Celebrating without alcohol

Based on my response to another thread, @rosemarya suggested I start a discussion on celebrating without alcohol.
The summer is filled with picnics, weddings, barbecues, and pool parties. People often enjoy a cold beer, wine or drink at these events. But many of us are not able to partake in an alcoholic beverage. And although we are all so happy to be able to enjoy these events with our friends and family, it is still an adjustment, and sometimes challenging, to explain why we cannot drink. And you can only drink so much pop, water or lemonade.
The good news is that there are also many people like us, for various reasons, that abstain from alcohol. And where there is demand, an industry grows. The options for non alcoholic wine, beer and spirits has taken off. Now it’s much easier to sample a few non alcoholic beverages at home and then bring your own beer, wine or spirits to the picnic or party.
Recently I had lunch with 3 of my girlfriends. Besides myself, two others are unable to drink due to medical issues/medication. One friend had been doing a lot of research and sampling and brought a few white wines for us to share. They were very good. And because she is also on weight watchers, they were low in sugar too. We had a lovely lunch sitting outside sipping our white ‘wine’. Based on her suggestions, the de-alcoholized wines are better.
Also at a recent cookout a male friend who is no longer able to drink (we’re in our mid 50s-these things happen) brought a six pack of Coors Edge. In talking with him, this is his favorite non alcoholic beer. But there are many others to try too.
And apparently you can also find non alcoholic hard liquor if you prefer something besides wine and beer.
Now, when I’m headed to a cookout or party, I throw a bottle of my favorite non-alcoholic beverage in the cooler and I’m ready to go!