Low January alcohol sales drive owners to diversify.

Eamon Connor January 7, 2025 Business

Cedar Rapids, Iowa Bars and Restaurants Adjusting to January Slowdown

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – January marks a lull in alcohol sales for many bars and restaurants for a variety of different reasons.

However, some businesses are trying to get people through the doors in other ways.

Like many restaurants and bars, the drinks are flowing a little slower at Field Day Brewing Company in North Liberty. It’s part of the job owner Alec Travis said was a little surprising when they experienced their first January last year.

“It was surprising to see that level drop that quickly,” he said. “It’s kind of like flipping a switch.”

Travis said there are a variety of reasons more seats were empty. Some people were paying off credit cards after the holidays, others made New Year’s resolutions, while others were taking part in “Dry January”. All of it takes its toll.

Business Survival Strategies

“We’re still a small local business and we need to survive as much as the next person,” he said.

He said staying in business means giving people more experience than just drinking. He has a full kitchen bowling, live music, and mocktails and this year he introduced a new line of THC drinks.

“We’re always hoping that you create an environment or space that drives people to you outside of maybe just those alcohol sales,” said Travis.

Travis said this downward trend typically lasts until February. Until then, he’s hoping to create an atmosphere for more people to enjoy.