Whether they call them “resolutions” or not, people are still looking to make positive changes headed into the new year. Based on recent surveys, the top resolutions for 2026 include exercising more, eating healthier, improving mental health, losing weight, saving money, learning something new, and spending more time with friends and family, with an overall goal of being happy. Unless you’ve resolved to start a podcast, “all talk” is not what’s needed here. Coming up with some actionable steps will ensure actual progress.
While we don’t have all the answers, we do have some ideas. This year’s Alive & Kicking special issue includes articles about how planned “designed indulgences” reduce burnout, curb impulsivity, and help goals stick (pg. 4), plus there’s a story about how one Arlington restaurant has your back when it comes to gluten sensitivity (pg. 13) and how “Dry January” is fueling interest in NA beers and THC drinks (pg. 21), all that along with some local music news (pg. 19).
And based on the epic cover design by our artistic director, Ryan Burger, we are also obviously tackling soccer. With the FIFA World Cup headed our way, why wouldn’t we? Along with a piece about how the USMNT has an outside chance of claiming the title (pg. 6), hear about kids learning football versus futbol (pg. 22).
Welcome to Alive & Kicking 2026! — Fort Worth Weekly
What’s inside the Alive & Kicking 2026 special issue? Glad you asked.
Feature // Indulge Me
This piece advocates using “designed indulgence” — intentional, planned pleasures — to support New Year’s resolutions. Instead of strict deprivation, small, scheduled treats (like spa time or hobbies) can refresh your brain, reduce stress, and improve consistency in reaching your goals. Experts say this approach helps avoid burnout and maintain motivation without derailing progress. Read the full article here.
Stuff // Dreamtime
It’ll take a few miracles for the USMNT to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but boy, could America use a win. Acknowledging the USMNT as a solid but not elite team, this piece blends real analysis with fantasy, describing unlikely upsets, rival collapses, and heroic American performances. With luck, chaos, and clutch moments, the U.S. rides home support to a fictional final victory over Norway, symbolizing soccer’s rise in America. Read the full article here.
Night & Day // Happy New Year. Again.
This column highlights Lunar New Year celebrations in North Texas, noting it as a chance for a fresh start. It explains the holiday’s traditions as the Year of the Fire Horse begins, and lists local events: the Otaku Food Festival in Denton, a Kimbell Art Museum Lunar New Year happy hour with music and art, Asia Times Square’s multi-week celebration, and more cultural festivities. Read the full article here.
Eats // Feeling Free
The article discusses gluten sensitivity and how many restaurants overlook it. It highlights Tom’s Burgers & Grill in Arlington, where owner Tom Jones intentionally offers gluten-sensitive menu options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, catering to people with non-celiac gluten reactions. Though not officially certified gluten-free, the menu helps those affected find satisfying choices locally. Read the full article here.
Last Call // Liquid Courage
This column explores the rise of Dry January and the growing popularity of nonalcoholic and THC-infused drink alternatives as people cut back on alcohol. Bars and retailers offer NA beers, THC seltzers, mocktails, and cannabis-based beverages, reflecting changing tastes. However, new federal rules planned for late 2026 could restrict many THC drink products currently on the market. Read the full article here.
Crosstown Sounds // In Sickness & Health
The column mentions the connection between music and wellness, focusing on sound baths as an alternative healing practice that uses resonant tones to relax the mind and body. It highlights upcoming sound-bath events at the Fort Worth Museum of Science & History and Embodii Crystals. It also previews the Sick New World music festival at Texas Motor Speedway, noting ticket costs and payment plans. Read the full article here.
Music // News Roundup
Was “see more live shows” on your resolutions list? Fort Worth Weekly’s roundup highlights upcoming local music and shows: Not Stock Fest at Tulips FTW with ’90s rock acts, Fragile Rock’s emo-puppetry at The Cicada, and a free indie/punk night at Boiled Owl Tavern. A new weekly residency by Daniel Katsük debuts at the Sterling Lounge. In Denton, Tokey’s opens with punk/metal acts, and Henry the Archer celebrates a new single with a roller-rink performance. Read the full article here.
Education // Teaching Football with Fútbol
About 100 kids attended a clinic at AT&T Stadium, where they learned both American football and soccer skills. Sponsored by Bank of America with partners including the Dallas Cowboys, FIFA World Cup 2026, and U.S. Soccer, the event featured pros like Croix Bethune, Clint Dempsey, DeMarcus Ware, and Brandon Aubrey. Coaches emphasized trying both sports, learning skills and teamwork, and life lessons through athletics. Read the full article here.
The End
Did you miss your chance to pick up Alive & Kicking 2026 in the stands? No worries. We’ve got you covered. To see this annual issue in a flipbook, head-to-tail (ie, cover-to-cover) format, click here.
