Des Moines Bar Crawls

Cinco De Mayo: History, Tacos, and Tomfoolery

Intro If you're anything like us, you see May 5th as the perfect excuse to indulge in tacos, tequila, and a little tomfoolery. That's led to the success of event like our famous Tacos & Margs Crawl. Get ready for a fiesta like no other as we dive into the history of Cinco de Mayo, its transformation into an American drinking holiday, and why tacos and margaritas make the ultimate pairing for this festive occasion. The Real Story Behind Cinco de Mayo (No, It’s Not Mexican Independence Day) Let’s set the record straight, folks - Cinco de Mayo is not, I repeat, NOT the day Mexico gained its independence (that's a party reserved for September 16th, mark your calendars). Instead, this spirited day remembers an underdog story that would make even the most stoic of us cheer. Picture it: the year is 1862, and Mexico finds itself the unlikely David against a Goliath named France at the Battle of Puebla. Against all odds, the Mexican army pulls off a victory so stunning, it’s like the sports upset of the century - if ESPN had been around in the 1800s, they’d have been all over it. So, why the big fuss in the U.S., you ask? Well, while Mexico might give a respectful nod to the day, it's the Americans who’ve turned it into an annual extravaganza of tacos and tequila. And no, it wasn’t because someone got their holidays mixed up and thought, “Eh, close enough.” The real kicker? It boils down to a blend of Mexican-American pride and, you guessed it, savvy marketing that saw an opportunity to spice up the party scene. Essentially, Cinco de Mayo is the historical equivalent of an epic afterparty that everyone decided to keep celebrating annually, because who doesn’t love an excuse for more tacos and margaritas? So there you have it, the real story behind May 5th - no independence, just a spectacular victory and a fantastic reason to fiesta. How Cinco de Mayo Became the Ultimate American Drinking Holiday Buckle up, amigos, because we're diving into the frothy, lime-wedged saga of how Cinco de Mayo morphed into the ultimate American excuse to clink glasses and shout "Salud!" with strangers. Picture this: it's the swinging 60s, and American beer companies are eyeing the calendar with a twinkle in their eye. "How," they ponder, "can we convince John and Jane Doe that May 5th is not just another day, but an opportunity to let loose with a cerveza in hand?" Enter stage left: Cinco de Mayo, a holiday with all the makings of a marketing goldmine, just waiting for its moment in the spotlight. The strategy was simple yet brilliant—link beer (and later, tequila and margaritas, because variety is the spice of life) with a celebration of Mexican heritage and history. It was like adding lime to a Corona; it just made sense. And thus, a day commemorating an 1862 battle transformed into an annual festival of libations, with festivities so grand you'd think the margarita was the national drink of the United States. This transformation wasn't an overnight affair. Like a fine tequila, it took years to mature. But mature it did, blossoming into the beloved May day where the motto is "eat, drink, and be merry." It’s a testament to the power of advertising and the American propensity to adopt any reason for a party. So next time you're toasting to the bravery of the Battle of Puebla, remember: you're also celebrating one of the most successful rebranding efforts in history. And that, amigos, deserves a drink. Why Tacos and Margaritas? A Deliciously Accidental Pairing Imagine, if you will, a world where the taco met the margarita in a serendipitous flavor fiesta. It wasn't a planned meeting, oh no. This was the culinary equivalent of bumping into your future bestie in the hallway of life. Tacos, with their robust and varied fillings, were out there living their best life. Enter margaritas, the life of the party, with a zest for life that could rival any lime. When these two got together, it was less of a handshake and more of a flavor explosion, a harmonious blend of zest and spice that made taste buds sing and dance in a way they never knew they could. It’s as if the culinary gods themselves concocted this pairing in their heavenly kitchen. The savory layers of tacos, be they beefy, beany, or brimming with grilled veggies, find their soulmate in the cool, refreshing embrace of a margarita. Each sip of that tequila-infused nectar seems to whisper sweet nothings to the spiciness of the taco, creating a dance of flavors so intricate, it's a wonder we ever eat anything else. In this accidental meeting, we’ve all been blessed with the ultimate duo, proving that sometimes, the best things in life are unplanned. The Tacos & Margs Crawl: Your Ticket to Cinco De Mayo Bliss Looking for the ultimate Cinco de Mayo celebration? Look no further than our Tacos & Margs Crawl happening every year on Cinco de Mayo weekend. Join us, and tens of thousands of attendees in dozens of cities across the USA, as we hop around to top bars & restaurants, sampling delicious tacos and refreshing margaritas along the way. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Cinco de Mayo while socializing with fellow taco and tequila enthusiasts. Missed it this year? Check out Tacos & Margs Crawl photo albums on our Facebook Page! So, dust off your maracas and get ready for a day of tacos, tequila, and tomfoolery like never before. Viva la fiesta!

What's a Bar Crawl? Official Guide from the Experts

Whether it’s bars, pubs, or even nightclubs, as long as you’re hitting up multiple spots in one night, you’re officially on a bar crawl. A bar crawl is more than just a night out—it's a boozy adventure where the vibes change at every stop. Definition of a Bar Crawl According to Merriam-Webster, a bar crawl is "the visiting of various bars in succession, especially as a social activity." And the crawl part? After a few rounds of drinks, walking might become more like a "crawl." Bar crawls are typically a group activity. Participants plan the route themselves or join an organized bar crawl event that has a predetermined list of venues. As long as you're changing up the environment and having a good time, you're checking all the boxes for a bar crawl! Bar Crawl vs Pub Crawl vs Bar Hopping You might have heard the terms "bar crawl," "pub crawl," or "bar hopping" thrown around and are wondering what the difference is. Well, we're going to let you in on a secret: there is no difference!Whether the event is called a "Bar Crawl" or "Pub Crawl" is more of a regional thing than a difference in meaning. Think: soda vs pop, pancakes vs flapjacks, and... you get the idea. If you want to call it a pub crawl or a bar hop, we won't judge, but we call it a bar crawl and we're sticking to it! Reasons to Go on a Bar Crawl Why go on a bar crawl? Because it’s not just fun—it’s a full-blown booze-fueled experience. Meet new people, discover hidden gems in your city, and vibe to killer music as you explore different neighborhoods. Whether it’s live bands, DJ beats, or your own playlist blasting, the soundtrack of your crawl is the backdrop to a night you’ll be talking about for weeks. Organized Bar Crawls Are Taking Over In 2015, Bar Crawl Nation started hosting large scale bar crawl events around the United States. You could call us the ultimate party pros, taking bar crawls to the next level from Boston to Los Angeles. There are a few other legit bar crawl companies that operate on a national and regional level, and a few scam "companies" as well. We suggest you always research before buying tickets. Any Joe Shmo can start selling tickets on Eventbrite, but it's not easy to produce & maintain a real website, social media pages, and customer service channels. Bar Crawl Nation has revolutionized the scene with the world’s first bar crawl app, making it easier (and more fun) to hop from bar to bar. Check-in at each spot, spin to win prizes, and score rewards when you complete the crawl. We'd like to think Bar Crawl Nation produces the best bar crawl events in the world, but don't just take out word for it—feel free to do a google search on past new articles and TV appearances, or check out our Facebook page for full photo albums from past events. Bar Crawl Themes Many larger, organized bar crawls, are either scheduled around holidays, or have a specific theme. This makes it fun, because you'll be partying with others who share a common interest. Popular bar crawl holidays in the United States include Valentine's Day, St Patrick's Day, Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl, Pride, Independence Day (July 4), Halloween, and Christmas. Some other bar crawl themes that draw crowds are Decades (i.e. 90's bar crawl), Music Genre (i.e. "Country Music Crawl"), Onesies, TV Show (i.e. The Office), Sports Teams, Movies, and Seasons (think, "Summer Crawl"). A bar crawl is also a great way to celebrate a personal occasion. Bachelor & Bachelorette bar crawls, birthday bar crawls, and "Senior" (college) bar crawls are all popular themes as well. Regardless of what the theme is, it's always a good idea to dress for the occasion. Whether it's wearing a themed T-shirt or an all-out costume, you'll add to the atmosphere of the crawl and have an opportunity to party with people who share a common interest with you. Planning Your First Bar Crawl: Tips and Tricks Ready to dive into your first bar crawl? Whether it’s a last-minute plan with your crew or a huge organized event, a little prep goes a long way in making sure your night is legendary. From picking the perfect route to choosing the right shoes (trust us on this one), we’ve got the tips to keep your crawl fun, smooth, and unforgettable. Plan Your Route Organized bar crawl events might already have a planned route. Some, like Bar Crawl Nation events, are "open format," where you get a list of participating venues but choose your own path. If you're planning your own crawl, however, it's wise to begin by mapping out a strategic route that clusters your selected bars close together, minimizing travel time and maximizing fun. Choose a diverse mix of venues, from lively pubs to cocktail bars, to cater to the varied tastes of your group. Be sure to confirm the operating hours and any potential cover charges in advance! Dress for the Occasion Make sure you're wearing comfortable shoes. By nature, bar crawls include lots of being on your feet. Whether you're walking (or crawling) from bar to bar, or you're dancing your heart out on the dancefloor, you're going to want the right footwear. If the bar crawl has a theme, be sure to dress for it. We at Bar Crawl Nation sell themed items in our bar crawl shop. You can also pick up accesories or costumes from your local party store or have them delivered from Amazon. The more you dress to the theme, the more you'll be the star of the event. And remember, if it's going to rain - bring an umbrella! Stay Hydrated Intersperse water or non-alcoholic beverages between your alcoholic drinks to maintain balance. Remember to fuel up with food, either before you start or at one of your stops along the way. Safety should be a top priority, so designate a sober driver or utilize public transportation or rideshare apps to navigate between venues. Don't Mix Too Much Booze There's an age-old saying: "liquor then beer, you're clear; beer then liquor, even sicker." I'm not sure how many studies have been done on this, but I can say anecdotally, that if you're mixing lots of different alcohol (beer, wine, and liquor), that's a recipe for feeling sick. Stick to what you know your body can handle, and don't try to take on everything, because you're in this for the long haul! Take Care of the Bar Staff In the United States, bartenders and servers at bars & restaurants primarily work off tips. You should aim to tip at least a dollar or two per drink, even if they are "free" or included in the bar crawl experience. It's nice to show your appreciation, and it ensures that the staff that are helping you out can make enough to support themselves and their families. By keeping these tips in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable bar crawl experience that's both thrilling and responsible. You're ready! Participating in an organized Bar Crawl with Bar Crawl Nation Bar Crawl Nation operates in dozens of cities throughout the United States, so it's easy to find a bar crawl event near you. After you find the perfect event and purchase a ticket, the next step is to download the Bar Crawl Nation app. By linking your ticket to the app, you unlock the full value of the event. This includes the ability to spin-to-win prizes at every venue plus a final reward for completing the crawl. All our bar crawl events begin with a kick-off party at the Starting Venue listed on your ticket. This is where all bar crawl attendees start their adventure, take photos on the red carpet, spin-to-win their first prizes with the app, and get things started. There's almost always a DJ or live band and a lively atmosphere. Then it's time to crawl! The Bar Crawl Nation app shows a digital map of the participating venues. You can use that as your guide and plan your route accordingly. All of our events are open format, which means you can visit each spot in whatever order you want, spending as much time at each. The end of the event is when you've made it to every bar and completed the crawl. Either that, or it's when time runs out. No matter how many venues you made it to, it's easy to navigate and make friends and memories along the way! Challenges of a Bar Crawl Bar crawls are all about the adventure, but they come with a few curveballs too. From navigating packed bars to keeping your squad together, here’s how to dodge the challenges and keep the good times rolling. Navigating Crowds One common hurdle participants may encounter is the sheer volume of people, especially in popular bars, which can lead to crowded spaces and extended waits for service. To tackle this, consider starting your crawl as early as possible, when venues are less crowded. This strategy not only allows for a more relaxed atmosphere but also enables more interaction with the bar staff and fellow crawlers. Keeping Everyone Together Another challenge is ensuring the group remains together amidst the hustle and bustle of moving from one venue to the next. Establishing a clear communication plan, such as group messaging through smartphones or designating specific meet-up points, can help maintain cohesion and reduce the risk of anyone getting lost. Pace Yourself It's easy to get swept up in the excitement and consume alcohol more quickly than intended. To mitigate this, actively intersperse water or non-alcoholic beverages between alcoholic ones and encourage the group to partake in available food options. These steps not only enhance endurance but also ensure that everyone can enjoy the entirety of the crawl safely. Being Flexible Lastly, the unpredictability of bar hopping—from unexpected venue closures to sudden changes in weather—requires flexibility and a positive attitude. Adapting to these unforeseen changes on the fly can turn potential setbacks into memorable parts of your bar crawl story. Bar Crawl Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts Ready to crawl like a pro? It’s all about having a blast while keeping things cool. From tipping right to not ghosting your crew, here are the do’s and don’ts to make sure your bar crawl is epic for you and everyone else around. Here are some essential do's and don'ts to guide your journey: Do respect the bartenders and waitstaff - Remember, they're working hard to ensure you have a great time. Patience and politeness go a long way. Do keep track of your alcohol consumption - It's easy to get carried away, but knowing your limits will ensure you and everyone else enjoys the night safely. Do take care of your belongings and be mindful of your surroundings - Crowded places can be tricky to navigate. Sometimes phones or purses go missing, and nobody wants that! Don't bring outside drinks into establishments - It's not only disrespectful but often against the rules. Don't forget to tip - Service industry professionals rely on tips, so show your appreciation for their service. Don't leave your group without informing someone - Stick together to ensure everyone's safety and to enhance the collective experience. By adhering to these etiquette tips, you'll contribute to a positive atmosphere, ensuring that your bar crawl is memorable for all the right reasons. Beyond the Bar: Other Crawl Varieties to Explore Bar crawls are just the beginning. For those looking to switch it up, there’s a whole world of crawl events out there. From food crawls that take your taste buds on a journey to brewery crawls where you can sample craft beers, the options are endless. Get ready to discover new flavors, sights, and vibes—one stop at a time. Food Crawls allow participants to sample dishes from multiple restaurants in one evening. Mix up cuisines or try to have Buffalo Wings from as many spots as you can handle! Brewery Crawls are perfect for those with a passion for craft beer, providing an inside look at the brewing process while tasting unique and local brews. Art Crawls can be a great way to explore local galleries, admire street art, or support local artists. These alternative crawl events are an opportunity to discover new aspects of a city's culture and community. Whether you're looking to indulge your taste buds, learn something new, or simply have a fun, themed night-out with friends, there's a crawl variety out there waiting to be explored. Now, do you feel like a bar crawl expert? Still have questions? Leave us a comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Discover Fort Worth's Nightlife: Bar Crawl

Fort Worth, Texas—a city that beautifully merges the Old West with a modern vibe. If you want to create a memorable night out, you are in for a special experience. Fort Worth's nightlife is vibrant, eclectic, and brimming with energy. Let’s dive into some of the best spots in town so you can bar crawl Fort Worth like a pro. Setting the Scene: Fort Worth Nightlife Picture this: the sun sets over the city, casting a golden hue over Fort Worth's skyline. As twilight descends, the streets come alive with music and the clinking of glasses. Whether you're exploring the buzzing West 7th district or venturing into the historic Stockyards, Fort Worth’s bar scene promises a night full of excitement and discovery. The Perfect Bar Crawl Route With so much on offer, it's hard to decide where to start. Each of these areas offers a distinct atmosphere and a variety of bars, making them all excellent choices for a Fort Worth bar crawl: 1. Kicking Off at West 7th West 7th is the heart of Fort Worth nightlife. A lively district that’s a must-visit for any bar crawl. Unique Fort Worth Bars in the West 7th Area El Chingon: This vibrant bar offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican cuisine and cocktails. Known for its lively atmosphere and colorful decor, El Chingon serves up delicious margaritas and a variety of tacos that make it a perfect for our Tacos & Margs Crawl. Wonder Bar: A favorite among locals, Wonder Bar is known for its eclectic decor and laid-back atmosphere. With a diverse drink menu that includes craft cocktails and local beers, it’s an ideal spot to relax and socialize. The bar often hosts themed nights and events, including seasonal pop ups for Halloween and Christmas, making it a fun and instagrammable addition to any bar crawl itinerary. Kung Fu Saloon: This bar combines a retro arcade vibe with a lively nightlife scene. Kung Fu Saloon features a wide selection of drinks, including signature cocktails and a variety of beers. The bar is famous for its arcade games and karaoke nights, providing a fun and interactive experience for guests. It's a great place to unleash your competitive spirit while enjoying a night out with friends. Incorporating these fun bars into your West 7th bar crawl will not only enhance your experience but also showcase the diverse nightlife options Fort Worth has to offer. That's why all Bar Crawl Nation Fort Worth events take place in this buzzing neighborhood. 2. A Taste of History at The Stockyards No visit to Fort Worth is complete without a stop at the historic Stockyards. Here, the old Western charm meets modern nightlife. Head over to White Elephant Saloon, one of the oldest bars in the city. With live country music and a dance floor, it’s a place where you can let loose and perhaps show off your two-step. After dancing your heart out, mosey on to H3 Ranch, a bar and grill where you can refuel with some mouthwatering Texas BBQ and a cold beer. 3. A Change of Pace at Sundance Square As the night progresses, it's worth wandering over to Sundance Square. This area offers a more laid-back yet sophisticated vibe. Start at Flying Saucer, famous for its extensive beer selection. With over 200 brews to choose from, beer enthusiasts will feel right at home. For a more upscale experience, Scat Jazz Lounge awaits. Tucked away in a basement, this hidden gem offers live jazz music in an intimate setting. Order a classic cocktail and let the smooth sounds of jazz transport you to another era. Interactive Elements and Engaging Fun What’s a bar crawl without some interactive fun? Here are some ideas to make it a night to remember: Photo Challenges Encourage friends to partake in a photo challenge. Create a list of specific photos they need to capture throughout the night—perhaps a selfie with a cowboy hat at White Elephant Saloon or a group shot with neon lights in the background at West 7th. Offer a prize for the most creative or completed list. Kindly note that your request may be unrelated to the content of the article. However, here are two additional ideas to make bar hopping fun and interactive: Themed Costume Night Encourage everyone in your group to dress according to a specific theme, such as '80s retro, cowboy chic, or favorite movie characters. This not only adds an element of fun but also creates great opportunities for memorable photos and conversations with other patrons. You can even have a mini fashion show at one of the bars to showcase everyone's outfits! Drink Tasting Challenge Create a drink tasting challenge where each person in the group orders a different signature cocktail or local brew from the bar's menu. After sampling, everyone can rate their drinks on a scale of 1 to 10. At the end of the night, tally the scores to determine the group's favorite drink of the evening. This encourages trying new flavors and can lead to lively discussions about everyone's preferences! Incorporating these interactive elements can enhance the overall experience of your Fort Worth bar crawl, making it even more enjoyable and memorable. Wrapping Up the Night Fort Worth's bar scene offers not just a night out, but an experience—a journey through the city's vibrant nightlife that leaves you with stories to tell and memories to forget. Whether you're planning an event or simply enjoying the night, Fort Worth’s bars are ready to welcome you with open arms. So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and get ready to discover Fort Worth’s nightlife like never before!

Halloween Costume Inspo by Zodiac Sign

Are you struggling to figure out what to wear this Halloween? Look no further than the stars! Your zodiac sign can reveal the perfect costume to match your personality. Whether you're bold like Aries or whimsical like Pisces, we've got all the costume inspo you need. The article is for the ladies, the men's version is coming soon! And don’t forget, these costumes are perfect for our "Boos Fest" Halloween Bar Crawl—click here to find an event near you! Aries – The Fierce Gladiator Bold and brave, Aries loves to make a statement. Step into Halloween with confidence in this gladiator-inspired costume, and let everyone know you’re ready for battle. Taurus – The Regal Cleopatra Grounded yet indulgent, Taurus gravitates towards luxury. Channel the elegance of Cleopatra and rule your Halloween night like a true queen. Gemini – The Playful Two-Faced Jester Gemini's dual nature shines through with this two-faced jester look. It’s versatile, fun, and bound to keep everyone guessing at the party! Cancer – The Nostalgic Ghost Bride Cancer’s sentimental side is perfect for this hauntingly beautiful ghost bride costume. With vintage vibes, you’ll captivate the room with a mix of spooky and sweet. Leo – The Glamorous Lion Queen For Leo, Halloween is just another chance to be the center of attention. This dazzling Lion Queen costume is sure to put you in the spotlight. Virgo – The Sleek Detective Virgo’s eye for detail shines in this smart, stylish detective costume. Perfect for uncovering all the fun secrets at your Halloween bash! Libra – The Graceful Ballerina With their love of balance and beauty, Libras are natural ballerinas. This classic costume, with a soft tulle skirt, delicate ballet slippers, and a sparkling tiara, will highlight Libra’s elegance and poise. Whether you’re spinning across the dance floor or striking a pose, you’ll be the picture of grace, making a lasting impression at any Halloween party. Scorpio – The Enigmatic Witch Scorpios are known for their mysterious and powerful energy, making a witch costume the perfect fit. With a dark, flowing robe, wide-brimmed hat, and a touch of magical accessories like a broom or crystal pendant, you’ll channel Scorpio’s intense, mystical side. This costume embodies the sign’s transformative power, leaving a lasting impression wherever you go this Halloween. Sagittarius – The Adventurous Pirate For the thrill-seeking Sagittarius, nothing says adventure like a pirate costume. You’ll be the life of the party, ready to set sail on a night of fun. Capricorn – The Powerful CEO Capricorn knows how to command a room, and this CEO costume is sleek, powerful, and perfect for showing off your ambitious side. Aquarius – The Futuristic Alien Aquarius loves standing out from the crowd. Embrace your quirky, eccentric side with this glowing, futuristic alien costume—otherworldly in the best way. Pisces – The Dreamy Mermaid Pisces will feel right at home in this whimsical mermaid costume. Full of fantasy and sparkle, it’s the perfect fit for the sign that lives in a dreamy world.