[slfnflctd]

I think it's important to normalize having alcohol-free excursions, especially when younger people are around. Demonstrate that self control is valued. And I say that as someone with a drinking problem who sweats about going more than half a day without one.

[pydry]

What's a good alternative, though?

It's delicious and it lets you collectively guard down in a way that creates a bond of trust. It's a difficult thing to substitute.

When one of my friends went to China on business and came back with "stories" I realized that KTV visits (prostitutes) performed a similar function, but honestly a glass of wine seems a bit more wholesome.

[Ensorceled]

My father, an alcoholic (25 years sober), gave the best description ... he was always worried about if there was going to be alcohol at the event and how much.

If you are turning down attending events because they are dry ... you have a problem.