Six billion. That’s how many units of alcohol we consume between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day if the latest statistics are to be believed, with the average Brit knocking back 26 units on Christmas day alone.
Being five months pregnant with baby number four I won’t be joining the party this year, and I have to say it already feels like I’m missing out.
Anyone who knows me knows I love a glass of wine – or two or three! – and with so many social events and family gatherings revolving around alcohol it’s not surprising us pregnant mamas, or those who don’t drink because they choose not to, feel left out.
So, with the festive party season underway and Christmas just around the corner, I asked some fellow parenting bloggers for their top tips on how to feel like you’re still part of the fun even if you can’t get as merry as everyone else.
Surviving Christmas & New Year when everyone else is drinking & you’re not
Ask for virgin cocktails
“I gave up drinking January this year, so this will be my first ‘dry’ Christmas, but I’m not worried at all,” says Chantelle at All Things Christmas. “So, so, so many places will make you a virgin cocktail, almost any cocktail bar will do you one without the alcohol. And bring your own to parties or dinners where they might not think to include a non-alcoholic option.”
Make sure you’ve got a fancy glass
“Find a non-alcoholic drink you love and buy a fancy glass or ask for one at the event,” suggests Becci at The UnNatural Mother. “For me it’s just mind over matter. Stick in some garnish and enjoy. I personally love getting up in the morning feeling fresh, instead of hungover and tired.”
Look for mulled wine alternatives
“I love hot spiced apple at Christmas, it’s a great (probably nicer!) alternative to mulled wine and feels really festive,” says Hayley at Miss Manypennies. And Laura at Three Little Z’s points out: “I bought alcohol free mulled wine when I was pregnant – it tastes exactly the same!”
Stay at home
“Just don’t go out,” advises Fran at Back With A Bump. “It’s a rubbish time of year so I’d much prefer staying at home in my jamas!”
Remember the smug factor
“I’m not a big drinker and being smug the next day while everyone else is hung over is always a pleasant experience!” says Rebecca at The Grey Home. “And remember the thought of how bad their heads will be in the morning while you wake up and enjoy all the food!” adds Ayse at Coffee and Cwtches.
Think of all the money you’re saving
“I’m pregnant this year so won’t be drinking for the first time in years,” says Rosie at Busy Mum Lifestyle. “To be honest I’m just going to sit back and think of all the lovely money I’ll be saving as everybody else pays for their expensive cocktails and wine while I’m having a tonic water.”
Do you have any top tips for surviving the Christmas festivities if you can’t have a tipple? I’d love to know what they are!
I think a fancy glass makes all the difference. At least you won’t have any hangovers to deal with.
You could always try non-alcoholic wine. Some of it is supposed to be just like the real thing but without the alcohol. #MMBC
I second the non alcoholic drinks. If they come in a fancy glass or bottle, even better.
It’s the tiredness that gets me. If i’m not drinking I’m usually ready for bed by 10pm ☺️ #MMBC
Great post, there is so much focus and pressure on social drinking around Christmas and as you say there are so many ways to join in on the fun without alcohol. I think the idea with drinking out of a fancy glass is great, must give it a try! #dreamteam
Defiantly save a ton of money and not getting a headache in the morning X #dreamteam
Sainsburys do a good non alcoholic fizz which isn’t too sweet that I drank when pregnant and I still really like it now #DreamTeam
I buy alcohol free cider and also found some Nosecco for my cousin who doesn’t drink and it tasted fab! Thanks for linking up with #dreamteam