Remember: You don’t need to explain yourself to anyone.

How do youkeep dry libations interestingand social interactions free of awkward moments?

I went to some experts for tips for going into the festive season with confidence.

Three non-alcoholic drinks for the holidays

Simply Recipes / Leela Cyd / Sally Vargas / Sam Schick

you’ve got the option to leave it at that!

No explanation is necessary.

Julia Bainbridgeis the author ofGood Drinks: Alcohol-Free Recipes for When Youre Not Drinking for Whatever Reason.

Non-alcoholic cocktails next to a bowl of peanuts

Simply Recipes / Sam Schick

Maybe your guests want to switch back and forth between alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.

Theres also strength in support.

Recruit or identify a nondrinking buddy if at all possible.

It helps to feel like you’re not alone, Manning says.

Another route is to mix up a drink beforehand so its ready to go.

What about work parties or meetups?

If a celebration will be at a restaurant, have a go at choose the restaurant.

Its also helpful to have a default n/a drink order thatll work in any bar or restaurant.

My go-to is bitters and sparkling water with lime, says Bainbridge.

Just keep in mind that most bitters contain alcohol.

Just be aware; you could make your own choice from there.

Manning offers some offbeat ideas.

I like chamomile teathis is a bar order with swagger.

Fun in a different way: order a Shirley Temple.

Give yourself full permission to leave at any time for any reason.

If you aren’t having fun, you are allowed to leave.

Maybe Ill make myself theVerjus Spritzfrom Bainbridges book to celebrate.

Gradually Im accepting theres no need to explain or define my choiceeven to myself.

Regardless of the reason youre not drinking, you dont need to name or define it.