I recently was shooting a video for Bright Barrel in a scenic Appalachian overlook, when a park ranger walked up. Shifting his belt and squinting uncomfortably, he pointed at the can I was holding and said, "Sir, I'm afraid you are not allowed to have that here in this park."
It was a moment to relish. I took my time looking at our can, looking at my camera guy, and then looking back at the ranger: "Well sir, this is beer... but not the kind that would get us kicked out..."
Around here in the Appalachians, you don’t need alcohol to enjoy a good brew. And with non-alcoholic beer, you can pop open a cold one just about anywhere you please - especially in spots where regular beer is off-limits. Whether you’re out on a hike, lounging at the park, or just hanging out with the family, here are some places you can imbibe with a clear conscience.
1. Out in the Wild (Public Parks and Beaches)
Nothing says “Appalachian adventure” quite like an afternoon spent hiking or soaking up some rays at the local swimming hole. And while most parks and beaches won’t let you crack open a traditional beer, non-alcoholic beer is a different story. Whether you’re basking in the mountain air or dipping your toes in the creek, an NA beer is the perfect companion for your picnic basket.
2. Workin’ Hard (or Hardly Workin’) at the Office
Let’s face it, some days in the office call for a little something extra. But if you’re not looking to end the day with a buzz, a non-alcoholic beer can bring a little cheer without the after-effects. Maybe it’s a Friday afternoon toast with the team, or maybe you’re just celebrating making it through another Monday. Either way, you can sip away at your desk or during that Zoom call, and no one’s the wiser.
3. After a Good Sweat (Post-Workout Sippin’)
Around these parts, we work hard and play harder. Whether you’re training for a trail race or just biking up the Blue Ridge Parkway, hydration is key. But who says you need to stick to water or sports drinks? Many non-alcoholic beers are packed with electrolytes, making them a solid choice after a long run or hike. You’ll feel like you’re treating yourself—without undoing all that hard work.
4. Hittin’ the Open Road (While Driving or Road Trippin’)
One of the perks of NA beer? You can enjoy it on the go! Behind the wheel or as a passenger... whether it’s a road trip to a far-off trailhead or tailgating at the local college football game, you can enjoy a non-alcoholic brew without breaking any laws.
5. Singin’ Along (Concerts and Festivals)
Music and beer are a match made in heaven—unless the venue has strict rules on alcohol. But here’s the trick: non-alcoholic beer often slips through those restrictions, so you can keep the good times rollin’. Whether you’re swaying to bluegrass at a festival or catching the latest band at a local bar, NA beer lets you stay refreshed and alert for all the tunes.
6. Flyin’ High (At Airports and on Planes)
Got a long flight ahead of you? Most folks will tell you to steer clear of alcohol in the air—it’ll dehydrate you faster than a hot summer day. But non-alcoholic beer is a great way to stay hydrated while still enjoying that cold, crisp brew. Whether you’re chillin’ at the gate or cruising at 30,000 feet, a non-alcoholic beer brings the comfort of home on the go.
7. Keepin’ It Kid-Friendly (Family Gatherings and Events)
Whether it’s a backyard BBQ with the family or a school fundraiser, sometimes a beer just doesn’t fit the bill. But with non-alcoholic beer, you can enjoy the taste without raising any eyebrows. It’s a great option when you’re chasing kids around the yard or catching up with old friends at a family reunion—letting you relax without worry.
8. Celebrating New Life (During Pregnancy)
For all the mamas out there who love the taste of beer but are steering clear of alcohol, non-alcoholic beer is a godsend. Whether you’re celebrating with a baby shower or just enjoying a quiet night in, you can still sip on something delicious without any guilt. It’s all the fun without the alcohol—perfect for those special moments in life.
9. Faith-filled events where people believe Jesus turned water into grape juice (Religious Events)
Some religious gatherings might frown upon alcohol, but non-alcoholic beer can often fit right in. Whether you’re enjoying a church picnic or attending a special holiday gathering, it’s a way to join in on the fellowship while keeping the focus on the moment. So, the next time you’re at a community event, consider bringing along a six-pack of your favorite NA brew.
10. On Campus (School and University Functions)
From tailgating at the big game to relaxing at a campus event, schools often have pretty strict no-alcohol policies. But non-alcoholic beer lets you enjoy the fun without breaking the rules. Whether you’re cheering on your alma mater or enjoying a quiet study session with friends, an NA beer can keep things light, refreshing, and rule-abiding.
Final Thoughts
Non-alcoholic beer opens up a whole world of possibilities—letting you enjoy the refreshing taste of a brew in places where regular beer just doesn’t belong. So, whether you’re deep in the Appalachian woods or kicking back at a family-friendly event, grab yourself a cold one and toast to the freedom of adventure, wherever it may lead you. Cheers, y’all!