Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade

Chicago, IL · Quirky

When: October 24, 2026
Where: Columbus Dr & Balbo Dr, Grant Park · Chicago · IL
Cost: Not confirmed
Status: Confirmed from the organizer's published schedule

Arts in the Dark is Chicago's official Halloween parade, sending illuminated puppets, floats, and costumed performers down Columbus Drive through Grant Park each October evening. Produced by the Chicago Park District, it features a pre parade festival with food trucks and live entertainment. The parade marks its 12th year in 2026.

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The history within reach

Arts in the Dark Halloween Paradesame spot
Arts in the Dark is Chicago's official Halloween parade, sending illuminated puppets, floats, and costumed performers down Columbus Drive through Grant Park each October evening.
1968 Democratic Convention protests0.2 mi
Confrontations between police and antiwar demonstrators outside the Conrad Hilton in August 1968 were broadcast nationally.
Buckingham Fountain0.3 mi
One of the largest fountains in the world at its 1927 dedication, modeled on the Latona Fountain at Versailles..
Chappell Roan's Lollapalooza crowd0.3 mi
Booked for a side stage months before the year got loud, she drew what festival staff called the largest daytime crowd Lollapalooza had ever seen, a field of pink cowboy hats stretching past the sound towers.
Obama election-night address0.3 mi
President-elect Barack Obama addressed a crowd estimated near 240,000 in Grant Park on November 4, 2008..