CHICAGO NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS: Bucktown and Wicker Park, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Chicago Loop, River North, Evanston

Bucktown and Wicker Park: Get in the Halloween spirit with a free pumpkin carving event at Remedy! It’s Weird Wednesday: Annual Pumpkin Carving Party on Wednesday October 23. There are two sessions: one at 7 pm and one at 11 pm. There is no cover, but it is a 21 and up event. Pumpkins and carving tools are provided (while supplies last). Specials include $8 Miller High Life bottles paired with an Evan Williams shot. Patrons who arrive early can enjoy Remedy’s Halloween decor and a half-price everything happy hour from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

Lakeview: Fall is the perfect time for the Lincoln Avenue Beer Stroll! On Sunday October 20 from 3 to 6 pm, you have two routes to choose from. Businesses along Lincoln Avenue will transform into tasting destinations! This is a ticketed event and includes beer samples from local breweries paired with complimentary bites. Over 20 local businesses and restaurants are participating and there are over 30 different types of craft beer to try on each route! If you want to get in the Halloween spirit, come dressed in costume for your chance to win the Costume Contest! Each Beer Taster will receive a specially printed beer tasting glass and map guide listing each beer & business location. Tickets are $35 in advance and $45 the day of. Find route information and participating breweries here.

Lincoln Park: Need a new after-work happy hour? Join the Chicago History Museum for History Happy Hour on Tuesday, October 29. The series features two free drinks and activities highlighting their collections and exhibits. Specialty cocktails will be provided by El Jimador Tequila with a Habanero Margarita and a Paloma. DJ Lunatik will be providing music for the evening. There will be Scary Legends Storytelling where you can listen to ghost stories and hear scary moments from Chicago’s history. There’s also a Creepy Collections exhibit where you can discover the history behind mysterious and spooky objects pulled from the Museum’s archives for one night only. There will also be a cash bar and food for purchase. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $15 for members in advance, and $20 for members at the door. Find more information and buy your tickets here.

Chicago Loop: Really get into the spirit with the Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade! On Saturday October 19, starting at 6 pm, the parade is on State Street from Lake to Van Buren. This magical evening parade celebrates Halloween as the “artists holiday”. The event draws together world-renowned institutions, celebrated Chicago organizations, important programs like After School Matters, and aspiring artists in every field.  Arts in the Dark delights the audience with unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performances that are exceptionally dramatic set against the backdrop of historic State Street! Find more information on the parade’s official website.

River North: This Halloween, Joy District is throwing it back to your favorite summer camp slasher movies. On Thursday, October 31 beginning at 9 pm, dress in costume and enjoy drinks, summer-camp inspired decor, and performances throughout the night. Your ticket includes entry and one free drink! You must be 21 to attend this event. Early bird tickets are just $20- so don’t wait! Get yours here today!

Evanston: It’s time for Fall Fest Evanston! On Saturday October 26 from 12 to 4 pm, celebrate the fall season in style. You’ll enjoy eats and treats from Slim Kim Popcorn, La Preferida, Blue Moon, Nuestro Queso, Giacobbino’s, PRE Grass-Fed Beef, Matt’s Cookies, and more. This event is hosted by and located at Jewel-Osco (2485 Howard St). Find more information here.

RACHEL HOOVLER & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO