It seems like teens and tweens are always looking for something fun to do. With school ending and summer approaching, you’ll want to find some activities that you approve of, too. We’ve compiled a list of fun (and safe) events that are sure to be a hit! Check out our online calendar for even more family events and things to do with teens.
Wicked
Sept. 28-Dec. 4, 2022
- Address: James M. Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago
- Cost: $59-plus
Head to James M. Nederlander Theatre to see the musical, Wicked, which looks at what happened in the Land of Oz from a different angle.
Haunted History Tours
Oct. 4-26, 2022 (Tuesdays-Wednesdays)
- Address: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago
- Cost: $35
Join Adam Selzer, author, podcaster and host of Mysterious Chicago Tours to learn about the zoo’s cemetery roots. For ages 16-plus.
Pier Pumpkin Lights
Oct. 12-Nov. 1, 2022
- Address: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
- Cost: Free
From jack o’lantern towers to light displays, Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination will be decked out for fall. Navy Pier will once again transform into an experiential fall spectacle with nearly 1,000 pumpkins for the month of October. Pumpkins are best experienced after dusk.
Halloween
Oct. 12-Nov. 1, 2022
- Address: Museum of Illusions Chicago, 25 E. Washington St., Chicago
- Cost: $18-$22/adults
Museum of Illusions Chicago has decked out the space with Halloween themed décor. See a Head on a Platter, Vortex Tunnel, Infinity and Anti-Gravity Room and more.
Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns
Oct. 12-23, 2022
- Address: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
- Cost: $18-$22/adults, $13-$17/kids
Features a display of expertly carved pumpkins, returns to the Chicago Botanic Garden for 10 evenings in advance of Halloween. More than 1,000 artist-carved, real pumpkins lit with LED lights will light up the night and line the family-friendly outdoor path in a beautiful fall setting.
The Cleanup
Oct. 13-Nov. 19, 2022
- Address: Athenaeum Center, 2936 Southport Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $22/general admission
Come out to Athenaeum Center to see “The Cleanup,” a show about a a woman named Nicole who joins the toy cleaning committee at The Learning Co-Op. For ages 16-plus.
Immersive King Tut
Oct. 14-Nov. 20, 2022
- Address: Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, 108 W. Germania Place, Chicago
- Cost: $30-plus
Immersive King Tut uses stunning visuals to tell the story of the Amduat that was depicted on the tombs of pharaohs.
Sugar Skull City
Oct. 15-Nov. 6, 2022
- Address: Downtown Aurora
- Cost: Free
Aurora Downtown is honoring Day of the Dead, the beloved Mexican cultural tradition, with Dia de los Muertos art, activities, specials, videos, shopping and more.
Pinball Expo
Oct. 19-22, 2022
- Address: Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg
- Cost: $45/single day pass, $125/three-day pass, free/ages 12 and under
It will include exhibits, tours, tournaments, seminars, autograph sessions, an opportunity to buy your own pinball machine and more. Attendees have the opportunity to play over 400 pinball games for free at the show.
Blue Man Group’s 25th Anniversary Show
Oct. 20, 2022
- Address: Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago
- Cost: $49-plus
Blue Man Group is celebrating 25 years in Chicago with a variety of special offers available throughout the month of October, including a celebratory birthday performance. Guests of the birthday performance will enjoy a few surprises during the show.
Schaumburg Halloween Carnival
Oct. 21-30, 2022 (Fridays-Sundays)
- Address: Wintrust Field, 1999 S. Springingsguth Road, Schaumburg
- Cost: Free/entry, $20-$30/wristbands, $5/parking
This event features spooky rides, tasty treats, trick-or-treating, seasonally themed arts and crafts and more.
Stories That Travel: Mythology, Folklore, & Diaspora
Oct. 27, 2022
- Address: National Hellenic Museum, 333 S. Halsted St., Chicago
- Cost: $8/standard ticket
At this event, the panel discussion seeks to explore the varied relationships different Diaspora communities have with the mythological & folklore stories of their culture of origin.
Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
Oct. 29, 2022
- Address: State St. moving south from Lake to Van Buren, Chicago
- Cost: Free
This annual Halloween parade returns to State St. for its 8th year. See unique floats and creative performances along the way.
Blue Man Group’s Halloween Show
Oct. 29-30, 2022
- Address: Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago
- Cost: $49-plus
See the Blue Man Group for two special Halloween-themed performances at the Briar Street Theatre. There will be pre-show face painting, Halloween-inspired surprises during the show and goodie bags for all in costume. After the performance, audience members will be invited to the theater lobby for photo opportunities with the Blue Men.
Dia de los Muertos Halloween Party
Oct. 29, 2022
- Address: Time Out Market, 916 W. Fulton Market, Chicago
- Cost: Free
This Halloween party is Dia de Los Muertos themed. Make sure to wear your costume because there will be a costume contest. Also, a live band, palm readings, DJ, stilt walkers and more.
FREE Halloween Movie: Addams Family 2
Oct. 29, 2022
- Address: North Riverside Park Mall Classic Cinemas, 7501 W. Cermak Road, North Riverside
- Cost: Free
Come out to Classic Cinemas for a screening of the movie, The Addams Family 2. Pre-registration is required. Seating is limited and registration does not guarantee a seat unless tickets are picked up in advance.
Alebrijes: Creatures of a Dream World
Through Oct. 30, 2022
- Address: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
- Cost: Admission is included with $5 parking fee ($10 on summer weekends)
Visitors of this exhibit can see a five-month outdoor art exhibit featuring dozens of mythical animals inspired by Mexican folklore. The installation will feature nearly 50 “alebrijes” of all sizes created by artists from Mexico City.
In-Person: Dia De los Muertos for Teens
Nov. 1, 2022
- Address: Niles-Maine District Library, 6960 W. Oakton St., Niles
- Cost: Free
Grades 7-12 can come to Niles-Maine District Library to make a Dia de los Muertos offrenda. Limited supply. Registration required.
The Mudlark Theatre Presents: The Salem Project
Nov. 4-6, 2022
- Address: Mudlark Theater, 1417 Hinman Ave., Evanston
- Cost: Tickets available soon
In this original play created by the actors at Mudlark Theater, actors will play both the historical young people involved and a group of modern-day students working to exonerate one of the victims.
Day of the Dead Celebration
Nov. 5, 2022
- Address: Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst
- Cost: Free
Participants will take part in a procession around the museum campus accompanied by mariachi musicians and learn about the Day of the Dead altar. Families can participate in a craft activity in the Education Center and explore the exhibits in the museum. No registration required.
Glow Yoga
Nov. 5, 2022
- Address: Vida Yoga and Fitness, 50 S. Grove Ave., Elgin
- Cost: $25-$35
Join Vida Yoga and Fitness for a 75-minute flow under black lights to celebrate El Dia de los Muertos. Bring your own mat (or rent one for $2), hand towel and water bottle. Make sure to wear colorful or white clothing. Tickets include cup of hot cocoa, pan de muertos, tamale, glow bracelets and glow paint (while it lasts). Registration required.
Dia de los Muertos Celebration 2022
Nov. 6, 2022
- Address: Guild Row, 3130 N. Rockwell St., Chicago
- Cost: $10-$39
Teens can honor the traditions and culture of Dia de los Muertos with music, food, vendors and a community alar at this event.
Harry Potter: Magic at Play
Nov. 11, 2022-May 14, 2023
- Address: Water Tower Place, 835 Michigan Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $42.50
Enjoy the first-of-its-kind interactive experience, which will allow fans of all ages to engage with the Wizarding World like never before. It’s 30,000 square feet of hands-on magical interactivity including games, exploration, sensory activations and more that celebrate Harry’s own journey in discovering the wizarding world.
Lightscape
Nov. 11, 2022-Jan. 8, 2023
- Address: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
- Cost: $30-$32
See thousands of twinkling lights while walking through the Winter Cathedral and a reimagined fire garden.
Veteran’s Day Comedy Cabaret
Nov. 11, 2022
- Address: Madison Street Theater, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park
- Cost: $20-$30
See a comedy show put on by veterans in honor of Veterans Day at Madison Street Theater.
Ballet 5:8 Presents Ver la Música, Oír la Danza
Nov. 12, 2022
- Address: National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago
- Cost: Free
Ballet 5:8 presents Ver la Música, Oír la Danza at the National Museum of Mexican Art on to continue celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month and give back to the community. Ver la Música, Oír la Danza is available one day only with free performances to the public.
The Steadfast Tin Soldier
Nov. 13, 2022
- Address: Lookingglass Theatre Company, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago
- Cost: $50-plus
This performance is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s story about a little tin soldier who never gives up, Ensemble Member Mary Zimmerman’s production is a gorgeous spectacle of music and movement.
Christmas Around the World and Holidays of Light
Nov. 16, 2022-Jan. 4, 2023
- Address: Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Cost: Free w/museum admission; $21.95/ages 12-plus
The museum features a four-story, floor to dome Grand Tree surrounded by more than 50 other trees and displays. Each surrounding tree is decorated to represent holiday traditions in other cultures around the world.
The Lion King
Nov. 17, 2022-Jan. 14, 2023
- Address: Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago
- Cost: $33-plus
Head to Cadillac Palace Theatre to see the musical, The Lion King, which won six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical.
Rosemont’s Sparkle Light Festival
Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 1, 2023
- Address: Impact Field, 9850 Balmoral Ave., Rosemont
- Cost: $25/ages 13-plus, $22/person for unlimited rides
Visitors can enjoy an immersive display of millions of holiday lights amongst outdoor holiday activities including free train rides, winter tubing and themed mazes. A special menu of festive food and beverage options will also be available.
The Mudlark Theatre Presents: The Marvelous Land of Oz
Nov. 18-20, 2022
- Address: Mudlark Theatre, 1417 Hinman Ave., Evanston
- Cost: Tickets available soon
This original musical based on the sequel to “The Wizard of Oz.” It follows young Tip as he escapes his life as a witch’s servant and sets off on a journey to find the lost princess of Oz.
Illumination: Tree Lights
Nov. 19, 2022-Jan. 7, 2023
- Address: The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
- Cost: $19-$24/adult, $13-$16/kids, free/2 and under; member tickets at discounted rate; early bird specials available, too.
Surround yourselves with color while walking on the one-mile paved pathway. Enjoy seasonal music, captivating light designs and roasting s’mores on a fire at this outdoor event.
The Immersive Nutcracker: A Winter Miracle
Nov. 19-Dec. 31, 2022
- Address: Lighthouse ArtSpace Chicago, 108 W. Germania Place, Chicago
- Cost: $30-plus
Enjoy this immersive event about the most beloved family holiday tale, The Nutcracker. You’ll see immersive projections and special effects, meet a life-sized Nutcracker, have photo ops and more.
The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival
Nov. 19, 2022
- Address: Michigan Avenue, Chicago
- Cost: Free
The annual festival happens a week before Thanksgiving. Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World illuminate more than one million lights on over 200 trees along the route.
ZooLights
Nov. 19, 2022-Jan. 8, 2023
- Address: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago
- Cost: $5/Tuesdays-Sundays, free/Mondays; fees for additional encounters and activities
Enjoy a twinkling winter wonderland complete with festive activities, such as visits with Santa, sweet treats of all kinds and more.
Naper Lights
Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2022
- Address: Downtown Naperville
- Cost: Free; donations are welcome
Put on a pair of 3D glasses and enjoy a magical holiday lights celebration, presented by Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise. Bach to Rock will be providing music on Dec. 17-18.
Holiday Magic
Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 2022
- Address: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield
- Cost: Ticket prices available soon
Celebrating its 41st year, this annual event features over two million twinkling LED lights! Advanced tickets required.
The One Of A Kind Holiday Show
Dec. 1-4, 2022
- Address: The Merchandise Mart, 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago
- Cost: $15/admission (valid for entry all four days), $8/holiday tote, $20/admission and holiday tote
This annual shopping extravaganza will bring together 500 talented artists, artisans and makers to offer the best in everything from fine art and handmade goods. Also, live entertainment and activities for all ages.
The Joffrey Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Dec. 3-27, 2022 (Fridays-Sundays)
- Address: Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago
- Cost: $36-plus
Journey to Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair with Christopher Wheeldon’s holiday masterpiece. Magic is on the horizon for young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the iconic Statue of the Republic. As they prepare for their annual holiday celebration, a visit from the charming but mysterious Great Impresario sets off a Christmas Eve dream of whirlwind romance and adventure.
The Mudlark Theatre Presents : The Nutcracker
Dec. 15-18, 2022
- Address: Mudlark Theatre, 1417 Hinman Ave., Evanston
- Cost: Tickets available soon
Join Mudlark Theatre for the Nutcracker. In this play, 12-year-old Marie doesn’t want to stop living in her imaginary world of toys.
Beyond the Nutcracker by School of Ballet 5:8
Dec. 17-18, 2022
- Address: Lincoln-Way East High School, 201 Colorado Avenue, Frankfort
- Cost: $25
Beyond the Nutcracker features dancers from the School of Ballet 5:8 and guest artists from Ballet 5:8 will be presented at Lincoln-Way East High School for three performances. It’s set to the renowned Tchaikovsky score where audience members are invited to join Emma, her Uncle Abrahms and the angel Anastasis as they embark on a journey through time and discover what Christmas is all about.
Sentrock: The Boy Who Wanted to Fly
Through Jan. 15, 2023
- Address: Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., Elmhurst
- Cost: $15/adults, $12/seniors 65-plus, free/ages 18 and under and students with school ID
The Elmhurst Art Museum presents the first solo museum show of Pilsen-based street artist Sentrock, who uplifts and empowers youth through his murals and educational projects.
The Art of the Brick
Through Jan. 16, 2023
- Address: Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Cost: $14 adults, $11 children
Lego fans can explore the world’s largest and most elaborate display of Lego art. More than 100 works include re-imagined Lego version of iconic masterpieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.
Vivian Maier: In Color
Through May 8, 2023
- Address: The Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago
- Cost: Free w/ admission
Vivian Maier: In Color is a multimedia exhibition featuring 65 color images made during her time as a suburban Chicago nanny from the 1950s to 1970s, most of which have never been on display, as well as film clips, quotations, and sound bites.
Wild Color
Through May 8, 2023
- Address: The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
- Cost: Included with Discovery or All-Access Pass
Rooms at the Field Museum will be dedicated to different colors of the light spectrum and visitors can see how color is displayed in the natural world: gems, minerals, animals that glow under UV light and more. The presentation includes sounds, vibrant visuals and media projections.
Native Truths: Our Voices, Our Stories
Through May 20, 2023
- Address: Field Museum, 400 S. Lake Shore, Chicago
- Cost: Free w/ museum admission
Hear from Native Americans and Indigenous people about their music, dance, art and stories at the Field Museum’s newest permanent exhibit.
Millions of Moments: The Chicago Sun-Times Photo Collection
Through Dec. 31, 2023
- Address: Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago
- Cost: Free w/ admission
Featuring 150 images from the Chicago History Museum’s Chicago Sun-Times collection, Millions of Moments is a first look at highlights from five million negatives spanning the 1940s to the early 2000s. This post is updated monthly.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.
