The Virtual Cheers
Remote happy hours often feel awkward and forced. Here is how to bring genuine connection and warmth back to the screen.
The Virtual Cheers
We have all been there.
The Zoom link opens. A grid of faces appears. Someone says, "Can you hear me?" There is an awkward silence. Someone holds up a beer.
The "Virtual Happy Hour" was a lifeline during lockdowns, but it often feels like a chore.
Why? Because it tries to replicate a bar without the bar. It removes the music, the movement, and the side conversations, leaving only the staring.
But it doesn't have to be terrible.
The Drink as a Prop
In person, the drink is a lubricant. Online, the drink is a prop.
It gives you something to do with your hands. It gives you a reason to look away from the camera (to sip).
Encourage everyone to bring something—it doesn't have to be alcohol. A fancy tea. A smoothie. A glass of water in a wine glass.
The point is the shared object. "What are you drinking?" is the easiest icebreaker in human history.
Structure Saves Us
In a real bar, chaos is fun. On Zoom, chaos is a nightmare.
The best virtual gatherings have structure. A toast at the beginning. A specific topic. A game.
It sounds rigid, but structure reduces anxiety. It lets people know when to speak and when to listen.
Radical Inclusion
The best part of the Virtual Cheers is that nobody has to drive home.
This makes it the perfect venue for inclusive, alcohol-free celebration. When you aren't buying rounds at a bar, there is no pressure to drink booze.
A Virgin Mojito looks just as festive on a webcam as a real one.
Short and Sweet
Leave them wanting more.
A two-hour Zoom call is a meeting. A 30-minute Zoom call is a catch-up.
Keep it brief. Raise a glass. Share a laugh. And then, hit "Leave Meeting" before the energy dies.
Concepts explored
Drinks that support this ritual
Virgin Mojito
A refreshing non-alcoholic mocktail that captures the classic mojito flavors of mint and lime without the rum.
Good for Summer afternoons
Shirley Temple
A classic, sweet, and bubbly non-alcoholic mocktail, traditionally made with ginger ale and a splash of grenadine.
Good for Birthday parties
How this story usually leaves readers feeling
inclusive • relaxed • together