Key Takeaways
- New Year’s Eve events in Des Moines include the Fantasy Tavern Adventure, NYE Studio Party, New Year’s Eve Pops: Cirque, Comedy XPeriment Improv Show, and The Grand Bollywood Ball
- Events offer a range of activities, such as immersive games, painting, music, comedy, and dance parties
- Ticket prices vary, with some events offering food, drinks, and champagne toasts
- Events are scheduled to take place on December 31, with start times ranging from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Tickets can be purchased online through various websites, including ironsideaxeclub.com, mainframestudios.org, dmpa.org, and Eventbrite
Introduction to New Year’s Eve Events
As the year 2025 comes to a close, many people are looking for ways to celebrate and ring in the new year. Whether you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend time with friends or a unique experience to remember, Des Moines has a variety of events to choose from. From immersive games and painting to music, comedy, and dance parties, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the New Year’s Eve events happening in Des Moines, including the Fantasy Tavern Adventure, NYE Studio Party, New Year’s Eve Pops: Cirque, Comedy XPeriment Improv Show, and The Grand Bollywood Ball.
Fantasy Tavern Adventure
For those looking for a unique and immersive experience, the Fantasy Tavern Adventure at Ironside Axe Club is a great option. This event invites guests to step into a fantastical world, where they can enjoy Dungeons & Dragons-style quests, games like "Magic: The Gathering," comedy, music, axe throwing, and tavern-style fun. The event takes place on December 31 from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. and tickets are $20, which does not include axe throwing. Guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite adventurer and enjoy an evening of fun and excitement.
NYE Studio Party
For a more low-key celebration, the NYE Studio Party at Mainframe Studio is a great option. This event allows guests to paint and enjoy good music and good vibes, with the option to bring their own drinks and snacks. Artist Teri Templeton Cadman will be on hand to provide guidance and demonstrations, and guests can choose from a variety of canvas sizes. The event takes place from 6-10 p.m. on December 31, and tickets are $45. This is a great option for those looking for a relaxing and creative way to spend New Year’s Eve.
New Year’s Eve Pops: Cirque
For a more traditional New Year’s Eve celebration, the New Year’s Eve Pops: Cirque at the Des Moines Civic Center is a great option. This event features world-renowned Cirque performers from Troupe Vertigo, who will take the stage alongside the Des Moines Symphony. The event will feature beloved orchestral masterpieces, as well as gravity-defying aerialists, mesmerizing contortionists, lightning-fast quick-change artists, and awe-inspiring strongmen. The event takes place from 8-10 p.m. on December 31, and tickets range from $40 to $90.
Comedy and Dance Parties
For those looking for a laugh or a chance to dance the night away, there are several other events to choose from. The Comedy XPeriment Improv Show at Tallgrass Theatre Company features Des Moines’ longest-running improv troupe, who will bring their brand of improv to the stage. The event also includes hors d’oeuvres and a champagne toast at midnight. The Grand Bollywood Ball, on the other hand, features DJs spinning Bollywood and Punjabi tunes, as well as a laser light show and a free champagne toast at midnight. This event is being held by Iowa Loves Bollywood, who are celebrating 15 years of desi magic.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Des Moines has a wide range of New Year’s Eve events to choose from, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a unique and immersive experience, a relaxing and creative activity, or a traditional celebration with music and dance, there’s an event to suit your tastes. With ticket prices ranging from $18 to $90, there’s an option to fit every budget. So why not ring in the new year with a fun and exciting event in Des Moines? With so many great options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect way to celebrate the start of a new year.

