Going out with friends is a fun experience that can help you relax after a long day or week at work. If your friends enjoy drinking, they may recommend visiting a local bar. If you abstain from drinking alcohol, you may think that you have to pass on the invitation. However, you can still have an excellent time with them without imbibing. Below are several strategies to help.

A Non-Drinkers Guide to Going to Bars

1. Choose the Right Group

Even in the spirit of friendship and fun, some friends may try to persuade you to drink. This can be difficult to avoid at a bar, so stick to going out with friends who respect your decision. This ensures you don't have any undue pressure to partake if you don't want to, allowing you to enjoy the night and spend time with your acquaintances on your own terms. Another strategy is to find other people who don't want to drink, as this gives you friends to talk with when other people are waiting for beverages or away from the table.

2. Pick a Place With Food

Going out should be fun for everyone, so talk with your group to find a place that everyone enjoys. If you don't plan on drinking, suggest bars that also offer a menu of various food items. This gives you something to do and enjoy, and it is often a hit with other people who may get hungry after drinking for a while.

3. Select a Virgin Version

After finishing your food, you may not want to drink another soda or standard nonalcoholic beverage. Instead, ask the bartender or waiter to make you a classic cocktail without any alcohol. This is often known as a "virgin" version, and there are many popular varieties of alcoholic beverages. For example, some of the most common virgin drinks include a bloody mary, Tom Collins, and mojito. This gives the illusion that you are drinking while still staying sober. 

4. PlayIt Safe

While food is one way to distract from the fact that you are not drinking, entertainment is another. Find a bar that offers a fun activity that everyone can enjoy. For example, they may have pool tables or pinball machines, or they may offer live music or karaoke. Choosing a location with plenty of entertainment options gives everyone something to do.

If you're looking for a fun night out in Lincoln, NE, stop by Starlite Lounge & Banquet Room. This retro cocktail lounge provides patrons the opportunity to travel back in time with its 1940s themed decor, jazz and big band music, and craft cocktails. With top-shelf drinks and a classy atmosphere, this bar and lounge is the ideal spot to relax and have fun. Call (402) 475-8822 to ask about reservations, and visit the website to learn more about the bar and specials.