Trick-or-Treating Returns to Des Moines After Decades
Des Moines, Iowa – For the first time in decades, children in Des Moines will have the chance to participate in the beloved Halloween tradition of trick-or-treating, albeit with a slight twist. The city’s annual "Beggars’ Night," traditionally held on the evening of October 30, has been postponed to accommodate the forecasted storms expected to hit the area, which may include severe weather like tornadoes and hail.
The tradition of Beggars’ Night dates back to 1938, when Des Moines faced a rise in vandalism and violence on Halloween night. In that year alone, police documented over 500 incidents, prompting city leaders to create a safer and more community-driven alternative. Ever since, children have taken to the streets a day early, entertaining homeowners by telling jokes in exchange for candy.
The Des Moines Register reported that previous jokes shared by trick-or-treaters include playful queries such as, “How does a cucumber become a pickle? It goes through a jarring experience?” and “Why don’t lobsters share? Because they’re shellfish.” This unique twist not only engages the children but also fosters camaraderie among neighbors.
Beggars’ Night has since expanded beyond Des Moines, influencing trick-or-treating traditions in various communities across Iowa and Ohio. As anticipation builds for the rescheduled event, families in the capital are eager to uphold this cherished local custom while navigating the challenges posed by unpredictable weather conditions.
The focus remains on keeping the Halloween spirit alive, highlighting the community’s resilience and commitment to ensuring that children can enjoy this festive occasion safely.
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