As we turn the page to February, it’s inspiring to reflect on the impactful events of Dry January® USA 2025. This year, our mission to promote mindful drinking and foster healthier lifestyles resonated across the nation, with several cities illuminating their commitment in a vibrant display of unity and health consciousness.
Chicago Goes Yellow
From January 7th to 13th, Chicago’s iconic skyline was bathed in yellow, symbolizing a renewed dedication to health and well-being. This initiative, supported by BOMA Chicago and the Illuminate Chicago Lighting Program, marked a historic collaboration to raise awareness about the benefits of an alcohol-free month. The week commenced with an exclusive viewing party at The Conservatory at The Legacy, where health advocates and community leaders gathered to celebrate this luminous testament to positive change.
Aurora Joins the Movement
The same week that Chicago was taking the lead, Aurora embraced the Dry January® USA campaign by lighting the Pedestrian Bridge over the Fox River in yellow. This gesture, recognized in a proclamation by local officials, encouraged residents to take a break from alcohol and highlighted the health benefits of reduced consumption. Local restaurants and bars participated by offering mocktails and alcohol-free options, fostering an inclusive environment for all.
Nashville and Philadelphia Illuminate Their Commitment
Nashville and Philadelphia also showcased their dedication to the Dry January® USA initiative by lighting up significant landmarks in yellow. These vibrant displays served as visual reminders of the importance of health and mindfulness, encouraging residents to reflect on their relationship with alcohol and consider the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle.
A Toast to Health: Lyre’s Dark & Spicy Mocktail
As we celebrate the success of these events, let’s raise a glass to health with a delightful Lyre’s Dark & Spicy mocktail. This non-alcoholic beverage offers the rich, spiced flavors of a classic Dark’n Stormy, without the alcohol.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit
- 3/4 oz fresh lime juice
- 1/2 oz rich simple syrup (2:1 sugar to water ratio)
- 2 oz ginger beer
- Ice cubes made with frozen tea and orange peel pieces
Instructions:
1. Prepare the orange peel ice cubes: Brew a strong tea of your choice and let it cool. Pour the tea into an ice cube tray, adding small pieces of orange peel to each compartment. Freeze until solid.
2. Mix the Mocktail: In a tall glass, combine the rich simple syrup, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer. Stir gently to mix.
3. Add Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit: Fill the glass with the special tea-infused ice cubes, then pour the Lyre’s Dark Cane Spirit over the top. This layering creates the “dark” in the Dark & Spicy.
4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a lime wedge or a piece of candied ginger. Serve immediately and enjoy the complex flavors as the tea and orange peel infuse into the mocktail.
This mocktail not only provides a sophisticated and flavorful alternative to alcoholic beverages but also embodies the spirit of Dry January® USA celebrating health, mindfulness, and community.
As we move forward, let’s carry the momentum of January’s successes into the rest of the year, continually embracing opportunities for positive change and supporting one another in the journey toward healthier living.
For more information on our initiatives and upcoming events, visit Dry January® USA.
Cheers to a healthier, brighter future!
Note: For a visual guide on making a similar mocktail, you might find this video helpful:
This article was written by Ryen Belle Harran and sponsored by Dry January® USA, located at Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN.
