Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday. Why? No gifts, no over-the-top decorating (maybe a pumpkin centerpiece), and no holiday card guilt. It’s all about choosing who you spend it with and enjoying food, football, and laughs with loved ones.
Some of my best childhood memories are from Thanksgiving, especially at the “kids’ table.” We had so much fun that adults would argue over who got to sit with us. I’ll never forget laughing so hard with my brother over that old Budweiser commercial—the one with the stranger in a maid outfit and a toilet cleaner—that milk shot out of my nose. And don’t even get me started on the mashed potatoes!
As we got older, things changed. My parents moved, holiday plans became stressful, and drinking felt like the easiest way to cope. But here I am now, sober, with three kids under four, flying to California for Thanksgiving at my mom’s. It’s my first Cali Sober Thanksgiving at her house, and while I have no clue what to expect, I know I’ll need humor, creativity, and a few trusty products to keep me sane. (Ironically, my mom always called me her “hippie child” as a way to dismiss me when I talked about things kids usually didn’t—and she didn’t want to deal with. Looks like I’ve come full circle.)
So, here they are—five Cali Sober-approved products to help you navigate Thanksgiving like the fabulous, alcohol-free legend you are.
With love and grattitude,
Monica
Oh, and just a quick heads-up: this blog may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through them, there’s no extra cost to you, but it helps me keep sharing these tips—so, thank you!
1. Garden-Infused French 75 🍋🌿
Here’s your showstopper mocktail for Thanksgiving—a sophisticated twist on the classic French 75. This alcohol-free, Cali Sober-friendly version features a citrusy kick and sparkling vibes that make it perfect for toasting with family. Want to add a little extra chill to your sip? Infuse it with OurGlass Bar’s THC Drops for a subtle buzz that keeps things calm and festive. (Because who really wants to deal with Uncle Mitch unfiltered?)
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Lyre’s Dry London Spirit
- 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 3 oz Oddbird Blanc de Blancs Non-Alcoholic Sparkling White Wine
- Lemon twist for garnish
- Optional: OurGlass THC Drops (start low, go slow!)
Instructions:
- In a shaker, combine Lyre’s Dry London Spirit, lemon juice, simple syrup, and a few drops of OurGlass THC Drops (if infusing).
- Shake well with ice.
- Strain into a champagne flute and top with Oddbird Blanc de Blancs Non-Alcoholic Sparkling White Wine.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Sip, savor, and smile as you breeze through Thanksgiving drama with grace and a deliciously fizzy drink in hand.
Use code calisobermom15 at The Zero Proof.
2. Hippie Water 🧃🌼
Here’s the thing about Hippie Water: it’s not just a drink—it’s a vibe. With beautiful packaging and incredible flavor, this is the drink that unites generations. Share a sip and watch as even Uncle Steve reminisces about his Woodstock days. Because who doesn’t have a hippie story?
And as a bonus, the team at Hippie Water generously offered 15% off for anyone who uses the code calisobermom15 at checkout. Because staying Cali Sober doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun—or the deals!
3. Oddbird Sparkling Rosé 🍷✨
Zero Proof Non-Alcoholic Wines
Because even the most prepared mom needs something bubbly to sip during Thanksgiving dinner. Stay classy and alcohol-free with this sparkling rosé that feels just as celebratory as the real thing—minus the regret. And trust me, if I got my father-in-law to try this and love it—admitting he couldn’t tell it wasn’t real wine if I hadn’t told him in advance—your family will probably love it too!
Cheers to sparkling moments without the buzz! Use code calisobermom15 at checkout.
4. Crescent 9 THC Seltzer Keg 🍻
For the family ready to ditch booze altogether, this is a total game-changer. Imagine a laid-back gathering with zero fighting, no passive-aggressive comments, and the kind of chill vibes that make you forget about who’s doing the dishes. Bring out this THC seltzer keg and enjoy the magic of a booze-free family hangout. (Bonus: it makes for great conversation-starter material, too!)
5. Utokia Garden Gummies 🍉
Let’s be real—every family has that person who brings the drama. Whether it’s Aunt Kathy’s unsolicited critiques of your cooking or a cousin oversharing their latest pyramid scheme, these discreet little mood boosters are here to help. Just know your dose before diving in—always go low and slow—because no one wants to explain to Grandma why you’re laughing uncontrollably at the mashed potatoes.
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol to be memorable. With these Cali Sober products in hand, you’ll feel empowered to celebrate, connect, and enjoy the day—without sacrificing your health, mood, or sanity.
Which product are you most excited to try this year? Let me know in the comments!
Cheers to a Cali Sober Thanksgiving! 🦃✨