Twin Cities’ 1st NA Day: A Milestone in Mindful Celebration

Zero Proof Insights | Twin Cities’ 1st NA Day

Written by Jen Gilhoi

The Twin Cities’ first NA Day on Saturday, January 20, 11A-3P, served up an impressive lineup of NA options showcasing a kaleidoscope of flavors. This event was a vibrant dive into the heart of the Twin Cities' NA Movement. It wasn't just a gathering; it was a celebration of innovation and health, bringing together local, national, and international NA creators and enthusiasts for a day of discovery, tasting, and spirited conversations—all without a drop of alcohol.

Inspired by our AF friends and NA advocates at Chicago AF, Carrie May and Kerry Tuttle, who paved the NA Day trail for all others to model by hosting Chicago’s first NA Day in January 2022, our local NA community followed suit. Gratitude to Danielle Goss, Kul Mocks fearless founder, and Jacqui Berglund and her team at FINNEGANS Brew Co. for spearheading the event and engaging NA brands and communities. By holding space for all of our community’s hardworking NA makers, everyone benefitted. Thank you!

Hosted at FINNEGANS Brew Co, home to Hairless Dog 0.0% Brews, the vibe mirrored a night out at a bar and the nearly 200 attendees were treated to an immersive experience, engaging directly with the brains behind the bottles, savoring new and unexpected taste adventures (that boldly step beyond merely imitating their alcoholic cousins), and even snagging their favorite finds to sip on the spot or take home. Zero Proof Beverage House, a supportive local NA bottle shop, graciously handed out 15% off coupons during the event.

This event aimed to redefine the adult beverage scene, catering to a diverse crowd—from the NA connoisseurs and bartenders to the health-conscious and the sober-curious, including those contemplating a switch for wellness or faith reasons. The event was a testament to the rich, inclusive tapestry of the Twin Cities NA community, proving that fun, flavor, and fellowship need no alcohol to thrive.

As the Twin Cities’ main NA advocacy group, Zero Proof Collective mixed up Tenneyson and Amethyst NA cocktails (recipes here), and sparked up conversations about the growing NA movement and the critical role of NA options in today's social fabric. It was a joy to foster connections and enlighten guests as we served these exceptional NA spirits.

It was an unforgettable day where the Twin Cities sipped smart and sparked a change, one NA drink and conversation at a time. We’re already looking forward to NA Day 2025 to see the NA Movement’s evolution!

2024 Participating Brands

- Athletic Brewing Company
- Kul Mocks
- Hairless Dog
- Per Se
- Hobby Farmer Switchel
- Abstinence Spirits
- Tenneyson (poured by Zero Proof Collective)
- Amethyst (poured by Zero Proof Collective)
- Illicit Elixirs
- Dry Wit
- HOP WTR
- Lovejoy's Bloody Mary Mix
- ALLAY
- Surly Brewing Company

** All proceeds from ticket sales ($15/ticket) went to the FINNEGANS Community Fund, a 501c3 non-profit, to fund local food for those facing food insecurity through The Food Group's Local Food for Every Table.
** Thank you @MorganKrawczyk, @CallanFaulkner and @CDCunagin for setting up our ZPC space and serving with us; and to Tyler Herwig, the event’s talented musician who was celebrating four years of sobriety.