requirement for that.”

Where and When to Join a Sober Party in the North East

The first events from Refresh Sober Parties are already in the diary, including:

• The Golden Lion, Dunston Road, Hartlepool – Launch night on Saturday 26 April
• Revolution, Newcastle – Afternoon social on Sunday 1 June
• Guisborough Hall – Sunset garden party with live music, Saturday 28 June

Each event is crafted jointly with the venues to create a unique menu and high-energy line-up. “I’m trying to get some really cool venues,” Josh adds. “I’m hoping to do more in nightclubs and bars across the North East.”

Tickets for all events are now on sale, and early interest shows people of all ages are eager to see what alcohol-free parties have to offer.

What’s Driving the Shift to Sober Parties?

Several factors are behind the rise of alcohol-free nights out:

• Wellbeing and health awareness: More people know the risks of excessive drinking and are open to alternatives.
• Desire to feel sharp and energised: Mornings after a party don’t need to start with a headache.
• Changing social habits: Socialising and confidence don’t need to depend on alcohol.
• Great-tasting options: With creative mocktails and entertainment, partygoers still get the full experience.

By working with venues and other professionals, Josh aims to make sure no one feels left out of the fun just because they choose not to drink.

How Alcohol-Free Parties Make a Difference

Organisations advocating for healthier lifestyles have long seen the benefits of sober parties and alcohol-free alternatives. Without alcohol, people can focus on authentic connections while still enjoying dancing, music, and a vibrant night out.

Josh says, “Lots of people feel as though they need alcohol to get ready for a night out. I was the same. People want to be the life and soul of the party but don’t want alcohol to be that for them.”

Refresh Sober Parties shows that it’s possible to build confidence, have fun, and make friends without needing to rely on a drink.

Source: dbrecoveryresources