Complete Chicago Halloween Party Events Guide

With multiple spooky bar crawls, themed events at unique venues, and vibrant costume parties, Chicago offers a wide range of Halloween celebrations. Whether you're looking for a low-key gathering or a massive neighborhood crawl, there are options to suit every style.

Bar crawls

Crawl of the Dead: Voted one of the city's biggest Halloween crawls, this multi-day event includes admission to over 10 bars and nightclubs. It features drink specials, live DJs, and a large costume contest.
Dates: Thursday, Oct. 30 – Sunday, Nov. 2  •  Neighborhoods: West Loop, River North, and more

Wrigleyville Halloween Crawl: Billed as Chicago's biggest Halloween party, this event includes admission to various Wrigleyville venues, complimentary dinner buffets, gift cards, and more.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Fright Fest Bar Crawl: Choose between two separate bar crawls, one in the West Loop and the other in River North. Both offer exclusive drink specials and a costume contest with cash prizes.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Official Halloween Bar Crawl: This is another popular crawl, taking place in the River North and West Loop areas. Participants can enjoy free entry to multiple bars, drink and food specials, live DJs, and a costume contest.
Dates: Friday, Oct. 31, and Saturday, Nov. 1

Themed parties and events

Haunted House Party at Shedd Aquarium: Experience a unique Halloween celebration at the Shedd, with a themed party featuring house music and costumed crowds.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Adults Night Out: Howl-o-ween at Lincoln Park Zoo: This adults-only (21+) party lets you explore the zoo after dark. Highlights include a haunted trail, animal chats, face-painting, and a DJ.
Date: Friday, Oct. 24

Terror in the Tropics: Three Dots and a Dash is hosting a 21+ party featuring signature cocktails from some of the best tiki bars across the country. Your ticket includes drink tickets and admission to a marketplace.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Haunted Rooftop Party at The Riu: Enjoy a spooky Halloween party with cocktails and city views at The Riu's rooftop bar.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Carnivale Masquerade Ball: This elegant event promises a night of mystery and glamour in the style of a masquerade ball.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

“Un Halloween Sin Ti” Latin Party: Azul hosts a Latin-themed party with a $500 cash prize for the best costume. Attendees can enjoy nonstop Latin music and dancing.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Haunted Halloween Night Lake Cruise: Party on a three-story luxury yacht with a full bar, dance floor, and live DJ as you cruise Lake Michigan.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Costume contests and other events

Halloween at the Park: Enjoy a party with no cover charge at The Park Bar & Grill. The night will feature music from a DJ and a costume contest with a cash prize.
Date: Friday, Oct. 31

Halloween at Colvin Castle: This event promises gothic glamour with blood-red cocktails, sinister snacks, a gothic photo booth, and a costume contest.
Date: Saturday, Oct. 25

Spooky Social Costume Making Party: Not sure what to wear? Get a head start on your costume at this event, which provides materials and guidance for creating wearable Halloween accessories.
Date: Friday, Oct. 24

Haunted Halloween Half Marathon & 5km: Put on your best costume and compete for prizes in this festive Halloween-themed race. All participants receive a medal.
Date: Sunday, Oct. 26