This Minnesota Town Is the Halloween Capital of the World

Minnesota is home to many haunted houses, spooky corn mazes, and terrifying hayrides. But did you know it is also home to an entire Halloween-themed town? Every fall, Anoka, Minnesota, transforms into a delightful, terrifying Halloween wonderland, making it, hands-down, the best Halloween town in Minnesota. It also happens to be the Halloween Capital of the World, yso ou know it'll be a good time. Halloween is just around the corner, and there is still time to enjoy the spooky decorations, intricate pumpkins, and festive costumes. You really have to see it for yourself!

Anoka, Minnesota, hosted its first town-wide Halloween celebration way back in 1920, to deter rambunctious teens and children from pranking local residences and businesses on Halloween night. In 1937, the town's Congressional representative proclaimed Anoka the Halloween Capital of the World on the floor of the House of Representatives. The records from the proceedings were lost, so in 2003, the city's then representative made the proclamation in the House, once again. The community's Halloween committee has since trademarked the phrase "Anoka Halloween Capital of the World" and registered it.

So, who's to argue?

Over 100-plus years since it began hosting its Halloween celebration, Anoka has become a go-to spot for all things spooky every fall—and many consider it the best place to celebrate Halloween in Minnesota.

The town hosts many wonderful Halloween-themed events every year, including several costumed, candy-filled parades. There are also pumpkin-carving contests that are sure to delight people of all ages.

For those who want something just a bit more spooky, Anoka even hosts a community haunted house at the county fairgrounds. It may not be the scariest Halloween town in Minnesota, but it's the liveliest. Even when all of the official events are done, Anoka still manages to be downright creepy. The town is home to many decorated houses. It's a great place to stroll around after dark so that you can see the fun and creativity in action.

Whether you're up for a light-hearted Halloween celebration or a terrifying walk through a haunted house, Anoka is the town to be in each Halloween. When it comes to fall events in Minnesota, Anoka belongs on your bucket list. The Halloween Capital of the World is full of tricks, treats, and everything you need to have a festive Halloween!

The month-long celebration begins in October, so mark your calendar so you don't pass up visiting the best Halloween town in Minnesota! Although the town doesn't charge admission, some events may have an entry fee. For a complete list of events, visit Anoka Halloween Capital of the World online.

Have you ever visited Anoka during Halloween? What did you think? Is there another town in Minnesota that goes the extra mile for Halloween? If so, we'd love to hear about it on our Nomination Page. If you're feeling inspired to explore other spooky towns in the Bold North, try planning your adventure using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.