Illustration of a small haunted cottage with glowing windows, ghosts, jack-o'-lanterns and a black cat under a pale moon (Evanston Zombie Scramble)

Evanston Zombie Scramble

Participants navigate an approximately two-mile trail while wearing flag football belts representing their lives as zombies try to snatch them. Along the route, runners encounter safe zones and two inflatable obstacle challenge stations. An activity hub offers games, photo areas, food trucks, and free s'mores, and participants who finish with a flag intact receive a survival certificate.

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Plan Your Visit

When

Tickets

$45.55 per session.

Ages

8+

Food & Drink

Local food is available for purchase from food trucks at the post-scramble party, and free s'mores are offered.

Parking

Participants are encouraged to park at Ingraham Park at 2100 Ridge Avenue. A shuttle runs between there and the event from 2:30pm to 10pm. Parking is not allowed in the McCormick and Bridge Street lot, and street parking is limited. Walking, biking, and public transportation are also recommended.

Going?

Location

Ladd Arboretum · 2024 N McCormick Blvd, Evanston, IL 60201 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Scare Factor

👻 👻 👻 👻 👻 (2/5)

Family Friendly

👶 👶 👶 👶 👶 (4/5)

Best For

Active families with children ages 8 and up

Vibe

Spooky and playful

Energy Level

High

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Bring a flashlight, water, and snacks, but do not shine your light directly into the eyes of the zombie volunteers.
  • Park at Ingraham Park at 2100 Ridge Avenue and take the shuttle bus to and from the event.
  • Arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled wave time to complete check-in.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Register for the wave time you wish to attend; check-in begins 20 minutes before that wave.
  • T-shirts are no longer provided with registration.

Links & Contact

Run by City of Evanston

Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a runner loses all of their lives?

Participants receive two flags representing lives. If both are snatched by zombies, the runner is infected but is still permitted to finish the race.

What should participants do if someone in their group gets scared?

Participants can simply ask the zombies to break character. The zombies can escort you to the next course marshal if needed.

What do the challenge stations involve?

There are two inflatable obstacle stations along the course that require participants to take off their shoes, though completing the challenges is optional.

Is there an age requirement to participate?

The event is open to participants ages 8 and up, and runners under 18 must have a waiver signed by a guardian.

What should runners do with belts and flags after finishing?

Return flags and belts to finish line staff after completing the race to receive a survival certificate.

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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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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