What Changed in 2025?

For years, many Des Moines suburbs held trick-or-treating on October 30 (Beggars’ Night). In March 2025, the Des Moines City Council voted to make October 31 the permanent trick-or-treat date.

Ankeny is also on board with the change. According to local sources, Ankeny will hold Trick-or-Treat on Friday, October 31, from 6 to 8 p.m. Catch Des Moines+1

This alignment across metro communities reduces confusion and helps families plan more easily.

Des Moines Metro Trick-or-Treat Schedule 2025

Community	Date	Time	Notes
Des Moines	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Trick-or-treating moves to Halloween.
West Des Moines	October 31	6–8 p.m. (anticipated)	Approved the switch to October 31. KCCI+1
Ankeny	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Confirmed for Halloween night. Catch Des Moines+2KCCI+2
Waukee	October 31	6–8 p.m.	City council approved the move. Waukee
Indianola	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Moved to Halloween night. KCCI
Adel	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Part of metro-wide update. KCCI
De Soto	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Included in the metro change. KCCI
Pleasant Hill	October 31	6–8 p.m.	Now on Halloween night. KCCI

Tips for a Fun and Safe Halloween Evening

Double-check your local schedule — though many cities have adopted October 31, some smaller areas may still differ.

Use visibility in costumes — glow sticks, reflective tape, or flashlights can help keep trick-or-treaters safe.

Stick with a buddy — going in groups is safer.

Inspect treats before kids eat them — discard anything suspicious or unwrapped.

Stay in well-lit, active neighborhoods — safer for both trick-or-treaters and homeowners.

Happy Trick-or-Treating!

Whether you’re in Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, or the suburbs, get ready for a memorable night of treats and spooky joy. From all of us at J. Bos Inc. Roofing Services, Happy Trick-or-Treating!