The Bronx Zoo comes to life after dark during its annual Holiday Lights event. Photo by Terria Clay/courtesy of the Bronx Zoo
Holiday Lights, Christmas Carousel, and More Things To Do in NYC this Weekend with Kids
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a must-see holiday destination in NYC. Photo courtesy of the New York Botanical Gardens
Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities in New York City for Kids
The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation is an event unto itself. See the larger-than-life balloons come to life the night before the parade. Photo by Anthony Quintano/CC BY 2.0
See the 2025 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloon Inflation with Kids
See the Thanksgiving Day Parade in NYC with our insider's guide and tips!
GUIDE
Guide to Thanksgiving in NYC for Kids and Families
Classics, like Tom Turkey, and newbies alike take flight in the 99th annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2025: Where to Watch, What's New
Many organizations throughout New York City are offering free turkey giveaways, plus full, hot Thanksgiving dinners this season. Photo by John McCarten for the New York City Council
Where To Find Free Turkey in NYC for Thanksgiving Dinner 2025
Meet Santa aboard The Polar Express chugging along the Morristown and Erie lines. Photo courtesy of the Morristown and Erie Railway
Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains near NYC in 2025
See your favorite characters come to life at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade balloon inflation. Photo by Eugene Gologursky/courtesy of Macy's.
24 Best Things To Do in NYC with Kids November 2025, According to Mommy Poppins Editors
Enjoy a cozy, French-style Thanksgiving meal at Le Rivage. Photo by Evan Sung
25 Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving 2025 in NYC
Lightscape at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden has become an enchanting holiday tradition for many families. Photo courtesy of the garden
NYC's Coolest Christmas Events to Book Now Before They Sell Out in 2025
GUIDE
NYC Fall Day Trips Guide: Orchards, Farms, Festivals, and Kid-Friendly Getaways 2025
Volunteer to help feed families in New York this Thanksgiving.
Best 2025 Thanksgiving Volunteering Opportunities for Families in NYC
Canstruction is free and open to the public at Brookfield Place through Monday, November 10. Photo by Heidi Lee
34 Free and Fun Things To Do in NYC November 2025 with Kids
Kids as young as 14 can apply for an eco-focused internship at Alley Pond Park in Queens. Photo courtesy of the Alley Pond Environmental Center
Best Museum Programs in NYC for Teens
The 2025-2026 public school year for NYC kids starts on Thursday, September 4.
Here's the NYC Public School Calendar for 2025-2026
Get ready for back to school with all the right supplies, classes, and tips.
GUIDE
Back-to-School Guide 2025-2026
See the skyline from a whole new vantage point on the Roosevelt Island Tram. Photo courtesy of NYCGo
Ultimate New York City Bucket List: 100 Things To Do in NYC with Kids Before They Grow Up
Stranger Things: The First Shadow plays at the Marquis Theatre and gives the popular Neflix show a prequel. Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman
Best Broadway Shows for Kids and Families in 2025
The Ausable Chasm has been described as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks and it's one of our top 100 things to do in New York State with kids. Photo by Anna Fader
Ultimate New York Bucket List: 100 Things To Do with Kids in NY State
Diving into the sprinkle pool at the Museum of Ice Cream is a great way to cure rainy day blues. Photo by Jody Mercier
47 Fun Indoor Activities in NYC for a Rainy Day
Vinland Playground got a fresh upgrade in Bay Ridge. Photo by NYC Parks/Daniel Avila
Jaw-Dropping New Playgrounds in NYC to Explore with Kids Now
Summer camps help kids develop social skills and have fun
GUIDE
NYC Summer Camp Guide
The Peninsula New York rolls out the red carpet for kids—and their grown ups!
Family-Friendly Hotels in New York City with Perks for Kids
Climb on platforms dangling from ropes at Hester Street Playground. Photo by Jody Mercier
NYC's Best Playgrounds: 21 Parks Worthy of a Subway Schlep
There's always a cool new piece of public art to see and interact with in NYC. Photo by Jody Mercier
100 Free Things To Do in NYC with Kids
Brooklyn's Flying Apple offers action-packed fun for kids of all ages.
24 Best Kids' Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in NYC
Discover the NYC-themed play space hidden inside the Toys
27 Free Things To Do Indoors in NYC: Free Places To Play Indoors on Cold and Rainy Days
Photo courtesy of PLAY Greenpoint.
GUIDE
Guide to Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in NYC
Free activities for Kids in NYC include the Children's Museum of the Arts, which has pay-what-you-wish Thursdays from 4-6pm. Photo courtesy of the museum
GUIDE
Free Things To Do in NYC with Kids Guide
Visit the 180 Pool at the Crystal Springs Resort. Photo courtesy of the resort
14 Family-Friendly Weekend Getaways near NYC
Explore modern humanity through all-new world-wandering exhibitions at Mmuseumm.
Weird, Wacky, and Wonderful Under-the-Radar Museums in NYC that Kids Love
Kids' classes like art lessons can help your NYC child grow and develop
GUIDE
Guide to NYC Classes for Kids
For an only-in-NYC experience, head to the Top of the Rock to enjoy the view. Photo by Jody Mercier
Best Attractions and Things To Do near NYC that are Kid-Friendly
Tea Around Town combines a sumptuous meal with a unique view NYC landmarks! Photo by Jody Mercier
25 Best NYC Tours for Families: From Boat Rides to Free Walking Tours and More
The American Museum of Natural History's blue whale is an NYC icon, and the entire museum is one of the best children's museums in NYC. Photo by R. Mickens/courtesy of AMNH
Best Museums for Kids in NYC: Children's Museums and Family-Friendly Museums in NYC
GUIDE
Guide to Kids' Birthday Parties in NYC
Registration is now open for the reasonably priced summer camps at YMCA locations in NYC.
Free and Cheap Summer Camps in NYC for Kids
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk has 75 animal exhibits and is home to more than 7,000 animals. Photo courtesy of the aquarium
Best Aquariums to Visit from the NYC Metro Area with Kids
Get a Broadway-caliber serenade during a birthday dinner at Ellen's Stardust Diner.
Best Fun Restaurants for Kids' Birthdays in NYC
Get a birds eye view of the skyline from the Edge observation deck at Hudson Yards. Plan a visit near sundown to watch the city lights come to life. Photo by Jody Mercier
3 Days in NYC with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom
Feed a crowd with extra large, classic, New York-style pizza slices without breaking the bank. Photo by Jody Mercier
NYC on a Budget: Cheap Things To Do and Money Saving Tips for Families
These boredom-busting activities turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.
75 Indoor Activities for Kids on a Rainy Day
The Met offers pay-what-you wish admission at all times to New Yorkers and kids always attend for free. Photo by Jody Mercier
Free Museums and Free Museum Days in NYC for Kids
Kids can while away hours of a day with a set of watercolors and a stack of new paper for painting. Photo by Sara Marentette
Crafts for Kids: 100 Awesome Art Projects
No visit to NYC is complete without an up-close encounter with the Statue of Liberty. Photo by Jess Laird
40 Best NYC Attractions to Do with Kids Right Now
Teach 'em to tie during downtime.
65 Life Skills to Teach Kids at Every Age
GUIDE
NYC Kids Summer Guide: 728 Best Festivals, Deals, Activities & Free Things to Do
Take a hike with your little one on a family day trip from NYC.
GUIDE
Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways for NYC Kids
Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander
67 Easy Science Experiments for Kids To Do at Home
Hester Street Playground. Photo by Jody Mercier
GUIDE
Playgrounds & Parks NYC Guide
Suncatcher_Liz Baill @creativishmom
GUIDE
Crafts for Kids Guide: Thousands of Craft Ideas

The Ultimate Guide to Fall Festivals for Chicago Families

Taste of Chicago, Pullman Park. Photo by Walter S. Mitchell III, City of Chicago
Taste of Chicago, Pullman Park. Photo by Walter S. Mitchell III, City of Chicago
8/31/25 - By Maureen Wilkey

Chicago is full of kid-friendly fall festivals, and many of them are FREE. From neighborhood Chicago harvest festivals honoring our diverse communities, like Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest or 79th Street Renaissance Festival, to kid-friendly fall festivals in Chicago that dig deep into our thriving food and art scenes, like the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts or Ravenswood Art Walk, there's a celebration happening every weekend from now 'til Thanksgiving.

Even Oktoberfest celebrations in Chicago, which might make you think of boozy crowds, make room for families with kids' zones and activities. And of course, there's Halloween and all the fun that comes with it.

Bookmark this long list of the best fall festivals in Chicago to do with kids. And get your calendar and your favorite fall sweater ready!

Tips for Visiting Fall Festivals with Kids

  • Go early to avoid crowds.
  • Check online for ticket and reservation requirements.
  • Bring an umbrella, bug spray, and sunscreen.
  • Figure out the best place to park.
  • Be ready for photo ops. 
  • Even for free festivals, bring cash for snacks and rides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When do fall festivals in Chicago usually happen?

A: The earliest festivals in Chicago are over Labor Day weekend, with the last ones finishing around Thanksgiving.

Q: Are Chicago's festivals stroller-friendly?

A: Usually. You may need to check the terrain — street festivals are usually stroller-friendly while farms and county fairs might need a heavy duty wagon.

Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance?

A: Always check the festival website. Many require advanced ticket purchases and sometimes even free festivals want you to make reservations in order to keep the crowds down.

 

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

There's a kid-friendly fall festival nearly every weekend. Photo courtesy of Last Fling in Naperville
There's a kid-friendly fall festival nearly every weekend. Photo courtesy of Last Fling in Naperville

Labor Day Weekend and September Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Buffalo Grove Days

Buffalo Grove
Thursday, August 28-Monday, September 1
Celebrate the northwest suburbs with a carnival, food trucks, live music for kids and grown-ups, bingo, a family fun walk, a pancake breakfast, and a rotary duck race. Fun and games are available for kids in the children's area. READ MORE

Taste of Polonia

Jefferson Park
Saturday, August 30-Monday, September 1
The country's largest Polish festival takes place at the Copernicus Center in Chicago on Labor Day weekend. More than 30 bands will play on four stages throughout the weekend, and families can enjoy inflatables, a climbing wall, face painting, clowns, Disney characters, tastings and cooking classes, carnival rides, and games. READ MORE

African Festival of the Arts

Washington Park
Saturday, August 30-Monday, September 21
Washington Park hosts the annual African Festival of the Arts, featuring vibrant drumming, museum quality and collectible artifacts, colorful and rich handwoven fabric and textile, family friendly activities, music, and food.  READ MORE

Nashwood

Highwood- FREE
Friday, August 29-Sunday, August 31
North suburban Highwood celebrates country music on Labor Day weekend with live country, bluegrass, blues and Southern rock music. Southern inspired food and drinks will also be available. Families can take a hayride through downtown to get between venues. New this year, Honky Tonk Tots area will offer kid friendly entertainment on Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM – 12 PM. Located on the patio in front of Tala Coffee and Billy Brick’s Pizza, it will feature family friendly performances by Little Miss Ann (Saturday 10:30 AM – 11 AM) and Miss Jamie's Farm (Sunday 10:30 - 11:15 AM). READ MORE

Last Fling

Naperville
Friday, August 29-Monday, September 1
Naperville's annual end of summer festival features live music, food vendors, a carnival and Family Fun Land. The family area includes sack races, water balloon contests, and eating contests featuring cotton candy, spaghetti, and cupcakes. Music, dancing, stilt walkers, and a real live princess round out the family fun. READ MORE

Taste of Melrose Park

Melrose Park - FREE
Friday, August 29-Sunday, August 31
Summer winds down with this annual festival in the near west suburbs. Families can enjoy a live entertainment, including kids' musicians, bagpipes, the Sabor de Mexico stage, and the Jesse White Tumblers, along with carnival rides and games and a free interactive racing game. READ MORE

Schaumburg September Fest

Schaumburg
Saturday, August 30-Monday, September 1
Septemberfest offers arts & crafts, live music, kid's activities, carnival, and much more. READ MORE

Long Grove Irish Days

Long Grove - FREE
Saturday, August 30-Monday, September 1
Experience the luck of the Irish on Labor Day weekend in historic Downtown Long Grove. Visitors can see Irish dancers, hear Irish music, sample Irish inspired food and beverages, and judge contests for best Irish dog and best looking men's legs in a kilt. READ MORE

Frankfort Fall Fest

Frankfort - FREE
Saturday, August 30-Monday, September 1
Celebrate fall in the southwest suburbs at this annual event featuring concerts, a carnival, food vendors, and more. A parade steps off on Sunday at 1pm, and families can visit the KidWork Children's Museum or Frankfort History Museum nearby. READ MORE

Winfield Good Old Days

Winfield - FREE
Friday, September 5-Sunday, September 7
Bike races, a bags tournament, a steak cook-off, duck races, shoe-kicking contests, and a meatball eating contest are the highlights of this nostalgic west suburban festival. Kids can also enjoy historic trolley rides, live music, and a parade on Sunday at Church and Beecher Streets in downtown Winfield. READ MORE

Fine Arts Festival - Downers Grove

Downers Grove - FREE
Saturday, September 6
The 48th Annual Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival will be held September 6-7, 2025. The festival features a diverse range of juried artists across various mediums. In addition to the beautiful art, you can enjoy live entertainment, explore unique boutiques, savor delicious offerings at local restaurants, and partake in a children's art activity.  READ MORE

German-American Fest

Lincoln Square - FREE
Friday, September 5-Sunday, September 7
Families can don their dirndls and lederhosen and step out to Lincoln Square for German and American food, music, and gemuetlischkeit. The event features carnival games, the annual Steuben Parade through North Center and Lincoln Square, and traditional German music and dancing. READ MORE

Printers Row Lit Fest

South Loop - FREE
Saturday, September 6- Sunday, September 7
Bibliophiles of all ages are welcome at Printers Row Lit Fest, where they can enjoy talks, demonstrations, and workshops with authors of all genres. Kids authors and books will be featured throughout the fest. READ MORE

Rock the Block Party

Elmhurst - FREE
Friday, September 6- Saturday, September 7
Families can celebrate the end of summer with live entertainment and local food vendors at this annual Elmhurst festival. Kids can enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, games, a photo booth, and a performances from local musicians. Adults can enjoy beverages from the beer and wine tent. READ MORE

Throwback Music Fest

Norwood Park - FREE
Friday, September 5-Sunday, September7
Introduce kids to the music of the '50s, '60s, '70s, and 80's at this annual northwest side festival. While grownups enjoy tribute bands, a throwback pinup contest, and a classic car show, kids can play games, do crafts, enjoy face painting, or bounce in a bounce house.   READ MORE

Taste of Chicago Grant Park

Downtown - FREE
Friday, September 5-Sunday, September 7
Foodies of all ages can enjoy Chicago restaurants, live music, and family-friendly activities at the annual Taste of Chicago outdoor food festival. The summer series of festivals culminates in September with a full weekend of foodie fun in Grant Park. READ MORE

79th Street Renaissance Festival

Auburn Gresham - FREE
Saturday, September 6
Attendees can enjoy local food, retailers, organizations, and performers from all genres from cultural to modern dance and blues to hip hop at the 79th Street Renaissance Festival! READ MORE

Glendale Heights Oktoberfest

Glendale Heights
Thursday, September 11-Sunday, September 21
Families can enjoy German foods and music under a spacious tent in Camera Park for a full 10 days at this Glendale Heights Festival. Strolling Oompah bands and souvenirs like German hats and steins will complete the fun. READ MORE

Norwood Park Fall Fest

Norwood Park
Friday, September 12- Saturday, September 13
Celebrate fall with live entertainment, food and drink vendors, and kids' activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy carnival games, a magic show, tattoos and henna, an inflatable corn maze and kids' music and dance performances. READ MORE

Ravenswood ArtWalk: 22nd Annual Tour of Arts & Industry

Ravenswood - FREE
Saturday, September 13- Sunday, September 14
The ultimate end-of-summer festival returns to Chicago’s northside with the 23rd Annual Ravenswood Artwalk on Saturday, September 13th and Sunday, September 14th. The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) partners with the historic Ravenswood Industrial Corridor for a weekend that showcases the bustling hub of artisans, manufacturers, and brewers. READ MORE

Oaktoberfest

Oak Park- FREE
Friday, September 26- Saturday, September 27
Oak Park celebrates the changing seasons at Oaktoberfest with music, food from local restaurants, specialty craft beers, and a kids' root beer garden open from noon to 5pm on Saturday, September 27. The pint-sized fun includes zucchini races, a ninja obstacle court, root beer floats, crafts, and other activities sponsored by local businesses. READ MORE

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

Lakeview - FREE
Saturday, September 13- Sunday, September 14
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts offers over 150 artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, photography furniture, jewelry, and more. In addition to live music on two stages, the festival includes live demonstrations, family activities and a garden oasis.     READ MORE

Long Grove Apple Fest

Long Grove
Friday, September 26- Sunday, September 28
How do you like them apples? Long Grove will make them any way you want—baked in pies, dipped in chocolate or caramel, or chopped up in sangria. Families can also enjoy a carnival and live music with their apple treats. READ MORE

West End Arts Festival

LaGrange - FREE
Saturday, September 6- Sunday, September 7
Families can enjoy visual, culinary and performing arts at this annual festival in west suburban LaGrange. More than 60 artists will display their works, while jazz musicians will perform throughout the festival. Chefs from local restaurants will offer cooking demonstrations and kids can enjoy art activities including face painting near Stone Avenue train station. READ MORE

Midnight Circus in the Parks

Various Chicago Parks September 6, September 12-14, September 20-21 and September 26-28
This small, family-run circus is as sweet as they come, bringing the circus to parks all over Chicago for a small, intimate performance! Families can grab a blanket and get cozy in their favorite park to see talented aerialists, gymnasts, tight rope walkers, clowns, and even a dog put on an energetic and awe-inspiring performance. READ MORE

World Music Festival

Citywide - FREE
Friday, September 26- Sunday, October 5
World music fans can enjoy FREE concerts throughout the City of Chicago during the 23rd Annual World Music Festival. This city-wide, multi-venue, 10-day festival will include 34 bands representing 22 countries. Experience music from all regions of the world including Brazil, South Korea, and Senegal. READ MORE

Celebración de los Árboles

Lisle
Saturday, September 27- Sunday, September 28
This fun-filled festival at The Morton Arboretum will immerse guests in celebrating the diverse cultures of Latin America. Sample foods from different Latin America countries, listen to music, and learn traditional dances at this family friendly outdoor event. READ MORE

St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest

Lakeview
Friday, September 26-Sunday, September 28
Bring your lederhosen and dirndls for some German family fun. Enjoy some bratwurst, some live music, and all things Bavarian, as well as music from favorite Chicago acts. READ MORE

Beverly Art Walk

Beverly - FREE
Saturday, September 27
The Beverly Art Walk is a free art festival celebrating work from over 150 juried artists, as well as live music, food, and hands-on activities for art lovers of all ages. Guests can embark on self-guided tours through over 100 participating venues. READ MORE

Brookfield Zoo Chicago Oktoberfest

Brookfield
Sunday, September 28
Put on your lederhosen or dirndl and enjoy some polka music at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Bands will be playing throughout the day on the East Mall, or families can catch mobile music from the PolkaPedi. German foods will be available for purchase throughout the zoo. This year, the Zoo is planning a special ticketed tailgate event with details to come. Check back here. READ MORE

Hyde Park Jazz Festival

Hyde Park - FREE
Saturday, September 27- Sunday, September 28
Music fans of all ages can enjoy free performances by world class jazz musicians at Hyde Park Jazz Festival, as well as local food vendors and a free shuttle between concert locations! READ MORE

Cantigny Fall Fest

Wheaton Saturday, September 27-Sunday, September 28
Celebrate the season with us at Cantigny’s Annual Fall Festival on September 27 & 28! This family-friendly weekend features a vibrant Fall Market, live music, guided garden tours, and a variety of food trucks offering tasty bites. Kids can enjoy hands-on crafts, bounce houses, and a delightful petting zoo, creating memories for all ages. READ MORE

Spring Road Fall Fest

Elmhurst
Saturday, September 20
Families can enjoy fall-themed entertainment at the intersection of Spring Road and the Prairie Path in Elmhurst. Activities include a petting zoo, pony rides, a moon jump, temporary tattoos, carnival games, and musical entertainment. Kids can also paint pumpkins and enjoy concessions. READ MORE
"Night of 1,000 Jack-o'- Lanterns. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden

October Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest

Lincoln Square
Friday, October 3- Sunday, October 5
The 37th annual Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest offers activities for apple lovers of all ages. Food vendors and farm vendors will be on hand for families to buy fall-themed foods! Kids can enjoy apple themed activities like an apple sensory bin and an apple slime kit, as well as activities from Wiggleworms, musicians, jugglers, sing-a-longs, and so much more! READ MORE

Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up

Goose Island
September 20-November 2
Jack's is one of Chicago's largest fall themed festivals. With 10,000 pumpkins, fortune tellers, a corn maze with a secret bar, gem mining, photo opportunities, carnival games, and food trucks, Jack's provides to unique experience for each guest that comes through the doors. It is also kid friendly! READ MORE

Fall Fest - Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park
September 26-October 26
Fall Fest offers a pumpkin patch, hay mountain, professional pumpkin carvers, Ferris wheel and more throughout Lincoln Park Zoo. READ MORE

Caldwell Woods Pumpkin Palooza

Edgebrook- FREE
Saturday, October 4
Families can enjoy nature's contributions to Halloween by painting pumpkins, playing gourd ring toss, making leaf rubbings, and running through a fall-themed obstacle course. READ MORE

Naper Settlement Oktoberfest

Naperville
Friday, October 3- Saturday, October 4
Naperville Heritage Society celebrates October with its signature beer tent full of local Oktoberfest brews for the grown-ups, plus plenty of kids activities for the little ones. Live polka and rock music take center stage while families can also participate in themed contests. Live pumpkin carving and a stein holding competition round out the fun. READ MORE

Brookfield Zoo Chicago Boo at the Zoo

Brookfield
October 4- 31
Kids can trick or treat with the animals at Brookfield Zoo at this not-so-scary event during the three weeks leading up to Halloween. Other weekend activities include giant pumpkin carving, a Halloween craft, cupcake and cookie decorating, a haunted hayride, a creepy cowboy carousel, a corn maze, a pumpkin smasher, a costume parade, and a costume contest. READ MORE

The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival

Highwood - FREE
Friday, October 3-Sunday, October 5
Visit Highwood for all the pumpkin-based fun you could wish for. This three-day festival includes all-you-can-carve pumpkin stations, a carnival, live entertainment, a 5k, craft and food vendors, and pet and kid costume contests. READ MORE

Elmhurst Family Fall Fest

Elmhurst - FREE
Saturday, October 4
Safety Town trick-or-treating, an inflatable corn maze obstacle course, and fall games are on hand for families at Wild Meadows Trace in Elmhurst. Families can stay for lunch to visit food trucks including Brown's Chicken, Nick's Woodfire Pizza Truck, Tacos El Amigazo, D's Treats and Ice Cream, and Smallcakes. Kids can also enjoy face painting and a balloon artist. READ MORE

Lombard Fall Fest

Lombard - FREE
Saturday, October 4
Kids can kick off the Halloween season at Lombard's annual fall event. Kids can enjoy games, dancing, face painting, and a candy hunt. The Lombard Community Building will host Boo Bingo from 12:30pm to 1:30pm. READ MORE

Columbus Day Parade

Chicago Loop - FREE
Monday, October 13
Chicagoans of all ages can enjoy watching 150 groups, including bands, floats, and marchers, march down State Street for the 73rd annual Columbus Day Parade.  READ MORE

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival

St. Charles - FREE
Friday, October 10-Sunday, October 12
More than 100 handmade and mechanical scarecrows will be on display in downtown St. Charles for this 35th annual fall tradition. Families can make their own scarecrow, enjoy live entertainment, shop at the arts and crafts show, or ride carnival rides while enjoying the fall weather. READ MORE

Night of 1,000 Jack-o'- Lanterns

Glencoe
October 8-12, 15-19 and 22-26
Don't be a scaredy cat, these hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns are a real treat. Explore the Chicago Botanical Gardens for a spook-tacular adventure with more than 1,000 hand-carved jack-o-lanterns to light the way. This event tends to sell out.  READ MORE

Arts in the Dark

Downtown - FREE
Saturday, October 18
Arts in the Dark is an evening parade that celebrates Halloween as the "artist's holiday," bringing together Chicago institutions and organizations dedicated to art and education. Audience members will be delighted by unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performances set against the backdrop of Chicago’s majestic skyline. READ MORE

Harvest Pow Wow

Wheaton
Saturday, October 11- Sunday, October 12
Touring a tipi, making arrowheads, watching presentations about horses and birds of prey, and listening to Native American music are just a few of the activities available for children at SOARRING's Annual Harvest Pow Wow. Dancers and drummers will perform continuously throughout most of the festival, and families can also sample Native American foods and learn more about Native American Culture. READ MORE

Hinsdale Fall Family Fest

Hinsdale - FREE
Saturday, October 18
West suburban families can visit Burlington Park to paint pumpkins, enjoy giveaways from local businesses, visit food trucks, and trick-or-treat at downtown businesses. Inflatables and roaming entertainment will also be on hand. READ MORE

Open House Chicago

Citywide - FREE
Saturday, October 18- Sunday, Octobe 19
The Chicago Architecture Center hosts Open House Chicago, a free public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to more than 20 buildings throughout Chicago. Guests can enjoy access to Chicago's architectural gems, including skyscrapers, repurposed mansions, opulent theaters, exclusive private clubs, private offices, and breathtaking sacred spaces. READ MORE

Fall Paddle Festival

Winnetka - FREE
Saturday, October 25
Enjoy some fall time out on the water with a canoe trip. Families can also learn about archery, take a guided hike, paint pumpkins, and play in nature. READ MORE

BOOmingdale Halloween Party

Bloomingdale - FREE
Saturday, October 18
Fall festivities abound at this event sponsored by the Bloomingdale Park District, Village of Bloomingdale, Bloomingdale Public Library, and Friends of the Bloomingdale Public Library. The Police and Fire Department will offer Halloween-themed building tours and trunk or treat while the library will host a hay maze, moon jump, balloon artist, face painter, and refreshments.   READ MORE

Spooky Zoo

Lincoln Park
Saturday, October 18
Kids can trick-or-treat for sustainably sourced candy at Lincoln Park Zoo from 10am until the candy runs out. Kids can enjoy free carousel rides, spooky chats and learning activities, and fall rides and attractions to keep the party going. READ MORE

Batfest

Batavia - FREE
Saturday, October 25
Visit downtown Batavia to enjoy bat-themed fun including trick or treating, a parade, pumpkin bowl, bat art, stories, games and more. Kids can see a show of live bats, see dance performances, and listen to live music. READ MORE

Pumpkin Palooza

Naperville
Saturday, October 25
Kids can celebrate the season by coming in costume to the DuPage Children's Museum for STEAM-themed, non-scary activities. Build your own Franken buddy from recycled toys, create wearable art, brew your own slime, and mix and mash pumpkin guts! READ MORE

Lincoln Scared and Ravenswoooooood

Lincoln Square and Ravenswood- FREE
Sunday, October 26
Lincoln Square and Ravenswood transform into Lincoln Scared and Ravenswooooooood for early trick-or-treating. Businesses hand out candy and other treats, and a pumpkin decorating station sets up on Damen Avenue. READ MORE

Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade

Lakeview - FREE
Friday, October 31
North Halsted Street in Boystown celebrates Halloween unlike any other neighborhood in Chicago. Parade entries may include LED robots, the Lakeside Marching Band, and Chicago Full Moon Jam fire performers. A costume contest awards cash prizes to contestants in seven different categories, including a category for youth. READ MORE

Lincoln Park Spooktacular 2025

Lincoln Park- FREE
Saturday, October 25- Sunday, October 26
Trick-or-treat at select businesses along Lincoln Avenue between Wrightwood and Webster on Saturday or Clark Street on Sunday for the week before Halloween. Magicians, stilt walkers, and jugglers will meet and greet trick or treaters along the way. READ MORE

Naperville Halloween Happening

Naperville - FREE
Sunday, October 26
Visit the Naperville Riverwalk's Grand Pavilion for Halloween games, activities and treats. Hayrides and a pumpkin patch add to the fall fun. This free event is intended for kids 10 and under. READ MORE

Slightly Spooky Saturday: Family Halloween

Navy Pier
Saturday, October 25
Halloween takes over Navy Pier! Families can enjoy circus acts, mad scientist demos, axe throwing, a costume contest, face-painting demos, and more at shops and restaurants around the Pier. READ MORE

Wicker Park Boo-palooza and Bark-palooza

Wicker Park
Saturday, October 18
Families can help raise money for the Wicker Park "Gardens We Design" at this family-friendly Halloween event featuring kids' musicians, a costume parade, and a pumpkin patch and decorating area. Play games including pin-the-tail on various popular cartoons, find the "needle" in the haystack, or work your way through a straw maze. READ MORE

Lemonster Days Trick-or-Treating Downtown Lemont

Lemont- FREE
Saturday, October 25
The Village of Lemont hosts its annual Halloween costume contest, parade and downtown trick-or-treating. READ MORE

Westmont Halloween Fun Fair

Westmont - FREE
Thursday, October 30
The whole family is invited to a safe and fun-filled evening as you trick or treat at the Community Center with us! Beware of trickery and silly fun when you meet Patrick, the spirited magician. Create a spooky craft and try your luck at a game or two along the way. Take a fun photo with your friends and family. There will be plenty of treats and activities to make your evening fangtastic! READ MORE

St. Benedict's Oktoberfest

North Center
Friday, October 3- Sunday, October 5
St. Ben's Parish Oktoberfest includes live entertainment, traditional German food, a carnival, and games. Proceeds will benefit local outreach programs and church operations. READ MORE
Illuminations: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum. Photo courtesy of the Arboretum
Illuminations: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum. Photo courtesy of the Arboretum

November Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden

Glencoe
Opens November 14
Go for a stroll down a mile-long path filled with holiday wonder at the Chicago Botanic Garden. READ MORE

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

Lisle
Opens November 15
Visitors walk a one-mile path with thousands of lights in displays illuminating the trees, accompanied by music. An awe-inspiring display illuminates the new Grand Garden. Visitors can enjoy some old favorites and new displays. New this year—Illumination features four colorful animal sculptures from The Morton Arboretum’s newest exhibition Vivid Creatures, by artists Heather BeGaetz and Fez BeGaetz. See these colorful sculptures lit up for the holidays and transformed for the Illumination experience. Stop along the way to roast s'mores around a campfire or drink a hot beverage from... READ MORE

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

Downtown - FREE
Opens November 21
The 25th annual Christkindlmarket features holiday themed drinks, snacks, shopping, and games outside the Daley Center. READ MORE

Christkindlmarket Aurora

Aurora - FREE
Opens November 21
The annual Christkindlmarket features a variety of German and European vendors selling holiday decor, gifts and treats. Throughout the market, families can also experience live performances from European artists. READ MORE

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Magnificent Mile - FREE
November 22
Chicago's Magnificent Mile hosts the annual Lights Festival with a parade of lights with Grand Marshalls Minnie and Mickey Mouse. The event includes booths full of family-friendly activities, including pictures with Santa. READ MORE

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Brookfield
Opens November 21
Featuring more than a million LED lights, a 41-foot talking Christmas tree, and a 600-foot tunnel of lights with coordinating music, Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic highlights the holidays and loads of animals. READ MORE

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Downtown - FREE
Thursday, November 27
Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade will have the theme of "Where Grateful Hearts Gather." Families can watch as floats, bands, and dignitaries travel along State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Naperville Central High School
Downtown Downers Groveq
Various sites throughout Chicago
Logan Center for the Arts
Lincoln Avenue between Wrightwood and Webster
The Morton Arboretum