Local business and recovery program highlight sober alternatives for the holiday season

LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — As the holiday season approaches, a study indicates that nearly 16% of adults report increased alcohol consumption during this time.

With alcohol often playing a significant role in family celebrations and traditions, local organizations and businesses are offering alternatives for those seeking to maintain sobriety.

Britni Boyce, CEO of Level Up Recovery, emphasized the challenges of staying sober during festive occasions such as New Year’s Eve, St. Patrick’s Day, and Cinco de Mayo.

Boyce, who is nearly 11 years clean from heroin, said she understands the recovery process and created her coaching program to help people recovering from addiction reach their full potential.

“We are the second step to recovery,” Boyce said. “So when someone goes through rehab, gets sober, then we like to step them into purpose. What is their purpose? What is their purpose in life? How are their goals and how do we achieve that?”

Boyce said she wanted to provide a sober option for those looking to celebrate without alcohol.

“I decided to create a safe space where we can have the elegance of New Years Eve, we can party like everyone else, but it is a sober safe environment,” Boyce said.

On December 31, Level Up Recovery will host a free event at the Maumelle Event Center from 7 pm – 12 am called ‘Stars of Promise.’

The event is family-friendly and will consist of a dance and rap competition, where you can win cash prizes.

Local businesses like Rock Town Distillery are offering “mocktails,” non-alcoholic drinks, as part of their menu.

Desiray Ward, a spirit guide at the distillery, said she enjoys crafting these alcohol-free beverages.

“I love when people ask me, ‘Hey, what do you have that doesn’t have alcohol in it’ because they feel comfortable to ask me that question. I am always like, ‘Yeah, I got you,” Ward said.

“What do you want it to taste like’ because I want them to feel welcome and have a space to hangout and socialize with their friends and not feel pressured to drink.”

Experts recommend planning ahead for events, avoiding triggers, and seeking support to maintain sobriety during the holiday season.