Craig Bar Launches Sober Sundays Event

"I did a Facebook post showing our nonalcoholic menu, and it didn’t go viral, but for Craig, it exploded with genuine engagement," Amanda Cramer said, recalling the moment that sparked the idea for Sober Sundays at Leo's Cocktail Bar. This explosion of interest in nonalcoholic drinks, particularly during Dry January, led Cramer and her partner Jacob Jenkins to realize there was a demand for more than just mocktails on the menu - they could create an entire experience around them.

For context, Leo's opened its doors in November, and in a short time, it has built a reputation for handcrafted drinks and a unique approach to nonalcoholic options. The bar's dedication to quality and creativity has set it apart, and its extensive mocktail menu has become a talking point among customers. But Sober Sundays, a monthly event where the space becomes fully alcohol-free, is a bold move that goes beyond just offering a few alcohol-free drinks.

Let's do the math: a typical bar might offer one or two mocktail options, but Leo's has taken it to the next level with a full menu of creative, handcrafted drinks. And with Sober Sundays, they're committing to a fully alcohol-free space for adults who want to socialize without the pressure of drinking. The event, scheduled for the third Sunday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m., is a collaboration with organizations like RISE, which aims to improve access to sober events and build community connections.

On paper, it sounds like a simple concept, but in practice, it requires a significant commitment from the bar and its staff. Cramer noted that they close the space for a short period before the event to ensure that anyone who has been drinking can leave, and the staff informs guests who arrive early that the space will become fully sober by 6 p.m. This attention to detail is crucial in creating a safe and "non-triggering" environment where people can enjoy an entertaining evening without the expectation of drinking.

The policy of making the event 21-and-over, despite not serving alcohol, is also deliberate. It allows adults to have a sophisticated experience, getting dressed up and enjoying high-quality food and drinks without the pressure of drinking. For locals, this means having a new option for socializing in a unique setting, which can be especially appealing to those who want to spend time with friends or have a date in a more low-key environment.

In Craig, where Leo's is located, this initiative can have a significant impact on the community. By providing a safe space for people to gather without drinking, Leo's is helping to promote a culture of wellness and responsibility. The fact that the event is scheduled monthly, on the third Sunday of each month, also provides a sense of consistency and reliability, which can be appealing to those who are looking for a regular gathering spot.

The financial impact of this initiative is also worth considering. By committing to a fully alcohol-free space, Leo's is potentially giving up revenue from alcohol sales. However, the bar is likely to attract a new clientele who are looking for a unique experience and are willing to pay for high-quality food and drinks. For context, the cost of attending Sober Sundays, including food and drinks, is likely to be comparable to other bars in the area, but the experience itself is likely to be very different.

The practical bottom line is that Sober Sundays at Leo's will cost locals the same as a typical evening at a bar, but with a unique twist. The event is free to attend, but guests will need to purchase food and drinks, which will be priced similarly to other menu items. For those who are interested in attending, it's worth noting that the event is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. and will run until 8 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month. As Cramer said, the goal is to create a space where people can enjoy an entertaining evening without the expectation of drinking, and it's likely that this initiative will have a positive impact on the community.