On Wednesday evening, the Runnells City Council approved a resolution to maintain the city’s historic Beggars’ Night celebration on October 30. Mayor Josh Davis announced the decision, emphasizing the importance of preserving a tradition that has brought families together for generations.
Why Beggars’ Night Matters to Runnells
Beggar’s Night, a practice that dates back to the 1930s in the Des Moines metro area, designates the Saturday before Halloween as the official night for trick‑or‑treating. Residents appreciate the earlier date because it allows children to enjoy candy‑collecting without the crowds and traffic that typically accompany October 31.
Two years ago, many neighboring municipalities abandoned the tradition, moving celebrations to Halloween night after a surge of calls from parents who preferred the classic schedule. Runnells chose a different path, listening to local families who value the early‑night festivities.
Council Vote and Community Response
The council’s vote was unanimous, reflecting broad community support. In the meeting, council members highlighted the safety benefits of an earlier trick‑or‑treat night, noting that younger children can finish their celebrations before dark and before the larger Halloween crowds arrive.
Mayor Davis said, “Keeping Beggars’ Night on October 30 honors our heritage and provides a safe, family‑friendly environment for our kids. It’s a decision rooted in the values of our community—faith, family, and freedom to celebrate responsibly.”
How the Tradition Fits Into the Wider Region
While Des Moines shifted its own Beggars’ Night to Halloween, several suburbs have retained the October 30 date, and others have created unique schedules. For example, nearby Bondurant holds its celebration on the last Saturday in October, which falls on October 31 this year but will revert to October 30 in 2027.
Runnells’ commitment adds to a patchwork of local approaches, illustrating how municipalities can tailor holiday observances to the preferences of their residents while still respecting regional customs.
What Parents Can Expect
City officials confirmed that the October 30 celebration will include standard safety measures: well‑lit streets, volunteer “trick‑or‑treat patrols,” and clear guidelines for participating households. Parents are encouraged to post signs indicating whether they are handing out candy and to keep children within sight at all times.
The council also plans to work with the local police department to ensure a visible presence on the night, reinforcing the community’s commitment to a safe and orderly event.
Looking Ahead
Runnells’ decision underscores the city’s dedication to preserving local customs that reinforce family bonds and community cohesion. By keeping Beggars’ Night on October 30, the council affirms a tradition that aligns with the values of faith, family, and individual liberty that many residents hold dear.
Families can look forward to a night of costumes, candy, and neighborly camaraderie, confident that their city supports a celebration that honors both history and safety.
Original reporting: KCCI Des Moines — read the source article.
