A miniature Halloween scene depicts a red house decorated with pumpkins and spooky figures, with two children in the foreground, one dressed as a witch.
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Artistic rendering – Event may differ

DeKalb Halloween House Decorating Contest

Community-wide house decorating contest with online voting

About

Get into the Halloween spirit by participating in or viewing the 5th Annual DeKalb Halloween House Decorating Contest. Residents transform their homes into festive and frightening displays, competing for awards like Best Overall Theme and Scariest Display. Residents can also vote online for the coveted People's Choice Award, making it a community-wide celebration of spooky creativity.

Our Take

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 (3/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (5/5)

Best For

Families, community members

Vibe

Festive, creative, community-oriented

Energy Level

Low (viewing), medium (decorating)

Budget

$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

Low (voting is online, judging is on-site)

Special Events & Promotions

  • Prize packages generously sponsored by Raising Canes.
  • People's Choice Award determined by Facebook likes.

Tags

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.

Location

DeKalb, IL

Event Details

Pricing

$5

Duration

Judging period and online voting period

Ages

All ages (residents of DeKalb)

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

DeKalb Park District

Practical Information

Pet Policy

No pets allowed

Food & Drink

Prize packages sponsored by Raising Canes.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Register by October 15th to ensure your house is included in the judging and online voting.
  • Consider both daylight and nighttime viewing when decorating, as judging occurs during both periods.
  • Encourage friends and family to 'like' your house's photo on the DeKalb Park District Facebook page to win the People's Choice Award.
  • If you are a DeKalb resident, you can participate by decorating your home, or simply enjoy viewing the creative displays.
  • Check the DeKalb Park District Facebook page between October 17th and 24th to cast your vote for the People's Choice Award.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in the contest?

The contest is open to all DeKalb residents who wish to decorate their homes.

What are the categories for prizes?

Prizes are awarded for Best Overall Theme, Best Special Effects, Scariest Display, and People's Choice.

When will the houses be judged?

Judging takes place on October 16th between 4:00 PM and 11:00 PM. Residents do not need to be present.

How is the People's Choice Award determined?

The People's Choice Award is determined by the number of 'likes' on photos of the decorated houses posted on the DeKalb Park District Facebook page from October 17th to October 24th.

Is there a fee to enter the contest?

Yes, there is a registration fee of $5 per house.

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Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 10, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Halloween Events Near Me editorial team

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