This January, Aurora, Illinois, is lighting up in support of wellness and positive change by joining the nationwide Dry January® USA movement. Under the theme “Aurora is Going Yellow,” the City of Lights will shine even brighter as it illuminates iconic landmarks in radiant yellow, symbolizing health, hope, and the opportunity to reset and recharge.
Aurora’s commitment to Dry January® USA highlights the city’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and supportive community. By lighting up its skyline, Aurora is encouraging residents and visitors to reflect on their habits, embrace healthier choices, and kick off the New Year with intention. This inspiring initiative aims to make Dry January® a citywide celebration of wellness and togetherness.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be part of a movement that’s changing lives across the nation. Visit the Dry January® USA Instagram page to learn more about Aurora’s events and how you can join the celebration. Together, let’s make January the starting point for a healthier, happier year!
Following is Aurora’s Press Release.
PRESS RELEASE
December 30, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kelly O’Brien, President and CEO, Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance))
Email: Kelly@investaurora.org
This January, Aurora, Illinois, is lighting up in support of wellness and positive change by joining the nationwide Dry January® USA movement. Dry January® USA, the official sponsor of the movement to reduce alcohol consumption has chosen Chicago for its first major event of 2025. Under the theme “Aurora is Going Yellow,” the City of Lights will join Chicago and shine even brighter January 7–13 as it illuminates parts of downtown in radiant yellow, symbolizing health, hope, and the opportunity to reset and recharge.
In 2022, Meharry Medical College, the largest private historically Black academic health center in the US, became the officially licensed home for Dry January® USA. Meharry Medical College is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Dry January® and Meharry are working to shift attitudes about alcohol consumption and enhance health equity in the US. Alcohol is one of the top three leading causes of preventable death in the United States.
Per local Aurora restauranteur and chef of Craft Urban Bernie Laskowski, “The City of Aurora continues to inspire its community through initiatives that resonate on so many levels. We enjoy the creative challenges and opportunities this brings to our restaurant community and help people understand health and wellness are obtainable.”
Aurora’s commitment to Dry January® USA highlights the city’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and supportive community. By lighting up the pedestrian bridge, residents and visitors are encouraged to reflect on their habits, embrace healthy choices, and kick off the New Year with intention. This inspiring initiative aims to bring attention across the area to celebrate wellness and togetherness.
“As we begin a new year, many people think about starting new wellness habits,” said Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin. As we bringawareness to Dry January, we also want to encourage residents and visitors to continue to enjoy the great establishments Aurora offers with the knowledge that they can find options like mocktails, healthy food options and much more. I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2025.”
The Aurora Alliance in partnership with Aurora Downtown are encouraging businesses to “Go Yellow” and feature alcohol-free/mocktail specials at local restaurants and for other businesses, fitness and mindfulness offerings.
An app has been created to serve as a support tool. Co-created between Dry January® and drinkers and based on behavioral science, the Try Dry app contains unique features such as planned drinking, custom goals, calories and money saved and special missions.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be part of a movement that’s changing lives across the nation. Visit the Dry January® USA Instagram page to learn more about Aurora’s events and how you can join the celebration. Together, let’s make January the starting point for a healthier, happier year!
About Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (A.R.E.A.)
Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance ) is a nonprofit organization with one of its dedicated workstreams committed to creating and promoting a vibrant downtown community. Through events, beautification efforts, and collaborative initiatives, Alliance aims to enhance the cultural, economic, and social vitality of the area.
About Dry January® USA
Dry January® started in the UK and has now reached the US. This public health campaign encourages Americans to begin the year without alcohol, helping them reset their relationship with drinking and experiences the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle. More information can be found on the Dry January® USA website.
About Meharry Medical College
Meharry Medical College, a historic institution dedicated to training diverse healthcare professionals, has long been a champion of public health and wellness. Founded in 1876, Meharry has been at the forefront of addressing health disparities in underserved communities and fostering healthier lifestyles through education, research, and community outreach. This commitment aligns perfectly with Dry January® USA’s mission to promote alcohol-free living and encourage individuals to reassess their drinking habits. By leading Dry January® USA for the country, Meharry continues its legacy of empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions about their health.