Dry January highlights sober curiosity, but what is it?

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Under candy-colored neon lights, Zane Pickett punches away at a canvas with his tufting gun. Each pull of the trigger threads yarn through the taught weave, creating a pattern on the other side of the canvas. He said the idea for his rug tufting workshop sprung from a desire to promote creativity without pressure to consume alcohol.

"We've all kind of struggled with going to a bar and there's not options, or you just kind of feel uncomfortable," Pickett said.

Pickett started his business The Outrun Hour last fall, seeking to make unique rugs, teach others about the craft and foster community among people that don't drink, are sober or are in recovery.

He said similar art workshops often offer alcoholic beverages while someone is working on their project which can be a downside for those that don't drink. Pickett said his business is BYOB but does not serve alcohol.

The Outrun Hour instead offers mocktails and non-alcoholic beers and wines. Pickett said to scratch the same itch patrons might have for a drink, and allow the sober curious to try non-alcoholic options.

"When it comes down to being sober, you don't have a lot of options. Knowing there are people out there that really do care, that want to really see you be the better version of yourself. That's who I want to be for those people," Pickett said.

A 2024 study supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism surveyed the drinking behaviors and habits of 1,659 adults in their 20s.

The study found that 9% of the surveyed group were aware of the sober curious movement, and 7% have previously engaged in observed breaks like 'Dry January.'

Pickett said the movement hopes to create more mindfulness around alcohol consumption and get people thinking about when and why they drink.

As many start asking themselves those questions this Dry January, Pickett said spaces like his exist to help them find the answer.

For more local businesses that cater to the sober and sober curious crowd, check out our previous coverage.