Wilson, I can hear you looking for the best approach and thinking through the situation coming up, ie, what will it look like if you are suddenly not drinking - and possibly, can I get through and have fun, etc. Question: is it compulsory for drinking to be involved? what is "going there," is that going to a restaurant or somebody's house? You don't necessarily have to miss out on the whole event. I guess I would understand if it would create too much quizzing or drama all of a sudden if you are not drinking (questions left and right from people) - and if you told a fib to get through without drinking and to avoid the questions.
Not an easy answer if we look at all the complications. If we make it simple though, we do whatever it takes not to drink. What do you think sounds like the best thing to do in order not to drink?