On any given weekend, you'll find a Brisbane bar, pub or other boozy establishment hosting a festival somewhere around town. We all know what those kinds of events are about — and while celebrating beer, wine, gin, whiskey or whichever alcoholic tipples take your fancy is all well and great, healthier alternatives also deserve their time to shine.
Like having a few drinks, but prefer to do so with low- or no-alcohol beverages? Whether you're giving your liver a rest for a month, you're often the designated driver or you're staying away from booze for health, cultural or other reasons, the Healthy Hedonism Festival has your back. As the name suggests, this day-long fest is all about treating yo'self while still taking care of yourself.
Taking over X Cargo from 8am on Sunday, February 2, the event will feature a heap of brands and companies in the wellness, mindful drinking and sober space — such as Lyre's Spirit Co, with its non-boozy spirits; Gold Coast-based Sobah, who sling alcohol-free craft beers; and mixer outfit Fever-Tree. Aperol will also be there, so expect spritzes, while Heineken's no-alcohol beer is also on the menu.
Plus, the day will include fitness and wellness classes — think swimming, boxing and yoga. Also on the bill: DJs, food and guest speakers chatting about a range of topics.
Tickets start at $59, which includes a gift bag, a cocktail on arrival, access to more than six classes, and sessions on healthy snacks and making cocktails.