Fall fun is taking over Navy Pier. Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination is welcoming the new season with live entertainment, cultural celebrations, family-friendly traditions and can’t-miss experiences for Chicagoans and visitors alike.
From the return of live music along the lakefront to Slightly Spooky Saturdays and seasonal fun at Chicago Children’s Museum, there are plenty of reasons to head to the People’s Pier this fall. Beyond the seasonal lineup, guests can experience Navy Pier favorites including the iconic Centennial Wheel and immersive Flyover experience, along with dozens of dining, shopping and entertainment destinations throughout the Pier.
As a nonprofit organization, Navy Pier is committed to creating engaging and accessible experiences that bring people together and celebrate the diversity, creativity and spirit of Chicago. This programming is made possible in part through the generosity of valued partners, sponsors, and donors, including the Pritzker Foundation, Ferrara Candy Company, and RYTHM THC Beverages, among others, whose support helps ensure Navy Pier continues to be a place for connection and shared experiences.
Additional programming and events include:
Live Music and Entertainment:
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Chicago Shakespeare Theater
- ‘Play On’ (Through Oct. 18) - Shakespeare’s beloved Twelfth Night is transformed through the timeless jazz compositions of the iconic Duke Ellington. Set in Harlem in the 1930s, this production follows the tale of an aspiring musician as she navigates the industry, romance, and a case of mistaken identity. Click here for tickets.
- ‘The Winter’s Tale’ (Oct. 13 – Dec. 12) - This enchanting tale of romance, betrayal, forgiveness, and reconciliation is brought to life with the help of shipwrecks, a few bears, and magical oracles dancing across the stage. Click here for tickets.
- ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ (Nov. 11 – Jan. 3) - Enjoy one of Shakespeare’s most iconic productions that celebrates the spirit of the holiday season in this beloved story of friendships navigating love, magic, and marriage. Click here for tickets.
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Open Air Concert Series:
- Charlotte de Witte (Oct. 16, 4 P.M.) - A powerhouse of the global electronic music scene, Belgian-born DJ, Charlotte de Witte is bringing her signature blend of acid and minimal techno beats to the East End Plaza on Friday, October 16. Tickets can be purchased here.
- Deadmau5 (Oct. 17, 4 P.M.) - Closing out another unforgettable season of Open Air, internationally acclaimed electronic music icon Deadmau5 is heading to the East End Plaza with his signature ‘mau5head’ for a high-energy performance on Saturday, October 17. Tickets are available for purchase here.
- Country Cruisin’ with Chris Lane (Oct. 13, 6 – 9 P.M.) - Country music star, Chris Lane will perform a stripped-down, acoustic set of his top hits live on Lake Michigan as part of an intimate dinner cruise hosted by City Cruises. From the beautiful music and stunning Chicago skyline to the chef-prepared dinner and craft cocktails, guests will have an unforgettable evening. Click here to purchase tickets.
- DOM DOLLA (Oct. 30 and Oct. 31) - Witness firsthand the electric energy that has propelled the meteoric rise of the Grammy-nominated DJ, producer, and songwriter, DOM DOLLA. Touted as one of the most exciting producers in electronic music, DOM DOLLA is bringing his contagious energy and unique sound to Festival Hall on Friday, October 30 and Saturday, October 31. Click here for tickets.
Family Friendly Activities:
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Chicago Children’s Museum Events:
- Kids Visit Free Day (Nov. 1) - Admission to the Children’s Museum is free for all children on both days, with each day featuring unique programs and activities including performances by the Crossing Borders string quartet and Rabbitfoot Puppetry.
- Indigenous Peoples’ Day (Oct. 12) - Celebrate and learn more about the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples through books and activities in the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Lounge.
- Toddler Rave World Tour (Oct. 17, 12:30 P.M.) - Lenny Pearce, the innovator who has brought his high-energy performances of modern remixes of classic childhood tunes to crowds across the globe, is bringing his family-friendly rave to the Aon Grand Ballroom on Saturday, October 17. Waitlist tickets and more information are available here.
- ‘Slightly Spooky Saturdays’ (Oct. 17, 24, 31, Nov. 1, 12-6 P.M.) – Now including ‘Slightly Spooky Movies at the Pier’, which offers a double feature of a family-friendly film at 5:30 pm followed by an option for older audiences to enjoy at 8 pm, in Polk Bros Park. Bring a blanket and takeout from one of the more than 30 dining options available at the Pier, such as Garrett’s Popcorn or Kilwin’s Chocolate Fudge & Ice Cream, and enjoy a not-so-frightful night. This spooky-season celebration will also incorporate familiar favorites, such as live performances, interactive workshops, sweet treats, and festive delights for guests of all ages. Click here for more information.
The holiday magic of the Wintrust Winter WonderFest is returning to Navy Pier’s Festival Hall for another year of fun, wonder, and awe for the entire family to enjoy from November 27 through January 3. Special Early Bird pricing for 40% off tickets is available now; click here for more details.
*Note: Programming and events are subject to change.
ABOUT NAVY PIER
Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the most visited destination in the Midwest, stretching more than six city blocks and welcoming nearly 9 million annual guests. Originally opened in 1916 as a shipping and recreation facility, this Chicago landmark showcases over 50 acres of parks, restaurants, attractions, retail shops, sightseeing and dining cruise boats, exposition facilities, and more. The Pier celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2016 with the unveiling of the Centennial Wheel, Polk Bros Park, and Peoples Energy Welcome Pavilion. Today, Navy Pier continues to usher in its second century with ongoing redevelopment efforts including the 223-room Sable hotel, the all-transient Navy Pier Marina, and thrilling new attractions such as Flyover. The Pier is proud to present free programming designed to inspire and engage communities across the city and globe, including the #1 Fireworks display in the nation. For more information, visit NavyPier.org.