Six Ways to Avoid Holiday Booze Blunders

You've made a resolution and you're starting now. Or maybe you or one of your guests made a no-alcohol pledge years ago. Either way, you plan to be merry with the best of them—but without the mulled wine, spiked eggnog or champagne punch. Happily, in these health-conscious times toasting the New Year with a fizzy cider or an alcohol-free wine is more acceptable than ever before, abstainers say. Still, the rules of festive sobriety aren't always obvious. NEWSWEEK asked Lizzie Post, Emily's great-great-granddaughter and author of "How Do You Work This Life Thing?," to advise us on teetotaler etiquette. Here are six of her party tips for guests and hosts who are trying to stay on the wagon.

When you're the host:

1. Never Assume Don't say, "Can I get you a cocktail?" Instead, say, "What would you like to drink?" and list both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options.

2. Turn off the Tap Know the early signs of drunkenness, such as slurred words, obscenities or unusual confessions. If you see insobriety, Post suggests removing the temptation. "Cork it, and put the wine away for the night."

3. Be Subtle Don't announce "Please, no booze" on a written invitation. "Invitations are supposed to be inviting," Post says. "It's not polite. You don't put 'No smoking' on an invitation or little signs around the house." If you plan to keep your house dry, tell guests in person. Here's another option: Post describes teetotaling relatives who invite guests to bring their own liquor—and take it with them when they leave.

When you're the guest: