The 5 Best Halloween Parties and Attractions in Chicago

A woman parades and dances in traditional Dia de los Muertos makeup during the Chicago Halloween parade
The Halloween parade in Chicago Photo credit Xinhua / Imagn
By , Audacy

Halloween is finally here. The first official fall holiday hits Chicago like a cold wind off the lake, and if you don’t have plans it can feel like it came out of nowhere. Prepare for the best Halloween this year by planning out your evening (or whole holiday week) with haunted houses, bar crawls and parties. Here are the best Halloween events around Chicago.

Survive a Basement Full of Deadly Monsters

Don’t worry about the quick drive out to Aurora. You’ve got far more sinister things to worry about in this haunted house set in a decrepit basement. Since 2000, the gory experience has won accolades and rave reviews from horror enthusiasts. Bloody nurses, clowns and pretty much any other nightmare you might harbor await in the subterranean horror pit.

Basement of the Dead

42 W New York St, Aurora, IL 60506

Browse for a Legit Costume

You could (and likely will) spend hours browsing the props and oddities in Lost Eras. The place is packed with vintage antiques and fake movie props, but you’re here for the ridiculous costumes and accessories galore. If you’re having trouble deciding on a costume this year, just lose yourself in the junk at Lost Eras, and let inspiration take you.

Lost Eras

1511 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626

Bar Crawl Through River North in Costume

Suit up the Saturday preceding Halloween (October 26) and join a merry gang of costumed weirdos as you drink your way across River North with the annual River North Halloween Bar Crawl. The hit list includes Joy District, Untitled, Hubbard Inn, Trophy Room and Concrete Cowboy, along with an afterparty to be announced along with other details on the day of the festivities.

River North Bar Crawl

Dance Your Zombified Brains Out on a Boat

The always popping Rock the Yacht party series returns for Halloween with a midnight cruise and dance party. On Friday before Halloween, board the Odyssey Yacht, for a costumed bash on the lake. The boat is well stocked with bars and DJs who will bump up the seasonal and club tunes as you cruise for hours.

Rock the Yacht: Midnight Chicago Halloween Yacht Party

Celebrate Día de los Muertos

The annual celebration of the Mexican holiday at the National Museum of Mexican Art is not to be missed. Pan de muerto and Mexican hot chocolate are on hand for snacking as you admire traditional ofrendas. Kids will find the event especially entertaining with face painting and craft activities.

National Museum of Mexican Art

1852 W 19th St, Chicago, IL 60608