Kid Friendly Halloween Events in Chicago for 2025

As Halloween approaches, Chicago comes alive with excitement tailored just for families. From haunted houses that won’t frighten little ones to parades filled with vibrant costumes, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained.

This guide will highlight various kid-friendly events across the city, ensuring every family can find something that suits their needs. Whether you’re after trick-or-treating opportunities, festive festivals, or spooky crafts, Chicago has it all.

Join in the fun and discover how to make this Halloween memorable for your little ghouls and goblins. Get ready to explore the city’s top activities that promise a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Top Kid-Friendly Halloween Events in Chicago

As Halloween approaches, Chicago offers an array of activities that make the spooky season fun for children and families. From zoos to parades, there’s something for everyone! Here are some of the top kid-friendly Halloween events worth checking out.

Boo at the Zoo

At Lincoln Park Zoo, Boo at the Zoo turns October into a festive celebration filled with excitement. Activities include trick-or-treating at various stations, where kids collect treats while exploring the zoo. Children can also enjoy animal encounters, educational exhibits, and special Halloween-themed events like pumpkin carving demonstrations.

For details on the event, visit Boo at the Zoo.

Photo by Charles Parker

Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade

The Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade is a vibrant celebration featuring unique floats, costumes, and performances. Held in the heart of Chicago, this parade showcases creative artistry and is designed for all ages. Watch as spectacle puppets and local performers light up the night, making it a memorable experience for families.

Learn more about this enchanting parade at Arts in the Dark.

Cider with the Sanderson Sisters

Join the excitement at Cider with the Sanderson Sisters event at Normandy Park. This fun-filled gathering celebrates the iconic “Hocus Pocus” movie, where kids can enjoy music, crafts, and delicious snacks like cotton candy and popcorn. Face painting is also available, ensuring every child leaves with a big smile.

For more information, check out Cider with the Sanderson Sisters.

Halloween Candy Dash

The Halloween Candy Dash at Senka Park invites kids aged 3-13 to participate in a fun run while collecting candy. This outdoor event encourages families to get active together. In addition to the run, there are fun activities like face painting and music to enhance the experience.

Find out more details on their site at Halloween Candy Dash.

BOO-seum Bash

The BOO-seum Bash at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum offers a fantastic Halloween experience centred around nature and education. Families can partake in crafts, activities, and interactive exhibits. This event is designed to be engaging for kids, allowing them to learn while having fun in a festive atmosphere.

For more event details, visit BOO-seum Bash.

Trick-or-Treating Opportunities

Halloween in Chicago provides unique trick-or-treating opportunities that go beyond the traditional door-to-door experience. Both kids and parents can enjoy themed events that make collecting candy even more exciting. Here are two fantastic options to explore:

Buffalo Grove Trick or Treat Trail

The Buffalo Grove Trick or Treat Trail is a delightful community event that transforms neighborhoods into a candy wonderland. With beautifully decorated homes, children can walk through the trail as friendly characters hand out treats.

Taking place on October 18, from 5 PM to 7 PM, this event is designed for children aged 12 and under. Expect games, entertainment, and a safe, family-friendly atmosphere throughout the evening.

For more information, visit the Buffalo Grove Park District.

Photo by Matheus Lara

Trick-or-Treat Climb

For a twist on traditional trick-or-treating, the Trick-or-Treat Climb is an indoor climbing event where kids can scale climbing walls while collecting treats. Scheduled for October 2, this activity combines physical fun with Halloween excitement, ensuring kids burn off energy as they gather goodies.

This unique event captures the thrill of climbing and the joy of Halloween in one exhilarating experience.

Check out more about this event at Mrs. Mummy’s Big Day Out.

These events provide safe and enjoyable ways for families to celebrate Halloween in a fun, engaging atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Haunted Houses

As Halloween festivities take hold in Chicago, family-friendly haunted houses provide spooky fun without the scary surprises. These attractions cater specifically to children, ensuring they can enjoy the Halloween spirit in a safe environment. With imaginative themes and engaging activities, these haunted houses are perfect for kids seeking thrills that are just the right amount of spooky.

Haunted House at the Chicago Park District

The Chicago Park District sets the stage for fantastic kid-friendly haunted house experiences. Locations like Chase Park After Dark bring the excitement of Halloween to life with vibrant decorations, themed activities, and entertaining storytelling. These events are designed to create a fun atmosphere without overwhelming younger visitors.

Parents can expect:

• Interactive Elements: Children can participate in engaging activities like games and crafts.
• Costumed Characters: Friendly ghouls and goblins guide kids through the haunted house, ensuring they feel safe while exploring.
• Spooky Zones: Themed rooms decorated with fun, non-threatening props create a whimsical haunted experience, rather than a frightful one.

To find the nearest haunted house and learn about upcoming events, check out Kid-Friendly Haunted Houses and Trails.

Photo by Ángel Rubio

Pumpkin Patch Visits

No Halloween celebration is complete without a visit to a pumpkin patch. Chicago boasts numerous local patches where families can enjoy festive activities, making it a great outing for the autumn season. These patches often feature more than just pumpkins; many provide fun, family-oriented activities such as:

• Corn Mazes: Navigate your way through mazes filled with cornstalks.
• Hayrides: Enjoy a scenic hayride through the vibrant fall foliage.
• Craft Stations: Kids can create their own Halloween decorations using materials provided on-site.

Some popular pumpkin patches near Chicago include:

• Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up: Known for its lively atmosphere and numerous activities. Learn more at Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up.
• Sonny Acres Farm: Offers a variety of family-friendly activities along with pumpkin picking. Visit their site at Sonny Acres Farm.
• Honey Hill Orchard: This family-run farm features U-pick options for apples and pumpkins, creating a hands-on experience. Explore more at 15 Pumpkin Patches and Apple Orchards Near Chicago.

These vibrant outings provide a backdrop for family bonding and excitement, turning Halloween into a memorable event for everyone involved.

Community Events and Festivals

As Halloween draws closer, Chicago buzzes with family-oriented events that celebrate the season. From charming harvest festivals to costume contests, these activities ensure that families can enjoy the festivities together. Here’s a look at two highlights in the community.

Fall Harvest Fests

Local parks host a variety of Fall Harvest Fests that perfectly capture the essence of autumn. These events are ideal for families, offering fun games, delicious food, and seasonal activities. Families can explore pumpkin patches, create crafts, and participate in hayrides. Some popular events include:

• Lincoln Square Apple Fest: This fest features apple-themed treats, live music, and fun activities for children. Learn more at Chicago Festival and Event Guide.
• Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up offers mazes, games, and a chance to pick the perfect pumpkin. For more event details, visit Discover Harvest Festival Events.
• Prairie Wind Family Farm: Experience pumpkin picking while enjoying farm-based activities, including face painting and animal encounters.

These festivals invite families to celebrate the harvest and embrace the beautiful autumn scenery.

Halloween Costume Contests

Costume contests bring an element of excitement to Halloween, and Chicago has numerous options specifically for kids and families. These contests allow participants to showcase their creativity while enjoying a friendly competition. Notable events include:

• Haunted Halloween Ball: This contest is part of a larger Halloween celebration filled with entertainment and fun. Participants can take part in a costume contest where unique outfits compete for cash prizes. Check it out at Haunted Halloween Ball.
• Eventbrite Costume Contests: Discover various costume contests happening across the city, perfect for families looking to participate in the festivities. Find more details at Discover Costume Contest Events.
• Pumpkin Costume Contests: Many local festivals host special costume contests where kids can dress up in their best Halloween attire. For an extensive list of contests, visit Halloween Costume Contests.

Families looking to join in the fun can find events that cater to all ages. These contests provide a fantastic opportunity for kids to express themselves and enjoy the spirit of Halloween.

Photo by Sergey Platonov

Conclusion

Chicago offers a diverse range of Halloween activities specifically designed for children and families. From the enchanting Arts in the Dark Parade to the delightful Boo at the Zoo, there’s something to spark joy in every young heart.

Encourage your family to explore these events and create lasting memories this Halloween.

How will you celebrate this spooky season? Make the most of Chicago’s festive spirit and ensure your little ones enjoy the vibrant autumn atmosphere!