Halloween in Chicago is so much more than just trick-or-treating. There are magical nighttime parades, authentic Day of the Dead celebrations, spine-tingling ghost tours, and more — plus many of the events don’t cost a dime. Here are just a few of the free events and celebrations in Chicago for Halloween this year.
Free things to do for Halloween in Chicago
Check our Halloween guide to Chicago for more things to do around the city during the spookiest time of year.
Arts in the Dark
Arts in the Dark brings together the city’s top artists and cultural institutions for a surreal twilight procession filled with mesmerizing spectacles — puppetry, live performances, luminous lanterns, and more unique displays.
The free event takes over downtown Columbus Drive for a fun, family-friendly evening that’s the perfect way to start the Halloween season.
Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo
Looking for free fall fun? Fall Fest is back at historic Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the country’s oldest free zoos.
Enjoy autumnal activities like strolling through a pumpkin patch, sipping seasonal drinks, roasting s’mores, and watching live pumpkin carvers. There’s also animal chats, carousel rides, musical entertainment, and so much more.
Día de Muertos at the National Museum of Mexican Art
In the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood, the free National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen is celebrating Mexican culture and artistry with its 40th annual Día de Muertos exhibit.
Where Memory Lives: 40 Years of Día de Muertos features original art installations inspired by the holiday’s rich traditions, tracing the evolution of the holiday and the museum itself. The museum also hosts a free Day of the Dead event in neighboring Harrison Park every October.
Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade and Block Party
Hosted in the city’s historic LGBTQ+ community, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade is known as one of the country’s best Halloween celebrations.
In honor of its 30th anniversary, the event will add an all-day block party with live local music, daytime trick-or-treating, fall treats, a kids zone, and more.
Come nightfall, thousands of spectators line the streets to admire the over-the-top procession with costumed marchers, live performances, pyrotechnic displays, and more. Stick around for the costume contest after the parade.
Slightly Spooky Saturday at Navy Pier
Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s favorite family-friendly attractions, with rides, games, and boat cruises that will delight visitors of all ages.
On Halloween, the lakefront attraction is hostingSlightly Spooky Saturday. Dress up in your favorite costume and look forward to trick-or-treating, live music, and activities throughout the Pier.
Halloween events in Chicago parks
The Chicago Park District is hosting free Halloween events in parks across Chicago’s many neighborhoods throughout the month of October.
Check the schedule for a variety of family-friendly Halloween activities, including arts and crafts, pickleball, movie screenings, parties, and more.
