While Edinburghers love a wee bevvie at the pub and sure know how to turn the heat up, sometimes we either just don’t fancy a drink, or just stop drinking altogether. Whether you’re doing dry January or are completely tee-total, there are plenty of tantalisingly exciting activities to be done around the Scottish capital. So, we’ve summoned up a cheerful list of alcohol-free things to do in Edinburgh this season.
1. Attend a well-being community event full of yoga, mindfulness, comedy and live talks
To start off the year right, many of us have set goals to deepen our self-care practices, work on ourselves, exercise more or simply live more sustainably. The wholesome community event, Flare Festival, which encourages just that is coming to the Scottish capital this January 21, and it’s going to be filled with love, comedy, yoga, meditation, holistic practices and more of all that sweet stuff. Flare Festival is set to be an exhilarating one, taking place at Edinburgh’s Summerhall, with a generous line-up of heart-warming events, empowering workshops, live DJ sets, plenty of local business stalls and an alcohol-free bar where guests can try out various alternatives. What is more, the festival will culminate with a rave, where friends and strangers alike can dance their troubles away.
2. Go see the smash-hit Broadway musical Jersey Boys
This one is a must-see for every theatre fan out there: with an impressive 65 prestigious awards and seen by over 27 million people worldwide, Jersey Boys has seen success not many productions get to witness. The Jersey Boys musical is back on a UK tour, and they’re playing in Edinburgh Playhouse between January 24 and February 4. Expect all their hits including Sherry, Big Girls Don’t Cry, Oh What A Night, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You and Working My Way Back To You. You can book your tickets here.
3. Give the world’s most instagrammable cafe a visit
A brand new mega eye-catchy café has just opened in St James Quarter in Edinburgh, and it’s called EL&N. Covered entirely in pink hues, the spot was deemed the ‘most instagrammable café in the world’, and we’re obsessed with every single cute corner. Together with an impressive ensemble of colourful drinks and picture-worthy lattes, the menu has everything from pink waffles to eggs and even shakshuka, as well as an array of sweet treats.
4. Attend a classical music concert tribute to Queen
Nicolson Square will light up with the soft glow of candlelight on January 28, echoing with the familiar sounds of Queen’s anthems like you’ve never heard them before. The iconic site will host two back-to-back shows, at 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. for those looking for alcohol-free things to do in the heart of the city. The talented musicians of The Quartet Scotland will take on the stage and transport you to the world of one of the greatest rock bands in the world. Expect anthems like I Want To Break Free, We Are The Champions, Bohemian Rhapsody, Killer Queen and more. You can book your tickets here.
5. See a stand-up comedy show at The Stand
Every Monday, The Stand Comedy Club hosts Red Raw: an open-mic night where anyone can sign up. It will be the first time on stage for some of the acts, as well as more seasoned performers trying out new material. The event is considered the best open-mic night in the UK and you will have a great time no matter what. The entry is only £5 so do book in advance as it does get busy. Oh, and Frankie Boyle is coming to perform at his OG club between January 30 and February 9.
6. Dive into a massive ball pit at this unique bar
Who said you can’t go to a bar just because you’re not drinking? One of the best ways we’ve found to let your inner child roam free in Edinburgh is at Ballie Ballerson’s ball pit for adults. Ballie Ballerson is open on Forrest Road, in the site of the old McSorley’s Irish Bar, where it’s spread over two floors and is now ready to welcome up to 300 ballers. You have to be sober enough to drive to be able to enter the ball pit anyway, so it’s one of the best alcohol-free things to do out there. Plus, there’s a huge slide you can go down on after you’re done throwing balls into your pal’s head and nearly drowning in said balls, especially if you’re short like me.
7. Discover the brilliant museums around Edinburgh
Edinburgh has an abundance of historic attractions and the whole of old town is UNESCO World Heritage site. The best way to get to know Scotland’s history is through the city’s top museums, and whether you’re interested in history, art, or both, there is something for everyone. Check out the Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder exhibition at the National Museum of Scotland, or visit the Camera Obscura illusions museum for a more colourful experience. You can also check out our full guide to Edinburgh’s best museums, making for plenty alcohol-free things to do in our Ould Reekie.
8. Eat sushi and teppanyaki at this Japanese fusion spot described as ‘the best restaurant outside of Japan’
There isn’t a Japanese place in Edinburgh with better reviews than Chizuru Tei in Haymarket. According to recent diners, it is the ‘best sushi they have ever had’ and some described it as the ‘best Japanese restaurant outside of Japan’. So, why not see it for yourself at this cosy food spot with colourful wall art. The menu is reasonably priced and is the dream for Japanese cuisine lovers. Plus, they have green tea ice cream and plenty of Japanese soft drinks like Kimura Ramune and Calpis.
9. Watch the latest films at this independent cinema with couches
When it comes to alcohol-free things to do, going to the cinema is an obvious choice. But at Everyman cinema, you can make your dream of lounging around on the couch while having a professional cinematic experience come true. There’s also great food to take into the cinema as you’re catching all the current films (yes, they’re showing the new Avatar), as well as older classics. By the way, their décor simply stunning and is what I want my house to look like, except with less couches. You can find their full list of movies here.
10. Go for a round of crazy golf at Fore Play Crazy Golf
Fore Play Crazy Golf is a Glasgow export that’s set up a pop-up venue in our fair city. With nine Edinburgh-themed holes and cocktails aplenty, it’s an excellent reminder that you should never skip Fore Play. As with the Glasgow original, the course here takes inspiration from the city, starting with a replica of Greyfriars Bobby on the opening hole. You can to rub his nose for luck, before making your way through the nine-hole course that ends with a Scott Monument-inspired ninth hole. They also offer a range of creative mocktails, such as the Cuddles In The Bunker with orange juice, cranberry juice, lemon juice and grenadine, topped with an orange slice.