Find the best boos and brews in Downers Grove with our Halloween event guide. Discover the flavors of Downers Grove's haunted cuisine with our guide, a menu for phantom foodies and adventurous eaters.
Popular Events: If you're seeking a thrilling experience, HellsGate Haunted House combines intricate storytelling with intense scares in a charmingly eerie setting. For those looking for something a bit different, Disturbia Haunted House offers immersive environments and unexpected frights that keep visitors on their toes. And the Basement of the Dead is something you definitely don't want to miss, with its chilling atmosphere and legendary haunt features. Explore more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
Please contact us if you have suggestions or corrections!
Join the Downers Grove Discussion!
See the Latest Halloween News for Downers Grove!
Top Halloween Events In and Around Downers Grove
- HellsGate Haunted House (Lockport)
- Spooktacular Halloween Stroll (Wheaton)
- All Hallows Eve: Dress for the Dead (Naperville)
- Downtown Trick-or-Treating
- Oktoberfest (Naperville)
- Basement of the Dead Haunted House (Aurora)
- Disturbia Haunted House
- Hayride of Horror (Lockport)
- Curse of the Bayou (Lockport)
- Trick or Treat in the Woods: Isle a la Cache (Romeoville)
See these and even more events listed below!
Downers Grove Area Haunted Experiences
HellsGate Haunted House
What to Expect:
Immersive experience combining two award-winning casts and crews.
Description:
HellsGate Haunted House in Lockport, IL, is a multi-level mansion filled with secret passages, giant slides, and ghastly secrets. This year, the event combines the award-winning casts and crews of HellsGate and Statesville Prison, offering an unforgettable Halloween experience. Travel through zombie-infested woods and across the Lost Souls Cemetery to find this haunted house. The event promises to be the scariest haunted house in Illinois, making it a must-visit for Halloween enthusiasts.
Where: Lockport | More Info: HellsGate Haunted House
Disturbia Haunted House
What to Expect:
A unique and immersive haunted house experience with expertly trained actors and state-of-the-art special effects.
Description:
Disturbia Haunted House is a thrilling attraction located in Downers Grove, IL, near Chicago. This haunted house features expertly designed rooms and scenarios, state-of-the-art special effects, and stunning set designs. It offers a spine-tingling experience with expertly trained actors, making it the perfect destination for those seeking a heart-pumping, adrenaline-pumping scare.
Where: Downers Grove | More Info: Disturbia Haunted House
Basement of the Dead Haunted House
What to Expect:
Immersive haunted house experience with two distinct attractions, including a 3D haunted house.
Description:
Experience the thrill of Basement of the Dead Haunted House, located in Aurora, just outside of Chicago. This haunted attraction features two distinct experiences: navigating the twisted corridors of an abandoned underground laboratory in the Basement of the Dead, and bracing yourself for the surreal world of Shattered 3D with its stunning visuals and spine-tingling scares.
Where: Aurora | More Info: Basement of the Dead Haunted House
Hayride of Horror
What to Expect:
An immersive haunted hayride experience with 20-foot outdoor movie screens and line entertainment.
Description:
Experience the Hayride of Horror at Dellwood Park, where eerie movies and a bonfire set the stage for a terrifying journey through the heart of the park. Dark forces and mysterious creatures will play with your imagination, making this a night to remember.
Where: Lockport | More Info: Hayride of Horror
Curse of the Bayou
What to Expect:
Navigate through a haunted maze with strobe lighting and fog effects in the Curse of the Bayou.
Description:
Embark on a thrilling adventure through Dellwood Park with the Hayride of Horror, where dark and mysterious forces will play with your imagination. The Curse of the Bayou offers a more intense experience, navigating through tight corners, low ceilings, and terrifying obstacles. This haunted attraction is not recommended for young children and features strobe lighting, fog, and loud noises.
Where: Lockport | More Info: Curse of the Bayou
Windy City Ghosts
What to Expect:
A chilling journey through Chicago's most haunted sites, offering a deep look into the city's dark past and shady characters.
Description:
Explore Chicago's dark past with Windy City Ghosts, a nightly ghost tour that takes you to haunted locations like old asylums, cult sites, and bars. Discover the city's eerie history, including tales of gangsters, bootleggers, and supernatural encounters.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Windy City Ghosts
Soul Reapers Haunted House
What to Expect:
A highly detailed, actor-driven haunt featuring room after room of true terror.
Description:
Soul Reapers Haunted House is a terrifying experience that takes you through four themed attractions: Madame Mizery's Mansion, Lost Souls Asylum, Swamp of Souls, and The Underworld. Each attraction is designed to immerse you in a world of demons and monsters, where your screams will be legendary. The event is held at the Kenosha County Fairgrounds in Wilmot, WI, and it is recommended for visitors aged 13 and older due to its graphic scenery and strong language.
Where: Wilmot | More Info: Soul Reapers Haunted House
Abandoned Haunted House Complex
What to Expect:
Interactive haunted houses with unique scare experiences and axe throwing activities.
Description:
Experience the thrill of Abandoned Haunted House Complex, voted #1 in the Milwaukee and Chicago area. This haunted attraction offers three unique haunted houses: Ambush, Hysteria, and Stalker. Each house provides an intense scare experience with interactive elements, loud noises, and engaging lighting effects. Additionally, enjoy axe throwing and quickpass upgrades to minimize wait times. With a variety of food and beverages available, including alcoholic drinks, this event promises a perfect blend of scares and entertainment for everyone.
Where: Mount Pleasant | More Info: Abandoned Haunted House Complex
Family-Friendly Fall Activities Near Downers Grove
Oktoberfest
What to Expect:
A unique blend of traditional German cuisine and modern music in a festive atmosphere.
Description:
Oktoberfest at Naper Settlement is a festive celebration featuring traditional German cuisine and a variety of beers. The event takes place under a large heated tent, offering lively Oompah music on Friday and a mix of Oompah, modern polka, pop, R&B, and yacht rock on Saturday. Guests can enjoy lawn games, professional pumpkin carving demonstrations, and a stein-holding contest. The event also includes activities for children and a beer garden with local and traditional Oktoberfest beer varieties.
Where: Naperville | More Info: Oktoberfest
Downtown Trick-or-Treating
What to Expect:
The event includes a costume contest hosted by the Lions Club at Fishel Park.
Description:
Downtown Trick-or-Treating in Downers Grove offers a fun-filled afternoon of Halloween festivities. Participants can join various downtown businesses for trick-or-treating, creating a lively atmosphere filled with costumes and treats. The event also includes a costume contest hosted by the Lions Club at Fishel Park, adding an extra layer of excitement to the celebration.
Where: Downers Grove | More Info: Downtown Trick-or-Treating
All Hallows Eve: Dress for the Dead
What to Expect:
A comprehensive Halloween celebration with a range of activities suitable for families with children 16 and under.
Description:
All Hallows Eve at Naper Settlement is a family-friendly Halloween festival featuring a variety of spooky and fun activities. The event includes a Dress for the Dead Costume Contest, Screams from the Unknown Outdoor Haunt, DÃa De Los Muertos Experience, Alice's Unbirthday Party, and a Gargoyle Graveyard. Visitors can enjoy Halloween-themed outdoor activities, art, and performances while overcoming their fears in a festive atmosphere.
Where: Naperville | More Info: All Hallows Eve: Dress for the Dead
Spooktacular Halloween Stroll
What to Expect:
Halloween celebration in a zoo setting with family-friendly activities.
Description:
Experience a family-friendly Halloween celebration at Cosley Zoo with an evening stroll through the zoo, enjoying seasonal decorations and activities. Finish your visit by decorating a pumpkin, either on-site or to take home. All ages are welcome to join in the festive fun.
Where: Wheaton | More Info: Spooktacular Halloween Stroll
Pumpkin King Carving Court
What to Expect:
Participants' carved pumpkins will be showcased in a community display from October 24 to October 31.
Description:
Join the Pumpkin King Carving Court for a fun and festive pumpkin carving event. The Glen Ellyn Park District will provide pumpkins and all necessary tools. Participants will enjoy snacks, refreshments, and treats while carving their masterpieces. All carved creations will be displayed in the Pumpkins on Main exhibit from October 24 to October 31. Prizes will be awarded to carving competition participants, and an outdoor screening of "The Nightmare Before Christmas" will follow the event.
Where: Glen Ellyn | More Info: Pumpkin King Carving Court
Boo Bash
What to Expect:
A trick-or-treat trail with friendly characters and the option to pick out a pumpkin to take home.
Description:
Boo Bash is a family-friendly Halloween event at Ackerman Park. Children aged 2-10 can dress up in their favorite costumes and enjoy a trick-or-treat trail with friendly characters. The event includes Halloween snacks and refreshments, as well as the opportunity to pick out a pumpkin to take home. Adults must accompany children, and registration is required for children only.
Where: Glen Ellyn | More Info: Boo Bash
Haunt on Hirsch Street
What to Expect:
A free family block party with haunted and spooky displays, inflatables, and games.
Description:
Haunt on Hirsch Street is a free family block party hosted by the Veterans Park District and the Melrose Park Youth Commission. The event takes place on October 18, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Bulger Park. Enjoy inflatables, a DJ, games, and free hot dogs while supplies last. Visit the haunted and spooky displays and take a selfie. Wear your Halloween costumes for a fun-filled evening.
Where: Melrose Park | More Info: Haunt on Hirsch Street
Trick or Treat in the Woods: Isle a la Cache
What to Expect:
A night hike experience with glowing trails and spooky stations.
Description:
Experience a spooky night hike at Isle a la Cache Museum/Preserve. Come dressed in costume and hike along a glowing trail to learn what goes bump in the woods. Visit spooky stations, enjoy a crackling fire while roasting marshmallows for s’mores, and enjoy two sessions: 6-7 p.m. and 7:30-8:30 p.m. This event is suitable for all ages, with children requiring a registered adult.
Where: Romeoville | More Info: Trick or Treat in the Woods: Isle a la Cache
Monster Bash
What to Expect:
A Halloween celebration with spooky games and ghoulish treats.
Description:
The Monster Bash is a Halloween event hosted by the Lombard Park District, featuring spooky games and ghoulish treats. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes, making it a fun and festive activity for all ages.
Where: Lombard | More Info: Monster Bash
Halloween for Ghouls and Goblins
What to Expect:
A Halloween party exclusively for 2-5 year olds with trick-or-treating and pizza.
Description:
Join the Darien Park District for a fun-filled Halloween party designed for children aged 2-5 years. The event features activities, games, and crafts, with pizza served. Children should come dressed in their costumes, and the evening concludes with trick-or-treating around the Community Center. This exclusive event for little ones ensures a delightful and safe Halloween experience.
Where: Darien | More Info: Halloween for Ghouls and Goblins
Harvest Fest
What to Expect:
A comprehensive fall festival with a variety of activities for all ages.
Description:
Harvest Fest is a festive fall event at Centennial Park featuring LIVE music, kids activities, trunk-or-treat, a pie eating contest, hay rides, food vendors, and a beer tent. It's a fun-filled afternoon for families and friends to enjoy the season.
Where: Lemont | More Info: Harvest Fest
Walk-Thru Trunk or Treat
What to Expect:
A maze of themed trunks filled with treats and surprises from the Park District, local businesses, and other organizations.
Description:
Step into a world of spook-tacular fun at the Walk-Thru Trunk or Treat event Join us for a ghoulishly good time as we stroll through a maze of themed trunks filled with treats and surprises from the Park District, local businesses, and other organizations. This spine-tingling adventure is perfect for families, offering a unique and memorable Halloween experience.
Where: Park Ridge | More Info: Walk-Thru Trunk or Treat
Trunk or Treat (Park District of Oak Park)
What to Expect:
A spooktacular trick-or-treating experience with decorated cars distributing candy and treats.
Description:
Join us at the Ridgeland Common Recreation Complex parking lot for a spooktacular trick-or-treating experience Local groups and organizations will be stationed with their decorated cars, ready to distribute candy and treats for anyone wearing a costume. This family-friendly event is perfect for a fun-filled Halloween evening.
Where: Oak Park | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Park District of Oak Park)
Trunk or Treat (Hobson Road Community Church)
What to Expect:
A family-friendly Halloween celebration with games, face painting, and treats.
Description:
Join the Hobson Road Community Church for a fun-filled Trunk or Treat event on October 26, 2024. This free family event includes games, face painting, and goodies. Wear your costume and enjoy a festive afternoon with your family.
Where: Downers Grove | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Hobson Road Community Church)
Trunk or Treat (Memorial Park, La Grange Park Public Library)
What to Expect:
A festive Halloween celebration with music, activities, and a family-friendly movie.
Description:
Join us in Memorial Park for our fourth annual Trunk or Treat This family-friendly event features music, activities, and plenty of goodies. Stick around for a family-friendly movie in the park at 6:45 PM, presented by the Community Park District of La Grange Park. All ages are welcome with a caregiver.
Where: La Grange Park | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Memorial Park, La Grange Park Public Library)
Trunk or Treat (Superior Training)
What to Expect:
A fun and safe Halloween celebration where decorated cars bring their own treats and games for all participants.
Description:
Join Superior Training Aquatics for their 2024 Trunk or Treat event on Sunday, October 20th from 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM. This family-friendly event welcomes all participants, whether you're decorating a car or just attending. Decorated cars are responsible for bringing their own treats, games, and decorations. It's a fun and safe environment for kids and adults alike to enjoy Halloween festivities.
Where: Willowbrook | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Superior Training)
Halloween Hoopla Expo
What to Expect:
A fun and interactive event where children can collect treats from decorated cars and tables.
Description:
The Halloween Hoopla Trunk & Treat is a festive event where vendors decorate their cars or tables to distribute treats to 300 children. This family-friendly activity combines fun and community spirit, making it a highlight of the Halloween season.
Where: Willowbrook | More Info: Halloween Hoopla Expo
Trunk or Treat (Eggers Grove Forest Preserve)
What to Expect:
A family-friendly Halloween event featuring trunk-or-treating with plenty of candy and costumes.
Description:
Join the family-friendly Trunk or Treat event at Eggers Grove Forest Preserve on October 27, 2024. Enjoy a Halloween celebration with plenty of candy and costumes, sponsored by the Forest Preserves and East Side Chamber of Commerce.
Where: Chicago | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Eggers Grove Forest Preserve)
Fall Fest Trunk or Treat (Lutheran Church of Saint Luke)
What to Expect:
A safe and festive environment where children can gather candy from decorated trunks and participate in various fun activities.
Description:
Fall Fest Trunk or Treat at the Lutheran Church of Saint Luke is a fun family event happening on Sunday, October 27, 2024. Children can gather candy from decorated trunks, participate in a costume contest, and enjoy various activities like games, hayrides, food, and pumpkin decorating. This event provides a safe environment for all trick-or-treaters and is free to attend.
Where: Itasca | More Info: Fall Fest Trunk or Treat (Lutheran Church of Saint Luke)
Trunk or Treat (Medinah)
What to Expect:
A Halloween celebration featuring creatively decorated car trunks offering unique themes and candy distribution.
Description:
Celebrate Halloween in a safe and community-centered environment at the Trunk or Treat event in Medinah. The Connolly Recreation Center parking lot transforms into a magical Halloween wonderland with creatively decorated car trunks offering unique themes from spooky to silly. Each trunk provides a delightful surprise, and visitors are encouraged to bring treat bags. Registration to decorate your trunk and participate in candy distribution is open until October 28th by emailing [email protected].
Where: Medinah | More Info: Trunk or Treat (Medinah)
Halloween Food, Drink, and Parties Near Downers Grove
Western Springs Halloween Bash & Chili Cook Off
What to Expect:
The event combines a chili cook-off with a Halloween bash, offering a unique blend of culinary competition and festive celebration.
Description:
The Western Springs Halloween Bash & Chili Cook Off is a festive event taking place on October 26, 2024, at the Spring Rock Park Upper Pavilion. The event features a chili cook-off competition, perfect for those who enjoy trying different flavors and voting for their favorite dish. The atmosphere will be lively, making it a great family-friendly activity for all ages.
Where: Western Springs | More Info: Western Springs Halloween Bash & Chili Cook Off
Pinecone Cottage – Black Hat Society Witches Tea
What to Expect:
A haunted tea house experience with witch-themed food and drinks.
Description:
Join Pinecone Cottage for a Spooktacular Afternoon Twisted Tea, where you can dress up in a witch costume and enjoy a haunted tea experience. The event features a variety of teas, savory and sweet treats, and a fun atmosphere. Chef Pam will serve a delightful afternoon tea by reservation only, with the option to bring your own champagne, wine, or beer.