Okay, we know—our beautiful state has a bit of a reputation when it comes to loving our libations. Sometimes, it can feel like beer practically flows through the rivers here. BUT—over the last five years or so, the sober movement has been gaining traction, even here in Green Bay. More and more people are ditching the drinks and embracing an alcohol-free life and all the benefits that come with it.
Whether you’re getting a headstart on Dry January, are sober-curious, committed to a sober lifestyle, or just want a different vibe this year, we’ve got you covered! From the best spots to grab an NA beer to game night gear, stargazing hikes, and self-care secrets from local shops, Green Bay has plenty of ways to make your NYE one to remember—without the hangover.
Non-Alcoholic Brews
You might not know it, but Wisconsin has quite a great lineup of non-alcoholic beers. If you still want that bar vibe for NYE, there are plenty of non-alcoholic beers to enjoy around town, including popular options from Lakefront Brewery, Badger State, and Untitled Art breweries right here in Green Bay.
Check out our list of places you can find a good selection of NA beers on the menu:
2233 Kaftan Wy, De Pere, WI 54115
2665 Monroe Rd suite 140 suite 140, De Pere, WI 54115
Brickhouse Craft Burgers & Brew
500 Grant St, De Pere, WI 54115
3605 Humboldt Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311
1824 Parkfield Ct, Suamico, WI 54173
1412 Webster Ave, Green Bay, WI 54301
Or, you can always pick up an assortment and create your own flight for a night of taste-testing! Here are some places around Green Bay to find a good selection of non-alcoholic beers:
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HyVee (our grocery store winner for the best variety)
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Festival Foods
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Pick n’ Save
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Woodman’s
Superior Discount Liquor
2295 Manitowoc Rd, Green Bay, WI 54311
130 Military Ave, Green Bay, WI 54303
Ridgeview Liquor
2202 S Ridge Rd, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304
The Wine Cellar
813 Main Ave, De Pere, WI 54115
Game Night
The board game and TTRPG scene have grown exponentially over the last decade and New Year’s Eve is a great night to dive into some tabletop fun! Whether you’re into competitive showdowns, cooperative storytelling, or intricate puzzles, there are near-endless ways to gather ‘round the table.
If you don’t already have your own game stash, we recommend heading over to Gnome Games in Ashwaubenon or on the east side of Green Bay to find the perfect games for your group. If you aren’t sure where to start (and trust us, the shelves are packed with options), one of their friendly staff can help you find games that fit your vibe. They also have a huge selection of puzzles, too!
Winter Hiking & Stargazing
Who says New Year’s Eve has to be all about confetti and countdowns? Trade the noise for nature and welcome the New Year surrounded by fresh winter air, serene winter landscapes, and, if you’re lucky, a star-filled sky.
There are several Brown County parks with miles of trails to explore by foot or by snowshoe, including Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve, Neshota Park, and the Reforestation Camp. For beautiful views of the snowy bay, head to UW-Green Bay’s Cofrin Arboretum and explore over 6 miles of peaceful trails. And if you want to keep it a little closer to home, Green Bay boasts some of the most beautiful city parks out there. Try Barid Creek, He-Nis-Ra Park, Colburn Park, Sherwood Forest Park, or McAuliffe Park for a little outdoor New Year’s Eve magic.
If the sky is clear, turn your hike into a stargazing adventure! Just pack a blanket, a thermos of hot cocoa, and your sense of wonder.
Titletown
Looking for a New Year’s Eve celebration that’s full of energy, packed with fun activities, with NO pressure to drink? Head over to Titletown in Ashwaubenon for fun from morning to midnight.
Enjoy extended ice skating hours at Hy-Vee Plaza and tubing down Ariens Hill, then explore dazzling ice sculptures and fun photo ops sprinkled throughout the park (including one with a reindeer!).
Come nightfall, the party stays lit with LED swings, furniture, cornhole, giant Lite Brite, and mini-golf. Try your hand at curling on the game courts, then warm up by fire pits and sip a hot cocoa while enjoying live music starting at 6pm. And last but certainly not least, count down to 2025 together with the new year’s countdown projected onto Lambeau Field!
View the full schedule of events on Titletown’s website.
Mocktail Magic
Want to go the DIY route? Host your own mocktail party at home or in your hotel room as you ring in the new year. Here are some recipes to get you started!
Old Fashion Mocktail
Wisconsin loves its Old Fashioneds, so of course, we had to start our list with a booze-free version of this classic cocktail:
Ingredients:
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1 orange slice
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1 maraschino cherry
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1 sugar cube
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3 dashes of Angostura bitters
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2 oz non-alcoholic whiskey or unsweetened iced tea for a lighter option
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Club soda
Directions:
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Muddle the orange slice, cherry, sugar cube, and bitters in a glass.
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Add ice and the non-alcoholic whiskey or tea.
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Top with club soda, stir gently, and garnish with a cherry or orange peel.
Tropical Sunrise Spritz
Bright and refreshing and perfect for a midnight toast.
Ingredients:
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4 oz cup pineapple juice
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2 oz orange juice
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Splash of grenadine
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Club soda or sparkling water
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Ice
Directions:
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Fill a glass with ice and pour in the pineapple juice and orange juice.
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Slowly add the grenadine to create a sunrise effect.
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Top with club soda and garnish with a pineapple wedge or orange slice.
Vanilla Pomegranate Mojito
Ingredients:
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3 oz pure pomegranate juice
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1 pomegranate
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Half a lime, squeezed
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.5 oz vanilla bean syrup
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Sprite or lemon-lime soda of choice
Directions:
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Shake the first three ingredients together
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Pour into sugar-rimmed glass
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Top with soda and pomegranate seeds/arils
Embrace a Sober New Year
There are lots of ways to make your New Year’s Eve in Green Bay unforgettable—without any morning-after regrets! If you’re interested in the sober lifestyle or some help getting started with sobriety, check out Sober Green Bay and Green Bay AA.
Have a safe and happy New Year’s Eve, Green Bay! See you in 2025!
