St. Patrick’s Day is often associated with pints of Guinness and whiskey shots, but what if you’re looking for a way to celebrate—without the alcohol? Whether you’re skipping the booze for health reasons, personal preference, or just want to enjoy the festivities without the next-day regrets, Wheeling has options for you.
From festive green mocktails to bars that serve zero-proof beer, you don’t have to miss out on the St. Paddy’s fun. We teamed up with Melissa from Midge’s Kitchen to bring you some delicious alcohol-free drink recipes, plus a list of local spots where you can grab a sober-friendly beverage.
Festive Mocktails to Make at Home
If you’re hosting a party or just want a St. Patrick’s Day treat at home, these creative mocktails will bring the Irish spirit—without the spirits!
Emerald Isle “Champagne”
A bubbly, minty green drink perfect for a toast.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Torani Creme de Menthe Syrup
- 5 oz non-alcoholic sparkling wine or grape juice
- 1 lime
- Optional: edible green glitter for the rim
Directions:
Combine creme de menthe, sparkling wine, and the juice of half a lime in a shaker over ice. Strain into a champagne flute and garnish with a slice of lime. Edible glitter on the rim adds a festive touch.
Shamrock Smoothie
A creamy, minty delight for those who love a dessert-like drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lime sherbet
- 1 cup plain frozen yogurt
- 2 oz apple juice
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 1 tsp sugar
- ½ tsp spearmint extract
- Mint leaves for garnish
Directions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Lemongrass Mint Aperitif
For those who enjoy a more complex, botanical drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 inch lemongrass, sliced thin
- ½ cup honey
- ¼ cup water
- ¼ cup mint leaves
- 2 oz Roots Divino Aperitif Bianco (alcohol-free vermouth)
- 1 cup unflavored seltzer water
Directions:
Simmer honey, water, and lemongrass on the stove, then let it sit overnight for full flavor. Blend the cooled syrup with mint leaves. Fill a glass with ice, add 4 oz of syrup, Roots Divino, and seltzer. Garnish with mint or a lemongrass stalk.
Where to Find Alcohol-Free Drinks in Wheeling
If you’re heading out to celebrate, check out these local spots offering mocktails and zero-proof beer.
Elle & Jack’s – Serving a special Kiwi Mojito for St. Patrick’s Day weekend, made with muddled kiwi, mint, lime juice, kiwi simple syrup, and club soda.
Waterfront Hall – Has a mocktail menu and carries zero-proof Guinness in cans.
Bridge Tavern – Another local spot where you can find zero-proof beer options.
Want More Options? Check Out The Open Road in Pittsburgh
For a wider selection of non-alcoholic spirits, wines, beers, and mixers, visit The Open Road at 5401 Penn Avenue in Pittsburgh. They also offer online ordering, so you can stock up on alcohol-free beverages from the comfort of home.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day—No Booze Required
Going sober for St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t mean you have to sit out on the fun. With these delicious mocktails and local bars offering zero-proof options, you can still raise a glass and celebrate—without the hangover. So whether you’re toasting with a fizzy Emerald Isle “Champagne” at home or grabbing a zero-proof Guinness at Waterfront Hall, you’ve got plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday, no alcohol required.
