Where to Ring in 2016 in Des Moines

Saying farewell to the old year and welcoming the new is a tradition celebrated around the world in different ways, from watching the ball drop in Times Square to swinging fireballs in the streets in Scotland, to throwing dishes at friends' doors in Denmark. If your idea of welcoming the new year involves celebrating out on the town, then we've got some suggestions for you. Read on to see what Des Moines has to offer.

Texas Tenors and the Des Moines Symphony
220 Walnut St.

We can't think of a better way to usher in 2016 than by listening to great music, and it doesn't get any better than the annual New Year's Eve Pops Concert with the Des Moines Symphony. This year's headliners are the fabulous Texas Tenors, an ultra-talented trio who have been seen on "America's Got Talent" and Iowa Public Television. On New Year's Eve, they'll wow the audience with classical favorites, rock and pop standards and much more, accompanied by Des Moines' celebrated symphonic orchestra. The Pops Concert is always one of the most popular ways to celebrate New Year's in town. Tickets start at $35.

Lime Lounge Ultimate Open Bar VIP NYE
435 E. Grand Ave.

Party out the old year and ring in the new at the Lime Lounge's Ultimate Open Bar VIP New Year's Eve celebration. Enjoy all-you-can-drink cocktails with top shelf liquors, a champagne toast at midnight, late night snacks and a dessert buffet, then dance the night away to a vibrant soundtrack courtesy Iowa's finest DJs. Lime Lounge is an upscale bar with a metropolitan flavor, located in the historic East Village about 20 minutes from Springs at Jordan Creek Apartments. Tickets start at $114 for all you can drink; $25 for general admission. 

GuideOne ImaginEve! Party 
733 3rd St.

Des Moines' biggest New Year's party for kids is set for the GuideOne ImaginEve! party in downtown Des Moines. Families are invited to enjoy a Times Square-like countdown with a confetti drop at 8 p.m. Activities include inflatable rides, bounce houses, carnival games with prizes, toddler zone, dancers, costumed characters and mascots. There's also a Tween Zone for kids 10 and up. Fun starts at 4 p.m. Stay for the fireworks show at 8:15 p.m. The party is alcohol free, and cost free. 

The Bash...Goes POP!: New Year's Eve at the Firehouse
900 Mulberry St. 

Presented by the Des Moines Social Club, the Bash at the Firehouse arts community center promises an unusual New Year's Eve experience as revelers intersect with the local art world. In addition to a "human ball drop," there will be aerial performances, art installations, DJs, dancing, a photo booth and live painting. Enjoy beer and cocktails at the cash bar, or non-alcoholic beverages. Tickets are $20 in advance. Doors open at 8 p.m.

As you can see, Des Moines offers a multitude of ways to celebrate New Year's Eve. Let us know in the comments section below what other fun venues you find.