Be an “equal opportunity” host.  Offer all of your guests an assortment of alcohol-free drinks – Mocktails, punch, pop, bottled water, tea, coffee, cider.  Serve them with flair in fancy glassware with festive garnishes. (You can find some inexpensive & fun accessories at your local dollar store!)

Not to kids!  Remember, the legal drinking age in Ontario is 19.  And, although you can serve your own children a taste in your own home, it is illegal to serve anyone else’s!

Alcohol and ice don’t mix.  Wait to enjoy any alcoholic beverages after the physical activities end.  Drinking and sledding, skating or snowboarding… it’s all down hill!

Flat’s where it’s at!  If you are serving a spiked punch, choose a non-carbonated base such as fruit juice.  The carbonation in sparkling drinks causes the body absorb alcohol faster.

It’s your serve!  Your party, your bar.  It’s easier to monitor your guests’ alcohol consumption if you do the serving.  If you simply can’t, appoint someone reliable to serve as bartender.  Guests tend to drink more when they are serving themselves.

Food, glorious food!  Have plenty of food close at hand so that no one drinks on an empty stomach.  Things like nuts, cheese & crackers, nachos or hot party dips are good choices.

Happy trails to you.  Make sure you know how your guests intend to get home safely – and have a plan in case things change.  Do whatever it takes to prevent drinking and driving.  Keep cash and taxi numbers on hand and prepare for overnight guests.  Consider having a “good host kit” on hand:  stuff a pretty bottle bag with basic toiletries like a toothbrush & toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, & hand lotion. All of these items (including the bag) are available through your local dollar store.

Have fun!  Alcohol doesn’t have to be the focus of your get-together.  Why not plan a games night, or break out the karaoke machine?  Use the party as a chance to model the message that it is possible to have fun without alcohol!