Sober New Year’s Eve in Wichita: Local Ways to Celebrate Without Drinking

New Year’s Eve can feel like a lot—especially when the spotlight so often lands on drinking. But here’s the truth: you don’t need alcohol to enjoy the night, feel connected, or celebrate the passing year. Wichita and the surrounding areas offer plenty of options that keep the focus on fun, friends, family, and new beginnings.

Whether you want to be out and about in the city or enjoy a cozy evening doing something you love, this guide will help you map out the night in a way that feels right for you.

1. Start Early with Activity-Based Fun

Sometimes the best NYE plans are ones that keep you moving and engaged!

🎮 Game Time & Social Fun

• The Arcade – Classic and modern arcade games plus a lively vibe that’s great for groups who want something playful.

• Dave & Buster’s Wichita – Arcade games, air hockey, and food—good for a night of laughs and friendly competition.

Both spots are great for groups and don’t hinge on bars or drinking to have fun.

2. Dinner and Conversation: Food First

Sometimes a relaxed dinner with good company and intentional conversation is all you want to usher in a new year.

🍽️ Crowd-Pleasers That Aren’t Focused on Drinking

• The Monarch – A local favorite for casual delicious eats and vibes.

• Georges French Bistro – Perfect for a special dinner out with elevated comfort food.

• Lottē – A highly rated spot for a thoughtful meal in an inviting atmosphere.

• The Kitchen – A cozy choice with comfort food and coffee options.

Pro tip: Make reservations early if you plan a sit-down dinner—it’s a popular night!

3. Out & About: Local Events With a Fun Vibe

Not all New Year’s Eve options revolve around alcohol. Here are community and entertainment events happening around Wichita:

🏒 Get Into the Game

• Wichita Thunder NYE Game – Catch the Wichita Thunder at INTRUST Bank Arena on Dec 31! It’s a lively way to spend the evening cheering on local hockey and enjoying a unique countdown to the new year. Wichita Thunder

🎳 Activity Nights & Parties

• Topgolf Wichita NYE Celebration – Play golf games (no alcohol required), enjoy tasty bites, and toast at midnight (with your choice of drink). Eventbrite

🎭 Special Shows

• Mosley Street Melodrama hosts a New Year’s Eve Spectacular dinner and show—great for folks who love theater and performance with their evening. Visit Wichita

🎶 Live Music & Entertainment

• Wichita Union Stockyards often has live music and dancing on NYE, if you’re into music without center-stage focus on drinking. US 107.9

• WAVE often hosts performances or themed nights that can be enjoyed sober or with mocktails.

4. Family-Friendly or Daytime Options

If you prefer an early celebration or are celebrating with kids:

🎈 Noon or Early Night Celebrations

• Community centers and parks across Wichita/Derby sometimes host Noon Year’s Eve drop events, balloon drops, or game afternoons (check local rec calendars for specifics). Wichita on the Cheap

Daytime or early evening events can be low-stress and still feel special.

5. Stay In & Make It Special at Home

Maybe clubbing isn’t your style. Maybe crowds drain you. Staying in can be just as meaningful.

💡 Ideas for a Cozy, Intentional Night

• Cook a favorite meal or try a new recipe.

• Bake something festive—mocktail in hand optional.

• Host a game night with close friends or family.

• Reflect on the year with journaling or vision boarding.

• Take a walk in the neighborhood or watch the sunrise on Jan 1.

Being intentional makes the night feel meaningful—no matter where you are.

6. If It Feels Tough, That’s Okay

Holidays can stir up emotions—joy, pressure, loneliness, old patterns—whatever you feel is valid. You don’t have to force celebration; honoring where you are is part of showing up for yourself.

• Reach out to a trusted friend or family member.

• Plan something peaceful (even quiet can be powerful).

• Remind yourself: One night doesn’t define your year.

  
  

Make This New Year’s Eve Yours

Whether you choose to be out with a crowd, enjoy active games and laughs, or settle in for a warm night at home, Wichita has options that don’t center on alcohol—and that’s worth celebrating.

Harmony Medical Clinic provides outpatient addiction medicine care for adults and adolescents across Kansas. Our approach focuses on evidence-based medications, harm reduction, and respectful, person-centered care.

If you’re looking for care that fits your life, we’re here.