- Event Overview
About
Des Moines, IA
Santa Pub Crawls
Des Moines’s SantaCon brings the Capital City of Iowa’s bar culture and Hawkeye State holiday spirit to one of the most politically significant December celebrations in the country. The East Village and the Ingersoll Avenue bar districts are the heart of Des Moines nightlife and when SantaCon arrives the combination of Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucus political heritage, the Drake Bulldogs energy, and the excellent local bars creates a holiday celebration with a Des Moines character that is warm, community-grounded, and completely Iowa.
Des Moines has been one of the most improved American cities of the last two decades and the SantaCon reflects that growth and community investment. The Santa costume competition draws on the Drake, Grand View, and Iowa State communities and the Des Moines arts scene and the entries have an Iowa combination of Midwest warmth and genuine holiday enthusiasm.
December in Des Moines is cold, typically ranging from 15 to 22 degrees at night. The Iowa winter is real and the East Village and Ingersoll bar communities are warm and welcoming in a city that has invested heavily in its entertainment districts.
Our hosts manage the Des Moines route through the East Village and Ingersoll Avenue bar district. Specials confirmed at every stop, wristbands handle entry, and the Santa competition celebrates Iowa creativity.
Event Details
Everything you need to know about the largest SantaCon pub crawl in Des Moines.
Largest Pub Crawl Event
Top SantaCon Bar Crawl in Des Moines.
5,000+ Attendees
Thousands join the annual SantaCon pub crawl
15+ Participating Bars
Organized Event
- What's Included
What You Get With a Pub Crawl Ticket
Pub crawls for the biggest party holidays. Choose your event and join the party in 100+ cities across the USA.
Santa Costume Contest
Best Santa outfit wins a prize. Creativity and commitment both count.
Welcome Shot at Check-In
One complimentary shot poured the moment you arrive.
Bar-to-Bar Drink Specials
Exclusive SantaCon pricing at every stop on the route.
Official SantaCon Wristband
One wristband unlocks every participating bar.
On-Site SantaCon Hosts
Our team keeps the route moving and the costume judging fair.
Priority Entry at Select Venues
Skip the line at participating bars with your wristband.
Holiday Party Accessories
Festive gear handed out at check-in.
Curated Bar Route
Stops selected for atmosphere, drink quality, and Santa energy.
Participating Venues on the Pub Crawl Route
Explore the most popular bars and nightlife venues in Des Moines during the SantaCon pub crawl. Each participating venue features exclusive drink specials, music, and a unique atmosphere.
How the Pub Crawl Works
Four simple steps to join the SantaCon pub crawl and start bar hopping.
Head to pubcrawls.com. Limited spots available per city.
Doors open at 7:00 PM. Exact address included in your ticket email.
Welcome drink, wristband, and Santa accessories at check-in. First bar move at 7:30 PM.
Hosts guide the group through the full route. Costume judging happens throughout.
Event Agendas
Your complete SantaCon pub crawl timeline from check-in to after-party.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the Des Moines SantaCon Bar Crawl 2026
Do I need a Santa costume?
Yes, Santa theme is required. Full suit or Santa hat minimum. Creative interpretations welcome.
Where is check-in located?
Des Moines IA bar district. Full address emailed with your ticket.
What is December weather like there?
December in Des Moines IA averages 15 to 22 degrees. Cold Iowa winter. Layer under your Santa suit.
What comes with my ticket?
Welcome drink, wristband for all stops, bar specials throughout the route, gear pack, and costume contest entry.
Group bookings available?
Yes. Ten or more get priority entry and group pricing. Reach out at pubcrawls.com.
What is the age limit?
21+ with valid government-issued ID. No exceptions.
Last-minute tickets?
Available at the door if not sold out. Online purchase is safer.
Is the route walkable?
Yes. All stops are within walking distance of each other.
