Navy Pier is the place to be this ‘spooky season,’ with a calendar chalk-full of Halloween activations popping up across the entire Pier. From partner events geared toward those looking for a hair-raising scare to family-friendly opportunities for those who want more ‘treat’ than ‘trick,’ the Pier has something for everyone!
Halloween Happenings include:
‘Slightly Spooky’ (Oct. 25, 12-6 pm) - This free, family-friendly event transforms the Pier into a Halloween playground with interactive activities, live entertainment, and festive treats for guests of all ages. Families are invited to enjoy Mad Science Experiments, snap photos alongside their favorite superheroes, receive free airbrush tattoos, experience a dog costume contest, as well as win prizes from the iconic ‘Flyover’ experience and more! For more information and the full lineup of fun, please click here.
We Love Yacht Rock (Oct. 18, 12-6 pm) - Set sail—without leaving shore—for a celebration of the effortless cool of the late ’70s and early ’80s. The day will feature Yacht Rock DJ sets, a vintage-inspired vendor market, family-friendly activities, photo moments, and interactive experiences for all ages, all set to the smooth, soft rock classics you love. Come dressed in your yacht rock best and join Harry Caray’s Tavern, Bar Sol Mariscos, Offshore Rooftop, Margaritaville, Chef Art Smith’s Reunion, and Billy Goat Tavern in toasting to the iconic genre.
“It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!” (Runs through Jan. 4) - As part of the Chicago Children’s Museum ‘Take Care with Peanuts’ exhibit, families are invited to experience the iconic world of Charles Schultz’ ‘Peanuts’ characters and take pictures with Linus and Sally while they wait for the arrival of ‘The Great Pumpkin.’ For more information, click here.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater
‘Paranormal Activity’ (Oct. 8 – Nov. 2) - Chicago Shakespeare Theater is proud to play host to the thrilling play ‘Paranormal Activity,’ which follows a Chicago couple who move to London to escape the ghosts of the past. This sensationally spooky play is set in the world of the terrifying ‘Paranormal Activity’ film franchise and is sure to thrill audiences. For those interested in an even more haunting experience, there will be special showings on Halloween night at 6 and 10 pm complete with specialty cocktails and prizes. See here for more details.
‘Scary’ Caray’s Tavern
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Park, Tailgate & Sail (Oct. 19, 9-10:45 am) – With an all-you-can-eat tailgate buffet, free Shoreline Water Taxi rides to and from Soldier Field, ‘Park, Tailgate & Sail’ is the perfect way to spend a day cheering on the ‘Monsters of the Midway.’ Tickets are $30 and include a Fall harvest brunch buffet, drink specials, and access to $25 discounted Navy Pier self-parking. Click here for more details.
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‘Slightly Spooky Saturday’ x PAWS Chicago (Oct. 25, 12-6:30 pm) – Great food, fun and festivities all for a great cause! Stop by ‘Scary’ Caray’s for Halloween face painting, the ‘Howl-o-ween’ pet costume contest, stein-hoisting competition, as well as Oktoberfest food and beverage staples. All proceeds will go directly to supporting PAWS Chicago. Additional details on the event can be found here.
Margaritaville
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Wasted Away in Margaritaville (Oct. 30, 9pm – 1 am) - This one-of-a-kind tropical graveyard party will feature a live DJ, costume contest and giveaways, signature cocktails and picture-perfect Skeleton Parrothead scenes. Come join in on the fun at Margaritaville’s spooky island paradise!
- Drink Pink for a Cause! – Throughout Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Margaritaville is partying with a purpose by turning their signature Key Lime Pie and Key Lime Pie Martini pink, as well as selling its signature breast cancer awareness t-shirt, with all proceeds from sales going to Jimmy Buffet’s charity, ‘Singing for Change’ and breast cancer charities.
Halloween at Offshore Rooftop (Oct. 31, 6-10 pm) - Don your spookiest garb for a chance to win the costume contest, imbibe in Halloween-themed potions and bites, all while soaking in the incredible views from the world’s largest rooftop.
Seadog Haunted River Tours (Oct. 1 – Oct. 31) - Step aboard the Seadog Haunted Tours for a fun-filled journey through Chicago's history of ghosts, spirits, scandals, and sins. Prepare to be enchanted by tales of supernatural occurrences and infamous figures, all while enjoying the stunning views of Chicago's architectural skyline. This cruise is not suitable for all ages, please see here for tickets and additional details.