Metro Communities Select Halloween for Trick-or-Treating in 2025

Metro communities in Iowa, led by Des Moines, have announced a transition to Trick-or-Treating on Halloween, October 31, starting in 2025, following a resident survey indicating a clear preference for this date. This decision marks a potential end to the traditional Beggars' Night celebrated on October 30, a custom that has been part of local culture for decades. Communities such as Clive, Johnston, and Pleasant Hill have supported this change, with more likely to follow as the new date approaches. Clive Mayor John Edwards, who chaired the Metropolitan Advisory Council committee, emphasized the importance of aligning community practices to reflect resident input. Des Moines Mayor Connie Boesen acknowledged the increasing calls for change, stating that the community's voice will play a crucial role in shaping future Halloween celebrations.

While the date will change, officials assure that beloved traditions, such as children sharing jokes while trick-or-treating, will remain intact. Some communities, like Bondurant and Windsor Heights, may continue with their existing schedules for Trick-or-Treating on the Saturday before Halloween. This decision highlights a collaborative effort among metro communities to enhance the Halloween experience for families in the region.