The holidays have a way of turning even the most grounded of us into frayed versions of ourselves. The overwhelm can set in fast—countless holiday gatherings and searching for the perfect gifts while keeping up with everyday tasks. And though cocktails or a glass of wine have long been the default way to take the edge off, they often add to the end-of-year anxiety rather than ease it.
This season, there’s a new kind of holiday spirit in town–one that’s less about booze and more about intentionality. According to a report released earlier this year, nearly 24% of young adults say they’ve at least partially replaced alcohol with cannabis-infused or non-alcoholic beverages. The shift reflects something simple: people want to celebrate in ways that feel better for their bodies and minds.
Let’s talk about how cannabis can help you stay socially connected, present and cozy this season.
The Case for Skipping Booze
Alcohol has a funny way of promising relaxation and delivering…well, quite the opposite. Cannabis, on the other hand, can offer a more grounded experience, helping you both unwind and stay socially present so you actually get to enjoy the people around you—without the next-day regret.
More than anything, people are craving comfort and genuine, in-person connection during the holiday season. Cannabis can support that with a calmer nervous system, a quieter mind and the space to enjoy the present rather than rushing through until it’s suddenly…2026!?
Host with a Soft(er) Bar
If you’re hosting this season, creating a “festive but functional” drink station can make gatherings feel inviting without leaning too much into alcohol. Keep it simple: In addition to your usual beverages, layer in THC-infused seltzers on ice, fresh citrus slices and maybe a little cranberry or orange juice for an extra splash of color and flavor. The goal is choice–letting everyone land on what refreshment feels good for them.
Swapping cocktails for THC seltzers or gummies is an easy way to stay celebratory while keeping clarity intact. Some of our 10 mg seltzer flavors fit naturally into the winter spirit, like Cranberry Lime Spritz or Blood Orange Pom Spritz. For anyone who wants something to sip on but doesn’t want to sacrifice how they’ll feel the next day, THC seltzers are a delicious option.
If you want to offer something beyond beverages, set out Verist 5 mg gummies in a simple, clearly labeled setup, keeping them in their original packaging so guests know exactly what they’re choosing.
Weeknight Wind-Downs, without the Wine
During the holiday season, evenings can feel less like silent nights and more like whirlwinds. The instinct to pour a glass of wine to relax is strong—we get it. But these softer rituals can bring the same comfort without the next-day fog.
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Sip a THC seltzer on ice: Ease into the evening and end your night on a high note with a fun glass and yummy garnish.
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Romanticize an evening walk: Bundle up, pop in a 5 mg gummy and take a stroll around the neighborhood to look at holiday lights. Think of it as a moving meditation.
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Make a warm beverage: Brew tea or hot chocolate, and add a few drops of Chill Vibes CBD oil—a cozy, gentle balm for your nervous system.
Reclaiming Winter
After the holiday rush quiets down, Minnesota winter brings its own bit of magic. With colder temperatures and shorter days, it invites us to slow down and be more intentional with our time and energy—in the best way.
Cannabis can fit naturally into that rhythm. The right dose and balance of THC, CBD and CBN can help ease aches and pains, reduce stress levels and support a deeper, more restorative sleep—things many of us look for during the colder months. Instead of just getting through winter, cannabis can help you enjoy it with more comfort.
This winter, we’re embracing the art of slowing down: cozy blankets, home-cooked meals and early nights to bed. A softer pace that feels like a reset after the holidays.
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At Verist, we believe every season—busy or quiet—deserves a bit of mindfulness. Taking care of our bodies and choosing what feels restorative to us is part of that. As you move through the holidays into the heart of winter, we hope this inspires you to celebrate in ways that truly fill your cup.
Have a very Verist holiday and a joyful new year!