BatFest
Save some money this holiday by attending these free Halloween events in Chicago and the suburbs. Read some of our picks below and find the most updated list on our calendar. Don't forget to check out other kid-friendly Halloween events in Chicago, the North/Northwest Suburbs, Western Suburbs and South Suburbs.
Chicago
Arts in the Dark: Halloween Parade
When: Oct. 19
Where: On State Street Between Lake and Van Buren
Arts in the Dark is a magical evening parade that celebrates Halloween as the "artist's holiday." The parade includes unique floats, spectacle puppets and creative performances that are exceptionally dramatic set against the backdrop of Chicago’s majestic skyline. Plus, there's an after-party for families at Maggie Daley Park!
Spooky Zoo
When: Oct. 26
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive
Spooky Zoo offers a free, safe alternative to trick-or-treating as well as a variety of entertainment, crafts and fun for the whole family. Dress up in costume and come to the Lincoln Park Zoo ready for a day full of fun and games.
North/Northwest Suburbs
Halloween Family Fest
When: Oct. 18
Where: Prairie View Community Center, 6834 Dempster Street, Morton Grove
Enjoy fall crafts, hayrides, carnival games, pumpkin decorating, costume contests, inflatables and more. Dress in costume.
Trick or Treat Trail
When: Oct. 27
Where: Buffalo Grove Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove
Friendly characters will line the path to hand out candy and small prizes to children ages 1-12. Children will also have the opportunity to get their face painted, take pictures with the characters, play carnival games and more. This event is a no scare zone and parents must accompany children.
Western Suburbs
BatFest
When: Oct. 26
Where: Houston Street at Island Avenue, Batavia
The annual Halloween-themed family event features trick-or-treating, Mothers' Club Parade, pumpkin roll, contests and games.
La Grange Halloween Walk & Fall Fest
When: Oct. 26
Where: Downtown La Grange
Join the fun of a lively trick or treat parade through downtown La Grange. Afterwards, enjoy activities like crafts and pumpkin bowling.
South Suburbs
Halloween Bike Ride
When: Oct. 12
Where: Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights
Meet in the Palos Heights City Hall parking lot to embark on a guided cycle ride out to Sag Quarries and back along the Cal-Sag Bike Trail. Halloween gear is encouraged and participants must have bike lights. Preregistration required.
Touch-A-Truck & Treat
When: Oct. 24
Where: Palos Pool, 7607 West College Drive, Palos Heights
Dress in a Halloween costume and explore the trucks, tractors, heavy equipment, emergency vehicles and more. Children will also receive a Halloween treat from each vehicle. From 5-5:45 the vehicles will not use sirens, lights or loud noises for a sensory-friendly atmosphere.
Trail of Treats
When: Oct. 26
Where: Richton Park Community Center, 4445 Sauk Trail, Richton Park
Come dressed in your favorite costume for trick or treating, games, music, and more at this festive fun-filled event. Recommended for ages 4-11. Preregistration required.
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