Introduction to Halloween Weekend in Chicago
Halloween weekend has arrived and whether you’re looking for something spooky or just a festive time, there are plenty of options in and around Chicago.
Here’s a look at what’s going on this weekend:
Haunted Events
Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
WHAT: Presented by Northalsted Business Alliance, the 28th annual Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade in Chicago’s landmark LGBTQ Northalsted neighborhood, with registration open one hour before parade.
WHERE: Kickoff at Halsted & Belmont and travels to Halsted & Cornelia
WHEN: 6:30 p.m. registration; 7:30 p.m. parade kickoff; 8:30 p.m. awards show
Xempasúchil:Dia de los Muertos
WHAT: The Little Village Chamber of Commerce invites you to "Xempasúchil," a special two-day event celebrating the spirit of Día de los Muertos. Enjoy traditional ofrendas at local businesses, free traditional food, photo booths, and more.
WHERE: Throughout Little Village, Chicago
WHEN: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2
Fall Festivals
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm’s Fall Fest
WHAT: Bengston’s Pumkin Farm’s Fall Fest features over 25 incredible attractions, 14 family-friendly rides, adorable animals, delicious treats, and endless photo ops.
WHERE: 13341 W. 151st St., Homer Glen
WHEN: 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Oct. 30-31; 10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. Nov. 1-2
Bar Fest and Parties
Halloween Bar Fest
WHAT: In partnership with Mad City and Bucket Listers, Navy Pier is hosting a Spooktacular Halloween Bar Fest at Offshore Rooftop, Harry Caray’s Tavern, Margaritaville, Billy Goat Tavern, Bar Sol Mariscos and Reunion by Chef Art Smith.
WHERE: 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
WHEN: 2-7p.m. on Nov. 1
SlooMooWeen
WHAT: The Sloomoo Institute’s Sloomooween is a family-friendly, slime soaked experience, that transforms the entire Sloomoom playground into a spooky, interactive Halloween experience.
WHERE: 820 N. Orleans St., Chicago
WHEN: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. on Oct. 31
On Stage Performances
On Stage: ‘Paranormal Activity’
WHAT: Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s acclaimed production of ‘Paranormal Activity’ is an original story based on the iconic horror film franchise.
WHERE: 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
WHEN: runs through Nov. 2
On Stage: ‘TWIHARD! A Twilight Musical Parody’
WHAT: For the final weekend of ‘TWIHARD! A Twilight Musical Parody’, Twihards can participate in the production more than ever with new interactive elements inspired by the cult-favorite tradition.
WHERE: Apollo Theater, 2550 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
WHEN: runs through Nov. 1
On Stage: ‘The Sound of Music’
WHAT: ‘The Sound of Music’ is the iconic tale of a spirited nun who chooses not to live behind closed doors – and, by following her heart, learns to climb every mountain.
WHERE: James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St. Chicago
WHEN: Runs through Nov. 2
On Stage: ‘Godspell’
WHAT: Music Theater Works ‘Godspell’ finds a fractured and disconnected community gathered at a local diner discovering the transformative power of forgiveness and embracing radical love.
WHERE: North Shore Center for Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie
WHEN: Runs through Nov. 16
Concerts
Concert: Tower of Power & WAR
WHO: Tower of Power & War are both legendary R&B bands that became famous in the 1970s.
WHERE: Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan
WHEN: 8 p.m. on Nov. 1
Concert: Jeff Tweedy
WHO: Illinois-native Jeff Tweedy – best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band Wilco- is performing with special guest Macie Stewart.
WHERE: The Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave., Chicago
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 1
Concert: An Evening with David Byrne
WHO: Former Talking Heads frontman David Byrne brings his ‘Who is the Sky Tour’ to Chicago
WHERE: The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Dr., Chicago
WHEN: 8 p.m. on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1
Concert: GriZ presents Re:Connect
WHO: GriZ – an American electronic music producer known for his "future funk" style- hosts several artists for his concert, Re:Connect.
WHERE: Wintrust Arena, 200 E. Cermak Rd., Chicago
WHEN: 7 p.m. on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1
Concert: Fantasia & Anthony Hamilton
WHO: R&B singer Fantasia came to fame after winning American Idol, and Anthony Hamilton, also an R&B singer.
WHERE: Credit Union 1 Arena at UIC
WHEN: 8 p.m. on Nov. 1
Conclusion
Chicago offers a wide range of activities for all interests during the Halloween weekend. From spooky parades and festivals to concerts and stage performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQs
Q: What are the dates for the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade?
A: The Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade takes place on October 30.
Q: Where can I find more information about the Xempasúchil:Dia de los Muertos event?
A: More information about the Xempasúchil:Dia de los Muertos event can be found through the Little Village Chamber of Commerce.
Q: Are the concerts and stage performances suitable for all ages?
A: Some concerts and stage performances may have age restrictions, so it’s best to check the specific event details before attending.
Q: Can I purchase tickets for the events online?
A: Yes, tickets for most events can be purchased online through the venue’s website or a ticketing platform.
Q: Are there any COVID-19 protocols in place for the events?
A: COVID-19 protocols may vary depending on the event and venue, so it’s best to check the specific event details before attending.
