DES MOINES, Iowa — For the first time since 1938, children in Des Moines, Iowa, will go trick-or-treating on Halloween.
Going door to door for candy on All Hallows’ Eve has long been common across the country, but not in Des Moines, where the Iowa capital took a different approach more than 70 years ago in hopes of putting a stop to hooliganism .
Instead, Des Moines children put on their costumes on Beggar’s Night, usually the day before Halloween. And in addition to shouting “Trick-or-Treat,” children are expected to tell a joke before receiving a treat.
This year, Beggar’s Night was scheduled for Wednesday, but because of expected heavy rain and thunderstorms, officials postponed trick-or-treating until Thursday, which is normal Halloween for the rest of the country.
“To my knowledge it has never been moved or canceled since it was established after Halloween in 1938,” Assistant City Manager Jen Schulte said. “However, the safety of our residents, families and children is always our top priority and has led to the change to this year’s planned Geuzennacht.”
The city started this unusual practice at the suggestion of a former city parks director as a way to reduce vandalism and promote more healthy fun for children. Initially, children were encouraged to sing a song, recite poetry and provide some other form of entertainment, but over time a joke became the most common offering.
Beggar’s Night also has limited hours, typically from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Many Des Moines suburbs also adopted the tradition of Beggars’ Night, choosing to shift the celebration to Halloween this year.
“I didn’t realize we were such an exception because for us this is normal,” said Debbie Westphal Swander, a costume shop owner in West Des Moines. “We will certainly be in sync this year with the way the event is celebrated everywhere else.
“The big picture for me is that it is absolutely about the kids. That is the most important thing.”
