The annual Arts in the Dark parade channels Chicago’s artistic spirit into a one-of-a-kind Halloween celebration. Packed with creative expression and spooky spectacle, Arts in the Dark ranks among the top family-friendly Halloween events in Chicago.
Arts in the Dark
Showcasing artists, performers, musicians, puppeteers, dancers, and more, this free Halloween parade transforms historic State Street into a grand stage. Look forward to imaginative costumes, larger-than-life puppets and floats, and unforgettable performances highlighting the city’s dynamic performing arts community.
Arts in the Dark 2025 events
Arts in the Dark 2025
Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025
Celebrating its 11th year, Arts in the Dark returns to downtown Chicago on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. The bewitching parade will take place from 6 – 8 p.m. on State Street, marching southward from Lake Street to Van Buren.
This spellbinding Halloween event welcomes spectators of all ages — no tickets required. Crowds gather early along the path of the procession, so arrive ahead of time for a good viewing spot.
Upside Down Halloween Parade
Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025
After Arts in the Dark, keep the festivities going with the sixth annual Upside Down Halloween Parade on Saturday, Oct. 25, 2025. Head to Washington Park on Russell Drive between 12 – 2 p.m. to experience this free, all-ages event that reimagines Halloween with an immersive twist.
About Arts in the Dark
Arts in the Dark reflects the full spectrum of Chicago’s arts and cultural scene, featuring a spectacular mix of artistic expression, such as film, dance, theatre, fashion, and music styles like hip-hop, jazz, and mariachi — plus circus arts, puppeteers, and much more.
Fantastical costumes, upbeat music, nonstop movement — Halloween in Chicago doesn’t get more electric than Arts in the Dark. Watch the city glow with dazzling artistry and experience Chicago’s unrivaled community spirit.
At the Upside Down Parade, families with kids can dive into the excitement and become part of the procession. Costumed families can march down the parade path, all while being delighted by lively performances along the route.
Be mesmerized by gravity-defying acrobats, dance troupes, live musicians, sports mascots, and more. The parade route ends on a sweet note, where kids can enjoy a complimentary bag of goodies.
Getting to Arts in the Dark
Public transportation provides easy access to the Arts in the Dark parade route. A few of the closest CTA train stops include:
- State & Lake (Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, and Purple Lines)
- Lake (Red Line)
- Monroe (Blue Line)
- Jackson (Red and Blue Lines)
Keep in mind that nearby bus routes may face detours due to street closures.
For visitors driving into the downtown area, the Millennium Garages Grant Park North and Grant Park South offer convenient parking away from road closures. Situated on Michigan Avenue, the garages are two blocks east of the parade route.
If you’re attending the Upside Down Parade, the closest CTA train stop is Garfield (Green Line). There are also many bus lines that run near Washington Park.
History of Arts in the Dark
Since 2014, Arts in the Dark has brought Chicago’s creative communities together to celebrate Halloween as an artist’s holiday. This mission-driven tribute to the arts aims to prove that creativity bridges every background and identity.
Presented by local nonprofit LUMA8 and the Mayor’s Office, the event unites up-and-coming artists, essential youth programs, and leading cultural institutions based in the city and internationally.
Arts in the Dark partners include the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events(DCASE) and Chicago Fall Fest. This Halloween extravaganza has featured a diverse lineup of honorees, from jazz vocalists and theatre professionals to screen actors, street artists, historians, and plenty more.
Looking for more unique celebrations? Discover top Halloween events and festivities in Chicago.
