With September coming to a close, the season of fall is now in its prime. October is home to one of the country’s most treasured holidays, Halloween. A time when parents, kids, friends, and family get to dress up as their favorite characters or mascots and get candy or a scare.
Those who usually aren’t excited to feel fear still get to indulge in the many season-based delicacies and activities. Illinois is no stranger to shows during holiday seasons, so here are some activities and events for all to enjoy in the “Leafy” City.
Fright Fest: Six Flags Great America
Location: 1 Great America Parkway, Gurnee, IL.
When: Ends Tuesday, October 31.
The Midwest’s most famous and awe-inducing amusement park is switching the screams of fun to screams of fear as they bring back the annual Fright Fest. When the sun is up, you’ll have your average Six-Flags experience with the added scare zones and haunted houses. However, when the sun goes down the place becomes a different monster, literally.
Ghouls, witches, and zombies will sneak up on you, and it being dark makes it even more fear-inducing. They can catch you from anywhere, whether it be by your side on a roller coaster ride, or even in a food line. Fright Fest will last until the end of the month so grab your family and friends, and keep your guard.
13th Floor Haunted house
Voted as one of the five scariest haunted houses in the United States by USA Today, the 13th floor is back for Chicagoans who love a little tension in their lives. With its unique atmosphere and top-notch animatronic and scare actor work, it’s no wonder groups of friends usually save dates to come.
When you’re done screaming to your heart’s content, you can stop by their mini mazes, gift shop, and food bars and enjoy the scenery and the fresh October weather.
Location: 5050 River Road, Shiller Park, IL 60176.
When: Friday from 7 to 9:30 p.m.; Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m.; and Sunday from 7to 9 p.m. until the end of October.
Boo! at the Zoo
Not looking for a fright? Well, take the youth to Brookfield Zoo to hang out with the animals. Take pictures with inflatables and spin on the deck-out carousel for this multi-weekend Halloween event. Even, as citizens decorate pumpkins with their families and with animals as they eat, destroy, and play with them.
Location: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st Street.
When: October 7 to October 22.
18th District Halloween Candy and Costume Collection
Looking to turn a frown upside down during Halloween? The 18th district wants your help to donate to the children and families in domestic violence shelters. With the donations of candy and gently used costumes, you bring Christmas joy to families a little earlier than expected. All donations can be dropped off at the 18th District Police Station.
Location: 1160 North Larrabee Avenue
When: Until October 24
Day of the Dead at the Museum
The National Museum of Mexican Art will be celebrating its 37th year of showcasing art dedicated to Dia de Muertos. Not only will they celebrate customs and traditions through art, but they will also host an even bigger celebration around the museum.
The celebration will be located in Harrison Park, and feature alter demotions, face paintings, art activities, and live performances.
Location: 1852 West 19th Street.
When: September 22- December 10, 2023.
Written By Daylontie Jasper
Source:
Chicago Star: Halloween has arrived: Top 10 activities for the spooky season by Michaela Wilson
Bloody Disgusting: 13th Floor Haunted House Chicago Review- Required Stop for Haunt Enthusiasts; by Bloody Disgusting Staff
River North Residents Association: 18th District CPD Costume and Candy Drive to help families in domestic violence shelters; by rnrachiagoadmin
TimeOut: The spookiest Halloween events and parties in Chicago; by Jeffy Mai
Feature Image Courtesy of Rob Hoft‘s Flickr Page- Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Alexandra Richmond‘s Flickr Page- Creative Commons License
