The city has lifted its ban on trick-or-treating, which was put in place in 1938 due to a series of child abductions in the city. The ban was reinstated in 2019 after a 2018 incident in which a 7-year-old boy was attacked by a stranger in a park while trick-or-treating. The ban was intended to protect children from potential dangers, but it has been criticized for being overly restrictive and limiting children’s freedom.
The History of the Ban
The ban on trick-or-treating in Des Moines was put in place in 1938 due to a series of child abductions in the city. At the time, the city was experiencing a wave of child abductions, and the authorities were concerned about the safety of children going door-to-door asking for candy.
The Reinstatement of the Ban
The ban was reinstated in 2019 after a 2018 incident in which a 7-year-old boy was attacked by a stranger in a park while trick-or-treating. The incident highlighted the potential risks associated with trick-or-treating, and the authorities decided to reinstate the ban to protect children from potential harm.
The event has been a part of Des Moines’ cultural heritage for over 100 years.
History of Beggars Night
Beggars Night has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The event was initially organized by the Des Moines chapter of the American Legion. The purpose of the event was to encourage children to engage in creative activities such as singing, writing, and reciting poetry. This was done to promote a sense of community and cultural heritage among the children. The event was first held in 1923 and has been a part of Des Moines’ cultural heritage for over 100 years.
The Celebration
The Beggars Night celebration is a unique and fun event that brings together children and adults alike. The event features a variety of activities such as:
The event is usually held on the last Thursday of October, but due to heavy rains and thunderstorms expected in the area, the event has been moved to Thursday, October 31.
The Significance of Beggars Night
Beggars Night is significant because it promotes a sense of community and cultural heritage among the children. The event encourages children to engage in creative activities, which helps to develop their imagination and creativity. Additionally, the event provides an opportunity for children to interact with their peers and develop social skills.
“We’re the only ones who still do it.”
The Origins of Beggars’ Night
Beggars’ Night, also known as Halloween, has a rich and complex history that spans over 2,000 years. The ancient Celtic festival of Samhain marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter, which was believed to be a time of death and darkness. The Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes to ward off spirits and to guide the spirits of the dead back to the afterlife.
The Influence of Christianity
As Christianity spread throughout Europe, the early Christian church attempted to eliminate the pagan traditions of the Celts. In the 7th century, Pope Boniface IV designated November 1st as All Saints’ Day, a day to honor the saints and martyrs of the Christian faith. The evening before All Saints’ Day became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which was later shortened to Halloween.
The Evolution of Beggars’ Night
In the 19th century, the tradition of Beggars’ Night began to take shape in the United States. The term “Beggars’ Night” was first used in the 1830s to describe the evening before Halloween, which was seen as a time for people to dress up in costumes and beg for food and other treats.
The Rise of Trick-or-Treating
In the early 20th century, the tradition of trick-or-treating became popular in the United States. Children would go door-to-door, asking for candy and other treats, while adults would often dress up in costumes and participate in other festivities.
The Impact of Commercialization
In the mid-20th century, the tradition of Beggars’ Night began to be heavily commercialized.
“The big picture for me is, it’s absolutely about the kids. That’s the most important thing.”