Alcohol-free nights out or nights in

This Alcohol Awareness Week (16-20 Nov), we are encouraging students to think about their drinking habits and the impact it has on their wellbeing.

Today’s post suggests alcohol-free activity ideas.

As a student, a lot of time is spent in the Library. When you have a break from your studies, going out clubbing seems like the perfect way to enjoy yourself. But clubbing can get boring after a while.

So why not explore the different options? There are plenty of ways to enjoy yourself and de-stress instead of going out and often they are cheaper than clubbing.

We’ve got some great ideas for nights out and even nights in that don’t centre on booze. Get your friends together and give a few a try!

Try a mock-tail

Creating alcohol-free drinks with party appeal is easy. From a Lime Ricky to a Virgin Mary, a real Shirley Temple to a Sparkling Pom Collins you will be spoilt for choice. For recipes and other ideas see the Drinkaware website.

Come dining

A dinner party with friends is a great bonding activity that doesn’t have to be expensive. Try to start a tradition of cooking a nice meal together every Friday night and split the cost. You can do a dinner for £1.50 each, if not less, and it gives you all a chance to catch up.

Occasionally it’s nice to treat yourself by having dinner at a restaurant. Plenty of restaurant chains offer student discount and have vouchers you can download.

Catch a movie

From romance to action, comedy to drama the cinema has it all. So why not be wowed by the latest blockbuster or inspired by an independent arthouse film at your local cinema. Or if you fancy a cosy night in under the duvet there is plenty to choose from at home whether you fancy a movie marathon or a boxset binge.

Get active

This is as simple as it sounds. Think of taking up a sport, trying an exercise class or going to a gym. You get to keep fit, meet people and learn something new.

Kent Sport offers a huge programme of sport and recreational opportunities at every sporting level in Canterbury.

If you’re based at Medway, check out Medway Park’s activities and sports.

Enjoy a night out at the theatre

Comedy, drama, music, and dance are some of the fantastic live entertainment available at theatres. With many offering great discounts to students they can be great value too.

Pamper yourself

You will find plenty of discount spa days online or why not organise a pamper night at home with your flatmates? You’ll probably feel so relaxed afterwards that you won’t even want to contemplate ruining your Zen with alcohol.

Take up a hobby

Make the most of your time outside of your course by volunteering or joining a society. It’s a great way to make friends, learn something new and share your passion whether that’s musical taste, your faith, a mutual love of art, or just a way of life.

Be a kid

Whether it’s a roller disco or bowling it is great to remember your childhood and indulge in some good old fashioned fun.

See what’s on

You will be amazed at how much is happening at not just the University but in the local area. Special events provide countless great nights out from art to food, sport to history, concerts to festivals, and even spooky ghost tours.