Halloween in Chicago 2025: Events, Parades & Haunted Fun
Chicago transforms into a city of thrills and chills every October. From spine-tingling haunted houses to family-friendly pumpkin patches, the Windy City offers something for everyone during Halloween. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a family with kids, or a visitor looking for a unique holiday weekend, this guide will help you plan the ultimate Halloween in Chicago 2025.
Pro Tip: Popular events like the 13th Floor Haunted House and Wrigleyville Halloween Crawl sell out fast, so book tickets early.
Why Chicago Is a Top Halloween Destination
Haunted History of the City
Chicago’s dark past makes it a perfect backdrop for Halloween. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871, mobster lore, and haunted hotels all add to its spooky reputation. The Congress Plaza Hotel, often ranked among the most haunted places in the U.S., draws paranormal enthusiasts year-round. Ghost stories like Resurrection Mary on Archer Avenue have become urban legends that still give locals chills.
This eerie history has made the city an ideal home for American Ghost Walks, which offers guided Ghost Tours in Chicago that take guests deep into paranormal hotspots and stories that shaped the city’s haunted reputation.
Iconic Halloween Traditions
Halloween in Chicago blends historic charm with modern flair:
- Chicago Halloween Parade — A dazzling downtown spectacle featuring floats, costumes, and music.
- Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating — Safe, family-friendly celebrations in areas like Lincoln Park and Lakeview.
- Haunted Bars and Themed Pop-ups — From spooky speakeasies to rooftop bars decked out with pumpkins and cobwebs.
Best Halloween Events in Chicago 2025
Chicago Halloween Parade and Route Details
The annual Chicago Halloween Parade is one of the season’s biggest attractions. Expect colorful floats, costumed performers, live music, and thousands of spectators along State Street. It’s free to attend and great for families, though crowds can get large, so arrive early for a good spot.
See the official 2025 parade route and schedule closer to October.
Haunted Houses: 13th Floor and More
Chicago is packed with terrifying haunted attractions.
- 13th Floor Haunted House — The city’s most famous, featuring Hollywood-level sets and actors.
- Basement of the Dead (Aurora) — Immersive, high-scare experience outside downtown.
- Statesville Haunted Prison — A returning fan favorite with creepy prison themes.
Tickets go on sale in late summer, so buy in advance to skip long lines.
Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up and Corn Mazes
Located in Goose Island, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is Chicago’s largest outdoor fall festival. Highlights include:
- A massive corn maze
- Pumpkin carving and photo booths
- Carnival-style games and seasonal treats
Perfect for couples, groups of friends, or families looking for Instagram-worthy moments.
Wrigleyville Halloween Crawl and Nightlife Parties
If nightlife is your scene, the Wrigleyville Halloween Crawl is legendary. Dozens of bars participate with themed cocktails, costume contests, and DJs. Other nightlife highlights include:
- Navy Pier Halloween Cruises with Chicago skyline views
Rooftop parties across River North and West Loop
Family-Friendly Events at Chicago Park District
The Chicago Park District organizes kid-friendly pumpkin patches, harvest fests, and costume contests in local parks. These are affordable, safe, and community-driven, making them perfect for families with younger children.
Spooky Things to Do Beyond Events
Haunted Tours and Ghost Walks
Explore Chicago’s dark history with guided tours. American Ghost Walks is a trusted name in the city for chilling yet fascinating Ghost Tours, covering everything from mob-era hauntings to famous cemeteries.
Most Haunted Places in Chicago
- Congress Plaza Hotel — Haunted hotel with countless ghost stories
- Hull House — Linked to supernatural folklore
- Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery — A suburban cemetery known for paranormal sightings
Seasonal Food and Themed Bars
No Halloween is complete without themed drinks and bites:
- Revolution Brewing: Pumpkin ales and seasonal beers
Pop-up cocktail bars: Rotating venues in Logan Square and River North transform into haunted speakeasies each fall
Planning Your Halloween in Chicago
Where to Stay (Downtown vs. Neighborhoods)
- Downtown: Close to the parade, haunted houses, and nightlife. Best for first-time visitors.
- Neighborhoods: Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Lakeview offer boutique stays and quieter experiences.
Costume Ideas and Shopping Spots
Need a last-minute costume? Visit Chicago Costume (a local favorite) or vintage shops in Wicker Park and Logan Square for unique finds.
Safety Tips and Crowd Navigation
- Stick to well-lit, official events
- Use CTA trains and buses to avoid parking headaches
- Families: attend Park District events during the day for safer, kid-friendly fun
Insider Tips and Local Favorites
Hidden Bars with Halloween Themes
Chicago is home to secret speakeasies and pop-ups. Look for themed cocktails at Logan Square’s hidden bars or downtown’s rooftop lounges.
Underrated Haunted Trails and Small Festivals
Skip the big crowds with smaller, local haunted trails and community festivals in suburbs like Oak Brook or Evanston.
Suggested 2–3 Day Itinerary for Visitors
- Friday: Haunted walking tour → dinner at a themed bar
- Saturday: Daytime pumpkin patch → parade downtown → nightlife crawl
- Sunday: Brunch → Park District family fest → haunted house finale
FAQs About Halloween in Chicago
What is there to do for Halloween in Chicago?
From haunted houses and parades to pumpkin patches and bar crawls, Chicago offers both family and adult activities.
Where is the Halloween parade in Chicago?
The parade typically runs along State Street downtown. Check the official schedule in October.
Is Chicago safe during Halloween?
Yes, stick to official events and well-lit areas. Families often choose Park District events for safe trick-or-treating.
What are the scariest haunted houses in Chicago?
The 13th Floor Haunted House, Basement of the Dead, and Statesville Haunted Prison top the list.
Are there family-friendly Halloween events in Chicago?
Yes. Pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and Park District activities are perfect for kids.
What is Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up in Chicago?
It’s a seasonal festival with a corn maze, carnival games, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Where can I find the most haunted places in Chicago?
Check out Congress Plaza Hotel, Hull House, and Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery.
How do I get tickets for Chicago Halloween events?
Tickets for haunted houses, bar crawls, and cruises are best purchased online in advance.
Plan Your Halloween in Chicago 2025
Halloween in Chicago 2025 is shaping up to be bigger and spookier than ever. From parades and haunted houses to nightlife crawls and family festivals, the city offers something for every type of Halloween lover. Don’t miss the chance to join American Ghost Walks on their unforgettable Ghost Tours in Chicago, the perfect way to experience the city’s haunted history first-hand.
Plan your trip now, secure tickets early, and experience Chicago’s Halloween celebrations at their best. The Windy City is ready to deliver a Halloween you will never forget.
