[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 78 (Thursday, June 13, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1031]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            ANOKA, MINNESOTA: HALLOWEEN CAPITAL OF THE WORLD

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                            HON. BILL LUTHER

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 12, 2002

  Mr. LUTHER. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the city of Anoka, 
MN, for their longstanding tradition of community oriented Halloween 
festivities. On May 20, 2002, the city council of Anoka, MN, reaffirmed 
their proclamation of Anoka as ``Halloween Capital of the World.'' 
Celebrating Halloween as a community for over 80 years, the people of 
Anoka are proud of their unique tradition. Anoka is thought to be the 
first to put on a citywide celebration and parade to provide families 
with alternative activities and fun on Halloween.
  Local historians have traced the Anoka Halloween tradition back to 
its initial celebration in 1920. That year, local civic organizations, 
businessmen, teachers, city workers, and the National Guard joined 
together and planned the first Halloween celebration. This celebration 
provided a fun and safe environment in which to enjoy Halloween and has 
been a major community event ever since. Due to the celebration's size 
and community significance, Anoka first proclaimed itself the 
``Halloween Capital of the World'' in 1937.
  The community's ongoing commitment to the celebration is clearly 
reflected in year-round planning that includes citizens of all ages. In 
this way, the Halloween celebration is a unique civic asset and Anoka 
certainly lives up to its title as ``Halloween Capital of the World.''

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