For 45 long years, the children of Des Moines, Iowa, were deprived of the joy of trick or treating on Halloween. The tradition was abruptly halted 1979 after a series of vandalism and safety concerns led local authorities to ban trick or treating to ensure the safety of it’s residents. Despite various efforts to bring it back , safety concerns kept the ban in place.
In 2022 , a group of dedicated community members formed the ” Halloween Revival committee” to address these safety issues and advocate for the return of trick-or -treating. They worked local enforcement , neighborhood associates, and city officials to develop a plan that included increased police patrols, designated trick- or -treating hours, and community watch programs. Their efforts paid off, and in 2024, the city council voted to lift the ban.
On October 31 , 2024, the streets of Des Moines were filled with laughter and excitement of children in costumes, eagerly going door- to door for the first time in 45 years. The community came together to make the night special, with houses decorated in elaborate Halloween themes and residents handing out candy with smiles on their faces
The revival of trick or treating in Des Moines was more than just a return to an old tradition; it was a testament to the power of community and the importance of preserving the magic of childhood. The children of Des Moines finally got to experience the thrill of trick or treating, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
