DES MOINES, Iowa — In Iowa, Beggars’ Night 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.
According to the State Historical Society of Iowa, the Des Moines metro tradition dates back to 1938. During the 1930s, there was a high volume of mischief and vandalism reported each year, especially on Halloween night.
Some people became concerned for the safety and well-being of their children who would typically be out trick-or-treating on that same night. To reduce this fear, the City of Des Moines created Beggars’ Night.
By having the tasty Halloween fun just one night earlier, police were able to focus more on stopping petty crime and reducing vandalism on the 31st.
Within just a few years, the rate of criminal mischief or vandalism on Halloween night dropped substantially, and Beggars’ Night lived on.
Now, more than 80 years later, Des Moines and surrounding communities still celebrate it on the 30th.
Central Iowa isn’t the only place across the United States that recognizes Beggars’ Night. Cities in both Ohio and Missouri have also taken part in the frightening fun.