Rudolph’s Rooftop Bar
Head to The Republic on Grand to experience Rudolph's Rooftop Bar this holiday season. With specialty cocktails, a charming rooftop adorned with dazzling decorations, and a festive atmosphere, this bar is sure to put even the grouchiest grinch in the holiday spirit. Pair your cocktail with an artisanal chef's favorite, and you'll be set for the perfect girls' night out or date night. Open through January 7.
The Peppermint Trail
Head to The Avenues of Ingersoll and Grand on December 9 for a new Holiday event, The Peppermint Trail. More than 50 local shops, restaurants, and businesses will be featuring peppermint and holiday-themed specials. Enjoy Gingerbread house decorating, carolers, visits from Santa Claus, and so much more. Make a stop at Bauder’s for one of their famous Peppermint Ice Cream Bars, Crème for peppermint hot chocolate, and stop at The Station on Ingersoll for their Holiday pop-up, Miracle on Ingersoll. Learn about all the specials here.
SnowGlobe DSM
A holiday favorite is returning to Exile Brewing Company this season throughout December and January! Snowglobe Christmas Bar turns Exile into a holiday wonderland. With more than a mile of Christmas lights and nearly a semi-full of holiday décor, you are surrounded for your meal. Open for brunch on the weekends, as well as lunch and dinner throughout the week, you’re sure to feel the holiday spirit. Reservations fill up quickly, so make yours here.
Center Grove Orchard
Your fall pumpkin patch and apple orchard has turned into a Winter Wonderland delight at Center Grove Orchard. Every weekend between now and December 23, you can enjoy the magic of the holidays by exploring the Corn Pool turned enchanted wonderland. Walk through the snow, twinkling trees and lights, and see Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and holiday scenes while you sip on some hot cocoa. Make your visit even more special by purchasing tickets to have Brunch with Santa or create a new friend with the U-Build Bear experience. Tickets for the Winter Wonderland start at $7.95 when purchased online.
Iowa Demon Hawks
Major Arena Soccer has made its way to Des Moines! The Iowa Demon Hawks play their first home game at Buccaneers Arena on December 8. This fast-paced game is 6v6 (with goalies) and will guarantee plenty of goals scored. Don’t miss out on seeing the Demon Hakws take on the Iowa Raptors out of Cedar Rapids. Tickets start at $20 and you can get them here.
Putts and Pins
It’s time for some retro fun at the new Putts and Pins in West Des Moines. With two 9-hole mini golf courses and duckpin bowling, you’re sure to have some friendly competition. The golf courses feature neon obstacles and challenges while the duckpin bowling lanes give all the back-in-the-day vibes with smaller pins and balls – perfect for all the members of the family. Oh, and they have a robust menu to grab some drinks and grub.
Jingle in the Junction
Looking to shop locally for the holidays? Head to Historic Valley Junction on Thursday nights for Jingle in the Junction. Under the glow of 125,000 holiday lights, enjoy extended shopping hours in your favorite Valley Junction stores! This gives you time to find the perfect gift, enjoy dinner, as well as enjoy three blocks of entertainment. Thursdays through December 14.
East Village Holiday Promenade
Another great opportunity to shop locally, the East Village Holiday Promenade, happens on Friday evenings through December 15! Stroll the streets of Historic East Village for extended shopping hours with local shops. Along with shopping, enjoy holiday-themed activities, entertainment, and family-friendly fun.
