15 bars open in Des Moines on Thanksgiving
Friends + Thanksgiving = Friendsgiving. Makes total sense, right?
Thanksgiving is that one holiday of the season where it's somewhat OK to sneak out from the family activities — after grandpa's fallen asleep on the couch — and meet up with old high school or college friends who are only around for the holiday.
Where's the best place to host an unforgettable Friendsgiving meet-up and humblebrag about how amazing your life is? While Des Moines isn't a booming metropolitan full of limitless entertainment and nightlife options on an otherwise national holiday, there are bars strewn throughout the city ready and willing to host your much-needed get-together.
Here's a quick wrap-up of 15 bars open in Des Moines on Thanksgiving, er, Friendsgiving, to consider when planning this year's friendly reunion.
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Carl's Place
The Sherman Hill staple dive isn't only open on Thanksgiving, it's also bringing in food from Hy-Vee catering for patrons to feast on.
Find it: 1620 Woodland Ave.
More info: 515-243-9727
Joe's Pub
The Johnston pub is set to open at 6 p.m. on the holiday. Show up early, the bar will be dishing out $3 Fireball shots and $2 domestic bottles until 7 p.m.
Find it: 5500 Merle Hay Road # G, Johnston
More info: 515-727-0524
Sully's Irish Pub
West Des Moines' nightlife option on Thanksgiving includes Sully's, an Irish Pub on 63rd and Grand. The bar will open at 6 p.m. and feature buy one, get one free domestic bottles, draws and well drinks ... so, when buying a drink for that old buddy you haven't seen in years, it can be "on you" without being "on you," ya know?
Find it: 110 Grand Ave., West Des Moines
More info: 515-255-9970 or sullysdesmoines.com.
The Keg Stand
Another option nestled in West Des Moines is The Keg Stand — and with an entire wall of beer on tap, from Iowa-brewed product to domestic favorites — it's the go-to open bar for the craft beer connoisseur.
Find it: 3530 Westown Pkwy, West Des Moines
More info: 515-327-7429
Saints Pub & Patio in Beaverdale
The Beaverdale Saints will be open, offering both food and drinks through this year's holiday — the sleek sports bar is worth considering for both an evening out with friends and an afternoon watching Thanksgiving football games.
Find it: 4041 Urbandale Ave.
More info: 515-270-6175
Coda
Located in the downtown Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel, Coda offers a classy option for those wanting to escape the family after a filling Thanksgiving dinner.
Find it: 401 Locust St.
More info: 515-244-2151
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Waveland Tap
This traditional Des Moines watering hole is open 365 days a year. Yes, that means Thanksgiving, too. Head there for a warm, welcoming dive bar experience.
Find it: 4704 University Ave.
More info: 515-255-5171 or wavelandtap.com.
Down Under Bar & Grill
The Clive sports bar with a name nodding to Australian culture opens at 3 p.m. and will be serving drinks until bar close at 2 a.m.
Find it: 8350 Hickman Road, Clive
More info: 515-278-6718 or greatestbar.com.
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AJ's on East Court
Karaoke, anyone? AJ's on East Court is slated to open at 7 p.m. with the karaoke machine primed and ready to propel patrons into a brief moment of super stardom. Not into singing? Stay for the drinks. $3 wells and $4 premium vodka drinks will be on special.
Find it: 419 E. Court Ave.
More info: 515-282-1888
Sunrise Tap
With hours from 6 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sunrise Tap is the east side bar that almost never stops serving. If you're starting off your day at the pub or grabbing a nightcap, Sunrise is a go-to East side spot for all of Thanksgiving.
Find it: 4155 Easton Blvd.
More info: 515-262-0713
Alpine Tap Room
One of the trusted dive bars tucked away on Ingersoll Ave., Alpine Tap Room opens at 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving.
Find it: 2720 Ingersoll Ave.
More info: 515-245-9717
Wellman's Pub
A welcoming, homey pub on Ingersoll, Wellman's will be opening around 5 or 6 p.m. on Thanksgiving and serving up a holiday-related special that's to be determined.
Find it: 2920 Ingersoll Ave.
More info: 515-245-9737
The Blazing Saddle
This East Village establishment, located on East 5th, offers drinks and entertainment — even on Thanksgiving.
Find it: 416 E. 5th St.
More info: 515-246-1299 or theblazingsaddle.com.
Beechwood Lounge
A comfortable East Village option, Beechwood Lounge plans to open about 5 or 6 p.m. with $7 domestic pitchers and $2 wells.
Find it: 416 E. Walnut St
More info: 515-288-2337
Tonic Bar on Court Ave.
Dives, sports bars and casual establishment have all been covered above — which leaves the need for a solid cocktail bar. Enter: Tonic Bar on Court Avenue. Enjoy half-price wine and a late-night happy hour from 10 p.m. - 2 a.m. with $3 Fireball shots and $2.50 domestics.
Find it: 210 Court Ave.
More info: 515-777-1182
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Know of another bar open on Thanksgiving? Tweet @dmjuice and let us know!