ANOKA, Minn. (Oct. 17, 2013) – Take a stroll down Main Street in Anoka, MN, and you’ll understand why the city is widely acknowledged as the Halloween Capital of the World. However, what is less known is the history behind this prestigious title. Anoka’s grand Halloween celebrations began in 1920 in an effort to divert local youth from performing Halloween pranks; soaping windows and tipping cows were among the favored pranks of the time. By 1937, the city was officially proclaimed The Halloween Capital of the World.
Since then, the month-long celebration has changed and evolved into a scary good time. This year’s events include a carnival, the annual Orange Tie Ball, the first-ever Anoka Halloween Amazing Race, pumpkin carving and house decorating contests, wine tastings, a medallion hunt, and many more activities. Of course, it wouldn’t be Halloween in Anoka without a parade or two. This year’s parades feature visiting royalty from other cities and 15 bands from area high schools. The Light Up the Night Parade begins at 7:00 p.m. on Oct. 19, while Grand Day Parade starts at 1:00 p.m. on Oct. 26. Both will take place on Main Street. Rest assured, there will be plenty of parade candy to go around.
The medallion featured in the medallion hunt varies from year to year—some years it features a popular children’s character, while on others it bears the emblem of the celebration’s official button. However this year’s hunt also comes with a very sweet prize: a 5lb Pearson’s Salted Nut Roll.
At the heart of all the fun and games is a good cause, promoting and supporting the wellbeing of Anoka and the surrounding communities. Grants, awards, and scholarships are given out to youth from around the community, as well as recognition for the Youth Citizen Scholarship and the Youth Service Award.
Jeremy McFarland, President of Anoka Halloween Inc., promises the event has something to offer for everyone. So come one, come all, to the spookiest celebration around— in the Halloween Capitol of the world.
For a full list of events, visit Anoka Halloween’s official website.
