Lick or treat lettering with cute dog in witch hat and halloween graphics

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Halloween Festivities Have Begun!

Lick or treat lettering with cute dog in witch hat and halloween graphics

This weekend we are half-way through October which means our holiday season here in Chicago will officially kick-off on Halloween.  In fact, many Halloween festivities have already begun!  Here’s what’s on the schedule for this weekend.

There are two Halloween events planned for our four-legged family members along with their humans for this weekend, which are:

The 10th annual Lakeview Halloween Pup Crawl takes place this Saturday (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) on Halsted Street between Aldine and Cornelia Avenues in the Lakeview neighborhood.  Be sure to dress your furry BFF (yourself too, if you choose) for this annual crawl so they can strut their stuff.  In addition, there will be plenty of treats, giveaways, and a Miss Foozie photo booth for a professional holiday photo.  After the crawl, head on over to Lark’s patio (3441 N. Halsted St.) for the PUP Patio Brunch (11 a.m.-3 p.m.).  Then at 2:00 p.m., Miss Foozie herself will be hosting a raffle drawing and a fun Q&A to win prizes.  Your $10 registration (per dog) is your entry for a raffle prize, and you need not be present to win.  It’s a fun day of Trick-or-Treat for dogs and their humans alike!

Celebrate the spooky season with your pet at WAG-O-WEEN – A Paw-some Pet Costume Party this Saturday (11 a.m.-3 p.m.) at Gordo’s Tiny Taco Bar (333 E. Benton Pl.) in The Loop.  Get your fur babies all decked out in their Halloween best for the costume contest and a chance to win some pawsome prizes.  In addition, there’ll be plenty of treats for your pet, delicious food and drinks for you, and a photo booth to capture the fun memories.  You’ll have a howling good time at this pawsitively awesome event!

After a day with your pet, it’s time for you to celebrate Halloween at the “artist’s holiday” known as Arts in the Dark this Saturday (6 p.m.-8 p.m.).  Now in its 10th year, this magical evening parade will take place on State Street moving south from Lake Street to Van Buren Street in The Loop.  This dazzling production features unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performances with an explosion of art.  I’ve heard that this anniversary parade is to be bigger, better and grander than ever!

Also taking place this Saturday evening is the 12th annual ‘Crypt’ 5K Run/Walk at Rosehill Cemetery (5800 N. Ravenswood Ave.) in the Lincoln Square neighborhood.  This sprawling 350-acre Victorian-era cemetery that opened in 1864 will feature a fully candlelit course and statues throughout for a chance to see the many monuments, mausoleums, and unique headstones as you run/walk the course at night.  In addition, participants will receive a long sleeve T-shirt and Finisher medal, glow necklaces, bracelets, and more.  After completing your run/walk, head directly across the street to the Fireside Inn for the post-race party which includes a complimentary sponsored beverage.  Come and check out this spirited event for yourself.  You won’t be disappointed, but I can’t guarantee you won’t be afraid to run/walk in a dark cemetery!

If you’re not quite ready to gear up for Halloween yet, perhaps Oktoberfest at Gallagher Way this Saturday (11 a.m.-8 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.) is more for you.  Get ready for all-day beer samplings, themed food and drinks, live German music, lawn games, watch football on the video board, and more.  Here’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of Munich right here in Chicago for a memorable experience!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago