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· By The Fractional CMOs
Why Younger Generations Choose Weed-Infused Drinks over Booze
There's a new favorite in town, and it’s not what you might expect. Millennials and Gen Z are trading their cocktails and craft beers for cannabis-infused drinks, a trend that’s taking over happy hours, house parties, and self-care rituals alike.
Why the switch?
From health perks to the “sober curious” movement, these generations are rewriting the social script and here’s why.
Health is the new Wealth
Younger generations are putting health first, and alcohol’s not making the cut. For years, booze has been linked to hangovers, weight gain, and long-term health issues like liver disease. Cannabis drinks, on the other hand, offer a smoother ride.
A Global Drug Survey found that 23% of young adults who used cannabis cut back on alcohol consumption. It’s not just about avoiding hangovers (though, let’s admit, that’s a huge win); it’s about a cleaner, more controlled experience.
Weed drinks, like those from Drippy, come in all forms, such as sparkling waters, mocktails, teas, and are often low-calorie and sugar-free. That means Millennials can sip guilt-free while staying on track with their fitness goals. Plus, with THC and CBD options, you can choose relaxation, creativity, or a mix of both, all without the regretful late-night pizza binge.
What is the “Sober Curious” Movement?
Ever heard of being “sober curious”? It’s not about going teetotal - it’s about questioning why alcohol is the go-to for socializing now-a-days. For Millennials and especially Gen Z, the sober curious movement has become a badge of pride.
A report by NCSolutions found that Gen Z’s interest in the movement jumped by 53% from 2023 to 2024. Younger folks are redefining what it means to have fun, and THC drinks fit the vibe perfectly. They offer a mild buzz without the sloppy moments (or embarrassing TikTok videos the next morning).
Unlike alcohol, which can make conversations blurry, THC can enhance focus and even creativity. Imagine group game nights where everyone’s laughing and vibing - not just zoning out with their drinks.
Budget-Friendly Buzz
Let’s be real: Alcohol can be pricey. A night of cocktails can set you back a small fortune, especially if you’re hitting trendy bars. Weed-infused drinks, however, are surprisingly cost-effective.
For instance, $20 worth of cannabis can last weeks, while the same amount spent on booze might barely get you through one Saturday night. Happy Valley pointed out that the financial appeal is a big reason Millennials are opting for cannabis. With student loans and rent to worry about, who wouldn’t choose a budget-friendly buzz?
Weed Is Chic, Not Stigmatized
Cannabis is no longer the taboo topic it once was. With legalization spreading and chic packaging flooding shelves, weed is officially cool. Millennials and Gen Z are drawn to Instagram-worthy cannabis drinks, like Drippy’s vibrant sodas, that bring a touch of class to any rooftop party or casual hangout.
CBS News reported that 69% of adults aged 18-24 now prefer cannabis over alcohol, citing fewer side effects and a more enjoyable experience. Gone are the days of sneaky joints; today’s THC beverages are sleek, sophisticated, and social-media-approved.
Finally! Hangover-Free mornings!
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: hangovers. They’re the bane of any drinker’s existence, and younger generations aren’t having it. Why waste an entire Sunday recovering when you can wake up fresh and ready to tackle a morning yoga class or brunch with friends?
Weed-infused drinks offer a light buzz with no dehydrating, headache-inducing aftermath. With low-dose options like those from Drippy, you can sip responsibly, enjoy the moment, and wake up feeling refreshed.
Basically, A Great Experience
One of the coolest things about cannabis drinks is how customizable they are. There’s something for everyone. Want to chill after work? Try a low-dose THC tea. Need an energy boost? Opt for a CBD-infused sparkling water with adaptogens.
Brands like Drippy are redefining the cannabis drink experience, offering diverse flavors and effects to suit any mood or occasion. From solo Netflix nights to group hangouts, these fizzy, flavorful options make it easy to sip and chill.
So, if you still don’t get it, why the switch?
Cannabis drinks are everything alcohol isn’t: versatile, health-conscious, affordable, and hangover-free. They align perfectly with the priorities of Millennials and Gen Z, who value intentional living and ditching outdated habits.
Our THC-Infused Masterpiece, Drippy, is an exciting player in the THC beverage market. With vibrant branding and commitment to quality, we're proving that cannabis sodas can be fun, flavorful, and approachable for everyone - from seasoned users to curious newcomers.