Throughout this month, you’ve likely heard the term “Dry July” a couple of times. Maybe you’ve seen it on social media, maybe a few of your friends are participating in the month-long challenge or maybe you’re even doing it yourself! In this guide, we explain the interesting history behind Dry July and how to have fun without drinking in Australia – no matter what city you’re living in!
What is Dry July?
Dry July refers to the month-long challenge in which people avoid drinking alcohol for the whole month of July. While there are a few variations of this initiative (e.g. some people opt to do Sober October), Dry July specifically has a fascinating history in Australia.
According to the Dry July Foundation, it all began in July 2008 when three friends, Brett, Kenny and Phil, wanted to take a break from alcohol. They then decided to abstain for the month of July, coining the term ‘Dry July’. But that wasn’t all – they wanted to go a step further by raising money for a cause they were passionate about. While they initially hoped to raise $3,000 to buy a television for the waiting room of their local hospital, the campaign skyrocketed, with the men raising over $250,000!
Now, funds raised from Dry July most commonly go towards those affected by cancer in Australia. These funds contribute to a range of invaluable services such as life-saving appointments, specialist support, access to therapy programs and many more.
So, not only is Dry July a chance for people to do good for their bodies, but it’s also an incredible opportunity to give back to their communities.
Australia’s drinking culture: What you need to know
Drinking is arguably a big part of Australia’s culture. It’s very connected to social situations and outings, which is often why Dry July is seen as a “challenge” of sorts. That said, the drinking culture in Australia isn’t judgmental; in other words, you won’t be looked down on if you opt not to drink even after Dry July has finished.
How to have fun without alcohol: The top non-drinking activities in Australia
Living alcohol-free can be just as exciting as any other lifestyle – you just need to inform yourself of all the fun things to do besides drinking. Lucky for you, we’re here to help with that. Whether you’re currently participating in Dry July (and running out of inspiration) or you’re interested in having fun without alcohol more regularly throughout the year, we’ve got you covered.
In our Australia-wide guide of fun things to do without alcohol, you’ll find a wide variety of ideas. From camping and stargazing to board games and scavenger hunts, there are countless non-drinking activities to explore. No matter your interests or budget, you’re sure to find cool ways to embrace the sober lifestyle.
How to have fun without alcohol: The top non-drinking activities in your city
Looking for fun things to do without alcohol in your city? Well, we’ve also got heaps of resources to support you in your localised search!
Having fun without alcohol has never been easier thanks to our city-specific ‘dry nights’ guides. Check them out below to find the best non-drinking activities in your local area:
- Dry Nights in Sydney: Fun Things to do in Sydney Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Melbourne: Fun Things to do in Melbourne Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Brisbane: Fun Things to do in Brisbane Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Perth: Fun Things to do in Perth Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Adelaide: Fun Things to do in Adelaide Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights on the Gold Coast: Fun Things to do on the Gold Coast Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Canberra: Fun Things to do in Canberra Without Alcohol
- Dry Nights in Hobart: Fun Things to do in Hobart without Alcohol
