DES MOINES, Iowa — Beggars' Night in Iowa happens on Oct. 30 every year, just one night before Halloween. It’s not much different than ordinary trick-or-treating, except that kids are encouraged to tell a joke or riddle in order to snag some candy.
Here are some tips to stay safe during Beggars' Night 2021.
There will be lots of drivers on the road, so it's important to make sure your kids are visible at night, both Des Moines and West Des Moines police advised.
"We want to encourage all kids, parents, and guardians to please try to make kids as visible as they possibly can be," WDMPD Sgt. Jason Heintz said.
They also advise kids to wear glowsticks, reflective clothing items and carry flashlights they can attach to their costumes to stay visible.
"Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep heads up and walk, don't run, across the street," Des Moines Police Department advised in a press release.
Police also advise parents to go through their kids' candy and treats before they eat them.
For drivers, police say watch out for kids—especially in dark clothing—and pull in and out of driveways and alleys carefully.
The CDC also says while outdoor trick or treating is safe, it's important that people should still avoid large gatherings and stay in smaller groups while out and about.
