Halloween Activities Abound in Ankeny

Be on the lookout – goblins, ghosts and ghouls will overtake the streets of Ankeny in the coming days.

Many local organizations are planning Halloween activities for Ankeny children. Events will kick off tonight and continue through Oct. 30.

Trick or treat? Take your pick.

Oct. 20: Halloween in Uptown Ankeny

The will host its annual trick-or-treating event tonight from 5 to 7 p.m.

Kids can visit participating businesses in Uptown Ankeny for treats. Just look for the lit pumpkins in business windows. When you're out and about, don't forget to stop by Jamison Studios to have free pictures of your kids taken in their costumes.

Spooky storytelling also will be held at the from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 23: Trick-or-Treat Mini Golf

The Ankeny Optimist Club is sponsoring its seventh annual Trick-or-Treat Mini Golf on Sunday from 1-3 p.m.. The event will be held at Putt Masters, located at 2977 N.W. 66th Ave. southwest of Ankeny.

Kids and families can play a few holes of mini golf and trick-or-treat as they play. Don't hesitate to dress up because costumes are welcome.

The event is free and is weather permitting.

Oct. 25: Trick-or-Read at

The library will hold its annual Trick-or-Read event from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Kids in costume can come to the library for stories, crafts, a special holiday movie and more.

The event is free and no pre-registration is required.

Oct. 27: Creepy Capers at the Lakeside Center

The will hold its Creepy Capers event from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the near Hawkeye Park.

Kids ages 2-7 can participate in games, collecting goodies, decorating cookies, roasting marshmallows and more.

The cost to attend Creepy Capers is $7 for Ankeny residents and $8.50 for non-Ankeny residents. Pre-registration is required by calling Parks and Recreation at 515-963-3570 or by visiting the city's website.

Oct. 30: Beggars' Night in Ankeny

Beggars' Night will be held throughout the city of Ankeny from 6 to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 30. Residents are encouraged to turn on their porch lights to indicate "beggars" are welcome at their homes.

The also wants to remind residents to keep safety in mind during Beggars' Night. Keep sidewalks clear of debris and keep pets inside and restrained. Drivers also should be cautious of children out and about on the streets and sidewalks

Did we miss a Halloween event? Add it to our events calendar!