The city is packed with exciting events and activities to enjoy as the leaves change and the weather cools. From outdoor festivals and farmers’ markets to cozy fall treats and pumpkin patches, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the season. Take a look at these eight events to plan your weekend!
Admire Art at Glass Pumpkin Patch
Discover over 7,000 unique glass pumpkins in every color, shape, and size. Talented artists will showcase their creations, offering an opportunity to shop their pieces. Watch live glassblowing exhibitions and see molten glass transformed into beautiful pumpkins, and don’t miss the Halloween tent for enchanting and spooky decorations.
Date: October 11-13
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: $18+
Location: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle
More Info: mortonarb.org
Find Goodies at Spooktacular Trick or Treat
Local businesses will set up tables to hand out candy and Halloween-themed goodies to kids trick-or-treating through the park. With trick-or-treating, festive decorations, and plenty of treats, it’s a Halloween celebration you won’t want to miss!
Date: October 13
Time: 12PM-3PM
Cost: Free
Location: Proksa Park, 3001 Wisconsin Ave, Berwyn
More Info: berwynparks.org
Create Memories at Fall Family Fest
Celebrate the season at Fall Family Fest! Enjoy exciting giveaways throughout the event and participate in a costume contest with fun prizes. There’s also plenty of family-friendly activities from inflatables to games. Come early as the first 200 families will receive a free pumpkin.
Date: October 12
Time: 11AM-2PM
Cost: Free
Location: Burlington Park, 30 A Chicago Ave, Hinsdale
More Info: villageofhinsdale.org
Witness the Chicago Marathon
The Chicago Marathon is one of the biggest running events in the world, drawing runners from all over the globe. Watch participants race through 29 different neighborhoods and join thousands of spectators cheering along the route.
Date: October 13
Time: 9:30AM
Cost: Free
Location: Grant Park, 337 E Randolph St
More Info: chicagomarathon
Go to Modern Vintage Chicago Fashion & Home
Dive into a treasure trove of fashion and home decor at this unique event. Browse through a selection of vintage clothes, jewelry, and home furnishings from seasoned and new vendors and find rare, classic pieces to take home with you.
Date: October 13
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: $12+
Location: Ravenswood Event Center, 4021 N Ravenswood Ave
More Info: randolphstreetmarket.com
Celebrate Oktoberfestiversary
Join the fun at the 12th anniversary of Begyle Brewing. Enjoy craft beers, German-inspired eats, and live music from artists like Funk Crusaders and Reality Bytes. There are plenty of family-friendly activities too, including face painting and skeeball, making it a fun event for all ages.
Date: October 12-13
Time: Sat 11:30AM-8PM; Sun 11:30AM-7PM
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation
Location: Dovetail Brewery, 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave
More Info: oktoberfestiversary.com
Cruise to Slow&Low: Chicago Lowrider Festival
Check out Slow&Low at Navy Pier and get ready for an impressive showcase. See an amazing lineup of custom lowrider cars, bikes, and motorcycles. Enjoy live music, grab some tasty food from the vendors, and chat with the creators of these cool rides.
Date: October 12
Time: 10AM-8PM
Cost: $15+
Location: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave
More Info: navypier.org
Experience Universoul Circus
Universoul Circus combines traditional circus fun with modern urban flair. Expect acrobats, clowns, dancers, and musicians from all over the world in a high-energy, fun-packed performance that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats.
Date: October 11-14
Time: Fri 7PM; Sat 12PM, 3:30PM, or 7:30PM; Sun 12PM, 3PM, or 6:30PM
Cost: $27.50+
Location: Washington Park, E 51st & S Cottage Grove
More Info: universoulcircus.com