Dry January drinks go retro as Shirley Temple returns to store shelves
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In January 2026 the Shirley Temple is having a revival as part of a broader resurgence in nostalgic, non-alcoholic beverages. The classic mocktail first became popular in the mid twentieth century and typically includes ginger ale or lemon‑lime soda with a splash of grenadine and a maraschino cherry. It was named after the former child actress Shirley Temple and long served as the original mocktail choice in restaurants.
This season two beverage brands, Olipop and Poppi, have introduced canned versions of the drink. Olipop describes its Shirley Temple flavor as the original mocktail reimagined with a mix of tart cherry, white grape, lemon and lime. The limited‑time soda has just 5 grams of sugar and about 50 calories per can. It is available online and through retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, Kroger and Albertsons through the end of March.
Poppi’s version of the Shirley Temple has a similar low sugar count and contains 30 calories per can. The brand says its drink blends citrus notes with a grenadine‑style cherry sweetness and provides a bold, clean finish. Poppi’s Shirley Temple is available now at stores including Walmart, Kroger and Amazon, with additional retailers set to carry it soon.
These canned versions bring the once exclusively bar‑and‑restaurant‑style mocktail into packaged form for the first time in a major way, making it easier for shoppers to enjoy nostalgic flavours at home during Dry January and beyond.
Non-alcoholic drink trends in 2026
The Shirley Temple’s return fits into a larger pattern of nostalgic drinks gaining momentum in 2026. Cherry is a flavour experiencing a broad revival across the beverage sector this year. Many soda brands have introduced or reintroduced cherry‑inspired products, tapping into a cultural affection for retro flavours once associated with soda fountains and classic drinks.
Industry trends also show strong growth in nonalcoholic beverages overall. The global nonalcoholic drink market is projected to expand substantially through 2030, with consumers increasingly favouring lower sugar, health‑oriented options. Market reports estimate that the global nonalcoholic drinks segment could be worth more than $2 trillion by 2030, driven by shifting preferences toward healthier and nutrient‑rich beverages.
Within that broader category, mocktails and other nonalcoholic cocktails are becoming a significant growth area. Research shows that demand for nonalcoholic and zero‑proof drinks has risen as consumers seek alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages for social occasions and everyday consumption.
Many of these trends intersect with the Dry January movement. During the first month of the year, some people choose to abstain from alcohol as part of health goals or lifestyle resets. This has encouraged both restaurants and beverage brands to offer creative, alcohol‑free options. Restaurants in cities across the United States, for example, have highlighted innovative mocktails and zero‑proof beverages that elevate traditional flavours with fresh ingredients and modern twists.
Consumers are no longer satisfied with bland or overly sweet nonalcoholic options. Instead they are seeking drinks that offer complexity, unique flavour combinations and a sense of occasion. Industry observers note a shift toward premium, sophisticated nonalcoholic drinks that provide sensory experiences similar to those of cocktails without the alcohol content.
Why nostalgia matters to modern drinkers
One reason nostalgic drinks like the Shirley Temple are assuming prominence is their emotional and cultural resonance. Many adults associate these flavours with childhood memories of soda fountains or family meals. Cherry, in particular, has been identified by trend trackers as one of the defining nostalgic flavours of the early part of 2026.
These drinks also appeal to a broad range of consumers who want flavourful beverages but are committed to health and wellness goals. Nonalcoholic options often emphasise lower sugar, fewer calories and added functional benefits, such as prebiotic fibre in brands like Olipop and Poppi.
Younger consumers also play a role in shaping these trends. Many younger adults adopt drinking habits that balance social enjoyment with health and productivity. Some are experimenting with strategies such as alternating alcoholic drinks with nonalcoholic ones during nights out. This pattern signals a broader cultural shift toward moderation and mindful consumption that can support more diverse beverage offerings in both retail and hospitality settings.
The rise of nostalgic drinks also dovetails with the growth of nonalcoholic beverage culture on social media. A greater share of nonalcoholic drink choices are now featured on platforms as part of lifestyle trends, mocktail recipes and curated drink lists for gatherings. This visibility has helped normalise and even glamorise alcohol‑free choices in ways that were less common a decade ago.
Beyond the Shirley Temple, other nostalgic offerings
Nostalgic flavour revival in 2026 extends beyond the Shirley Temple. Fast food chains, for example, are introducing beverages that recall soda fountain favourites. One major restaurant chain has added hand‑spun frosted sodas and classic floats made with fountain beverages and soft serve to its permanent menu. These frozen treats blend familiar soda flavours like cola, root beer and citrus with creamy textures for a playful take on vintage drinks.
Meanwhile craft and functional beverage brands are exploring other retro concepts. Root beer floats, cream sodas and limited‑edition fruit flavours that evoke childhood memories are appearing in both packaged beverages and bar menus. These options often combine a distinctive nostalgic flavour with modern dietary sensibilities, such as lower sugar content and natural ingredients.
At home, consumers are embracing simple mocktail recipes that draw on classic flavour profiles. Drinks that mix fruit juices with ginger beer or sparkling water appeal to those looking for festive, alcohol‑free options without requiring specialist bartending skills.
Looking ahead
As 2026 unfolds, the Shirley Temple’s renewed visibility points to a larger shift within the beverage industry. Non-alcoholic beverages are no longer an afterthought in product portfolios or menus. Instead they are an active area of innovation and growth, driven by changing consumer preferences, health priorities and a cultural willingness to embrace new expressions of familiar flavours.
That shift offers opportunities for brands to experiment with both retro and contemporary tastes, from classic mocktails to bold new combinations. For shoppers and drinkers alike, nostalgic beverages like the Shirley Temple provide a way to celebrate tradition while embracing modern choices in flavour and wellbeing.
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