Arts in the Dark Parade Celebrates Halloween in Grand Style
It’s been called “the little parade that could,” but what was once a small procession has evolved into the Arts in the Dark annual Halloween parade, which celebrated its 10th anniversary Saturday night in the Loop.
The full-on parade may have grown in size, but it remains true to its founding principles: “Celebrating Halloween as the ‘artists’ holiday’ and parading as an art form.” To wit, the parade excludes commercial floats and political guests “in order to maintain the integrity of its mission to display the diverse artists of our great city.”
A Celebration of Community
Thousands of eventgoers lined the parade route along State Street to watch the magical evening unfold. The annual event was named one of the “10 best Halloween events in the country, according to USA Today.
Here’s a look at some of the highlights:
Crowds line State Street in the Loop on Saturday night for the 10th annual Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade. The event was named one of the 10 best Halloween events in the country by USA Today.
Anthony Jackson/For the Sun-Times
An acrobat spins on an elevated bike.
Anthony Jackson/For the Sun-Times
A Showcase of Local Talent
Ballet Folklorico, the South Shore Drill Team, the El Gran Festival Colombiano, the Chicago Architects’ Guild, Full Moon Jam and Second City Samba were among the 80 local cultural arts groups celebrating Chicago’s diverse arts community and rich cultural traditions on Saturday night.
A 10-Year Milestone
The parade has grown exponentially since its humble beginnings, with 80 groups participating this year, up from just a handful a decade ago. The event has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists, attracting thousands of spectators to the Loop.
Conclusion
The Arts in the Dark Halloween parade is a true celebration of creativity and community. By showcasing the diverse talents of local artists and performers, the event honors the spirit of Halloween as a holiday that celebrates the arts.
FAQs
Q: What is the mission of the Arts in the Dark parade?
A: The parade is dedicated to celebrating Halloween as the “artists’ holiday” and parading as an art form.
Q: What is the criteria for participating groups?
A: The parade excludes commercial floats and political guests, focusing instead on showcasing the diverse artistic talents of local groups.
Q: How many groups participate in the parade?
A: This year, 80 local cultural arts groups participated in the parade.
Q: Is the parade open to the public?
A: Yes, the parade is free and open to the public. Thousands of eventgoers line the parade route each year to watch the magical evening unfold.
