Embarking on a month long alcohol-free detox seemed like a good idea on January 31st after a two months of over-indulging. Each February, hundreds and thousands of Australians commit to Feb Fast, abstaining from alcohol for the final month of summer. Feb Fast is an incredible organisation that asks Australia to ‘pause for a cause’, laying off the alcohol for the entire month of February to support disadvantage youth in Australia.
Only 28 days for a great cause – easy, right? Wrong. So very, very wrong. The sun is shining, the beer is flowing, and as we approach the final weekend of summer, the struggle to stay away from a beverage is REAL. If you’re one of the many who swapped your sav blanc for a soda we’ve compiled a list of alcohol-free activities to keep you busy and away for the rose.
You’re on the home stretch. You’re almost there. You haven’t had a hangover in three weeks, you’ve probably lost weight, and you’re DEFINITELY craving a beer. Finish off your Feb fast sober and in style at one of these events in Sydney this weekend.
Park Feast
Bella Vista Farm
Taking place this weekend from 11am each day, Bella Vista Farm will transform into Park Feast; a free kid-friendly food haven, with live entertainment, amusements rides, and over 30 food trucks sampling some of the best food Sydney has to offer. There’s bouncy castles for the little ones, dodgem cars for the bigger kids, and even a roller coaster for those more daring. Pack a picnic blanket, kick back and relax to the sweet tunes of the local musicians, or unwind with some sunset yoga. Presented by the pros at the Australian Boutique Markets alongside the Sydney Hills Summer Series, you won’t be tempted by booze at this alcohol-free event, and you’re safe to drive with plenty of free parking available .
Gingergirl
The Star, 80 Pyrmont St
Gingergirl, inspired by one of Melbourne’s laneway favourite Gingerboy, is an Asian hawker-style street food pop up restaurant happening at the Star right now. Award-winning chef Teage Ezard, the mastermind behind the exciting and experimental menu at Gingerboy, brings Gingergirl to the Star’s casual dining precinct this summer. Open seven days a week until March 31st, head to Gingergirl to taste some funky new dishes and twists on old classics that make Gingerboy one of Melbourne’s favourites. Try the signature son-in-law eggs, red duck leg curry with thai basil and coconut cream, wagyu brisket served with peanut tamarind caramel and hot and sour coconut salad, or this months Dish With A Twist; ma-po tofu with pork mince, cherry tomatoes, holy basil and jasmine rice. Accompanied by a non-alcoholic drinks list like a refreshing Tropic Thunder Slushie (sour warhead meets watermelon slushie), a green bubble tea punch or Vietnamese cold brew coffee, you won’t even notice the alcohol missing.
Australian Open of Surfing
Manly Beach
Known for its great surf, Manly Beach will host the annual Australian Open of Surfing in the nine-day competition starting this weekend. The home of the first World Championship surfing event back in 1964, Manly attracts thousands of both amateur and professional surfers alike each year, with the World Surf League’s best competing. But it’s not just surfing, with skate and BMX competitions just as competitive. Test your skills in the girls-only surf class with Australian surfing legend Laura Enever at 12pm on Saturday, or catch some live performances by Krafty Kuts and Chali 2na from 6pm on Sunday after the Vans BMX Pro Cup Series Open Finals. The epic combination of the worlds best surfers and skaters is matched with an awesome lineup of local and international artists, including Australia’s own electronic hiphop duo Hermitude. Set aside a day to celebrate all things surf, skate and youth culture at the Australia Open of Surfing.
Rainbow Run
Sydney Park, St Peters
You don’t have to be a big runner to get behind the Rainbow Run. In partnership with Sydney’s Mardi Gras, this family-friendly community fun run raises money for Gay and Lesbian Rights Lobby’s campaigning for same sex marriage. With a 2km, 4km, and 6km option catering for any age and fitness level, everyone is welcome, and kids run free. Be chased by the infamous drag queens with water-guns, and walk or run along side the ‘dykes with bikes’, all to the beats by the international Dj Sveta. You will be allocated a colour to wear with your ticket purchase, but you are encouraged to dress up as outrageous as you please, with prizes for best dressed. Guaranteed to be the most fun you’ve ever had on a run, get involved and support this important cause this Saturday at Sydney Park.
Ben and Jerry’s OpenAir Cinema
Dolphin Lawn, Bondi Beach
This is the last weekend to attend Ben and Jerry’s OpenAir Cinemas at Bondi. This outdoor event has played a mix of new release blockbusters and quintessential classics throughout January on their giant screen overlooking Bondi Beach. This weekend swoon over Ry Ry in La La Land or Matthew McConaughey’s brand new film Gold. Skip the bar and instead indulge in some of Ben and Jerry’s famous icecream, with all your favourite flavours on offer. With several food options and live entertainment during the day, you’ll be happy to arrive a few hours early – which is essential to hire a bean bag lounge chair and get a good spot as seating is unreserved.
By Madeline Wallman
