Why is Anoka, Minnesota the Halloween Capital of the World?

What do you picture when you hear the title “Halloween Capital of the World”? Maybe a ghost town? Or somewhere with old, crumbling buildings and spooks around every corner? 

Well, as it turns out, the Halloween Capital of the World is a cozy city nestled on the Mississippi. It’s got a population of more than 17,000 people, none of whom are ghosts, zombies, or goblins. At least, we think not. As you stroll through its downtown, poking around small businesses, historic buildings, and riverside parks, you may find yourself wondering, What is so Halloween about this place?

Back in 1920, Anoka residents were beset by all manner of Halloween pranks by local children. (“Cows roaming Main Street, windows soaped and outhouses tipped over,” for example.) You can imagine the local officials waking up to a town in chaos, shouting “ENOUGH! End these dastardly tricks!”

So this was their clever solution: A big Halloween party, to district the kids from their shenanigans. Apparently it worked, because it became a staple of Anoka life. What started as a costume parade and block party has grown, until now virtually the whole month of October is filled with festivities and events. 

Find out all about Halloween in Anoka at www.anokahalloween.com.

Discover all Anoka has to offer—events, shopping, history, and more—at www.discoveranoka.com.