Navy Pier
Navy Pier lights up the night sky with a spooktacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan on Oct. 28 at 9:30 p.m. And that’s just one part of their Halloween celebration. Catch free outdoor Fright Flicks on the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park Oct. 28 to watch “Monster House” at 3 p.m. or “Beetlejuice” at 5:30 p.m. All of these events are free, family-friendly, and open to the public.
Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours Chicago Haunted Tour
If you are looking for fun things to do in Chicago at night, why not try one of Absolutely Chicago Segway Tours‘ haunted Segway tour? The always-entertaining and talented guides will offer insight into Chicago’s history of death, disasters, murder, infamous gangsters, and ghostly tales as you glide around town. Eerily, you’ll creep through the shadows and darkness to hear some of Chicago’s true ghost stories and view the site where some of Chicago’s most appalling disasters took place. Details and tickets available here.
Northalsted Halloween Parade
At the annual Northalsted Halloween Parade, an exuberant crowd lines the streets of Boystown in Lakeview to check out the outrageous outfits for the evening parade that starts at 7:30 p.m. on Oct. 31. Highlights this year include the Chicago Thriller flash mob performing the complete iconic Michael Jackson dance from the classic music video, a costume contest judged by a panel of drag queens, and Halloween food and drink specials at restaurants and bars along Halsted Street. Set up shop along North Halsted Street from Belmont Avenue to Cornelia Avenue.
Day of the Dead Xicago Festival
Don’t miss the annual tradition, Day of the Dead at the National Museum of Mexican Art (through Dec. 10). It is the largest of its kind in the U.S. and completely free. This year, Day of the Dead: Tilica y Flaca es la Calaca will feature ofrendas and art pieces from more than 90 artists from the U.S. and Mexico. On Oct. 29, the museum will host the indoor/outdoor Day of the Dead Xicago community festival from 3-8 p.m. with an image projection revealing the story of the Day of the Dead, almost 100 ofrendas outside, as well as face painting, live music, sugar skull vendors, and more.
Spooky Zoo Spectacular
It’s free, fun, and safe at the Lincoln Park Zoo’s Spooky Zoo Spectacular with family entertainment, toddler activities, trick-or-treating, and arts and crafts from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Oct. 28. For its 31st anniversary, enjoy Halloween-inspired activities and favorites like the Haunted House at the Kovler Sea Pool.