THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Pre-Halloween Events are in Abundance!
Halloween is still a week away, but here in Chicago we have so many pre-Halloween events in abundance that we need to begin this weekend! Come join us for a spooky good time!!
Returning for its 11th year, the Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade takes place in the heart of the Chicago Loop on State Street from Randolph to Van Buren Streets this Saturday (6 p.m.-8 p.m.). This magical evening parade celebrates Halloween as the “artist’s holiday” by featuring world-renowned institutions, celebrated Chicago cultural organizations, youth programs, and aspiring artists in every field. It’s a dazzling production that delights the crowds with unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performances. In fact, it’s called ‘one of the best Halloween celebrations in the world’ by UK-based Wanderlust Magazine. Check it out for yourself!
Here in Chicago, Halloween wouldn’t be complete without our 4-legged family members getting in on the festivities! So, this year’s Halloween Pup Crawl 2025 takes place this Saturday (10 a.m.-2 p.m.) on Halsted Street from Aldine to Cornelia Avenues in the Northalsted neighborhood. A $5 advance registration includes a Pup Crawl tote bag; a raffle entry; additional pup swag and treats from local businesses; a photo op with Miss Foozie at her photo booth for all registered pets from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and an after-party brunch hosted by Miss Foozie at the Lark Patio (3441 N. Halsted St.) which includes treats, gift bags, and raffle prizes. Costumes are highly encouraged to truly make this a special Halloween event for all!
This next event is not for the faint of heart, as the 12th annual Rosehill Cemetery Crypt 5K Run & Walk takes place this Saturday (7 p.m.) at the Rosehill Cemetery (5800 N. Ravenswood Ave.) in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. This sprawling 350-acre Victorian-era cemetery established in 1864, takes runners and walkers for a thrilling nighttime adventure on a course illuminated by candlelight adding to the creepiness as the runners/walkers pass stunning monuments, intricate headstones, and the final resting place of some of Chicago’s most notable figures. Afterwards, keep your spirits high at the post-race celebration, conveniently located right across from the start/finish area, at the Fireside Restaurant where the party continues with a complimentary sponsored beverage, delicious food, announcement of the overall winners, and spook-tastic tunes spun by a DJ. Afterall, it’s fall’s most ‘Spirited’ event!
The kids, and I’m sure many adults, would love to celebrate Sloomooween this Saturday and Sunday at the Sloomoo Institute (820 N. Orleans St.) on the Near North Side. This annual Halloween event transforms the institute into a spooky, family-friendly haunted house with themed activities such as designing your own custom slime at their DIY Bar; trick-or-treating with special trick-or-treating swag bags and candy stations; costume contests where participants can win prizes; meeting Sloomoo; getting slimed at Spooky Falls, and much more. It’s the world’s #1 Halloween slime experience especially if you like getting slimed!
Sunday (12 p.m.-6 p.m.) brings the Roscoe Village Halloween Block Party to Roscoe Street between Damen and Hoyne Avenues. It’s an all-ages event transforming the block into a Halloween haven with trick-or-treating, kids’ crafts and activities, a costume parade, plenty of seasonal surprises, live music, food vendors, and more. Get ready to have a spooktacular day!
After Monday night’s nail-biting finish, what could be more scarier? Well, the Chicago Bears are hosting the New Orleans Saints this Sunday (12 p.m.) at Soldier Field (1410 Special Olympics Dr.) in the South Loop. Come cheer on the Bears, if you dare!!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
