Alcohol-free drinks for game day
Game day is a long afternoon, and drinks go on autopilot. A plan keeps it simple: one ritual drink, one pitcher for the room, and water on the table.
The "beer with the game" slot
Non-alcoholic beer is the closest match: same bottle, same fridge, same pour.
Cans by flavor
If you want a botanical can (adults 21+), match it to the snacks:
- Wings and pizza: soda-style flavors. White Rabbit's lineup runs to root beer and cherry, sugar-free with no caffeine listed, per the brand.
- Chips and dip: fruit-with-tea seltzers like New Brew (kava, kratom and tea in one can, so don't add another botanical).
- Something sweeter: fruit-forward elixirs like Blueberry Lemonade or Island Breeze.
Prices, ingredients and flavors from each brand's own site and major retailers, checked September 2026. Brands change formulas, so check the can.
A pitcher for the room
Cranberry, orange and soda water over plenty of ice, with orange rounds. Anyone can drink it.
Pace it
- One botanical can is one serving. Don't stack cans over four quarters.
- Alternate with water.
- Never mix with alcohol, and don't drive after.
Who should skip kava
- Kava drinks are for adults 21+.
- Kava has rare reports of liver problems, mostly linked to concentrated supplements. Skip it if you have a liver condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications that affect the liver or nervous system.
- Don't mix it with alcohol, and don't drive after drinking it. Talk to your doctor if you're unsure.
Who should skip kratom
- Kratom drinks are for adults 21+.
- Kratom can be habit-forming with regular use. The FDA hasn't approved it for any use, and it's restricted in some states and cities, so check your local rules.
- Skip it if you're pregnant or nursing, in recovery from alcohol or other substance use, or take any daily medication. Talk to your doctor if you're unsure.
- One can is one serving. Don't drink it with alcohol or other botanicals, and don't drive after drinking it.
Related: Drinks for a cookout · Non-alcoholic drinks for a party · What to drink tonight
Ready to try it?