By Jared Curtis
High Life Lounge
Celebrate Groundhog Day with free beer
The High Life Lounge is one of Des Moines’ most iconic bars. People from all over the country have heard of its classic ’70s vibe with its wood paneling, retro beer selection, food that Mom use to make and some of the coolest bar signs in town. The bar was an answer in a Des Moines based category on “Jeopardy,” has been named one of the best bars in America by Esquire magazine, and The New York Times travel section called it one of the places to visit while in town.
“When we originally opened, our goal was to create a small, retro-style corner tavern, but it has become our busiest bar,” said Jeff Bruning, a partner with Full Court Press, which owns The Royal Mile and el Bait Shop, among others. “It’s nice to receive such national recognition.”
Although Full Court Press holds a number of fantastic events throughout the year at their bars, Groundhog Day at the High Life is one of the most popular.
“This year will be are sixth Groundhog Day event, celebrating our five-year anniversary,” Bruning said. “And in the tradition of the movie (“Groundhog Day” with Bill Murray), we celebrate our grand opening every year.”
On Tuesday, Feb. 2, patrons will gather at the bar for free beer, breakfast specials and the chance to see Polk County Paula emerge from the High Life bus and look for her shadow. If she doesn’t see her shadow, winter will soon end. But if she does see her shadow, we could continue with one of the worst winters we’ve experienced in recent memory.
“When we started, people were upset we didn’t have a real groundhog, but I think a mascot is more animated than an actual groundhog,” Bruning said. “Originally, we had Polk County Paul, but that didn’t work out so we had to bring in his estranged lover, Polk County Paula.”
The event kicks off at 6 a.m. with free High Life beer being served until 8 a.m., along with breakfast specials served until 11 a.m. Around 7:30 a.m., Polk County Paula appears along with the High Life Moon Lady (famous logo). Since some patrons can’t take the time off work for a morning drinking session, the owners have expanded the celebration this year. Polk County Paula will return to Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. with beer specials and live music from Mr. Baber’s Neighbors (at el Bait Shop).
“The real party is from 6 to 8 a.m. But we wanted to give the people that couldn’t make it a chance to celebrate,” he said. “I never thought it would catch on like this.”
As a multiple year attendee, this nightlife writer can vouch Groundhog Day is truly one of the funniest and most unique events in town.
“It’s a great way to give back to our customers and create a real sense of community at the bar,” Bruning said. “It’s been a long cold winter, and it’s always fun to get out of the house and do something different. Besides, when’s the last time since college you had the chance to go to a bar at 6 a.m.?” CV
Caption: Attendees at the Groundhog Day event (Tuesday, Feb. 2) celebrate with Polk County Paula at the High Life Lounge, 200 S.W. 2nd St. Hours are 11 to 2 a.m., daily. For information specials and menus, visit www.thehighlifelounge.com.
