Things to Do: 5 Ways to Celebrate Halloween in Chicago

Not sure where to start with your Halloween plans this year? From a haunted to house to a steakhouse in disguise, we’ve got five fun ideas in the city to explore:

Halloween Gathering on the Chicago Cultural Mile

The second annual Halloween Gathering brings the whole city downtown for a daytime festival and nighttime parade on Saturday, October 22nd. The family-friendly daytime event includes different events and stations across Millennium Park, Grant Park, and George Solti Garden, like the Conjure Tent for crafts and music, entertainment on Theatricks Stage, and All Soul Trains with music from Windy City Soul Club. The parade begins at 6PM and will travel north on Columbus from Balbo to Monroe. Get all of the details here.

The Haunted Halloween Ball

You can still snag an early bird ticket for the Haunted Halloween Ball on Navy Pier. The Aon Grand Ballroom offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city, plus it’ll be the ideal spot to watch the fireworks show on Saturday, October 29th. Presented by ChiTownEvents.com, this “evening of haunted grandeur” includes access to two parties- both the Ball and Saints & Sinners at Lakeview Terrace. The tickets start at $15 and have an age requirement of 21 and up. Learn more here.

Screams in the Park

If you’re ready to be scared and startled this Halloween season, Disturbia “Screams in the Park” is back at the MB Financial Park in Rosemont.  Open though November 5th, attractions include the Sewers of the Underworld, Dark Swamp, House of Victoria, and Cabin in the Woods. Disturbia promises to redefine the meaning of scary and set the standard for a whole new level of fear that will haunt you in your nightmares. Watch a promotional video and purchase tickets here.

Disco is (Un)Dead

Over in Logan Square, Fat Rice is transforming into a disco party on Saturday, October 29th. The restaurant was selling tickets for two options, but the three-course cocktail pairing in the speakeasy has now sold out. There’s still availability for the a five-course dinner with drink pairings, which will also grant your access to the Haunted Dance Hall which takes over the Bakery at Fat Rice. Get your tickets here.

Treat Yourself at Frontback Steakhouse

Skip the tricks and head right for a treat at Maple & Ash, the Gold Coast chophouse. The restaurant is dressing up as Frontback Steakhouse on Halloween, with Aussie-style add-ons available in addition to the regular menu, including White Sturgeon Caviar served with a Bloomin’ Onion. You can also expect shrimp from the barbie and onion ring towers. Reservations are recommended and you can make one here.

Want more fun lifestyle posts like these in your inbox? Sign up for our weekly newsletter by following the link below.