Dry January in Nashville
It's that time of the year again when we embrace Dry January with open arms! Don’t roll your eyes! Who says it has to be a month of merely cutting back? Instead, let's consider it a month to think outside the box and explore new experiences. Let’s face it: Nashville (and a lot of places,) has a social scene based on drinking. So the premise of a ‘dry weekend’ has an undertone of ‘no fun’. However, we found that a weekend full of activities helps shake the notion and lets you explore places you wouldn’t otherwise stumble into. Grab your mocktails and dive into four fantastic activities to make your January fly right by.
1. Step Back in Time with a "Gilded Age"- Themed Tea Party
Okay, if you are like us, you are all about the opera war. The era of opulence, elegance, gossip, Newport, and of course, tea! If you love hosting and want to keep that Dry Jan promise, consider hosting a mid-afternoon tea party. We loved this concept and asked our friends to bring their finger sandwiches to share while we provided different teas. Our vintage teacups, finger sandwiches, and pastries were a perfect way to stay social and enjoy each other's company without our normal brunch shenanigans.
SOC Tea Suggestion: If you want to find some tea varieties for your party, check East Nashville's International Tea & Coffee Co in the Fatherland District across from Rusty Rats Vintage Store.
2. Need for Speed at K1 Speed
Get your adrenaline pumping and head to K1 Speed for an excellent (IMO) go-karting experience. Race your friends around the track and see who will take home the gold. We reached out to K1 for a private race, where they even provided us with racing metals at the end of the event. Turing the corners at high speed was definitely my favorite part. Still, it will be an adventure for those who love some friendly competition, proving that activities away from Broadway can be just as fun. Finish off the day by stopping by a couple local breweries, most have NA alternatives with the same great atmosphere.
[Warning: Your arms and hands may be sore from the tight gripping the next day! (also you could get sweaty, it’s intense]
· K1 Speed Info: https://www.k1speed.com/nashville-location.html
3. Reconnect with Nature at Cummins Falls
Take a break from the city hustle and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Cummins Falls. This outdoor adventure is an ideal way to celebrate Dry January, offering a serene and picturesque escape into the heart of nature. We found the trails leading to the falls to be relatively empty this time of year, and the beauty of the falls in the winter is extraordinary. There is one section, however, where you must hike up your pants and cross through the frigid water to make your way to the falls. When we encountered this part, we decided to go all the way. We took off our shoes and socks, took a deep breath, and yelled "Summer of Carlos" as we made our way through the water. So if you find yourself at Cummins Falls this Jan, think of us as you have a mini chi cleanse heading to the falls.
· Cummins Falls: https://tnstateparks.com/parks/cummins-falls
4. Take yourself to a night out at The Listening Room Café
The Listening Room is by far our favorite activity to do. We have discovered new local artists and heard their stories about how their songs came to life. The atmosphere is also incredibly welcoming, and you can never go wrong with their fried pickles and chicken tenders. So, indulge in some fried goodness and fantastic music, and while you are at it, grab a mocktail and celebrate the end of Dry Jan!
· The Listening Room: https://www.listeningroomcafe.com/nashville
So, my SOC friends, Happy Dry January! Although we highlighted different activities to try, it is essential to acknowledge how wonderfully accommodating Nashville is during this month. The city truly shines in its ability to offer tasty, fun, and Instagram-worthy mocktails. You'll find an impressive array of mocktail options almost everywhere you go. So, whether you're sipping with your pinky up at a Gilded Age-themed tea party or toasting with a sophisticated mocktail at a live music event, you're in for a delightful and fulfilling Dry January experience in Nash.
Stay adventurous, stay "dry," and most importantly, stay fabulous!
Happy Dry January, everyone!