The rise of alcohol-free events is offering hope for Scotland’s drinking problem, according to experts.
A growing crowd globally is turning to clean living for health, social, and religious reasons, with sober raves and alcohol-free spaces becoming popular alternatives to traditional nightlife.
Blackfriars in Glasgow’s Merchant City hosts Freed Up, a drug-free club night in its basement.
On the surface, it appears to be a typical rave, with neon clothes and glow sticks. However, the taps are sealed, and the only drinks served are soft ones.
‘A safe space to enjoy a night out sober’
Freed Up, hosted monthly at Blackfriars, was launched in 2021 by project manager Donna Boyd.
After overcoming addiction, Donna is now in recovery and saw a need for nights where sobriety is both accepted and normalized.
The event is a “safe space” for those in recovery, but it’s also a place for the sober-curious—people who want to cut back on alcohol consumption.
Donna said, “A lot of people in early recovery find it difficult being around alcohol. This event helps them gradually feel more comfortable socializing without it. Many have since built the confidence to attend regular nights out safely.”
She added, “Others are becoming more aware of alcohol’s negative effects on mood and health. Many have found they feel better without it.”
Challenges of organizing sober nights
Despite the popularity of sober spaces, Donna admitted that organizing alcohol-free events can be challenging. Many venues increased their fees, trying to offset the loss of alcohol sales. But she hopes this will change with the growing sober movement.
“It’s been tough,” Donna said. “Even at regular nights, when you ask for a soft drink, the staff often seem surprised. It’s just assumed everyone wants alcohol.”
Donna’s goal is to make sober nights mainstream. “Some DJs thought playing a non-drinking event would lack energy, but that hasn’t been the case.”
She added, “When I entered recovery, I thought the fun was over because I wasn’t going to use substances anymore. But I discovered that wasn’t true, and I want to share that with others.”
‘Sober spaces need to be celebrated’
Scotland’s cultural relationship with alcohol has led to many becoming casual drinkers, often exceeding the recommended limits without realizing the risks. Alcohol-related deaths in Scotland reached a 15-year high in 2023, with 1,277 fatalities recorded.
Graeme Callander, a public and policy affairs lead at the charity With You, noted that alcohol is deeply ingrained in Scottish culture. “Scotland has long had a problem with excessive drinking,” he said. “We have a culture of drinking to get drunk, unlike in Mediterranean countries where alcohol is part of meals.”
However, he noted that more people, particularly Gen Z, are choosing a sober lifestyle. “We’re seeing a rise in substance-free spaces and venues that cater to non-drinkers. These should be celebrated and expanded.”
‘A brilliant atmosphere—no need to worry about alcohol or drugs’
Tommy, who has been recovering from a 36-year addiction to heroin and alcohol, has been attending these raves for two years. “I come because there are no substances here, and I feel safe,” he said. “It’s an amazing atmosphere.”
‘We need to normalize not drinking’
Gillian Manual, in her 20s and recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, helps organize the events. “It’s tough when your friends are still out partying, and you’re trying to navigate sobriety,” she said. “This gives you a chance to enjoy yourself without any risk.”
Gillian emphasized the importance of breaking the stigma around choosing sobriety. “It’s like asking why someone doesn’t eat meat—it shouldn’t be a big deal. There are countless reasons people choose to stay clean.”
She hopes their sober events can spread across Scotland, providing a much-needed alternative for people in recovery and those exploring abstinence. “Everyone who’s come has loved it.”
‘I thought DJing was over for me when I stopped drinking’
Joe McLeod, who DJs at Freed Up and is in recovery, initially thought his DJing career was over after giving up alcohol. But now, he enjoys it more than ever. “I would have never imagined this. The energy is incredible, even without the influence of substances.”
He added, “Nights like this show that you can still have an amazing time sober.”
‘Sober raves feed off each other’s energy’
Kerry Glencross, who started DJing after meeting Donna at her first sober rave, said, “A sober environment makes it easier to stay on track. In regular clubs, it’s easy to fall back into old habits.”
She encourages people of all backgrounds to experience a sober night out. “You’ll be surprised by how fun it is. Everyone’s energy feeds off each other.”
Kerry is hopeful that more alcohol-free nights will emerge across Scotland. “It’s about getting the word out there and showing people how great a sober night can be.”
