By: Ashmar Mandou
There are a plethora of spooky experiences to be had this weekend, from haunted corn mazes, to an over-the-top Halloween parade down Halsted, Chicago is packed with haunted happenings fun for everyone. We picked a few of our favorite spooky events for you to enjoy.
Adults Night Out: Howl-O-Ween
It’s adults only (21+) at the zoo’s spookiest after-hours event of the year. Guests will enjoy unique animal chats, live music, and multiple bars throughout the zoo all evening. Take in the beauty of the season while you wander paths with refreshment in hand—and savor fall in the best way possible. Costumes are encouraged. Howl-O-Ween will take place on Thursday, Oct. 26th. For tickets, visit www.lpzoo.org
Día de los Muertos at Brookfield Zoo
Come alive and celebrate Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead, at Brookfield Zoo while exploring the wonders of the animal kingdom. The event, brought to you by Chevrolet, takes place on Saturday, October 28, and Sunday, October 29, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy all the colorful delights and traditions that Día de los Muertos holds. To learn more, visit CZS.org/DiadelosMuertos.
Slightly Spooky Saturday at Navy Pier
Dive headfirst into a cauldron of free Halloween fun with an array of seasonal activities for families to enjoy. Join in a day filled with tricks, treats, and unforgettable moments when Navy Pier brings back Slightly Spooky Saturday. Saturday, Oct. 28 – 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. For more Halloween events at Navy Pier, visit www.navypier.org.
The Haunt
Get lost in terror at the Jonamac Haunted Corn Maze. When the sun sets on the farm, an eerie shadow is cast upon the maze inviting guests to explore the 10-acre labyrinth in our corn field. Pathways twist and turn through miles of rustling leaves where terrifying creatures and spooky surprises are lurking behind the stalks. Enter if you dare. For general information, tickets, visit www.jonamacorchard.com.
Northalsted Halloween Parade
The free-to-watch parade, ranked one of the top ten in the US by Fodor’s Travel, has a spectacular Costume Contest with hundreds of entrants (Sign Up Free) featuring $4,000 in cash prizes and concludes with an awards presentation hosted by NBC5’s Matthew Rodrigues and the Dancing Diva, Batty Davis, and a live performance by musical duo Molly & Alex. For more information, visit www.northhalsted.com
Halloween Events in Chicago Parks
The Chicago Park District is hosting special Halloween pop-up events in parks across Chicago’s many neighborhoods throughout the month of October. Check out free, family-friendly Halloween parties with themed games, treats, costumes, arts and crafts, dancing, face painting, inflatables, and more. For a list of Halloween events, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
