Keep the Festivities Safe: How to Avoid Drink-Driving Risks This Christmas

Christmas is a season of joy, good food, and raising a glass with the people who matter most. 

But amid all the celebrations, it’s worryingly easy for someone to misjudge their limits or assume they’re “fine to drive”. 

Every year, families across the UK face heartbreak because of drink-driving incidents that could have been prevented with a bit of planning and honest conversation.

Whether you’re hosting, visiting, or heading out for a Christmas party, here’s how to make sure you, your loved ones, and your guests stay safe on the roads this festive season.

Know the Facts – Even One Drink Can Affect Driving

Alcohol affects everyone differently. Factors such as body weight, food intake, medications, tiredness, and individual tolerance all play a part. The difficulty is simple: there’s no reliable way to judge whether you’re under the limit without proper testing.

Rather than taking the risk, the safest choice is straightforward: if you’re drinking, don’t drive.

Plan Your Transport Before the First Drink

One of the biggest dangers at Christmas gatherings is spur-of-the-moment decisions. Planning ahead removes the risk entirely.

Good options include:

Booking a taxi or ride-share well in advance (especially around Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve).

Designating a sober driver — and making sure they stick to soft drinks all night.

Using public transport, checking festive timetables beforehand.

Arranging a lift with someone you trust who won’t be drinking.

Adding transport plans to your party invitations or family WhatsApp group can also encourage everyone to think ahead.

If You’re Hosting a Party, Set Everyone Up for Success

A responsible host can make a huge difference.

Consider:

Offering plenty of non-alcoholic options, from sparkling water to alcohol-free gins, beers, ciders and festive mocktails.

Providing food throughout the evening to reduce fast or excessive drinking.

Keeping an eye on guests who may be tempted to drive home but shouldn’t.

Having taxi numbers or apps ready to use.

Being clear that no one needs to feel embarrassed about leaving their car overnight.

Small actions can prevent major risks.

Beware of the “Morning After” Risk

Many people assume that by the time they go to bed and wake up, the alcohol has left their system. Unfortunately, this isn’t always true.

Depending on how much you’ve had, alcohol can stay in your system well into the next day, sometimes into lunchtime or even the early afternoon. Morning-after drink-driving remains a common cause of accidents during the festive season.

If in doubt, either wait longer, walk, take public transport, or arrange a lift.

Be Honest and Look Out for Each Other

It’s not always easy to speak up when someone insists they are “fine”. But if you know they’ve been drinking, you’re genuinely helping them, and everyone else on the road, by challenging it.

Kindly but firmly:

Offer alternatives.

Suggest leaving the car.

Call a taxi.

Make up a spare bed or sofa for the night.

A quiet word can prevent a lifetime of regret.

A Christmas to Remember — for the Right Reasons

The festive season is all about connection, warmth, and celebration. Making sure no one gets behind the wheel after drinking is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to protect those moments.

By planning ahead, supporting your guests, and making thoughtful choices, you can enjoy a safe, happy, and memorable Christmas — without putting anyone at risk.

The Dangers of Drink Driving During the Christmas Period

As the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to holiday celebrations filled with laughter, family gatherings, and perhaps a few drinks. 

However, this time of year also sees a worrying rise in drink driving incidents, making it essential to remind everyone of the risks and responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel after drinking.

Why Drink Driving is More Common Over Christmas

The Christmas period is synonymous with social events, work parties, and family get-togethers. Alcohol is often a central part of these celebrations, and while most people plan responsibly, some make the dangerous decision to drive after drinking. This increase in social drinking, combined with darker evenings and potentially treacherous winter road conditions, creates a recipe for disaster.

The Risks of Drink Driving

Impaired Judgement

Alcohol significantly affects reaction times, decision-making, and motor skills. Even small amounts can impair your ability to drive safely, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Legal Consequences

In the UK, the legal limit for alcohol in blood is 80 milligrams per 100 millilitres, but the safest option is always to have none. Getting caught drink driving can lead to heavy fines, a driving ban, or even imprisonment.

Devastating Consequences

Beyond the legal repercussions, the personal consequences of drink driving can be life-changing. Accidents caused by drink driving can lead to serious injuries or fatalities, shattering lives in an instant.

Jail time awaits drunk drivers

Financial Implications

Beyond fines, drink driving can lead to increased insurance premiums, potential job loss, and other long-term financial burdens.

Winter Conditions Amplify the Danger

The Christmas period also coincides with some of the most challenging driving conditions of the year. Wet, icy, or snow-covered roads demand heightened focus and skill. Alcohol dulls the senses and reduces the precision required to navigate these hazards, further increasing the risk of accidents.

How to Stay Safe This Christmas

Plan Ahead

If you’re going to drink, make arrangements for a safe way home. Book a taxi, use public transport, or designate a sober driver.

Consider Alternatives

Non-alcoholic beverages are widely available and often just as enjoyable. Many pubs and restaurants offer festive mocktails and alcohol-free beers.

Support Friends and Family

If you see someone attempting to drive after drinking, step in. Help them find an alternative way home, even if it’s inconvenient.

Jail time awaits drunk drivers

Spread Awareness

Remind others of the dangers of drink driving and encourage conversations around responsible behaviour.

The Role of Authorities

Over the Christmas season, police forces across the UK intensify their efforts to combat drink driving. Increased roadside breathalyser tests and public awareness campaigns aim to deter drivers from making reckless choices. 

These measures save lives, but the responsibility ultimately lies with individuals.

Conclusion

The festive period should be a time of joy and celebration, not tragedy. By choosing not to drink and drive, you protect yourself, your loved ones, and everyone else on the road. Make responsible decisions this Christmas, and encourage others to do the same—because no drink is worth a life.

Stay safe and enjoy a merry Christmas, responsibly!

Baileys crowned as Brits' favourite tipple and Christmas pud pairing

Baileys is declared to be the nation’s favourite festive tipple, with 47% of Brits naming it as their Christmas drink of choice.

The results form part of a survey of over 1,000 people by liquor infused ice cream company LiQ, with Baileys beating the likes of prosecco, mulled wine and seasonal coffees or hot chocolates to take the top spot.

The study also found Christmas pudding to be Brits’ festive dessert of choice, garnering 31% of votes. And, not content with just enjoying the popular Irish cream brand as a drink, over a quarter of respondents stated they prefer Baileys infused cream as their Christmas pudding accompaniment of choice, second only to the traditional option of custard.

The festive survey follows the launch of LiQ’s new range of ice cream pralines which bring together two British Christmas favourites, Baileys and ice cream.

Jorgo Struyve, co-founder of LiQ, said: “Baileys has become synonymous with the festive season for many Brits over recent years, so it wasn't a surprise when it claimed the top spot. It’s become an iconic part of many people’s festive celebrations, whether they prefer to have it poured over some ice while sitting by the fire, a splash in their hot drink or drizzled over their Christmas pudding, there are so many ways to enjoy Baileys. That’s why we couldn’t think of a more perfect combination for our new pralines.

“Our new Baileys ice-cream pralines, offer another exciting way for Brits to enjoy their favourite tipple this Christmas. They can be enjoyed on their own or as an accompaniment to their Christmas pudding or favourite dessert, making them the perfect way to celebrate the festive season.”

The results of LiQ’s festive survey are also backed up by Google data which found searches for Baileys recipes peak around the festive months, with 12,100 searches for Baileys recipes last December, compared to an average of 2,100 searches each month. Last December also marked an increase in searches by 17%, compared to December 2021 which saw 9,900 searches for Baileys recipes, showing Brits still can’t get enough of the creamy and dreamy Irish cream drink.

The bitesize treats are indulgent bites of smooth vanilla ice cream, infused with Baileys and enrobed in crisp Belgian milk chocolate, with an Irish cream heart.

Made to be enjoyed on their own or as a special dessert accompaniment, the ice cream pralines are ready to eat straight from the box for the perfect festive treat.

Launched in 2017 by co-founders Jorgo Struyve and Nicolas Destoop when they were students, the idea for LiQ’s ice cream pralines came from the pair wanting to market an ice cream experience designed for adults. The brand focuses on offering indulgent experiences through its strong partnerships with global alcohol brands like Baileys.

Since its launch, LiQ has enjoyed immense success internationally, with its pralines stocked in over more 6,000 shops across eight countries, cementing the brand as one of the leaders in the alcohol infused ice cream market.

LiQ Baileys pralines are currently available in over 300 Morrisons stores across the nation, as well as all COSTCO stores and via delivery service Ocado.

To learn more about LiQ, including a full list of all Morrisons stores its ice cream pralines will be available at, visit: https://www.liq.cool/en

Incidentally this survey disproves at least one other survey that claimed pudding was on the way out! Perhaps the secret is to serve it with Baileys and some LiQ Pralines? 

And they are available at the Morrisons store nearest to us! That's good to know!

Record demand predicted for no and low drinks this Christmas at Tesco

It's reported shoppers are ready to create record demands for no and low alcohol beer, wines and spirits over Christmas.

That’s the prediction from Tesco after the supermarket saw its strongest ever sales in 2023 with high demand sustained across the entire year.

Demand for no and low alcohol beer at the supermarket this year has soared by over 20%, while sales of no/low wine rose by almost 15% per and demand for alternatives to spirits grew by nearly 10% per.

To give some indication of how strong the thirst for no and low drinks has been throughout this year, during the first three weeks of the June heatwave, demand at Tesco was over 25% higher than it was for the first three weeks of Dry January.

Another massive success has been pop star Kylie Minogue’s 0% Sparkling Rosé which launched in Tesco last year and which has now become the UK’s top selling premium no alcohol wine

As a result, Tesco prepared itself for its strongest ever demand in December and ordered in extra stock.

Tesco says that the main reasons for the no and low alcohol boom are:

New found shopper confidence in the quality of the drinks, often driven by recommendations from family and friends

Greater interest in health and moderation

An increase in product choice

Ease of selection in its stores with all products sitting in their own fixture

Tesco no and low alcohol wine buyer Joe Olding said: “Based on the massive demand throughout the year we're anticipating this festive season to not only be bigger than this year's Dry January, but to be the biggest Christmas ever for no and low drinks.

“A few years ago no and low alcohol drinks might have been a consideration to have on hand for special occasions but, as our latest sales data, shows they’ve become mainstream and are now popular all year round.

“We’ve also made it easier for customers to find no and low alcohol drinks as they all sit alongside each in the same aisle.”

Among the top brands driving the no and low boom are Lucky Saint, Athletic Brewing and Guinness 0% in beer; Gordons 0% Alcohol Free Gin and the Clean Co brand in spirits; and Nozeco, Not Guilty and Kylie 0% Sparkling Rosé in wine.

The rise in demand for Kylie Minogue’s no alcohol wine has been spectacular with demand rocketing throughout the year with one million bottles sold across all UK retailers.

The drink uses a unique filtration process in order to make it less sweet and retain more of the original wine taste but without any of the alcohol.

Kylie Minogue said: “When we launched our 0% Sparkling Rosé last year we knew health and wellbeing was becoming more and more important in people’s lives and so many of us are leaning toward more self-care.”

Drinkaware, an independent UK alcohol education charity which helps people make better choices about their drinking was happy to hear the news.

Karen Tyrell, CEO of the charity Drinkaware said: “It’s good people across Britain are more open to trying no and low alcohol drinks this year. 

“Drinking lower strength and alcohol-free products can be a helpful way for people to moderate their drinking and stay within the low-risk guidelines of 14 units a week. If you are unsure about how much you’re drinking, take our simple Drinking Check on the Drinkaware website."

www.tesco.com

Alcohol free Christmas cocktails with Fever-Tree?

43% of consumers now opting for non-alcoholic alternatives. Fever-Tree's new Cocktail Mixers are perfect to shake up your Christmas drinking by helping you swap your favourite cocktail for a mouthwatering mocktail!

Fever-Tree's cocktail mixers are ideal for creating a super easy mocktail, simply by switching out the spirit for a non-alcoholic version. Fever-Tree recommend Everleaf's non-alcoholic spirits range as a perfect pairing!

Jazz up your Christmas and treat yourself to a booze-free Mojito or Margarita to kick start the New Year in a mindful, indulgent way.

The lineup:  

Fever-Tree Classic Mojito Mixer: Fresh Mexican Limes meet Moroccan Mint for a zesty, refreshing twist. Just add non-alcoholic rum and ice for a mojito masterpiece. 

Fever-Tree Classic Margarita Mixer: Packed with fresh Mexican limes, sweet Italian Blood Orange, and a hint of sea salt. Add a non-alcoholic tequila alternative, shake or stir, and enjoy an authentic margarita.  

Available now at Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, and online at Ocado, for just £4.50.

Say goodbye to the hassle of squeezing limes and adding multiple complex ingredients! Just mix, shake and serve!

How to make the perfect mocktail at home:

Simply add ice to a glass.

Pour in 50ml of your chosen non-alcoholic spirit and top it off with Fever-Tree's mixer.

A quick stir, and it's ready to sip and enjoy. Ideal for an evening with friends or a night in front of the telly during the winter nights.

And don't forget, next month is Dry January and you can ramp up you mocktail mixing abilities then.

Seven Exciting and New Christmas Cocktails to Brighten Your Christmas Season

As the Christmas season rushes toward us, it's high time to get into the festive spirit with some creative and delicious Christmas cocktails. While classics like mulled wine are always comforting, why not add a dash of excitement to your holiday gatherings with some new and innovative Christmas cocktail recipes? 

In this blog post, we'll explore seven exciting and fresh Christmas cocktails that are sure to dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests.

Christmas Mule

The Moscow Mule gets a festive makeover with the Christmas Mule. Swap the traditional copper mug for a red or green one, and mix vodka, cranberry juice, ginger beer, and a squeeze of lime. Garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of rosemary for a truly holiday-inspired cocktail.

Candy Cane Martini

Nothing screams Christmas more than candy canes. This Candy Cane Martini is a delightful blend of vanilla vodka, white crème de menthe, and peppermint schnapps. Crushed candy canes rimmed on the glass give it that classic Christmas look and an extra burst of peppermint flavour.

Winter Wonderland Punch

Perfect for large gatherings, the Winter Wonderland Punch is a delightful combination of white rum, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a splash of blue curaçao. The result is a beautiful, icy-blue drink that's reminiscent of a snowy Christmas day. Serve it in a punch bowl with floating star-shaped ice cubes.

Spiced Pear Bellini

If you prefer a touch of elegance at your Christmas brunch, the Spiced Pear Bellini is the way to go. Combine pear nectar, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of Prosecco for a bubbly and aromatic drink. Garnish with a slice of fresh pear for an extra touch of sophistication.

Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria

Sangria isn't just for summer! The Cranberry Pomegranate Sangria is a winter twist on the classic Spanish beverage. Mix red wine, cranberry juice, pomegranate seeds, and a hint of cinnamon. Let the flavours meld together in the fridge, and serve it over ice for a refreshing, fruity Christmas drink.

Hot Buttered Rum

Warm up your holiday gatherings with a comforting and classic Hot Buttered Rum. Blend dark rum with a spiced, buttery batter made from brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Add hot water, stir, and top with a dollop of whipped cream and a cinnamon stick.

Gingerbread Old Fashioned

Give the Old Fashioned cocktail a gingerbread twist. Muddle sugar, Angostura bitters, and a slice of orange in a glass. Add bourbon, a splash of ginger liqueur, and a dash of cinnamon. The result is a warming, spicy, and nostalgic drink that embodies the essence of the holidays.

This Christmas season, don't limit yourself to the same old holiday drinks. Step out of your comfort zone and explore these exciting and new Christmas cocktails that will make your celebrations even more joyful. Whether you're hosting a festive party or looking for a cosy drink by the fireplace, these creative cocktails are sure to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories with family and friends. Cheers to a joyful and spirited holiday season!

That's Christmas would like to point out that by using alcohol free versions of famous spirt drinks you can create tasty alcohol free versions of these seven utterly delicious cocktails for designated drivers or for those who do not consume alcohol. 

(Image courtesy of Михаил Прокопенко from Pixabay)

Booze-filled advent calendars

Do you remember the fun you had as a child when, throughout the run up to Christmas Day, you got to open up that day's advent calendar window and ate a piece of chocolate?

Would you like to recreate the advent calendar magic of your childhood but with something a little more grownup?  

Why not have yourself a merry Christmas with The Food Market's selection of boozy advent calendars?

With advent calendars getting bigger, better and heavier every year, there's one clear winner. Celebrating the lead up to Christmas with an alcohol-themed advent calendar.

This year there are even more options to choose from and whether for yourself or as a gift for someone else, an alcohol advent calendar always proves itself to be really popular.

Fans of gin, vodka or rare whiskies will have plenty of options this Christmas, and what's better, the majority of them come in stunning, beautifully designed boxes so they're practically a nifty Christmas decoration in their own right.

Here are our picks of the best alcohol advent calendars to buy now for 2023

1) Single Cask Whisky Advent Calendar

Don't expect to find any little squares of plain chocolate here, because behind the 24 windows of the Single Cask Whisky Advent Calendar you'll discover a different 30ml wax-sealed dram of single cask whisky, made by some of the best whisky makers around. Just the ticket for any whisky fan looking for a uniquely delicious Christmas countdown!

2.  Bourbon & American Whiskey Advent Calendar

Explore whiskey from some of America's most excellent producers, spanning the delicious range of styles across the USA, including bourbon, rye, Tennessee whiskey and more! If you've marvelled at the Whisky Advent Calendar and thought, "That sounds fantastic, but I specifically love bourbon and the gamut of whiskeys from America", this one's for you.

3. Festive Vodka Advent Calendar

Discover some of the finest and most exciting vodkas from around the world as you count down to Christmas one tipple at a time. Behind these doors you’ll find a unique selection of vodka from delicious classics, to delectably innovative flavoured expressions

Discover some of the finest and most exciting vodkas from around the world as you count down to Christmas one tipple at a time. Behind these doors you’ll find a unique selection of vodka from delicious classics, to delectably innovative flavoured expressions

4. Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar

Embark on a truly special tasting adventure with This Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar, filled with some of the finest liquid from a variety of fantastic producers. Prepare to count down to Christmas with a plethora of delicious styles and flavour profiles, or it'll make the ultimate gift if you're looking for a way to delight a whisky fan this year.

5. Very Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar

As the name might indicate, this calendar contains some exceedingly special whiskies, the sort you probably won't be coming across again any time soon - perfect for the billionaire in your life!

After searching far and wide to unearth a selection of whiskies jaw-dropping enough to fit the bill, we have landed on the very rare an old Collection, with 24 wax-sealed drams, each containing a 30ml measure of a different precious whisky, presented in a superbly smart walnut box alongside an accompanying tasting glass. This absolute treasure trove has all you need to seriously upgrade your whisky collection.

To order please visit https://www.thefoodmarket.com

Monin Cocktail Syrups, the ideal gift for anyone!

 Imagine the glee on Christmas morning when someone gets a special gift pack of Monin Cocktail syrups? The Monin Cocktail set consists of all you need to start making some really classic and truly classy cocktails.

It contains small bottles of the following cocktail syrups: Blue Curacao, Coconut, Grenadine, Mojito Mint ans Passion Fruit. Not only that, it comes complete with some innovative cocktail recipes to be tried at home!

Tropical Blue, Pima Colada, Mojito, Tequila Sunrise, all really good versions of these cocktails.

And if they are not feeling in the mood for something alcoholic? Then they can turn their mind to creating some fantastic alcohol free smoothies, Mocktails such as Caribbean Velvet,  Cupidon, Passionata and Day at the Beach! So this present is ideal for the person who is a cocktail regular, who never drinks alcohol or who enjoys the occasional tipple.

And they aren't just for Christmas! They are also ideal for Bonfire night bashes, Diwali celebrations, New Year, etc.

For details of the full range of syrups, flavours, recipes, where to buy, etc, please visit www.monin.com

Eisberg brings alchol free but tasty wines to the Christmas table

Fancy a ruby rich Cabernet Sauvignon, a fresh aromatic Riesling or a smooth Chardonnay but want to cut back on the alcoholic units? Or do you want to offer real wine to drivers who do not wish to run the risk of drinking and driving?

Then just switch your usual bottle of wine for Eisberg non alcoholic wine and experience the real taste of wine, without the alcohol and with only a third of the calories.

Eisberg alcohol free wine is made in exactly the same way as your favourite wines, but with one difference.  At the end of the process the alcohol is gently removed using one of the world’s most advanced processes, leaving all of the flavours of the wine, but none of the alcohol.

There are four varietals in the range: A refreshingly aromatic Riesling, a creamy crisp Chardonnay, a juicy succulent Rosé and a fruity red Cabernet Sauvignon.

Suitable as an accompaniment to any meal, or simply to sip with friends, Eisberg contains 0.05% alcohol and only 34 calories per 125 ml glass, making it a great alternative to calorie laden booze.

Eisberg’s alcohol free range of wine can help combat the cravings, so if you fancy the real taste sensation of your favourite wine, you don’t have to go without.

The full range is available at Morrissons, and selected wines are available at Tesco, Waitrose, Co-op, Booths and Bargain Booze, priced at RRP £3.20-£3.60.

(EDITOR: We enjoyed a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon. It was delicious and went very well with white meat, so will be ideal for the Christmas table. My wife, something of a connoisseur of red wines declared it to be “8 out of 10 for taste.”)