Des Moines Lifts Its Longstanding Halloween Trick-or-Treating Ban

For the first time since 1938, the city of Des Moines, Iowa, will allow kids to go trick-or-treating on October 31st, marking the end of a unique and longstanding tradition that had banned the Halloween activity for over eight decades. This decision, prompted by inclement weather forecasts, signifies a shift in the city’s approach to embracing the nationwide celebration of Halloween.

The Origins of Des Moines’ Trick-or-Treating Ban

Des Moines’ ban on trick-or-treating on Halloween dates back to 1938, when the city faced a surge in vandalism and mischief on October 31st. According to historical accounts, the police received over 500 complaints of serious “tricks,” including brick-throwing and fire-setting incidents. In response, city officials took a proactive approach to curb these disruptive behaviors.

Instead of allowing traditional trick-or-treating on Halloween night, Des Moines designated October 30th, or “Halloween Eve,” as the designated day for children to dress up and solicit treats. However, there was a catch – instead of asking for candy, kids were encouraged to offer up jokes, songs, or poetry, all within a limited timeframe that typically ended around 8 p.m.

While this approach didn’t entirely eliminate mischievous behavior (one group reportedly tossed a kerosene-soaked rag into a home, causing a fire), it proved to be effective in dampening the aspirations of young troublemakers and minimizing delinquency on Halloween night.

The Ban Endures for Over 80 Years

For over eight decades, Des Moines remained one of the few cities in the United States to maintain such strict regulations surrounding Halloween celebrations. While other regions adopted various names for the night before Halloween, such as “Mischief Night” in Philadelphia and New Jersey, or “Devil’s Night” in Detroit, Des Moines’ “Beggars’ Night” tradition persisted as a unique approach to managing Halloween-related mischief.

Even as societal norms and attitudes toward Halloween evolved over time, Des Moines’ ban on trick-or-treating on October 31st remained firmly in place. According to Assistant City Manager Jen Schulte, the city has never moved or canceled its “Beggars’ Night” since its establishment in 1938, prioritizing the safety of residents and children above all else.

The Lifting of the Ban and Its Implications

In 2023, however, Des Moines made a historic decision to lift its longstanding ban on trick-or-treating on Halloween night. The catalyst for this change was inclement weather – thunderstorms and potential hail were forecasted for October 30th, prompting city officials to shift the celebration to October 31st, aligning with the rest of the country’s traditions.

While this decision may seem like a minor adjustment, it holds significant symbolic value and reflects the city’s willingness to embrace cultural norms and evolve with the times. By allowing trick-or-treating on Halloween night, Des Moines is not only ensuring the safety of its residents but also acknowledging the importance of preserving traditions and fostering a sense of community.

The lifting of Des Moines’ ban on Halloween trick-or-treating also raises questions about the legal implications of such restrictions. Some legal experts have suggested that blanket bans on trick-or-treating could potentially infringe upon First Amendment rights, as the act of door-to-door solicitation for expressive purposes, such as trick-or-treating, has been upheld by the Supreme Court in various contexts.

Attorney Daniel Ortner, in a 2019 article, argued that “trick-or-treating is consistent with this tradition of expressive door-to-door activity. A trick-or-treater’s costume can be a form of speech protected against government censorship. Costumes are a way for people to express their likes and dislikes, and even to comment on politics and social issues.”

While Des Moines’ decision to lift the ban may not have been directly motivated by legal concerns, it aligns with the broader recognition of the expressive and cultural significance of Halloween traditions.

Embracing Change and Celebrating Traditions

As Des Moines embraces this new chapter in its Halloween celebrations, it will be interesting to observe how the city adapts to the potential influx of trick-or-treaters on October 31st. While the city has maintained a curfew of 8 p.m. for the festivities, it remains to be seen whether any mischievous behavior will resurface or if the community will embrace the change with open arms.

Regardless of the outcome, the lifting of Des Moines’ longstanding trick-or-treating ban serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions while also acknowledging the need for societal evolution and adaptation. By embracing change and fostering a sense of community, cities like Des Moines can strike a balance between celebrating cherished traditions and ensuring the safety and well-being of their residents.

Conclusion

Des Moines’ decision to lift its 85-year-old ban on Halloween trick-or-treating marks a significant milestone in the city’s history. While the origins of the ban were rooted in practical concerns over public safety and vandalism, its endurance for over eight decades had become a unique cultural phenomenon. By aligning with the rest of the country’s Halloween traditions, Des Moines is not only addressing practical considerations but also acknowledging the importance of preserving cultural traditions and fostering a sense of community. As the city embraces this change, it serves as a reminder of the need to balance tradition with societal evolution, ensuring that cherished celebrations are celebrated in a safe and inclusive manner.