Across New Mexico, a new mindset is redefining what it means to go out on the town. “Sober curious” culture is growing fast, with younger people choosing to cut back on alcohol or abstain entirely. A recent national survey showed that adults under 30 are drinking significantly less than previous generations, with alcohol consumption steadily declining year after year.
Ryan Brown, owner of Lost Cultures Tea Bar in Albuquerque, says customers often share that they’ve recently changed their relationship with alcohol. “A lot of people are saying, ‘I’m drinking less’ or ‘I’m not drinking at all because I want to improve my health and I want to do better.’”
At the same time, more young people are getting up early for run clubs, group hikes, and community workouts. As many runners can tell you, the uplifting “runner’s high” comes with a natural boost that can help people replace alcohol-centered routines with healthier habits.
If you tried Dry January, why not keep that energy and momentum going into spring? Whether you’re training for your first 5K, joining a local run club, or simply wanting a clearer head in 2026, now is the perfect time check out New Mexico’s growing mocktail scene.
Why Mocktails Pair Perfectly with Running
Extensive research has shown that the euphoric runner’s high is fueled by endocannabinoids, a biochemical in the body that regulates essential functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, and memory. It’s a natural, sustainable alternative to the temporary buzz of a cocktail.
In addition, running can offer vital social connections that many people seek while drinking. Running groups, walking clubs, and fitness meetups provide built‑in support, which can significantly improve habit-building.
Mocktails fit right in with this active lifestyle. These alcohol-free drinks help fill the social gap many people feel when they drink less.
In September 2025, Lost Cultures Tea Bar served as the after-run party venue for VIVO Collective, an Albuquerque running club. “They came and did a big a run and then they brought around 100 people,” Brown said. “They ended the run with us, which was really cool!”
A New Kind of Happy Hour in New Mexico
New Mexico has always been a place of creativity and flavor, and the nonalcoholic movement
is no exception. Mocktails are fun, flavorful, and give you something to hold in your hand at post‑run meetups—without feeling sluggish the next day.
If you’re looking for a cool bar atmosphere without the spirits, the Lost Cultures Tea Bar in Albuquerque’s Sawmill District is a great place to start. Their menu blends wellness with mixology, featuring handcrafted teas, elixirs, and zero‑proof beverages.
- Instagram: @lost_cultures_teabar
- TikTok: @lostculturesteabar
- Facebook: @lostculturesteabar
You can also find local influencers like Annalyse Lucero leading the charge. As a licensed therapist and substance abuse counselor, she emphasizes mindful drinking and community connection. Her platform often showcases how choosing non-alcoholic alternatives can support emotional regulation, and her easy recipes might inspire your own mocktail-making skills.
- Instagram: @aluceromft
- Facebook: @annalyse.lucero.18
Level Up with Functional Mocktails
One of the newest trends in the running community is the functional mocktail. These aren’t just “virgin” versions of sugary drinks. These alcohol-free drinks incorporate herbs, spices, or natural superfoods like turmeric, ashwagandha, and lemon balm. Also known as adaptogens, these ingredients may help your body respond to stress, anxiety, and fatigue and enhance overall well-being.
Many runners and athletes are embracing functional beverages as part of their training routines. For example, your mocktail might include tart cherry juice for antioxidants that reduce inflammation and aid in muscle recovery.
Chamomile Grapefruit Spritzer:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Chamomile
- 1 oz Grapefruit
- 1/2 oz Lime juice
- 3/4 oz Simple syrup
Add all the ingredients to a shaker or mason jar. Shake until fully incorporated. Pour into a pint-sized glass with ice and top with soda water.
Spice Agua Fresca:
Ingredients:
- 2 C watermelon
- 2 C brewed hibiscus tea
- Juice of 1 full lime
- 2 T agave
- ½ of a jalapeno
Add 2 cups of watermelon, the juice of one full lime, half of a jalapeno, 2 cups of brewed hibiscus tea and 2 tablespoons of agave to a blender. Blend or pulse until all ingredients are fully incorporated. strain through a strainer and refrigerate to cool down. Serve over ice.
Spring Flowers:
Ingredients:
- 3 oz jasmine green tea
- 3/4 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz lime juice
Add all the ingredients to a shaker or mason jar. Shake until fully incorporated. Pour into a pint-sized glass with ice and top with soda water.
Keep the Momentum Going
You don’t have to choose between having fun and feeling well. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or looking to walk more miles in the sunshine, New Mexico offers the perfect backdrop for an alcohol-free lifestyle.
“That’s been huge for us that we’ve been able to provide a space for people to come and connect and enjoy a like-minded community of people who don’t drink,” Brown said.
Adding bright and flavorful mocktails to your running routine is one way to find a ritual that helps you feel good and stay connected. Bring a batch to a post-run get-together, host a sober brunch, or meet friends at a tea bar instead of a brewery. Raise a glass to healthy routines that are creative, colorful, and uniquely New Mexican!
