Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
Get ready for the 30th anniversary of the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade, an all-day celebration in Chicago's Northalsted district. This iconic event features a lively block party with food, drinks, music, and vendors, culminating in Chicago's only Halloween Night parade. Thousands gather to watch over 300 costumed participants compete for $4,000 in prizes in a spectacular costume contest.
What to Expect
Chicago's only Halloween Night parade with a $4,000 prize costume contest.
Event Details
Duration
All day event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Northalsted
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Chicago Full Moon Jam
- Windy City Jeep Club
- Chicago Thriller
- Lakeside Pride Marching Band
- The Windy City Rollers
- Chicago Spirit Brigade
Organizer
Northalsted Business Alliance
Food & Drink
Food, drinks, beer, spirits, and fall-flavored toddies available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Costume enthusiasts, families, parade-goers
Vibe
Festive, spooky, community-oriented
Energy Level
High
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE – Get tickets
- Parking: No Parking 8am Friday, Oct 31 to 2am Saturday, Nov 1. Streets Closed to Traffic 5pm Friday, Oct 31 to 2am Saturday, Nov 1 on Halsted (Belmont to Addison), Melrose, Aldine, Buckingham, Roscoe, Newport, Cornelia, and Brompton.
- Accessibility: Accessibility statement available on website.
- Pets: Pets are welcome to march in or watch the parade.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade, especially if you plan to participate in the costume contest, as registration closes shortly before it begins.
- Consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services due to extensive street closures and limited parking on the day of the event.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the parade proceeds rain or shine.
- Explore the daytime block party for family-friendly activities, vendor booths, and trick-or-treating opportunities before the evening parade.
- If you plan to enter the costume contest, pre-register online if possible, or be prepared to sign up in person at the designated registration tent.
Special Events & Promotions
- 30th anniversary celebration
- $4,000 in cash prizes for costume contest
- Daytime block party with kids zone, trick-or-treating, and vendors
- Post-parade costume contest and party
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the parade start and end points?
The parade starts at Halsted & Belmont and ends at Halsted & Brompton.
What are the categories for the costume contest?
The contest includes categories for Character, Creative, Scary, Youth (<13), and Group.
Is there a cost to attend the parade?
Spectator admission to the parade is free. Contest participation is also free.
What happens if it rains?
The parade will proceed as scheduled, regardless of rain or snow.
Are pets allowed at the event?
Yes, pets are welcome to march in or watch the parade, with owners responsible for their safety and behavior.
More Halloween Events Near Chicago
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.