It’s the most wonderful time of the year: Halloween. This weekend the city is offering something for everyone who wants to get their spook on. Whether you’re looking for something for the kids to do, or you just want to show off your own costume, we’re bringing you our choices for some spooktacular excitement in Chicago this weekend.
1. The Wiz (40 Year Anniversary Celebration)
What is it: An all-day extravagant celebration celebrating “The Wiz” and featuring performing arts, fashion, music, and cinema.
When: Sunday, Oct 28, 5pm-9pm. The Emerald City doors will open at 2 p.m. with the family-friendly matinee screening starting at 4:15 p.m. A second screening for the adults will start at 7:30 p.m.
Where: 6760 South Stony Island Avenue
Is it free? YES. No Admission Required. RSVP at Eventbrite.
2. Pumpkins & Chill
What is it: An outdoor Halloween TV binge, playing all the Halloween episodes of all your favorite TV shows, back to back (think: Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Friends, Parks & Recreation, The Office). Bring on the nostalgia.
When: The Rooftop. RSVP at
Where: At Roosevelt Collection Shops
Is it free?: YES. RSVP at Eventbrite.
BONUS: In addition to the hot chocolate, apple cider, fresh donuts and gourmet popsicles that will be available, attendants will also receive FREE pumpkins and handwarmers, and complimentary blankets!
3. Day of the Dead Celebration at Maxwell Street Market
What is it: This celebration will include mural dedication, art workshops, music, food and more. The Market will include an ofrenda (altar) making workshop, pumpkin decorating, live band and DJ
When: Sunday, October 28, 2018 10:30am-2pm
Where: Maxwell Street Market, 800 S. Desplaines St
Is it free? YES. Attendance is free.
4. Cemetery Walking Tour
What is it: History, but scary! The Chicago History Museum will be providing tours at Graceland Cemetery, sharing the remarkable stories of the Chicago elite buried there. These walking tours led by historian Al Walavich reveal the history of the city’s growth and its diverse inhabitants.
When: Saturday and Sunday, October 28-29. Various times. Check for availability here.
Where: 4001 N Clark Street
Is it free? No. Tickets are $25 for the general public, $20 for museum members.
5. Haunted History Ghost Walks
What is it: A spooky stroll through downtown Chicago with an expert guides. With Chicago considered to be one of the most haunted cities in America, who wouldn’t want to find out why much of the lakefront sits on a graveyard with bodies still being discovered to this day?
When: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Oct. 27-29; 7-8:30 p.m. or 9-10:30 p.m.
Where: Tours start near the Oriental Theater. Exact meeting locations are sent in confirmation emails to ticket buyers
Is it free? No, but USE PROMO CODE SPOOKY70 for 70% off any tickets! Get tickets here!
6. Halloween Family Double Matinee
What is it: It’s The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown! and Casper Saves Halloween. The event will include raffles and special prizes for kids wearing costumes.
When: Sunday Oct. 28, 2-4:30 p.m.
Where: Logan Theater, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Is it free? YES. Find out more details here.
7. Party At A Haunted Hotel
What is it: Several hotels around Chicago will be hosting their own haunted festivities.
When: Varies - check the times and dates for the hotel you’re interested in.
Where: Check out the Godfrey Hotel, which plans to block off the entire 5th floor. Or looking for a rooftop party? Stop by the Thriller Halloween Party where ROOF at The Wit will transform into an electrifying graveyard, featuring music from Michael Jackson. There’s also an open bar at Nightmare on Wicker Drive at London House. And speaking of haunted hotels… the Congress Hotel is rumored to be one of the most haunted of all; and their Halloween Ball is promoted to be like a lavish VIP nightclub meets haunted house. And if those aren’t your speed, there are even more hotels around the city hosting Halloween events this weekend!
Is it free? No — nearly every hotel event has an admission fee; prices vary.
GUEST: Erica Watson, comedian, contributor to Windy City Live on ABC7 and The Jam on WCIU
LEARN MORE: 5 things to do for Halloween weekend in Chicago (Chicago Tribune)