Downtown Aurora businesses to celebrate Dry January

This January, Aurora, Illinois, is lighting up in support of wellness and positive change by joining the nationwide Dry January® USA movement. Dry January® USA, the official sponsor of the movement to reduce alcohol consumption has chosen Chicago for its first major event of 2025. Under the theme “Aurora is Going Yellow,” the City of Lights will join Chicago and shine even brighter January 7–13 as it illuminates parts of downtown in radiant yellow, symbolizing health, hope, and the opportunity to reset and recharge.

In 2022, Meharry Medical College, the largest private historically Black academic health center in the US, became the officially licensed home for Dry January® USA. Meharry Medical College is based in Nashville, Tennessee. Dry January® and Meharry are working to shift attitudes about alcohol consumption and enhance health equity in the US. Alcohol is one of the top three leading causes of preventable death in the United States.

Per local Aurora restauranteur and chef of Craft Urban Bernie Laskowski, “The City of Aurora continues to inspire its community through initiatives that resonate on so many levels. We enjoy the creative challenges and opportunities this brings to our restaurant community and help people understand health and wellness are obtainable.”

Aurora’s commitment to Dry January® USA highlights the city’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and supportive community. By lighting up the pedestrian bridge, residents and visitors are encouraged to reflect on their habits, embrace healthy choices, and kick off the New Year with intention. This inspiring initiative aims to bring attention across the area to celebrate wellness and togetherness.

"As we begin a new year, many people think about starting new wellness habits,” said Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin. As we bring awareness to Dry January, we also want to encourage residents and visitors to continue to enjoy the great establishments Aurora offers with the knowledge that they can find options like mocktails, healthy food options and much more. I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2025."

The Aurora Alliance in partnership with Aurora Downtown are encouraging businesses to “Go Yellow” and feature alcohol-free/mocktail specials at local restaurants and for other businesses, fitness and mindfulness offerings.

An app has been created to serve as a support tool. Co-created between Dry January® and drinkers and based on behavioral science, the Try Dry app contains unique features such as planned drinking, custom goals, calories and money saved and special missions. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to be part of a movement that’s changing lives across the nation.

Visit the Dry January® USA Instagram page to learn more about Aurora’s events and how you can join the celebration. Together, let’s make January the starting point for a healthier, happier year!