Don’t you just love sipping on a holiday cocktail while being surrounded by decorations? We sure do! Many local bars and restaurants are taking holiday decorations to a new level with their holiday pop ups. So, get into the holiday spirit with some spirits and immerse yourself in the snow globe effect of the holidays.
SnowGlobe DSM
Exile Brewing turns into a winter wonderland with a SnowGlobe concept, first popularized in Lawrence, Kansas. The restaurant and bar areas get a Clark Griswold makeover, with more than a mile of Christmas lights, a semi-truck full of décor, and a Instagrammable “Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animals” neon sign in the basement. Reservations recommended.
Where: Exile Brewing, 1514 Walnut Street, Des Moines
When: November 14 – January 7, regular hours with additional Saturday and Sunday brunch hours from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Rudolph's Rooftop
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.
Where: The Republic on Grand, 401 E Grand Avenue, Des Moines
When: November 17 – January 7
Miracle on Ingersoll
Head over to Dugan’s Hideaway, the hidden gem dive bar attached to The Station on Ingersoll to get your fix of holiday cheer and spirits. The TVs show a continuous loop of Christmas Vacation, and the vibe is very much “grandma’s basement, if grandma was a Christmas hoarder.” Holiday drinks are served in fun glassware (dinosaur with a Santa hat, anyone?) that will be available for purchase when they close up shop on December 26.
Where: 3124 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines
Dates: November 22 to December 26, Monday to Friday from 6 p.m. to Midnight; Saturday Noon to Midnight; and Sunday from Noon to 6 p.m.; Christmas week hours are Monday to Friday 5 p.m. to Midnight and 2 p.m. to Midnight on Christmas Day.
The Naughty List
Known for their seasonal pop ups, Good News, Darling, as the one naughty list that you want to get your name on. Expect cool kid holiday décor paired with some of their famous experimental cocktails that also receive a holiday makeover. They’re also teaming with Oh High Bakery to offer chocolate chip and peanut butter chocolate lava cookies. Holiday nostalgia at its most delicious. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Where: 717 Locust Street, Des Moines (check in at Hello, Marjorie host stand)
Dates: November 15 – December 30
The Nice List
You can’t have a naughty list without a nice list. Sister bar to Good News, Darling, Secret Admirer will be hosting The Nice List pop-up Christmas bar. Better try them both to see what list suits you best.
Where: 110 SW 5th Street
Dates: November 15 – December 30
Elfed Up
Head out to Destination Grille in Grimes for their brand-new holiday pop-up, Elfed Up. Located on their rooftop terrace, enjoy six speciality cocktails, their full menu, and holiday decor to the max. Opening night is December 1!
Where: 2491 E 1st St, Grimes
Dates: December 1 – January 30, Thursday and Friday from 3 – 9 p.m., and Saturday from 3 – 10 p.m.
Winter Wonderland
Nightingale Cocktail in the East Village is a Winter Wonderland with their seasonal pop-up. Winter Wonderland is so much more than a decorated cocktail lounge, every 30 minutes they have an interactive holiday extravaganza filled with lights, lasers, video, and even snow. Tickets are $20 and you can get them here.
Where: 435 E Grand Ave
Dates: November 24 – December 30, Wednesday – Sunday
