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 over 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 12 – January 5, 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 15 – December 31
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 shop on December 26.
Where: Dugan’s Hideaway, 3124 Ingersoll Avenue, Des Moines
Dates: November 18 – December 31
Miracle at Jordan Creek
Miracle has expanded with their newest location at Jordan Creek Mall for this holiday season. With a bigger space, this allows for more holiday fun. Enjoy all the same seasonal cocktails as the OG Miracle, as well as appetizers and more. Reservations are suggested, you can secure yours here.
Where: Jordan Creek Mall, 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy, West Des Moines
Dates: November 18 – December 31
The Naughty List
Known for their seasonal pop-ups, Good News, Darling, is 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 Cinnamon Toast Crunch cookie shots. Holiday nostalgia at its most delicious. Reservations recommended on weekends.
Where: Good News, Darling717 Locust Street, Des Moines (check in at Hello, Marjorie host stand)
Dates: November 13 – 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: Secret Admirer, 110 SW 5th Street
Dates: November 13 – December 30
Elfed Up
Head out to Destination Grille in Grimes for their returning holiday pop-up, Elfed Up 2.0. Located on their rooftop terrace, enjoy specialty cocktails, their full menu, and holiday decor to the max.
Where: Destination Grille, 2491 East 1st Street, Grimes
Dates: November 29 – December 28, Fridays and Saturdays only
Tinsel at Either/Or
One of the new kids on the block for Holiday pop-ups, Tinsel at Either/Or is full of experiences for the entire holiday season. Enjoy the décor inside or explore their giant patio full of holiday lights and photo ops all under the warmth of heaters. They have fun holiday events all month long, including their hot cocoa bar with all the fixings every Monday.
Where: Either/Or, 6222 Grand Ave, Des Moines
Dates: November 24 – January 5
Main Street Cafe & Bakery
If you're looking for a family-friendly holiday pop-up, head to Main Street Cafe & Bakery in Ankeny. Their entire restaurant is covered floor to ceiling in holiday décor, and they will be hosting fun events like a children's holiday party. The best part? They open at 6 a.m. for anyone looking to get in the holiday spirit first thing in the morning.
Where: Main Street Cafe & Bakery, 2510 SW White Birch Drive, Suite 1,2, Ankeny
Dates: Starting November 22
Santa Paws
Our furry friends deserve to celebrate the holidays too, right? Paws & Pints is launching their own pop-up this year, Santa Paws. Their entire resort will be transformed into a winter wonderland, perfect for pups and humans alike. Reminder that dogs aren't allowed in the indoor restaurant, but are allowed on the patio or in the park.
Where: Paws & Pints, 6218 Willowmere Drive, Des Moines
Dates: November 30 – December 11
