The Rural Municipality of Mount Stewart is hosting two complimentary mocktail evenings to provide individuals with an opportunity to learn how to create non-alcoholic beverages and socialize without the presence of alcohol. These sessions are being coordinated by Katharine MacDonald, the municipality’s chief administrative officer, who initiated the idea after recognizing a community desire for increased social engagement options.
MacDonald highlighted that the motivation behind these events stems from various reasons, including religious beliefs, health concerns, and a general interest in alternative social activities. Recent data from Statistics Canada indicates a declining trend in alcohol consumption across the country, with per capita consumption hitting a 20-year low of 6.8 liters per person in 2024-25.
In rural settings, social gatherings often revolve around alcohol consumption. By offering activities that are not centered on alcohol, concerns about safe transportation post-event can be alleviated. The mocktail nights are open to adults of various interests and drinking habits, with MacDonald emphasizing that participation in mocktail-making does not necessarily indicate a commitment to sobriety but rather a preference for non-alcoholic alternatives.
Funding for these events has been provided by the P.E.I. Liquor Control Commission, which allocates a portion of its profits to support initiatives aimed at reducing alcohol-related harms. Finance Minister Jill Burridge commended the Mount Stewart mocktail nights as an exemplary project meeting the commission’s funding criteria by fostering community engagement and providing social activity alternatives.
The interactive mocktail classes will be led by Alex Hendry, a bartender with Drinks Distilled, who has observed a rise in the demand for non-alcoholic beverages and has been offering them at events for the past eight years. Hendry emphasized the importance of offering quality non-alcoholic options beyond traditional choices like soda or sparkling water to cater to diverse preferences.
Participants at the events will engage in group activities to create a variety of beverages, learning techniques such as shaking and stirring, as well as selecting suitable ice and glassware. Attendees will also have the opportunity to sample pre-made non-alcoholic beverages, including products available for purchase. The mocktail nights are scheduled to be held at the Mount Stewart Community Complex, with the first session planned for Friday and the second for Nov. 6. Residents can register via email.