# Chicago Littles: things to do with little kids in Chicago, IL this weekend

> Lincoln Park Zoo wraps up Fall Fest this weekend, free to get in, and Chicago Children’s Museum is free for kids on Sunday. On Halloween, Washington Park runs its Upside Down Halloween Parade, and Galewood Park hosts a Boo-tiful Adventure on Friday afternoon. Library branches from Evanston to Naperville have costume parades and story times for little kids. This week has 47 outings, 39 free and 15 indoors.

- Week: Oct 26 – Nov 1, 2026
- Last checked: 2026-10-29
- 47 outings at 41 places; 39 free; 15 indoor; plus 1 sold out (still listed, marked SOLD OUT). For kids ages 0–6.
- Canonical page: https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/
- This week (Markdown): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/index.md
- City guide (Markdown): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/guide/index.md
- Visiting guide (Markdown): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/visiting/index.md
- Events data (JSON): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events.json
- RSS feed: https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/feed.xml

## Top picks this week

- **Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo** (Fri, Oct 30; Sat, Oct 31; Sun, Nov 1 · 10am–5pm) at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614. Cost: Free; rides are ticketed. Ages 0+. The last weekend of the zoo’s fall festival. There’s a pumpkin patch and s’mores, plus pro pumpkin carvers working live on Saturday and Sunday mornings. A stilt walker is around Friday until 2pm. The giant slide, Ferris wheel and inflatables cost extra. Source: https://www.lpzoo.org/event/fall-fest/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/fall-fest-at-lincoln-park-zoo/
- **Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum** (Sun, Nov 1 · 10am–5pm) at Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. (Navy Pier), Chicago, IL 60611. Cost: Free for kids 17 and under. Ages 0+. Indoor. Kids 17 and under get in free all day at the museum on Navy Pier. No advance tickets are needed, so expect it to be busy right at opening. Source: https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/kids-free-days Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/kids-free-day-at-chicago-childrens-museum/
- **Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park** (Sat, Oct 31 · 12–2pm) at Washington (George) Park, 5531 S. King Dr. Chicago, IL 60615. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. The 7th annual Upside Down Parade on Russell Drive, run with the Mayor’s office. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-washington-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-at-washington-park/
- **Boo-tiful Adventure at Galewood Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–6pm) at Galewood Park, 5729 W. Bloomingdale Ave. Chicago, IL 60639. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A not-so-scary Halloween afternoon. Kids move between stations at their own pace, from story time and spooky bingo to a ghost hunt and a pumpkin toss. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/boo-tiful-adventure-galewood Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-tiful-adventure-at-galewood-park/
- **Haunted Fieldhouse at Seward Park** (Thu, Oct 29 · 4:30–7:30pm) at Seward (William) Park, 375 W. Elm St. Chicago, IL 60610. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Kids get a free Halloween costume and a candy bag, and there’s face painting and popcorn with games all afternoon. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/haunted-fieldhouse-seward-0

## A Saturday that works (Saturday, Oct 31)

1. **Morning**: Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo. 10am–5pm. Cost: Free. https://www.lpzoo.org/event/fall-fest/
2. **Lunch**: Park Place Café (Lincoln Park Zoo), Lincoln Park, inside Lincoln Park Zoo. Open 10:30am–4pm. Cost: $$. (from the city guide) https://www.lpz.org/visit/shopping-dining/
3. **After nap**: Blodgett House Boo Fest, Downers Grove Museum. 1–4pm. Cost: Free. https://www.dgparks.org/calendar/events/blodgett-house-boo-fest

Plan for a nap break in the middle. Times come from each event’s page or the place’s own site, so check before you head out.

## By day

- **Thursday, Oct 29**: $5 Thursday Night at DuPage Children’s Museum; The Roots of Kindness opens at Kohl Children’s Museum; Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Halloween Party at Lincoln Park Cultural Center (free); Haunted Fieldhouse at Seward Park (free); Pythons and Pizza Party at Oriole Park; Haunted Hall at Mann Park (free); Halloween Costume Parade (Sulzer Regional Library) (free); Halloween Story Time (Blackstone Library) (free); Halloween WeeGroove Music Class (Rogers Park Library) (free); Sensory Story Time (Avalon Library) (free); Thursday Night Family Movie: Scooby-Doo (free); Pumpkin Splash at The Water Works
- **Friday, Oct 30**: Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo (free); The Roots of Kindness opens at Kohl Children’s Museum; Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Boo-tiful Adventure at Galewood Park (free); Community Halloween Party at Sauganash Park (free); Halloween Magic Mania at Haas Park (free); Halloween-a-Palooza at Green Briar Park (free); Boo Bash at Strohacker Park (free); Community Halloween Party at Valley Forge Park (free); Haunted House at Fosco Park (free); Day of the Dead Celebration at Vittum Park (free); Halloween Story Time Party (Rogers Park Library) (free); Halloween Costume Parade and Candy Giveaway (Hall Library) (free); Halloween Parade at Skokie Public Library (free); Mini Monster Mash at Glenview Public Library (free); Monster Mash at Elmhurst Public Library (free); Halloween Dance in Schaumburg; Kooky Spooky Skate in Northbrook; Monster Play Dough Sculpting (free)
- **Saturday, Oct 31**: Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo (free); The Roots of Kindness opens at Kohl Children’s Museum; Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Monarch Migration Nature Walk at the Nature Museum; Haunted House at Columbus Park (free); Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park (free); Halloween Story Time (Little Italy Library) (free); Boo! Books and Beyond (Obama Presidential Center Library) (free); Little Boo Bash (Edgebrook Library) (free); Family Halloween Stories and Candy Giveaway (Hall Library) (free); Kids Halloween Dance Party at Evanston Public Library (free); Halloween Family Storytime in Evanston (free); Family Movie: Halloweentown in Downers Grove (free); Blodgett House Boo Fest (free); Halloween Storytime in the Park, Naperville (free); Halloween Trick-or-Treating at Evanston Public Library (free); The Great Sand Ridge (Tiny) Pumpkin Hunt (free); Halloween Party at Palatine Community Center (sold out)
- **Sunday, Nov 1**: Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo (free); Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum (free); The Roots of Kindness opens at Kohl Children’s Museum; Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Brookfield Zoo Chicago; Día de los Muertos Workshops and Ofrenda Walk at Steelworkers Park (free); Día de los Muertos: Voyage of the Monarch Storytime (free); The Great Sand Ridge (Tiny) Pumpkin Hunt (free)

## All outings this week

- **Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo** (Fri, Oct 30; Sat, Oct 31; Sun, Nov 1 · 10am–5pm) at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2400 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, IL 60614. Cost: Free; rides are ticketed. Ages 0+. The last weekend of the zoo’s fall festival. There’s a pumpkin patch and s’mores, plus pro pumpkin carvers working live on Saturday and Sunday mornings. A stilt walker is around Friday until 2pm. The giant slide, Ferris wheel and inflatables cost extra. Source: https://www.lpzoo.org/event/fall-fest/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/fall-fest-at-lincoln-park-zoo/
- **Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum** (Sun, Nov 1 · 10am–5pm) at Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave. (Navy Pier), Chicago, IL 60611. Cost: Free for kids 17 and under. Ages 0+. Indoor. Kids 17 and under get in free all day at the museum on Navy Pier. No advance tickets are needed, so expect it to be busy right at opening. Source: https://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/kids-free-days Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/kids-free-day-at-chicago-childrens-museum/
- **$5 Thursday Night at DuPage Children’s Museum** (Thu, Oct 29 · 5–8pm) at DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville, IL 60540. Cost: $5 per person. Ages 0+. Indoor. Evening play at the Naperville museum for $5 a person. This is the last one of the season. Source: https://dupagechildrens.org/family-fun/thursday-late-nights/
- **The Roots of Kindness opens at Kohl Children’s Museum** (Thu, Oct 29 to Sun, Nov 1, 4 days · Tue–Sat 9:30am–4pm; Sun–Mon 9:30am–1pm) at Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, IL 60026. Cost: $20 ages 1–64; under 12 months free. Ages 0+. Indoor. A new exhibit in Glenview that works like a life-size pop-up storybook kids can walk into. It opens Tuesday and comes with regular admission. Source: https://www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org/events/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/the-roots-of-kindness-opens-at-kohl-childrens-museum/
- **Día de los Muertos Ofrenda at Brookfield Zoo Chicago** (Thu, Oct 29 to Sun, Nov 1, 4 days · Mon–Fri 10am–5pm; Sat–Sun 10am–6pm) at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 31st St. and Golfview Ave., Brookfield, IL 60513. Cost: Free with zoo admission ($29.95 adults, $20.95 ages 3–11, 2 and under free; parking extra). Ages 0+. A Beloved Pets ofrenda goes up at the zoo for Día de los Muertos. It stays through Nov 4. Source: https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/events Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/dia-de-los-muertos-ofrenda-at-brookfield-zoo-chicago/
- **Monarch Migration Nature Walk at the Nature Museum** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1–1:30pm) at Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, IL 60614. Cost: Free with admission ($15 adults, $8 ages 1–12 (Illinois residents; a little more from out of state)). Ages 3+. A half-hour guided walk about how monarchs migrate and how they tie into Día de los Muertos. Meet in the lobby. Source: https://naturemuseum.org/events/monarch-migration-nature-walks-13 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/monarch-migration-nature-walk-at-the-nature-museum-peggy-notebaert/
- **Halloween Party at Lincoln Park Cultural Center** (Thu, Oct 29 · 4–6pm) at Lincoln Park - Cultural Center, 2045 North Lincoln Park West Chicago, IL 60614. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Halloween games and crafts with treats. Wear a costume. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/halloween-party-lincoln-0
- **Haunted Fieldhouse at Seward Park** (Thu, Oct 29 · 4:30–7:30pm) at Seward (William) Park, 375 W. Elm St. Chicago, IL 60610. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Kids get a free Halloween costume and a candy bag, and there’s face painting and popcorn with games all afternoon. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/haunted-fieldhouse-seward-0
- **Pythons and Pizza Party at Oriole Park** (Thu, Oct 29 · 5:30–7:30pm) at Oriole Park, 5430 N. Olcott Ave. Chicago, IL 60656. Cost: $10 per person. Ages 3+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A Halloween dinner party: cheese pizza and ice cream, then a reptile show from the JG Reptile Road Show. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/childrens-halloween-party-oriole-0
- **Haunted Hall at Mann Park** (Thu, Oct 29 · 5–8pm) at Mann (James) Park, 3035 E. 130th St. Chicago, IL 60633. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A trick-or-treat walk through the park’s Haunted Hall, with treats and no tricks. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/haunted-hall-mann-0
- **Boo-tiful Adventure at Galewood Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–6pm) at Galewood Park, 5729 W. Bloomingdale Ave. Chicago, IL 60639. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A not-so-scary Halloween afternoon. Kids move between stations at their own pace, from story time and spooky bingo to a ghost hunt and a pumpkin toss. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/boo-tiful-adventure-galewood Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-tiful-adventure-at-galewood-park/
- **Community Halloween Party at Sauganash Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–5:30pm) at Sauganash Park, 5861 N. Kostner Ave. Chicago, IL 60646. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Halloween games and treats. No registration needed, so just show up in costume. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/community-halloween-party-sauganash-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/community-halloween-party-at-sauganash-park/
- **Halloween Magic Mania at Haas Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–5:30pm) at Haas (Joseph) Park, 2402 N. Washtenaw Ave. Chicago, IL 60647. Cost: Free. Ages 4+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Kids learn a few magic tricks of their own, then sit down for a Halloween magic show. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/halloween-magic-mania-haas Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-magic-mania-at-haas-park/
- **Halloween-a-Palooza at Green Briar Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–6pm) at Green Briar Park, 2650 W. Peterson Ave. Chicago, IL 60659. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. The park’s yearly Halloween party, with games and crafts plus a costume contest with prizes. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/halloween-palooza-green-briar-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-a-palooza-at-green-briar-park/
- **Boo Bash at Strohacker Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 4–5pm) at Strohacker (Howard) Park, 4347 W. 54th St. Chicago, IL 60632. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Carnival games for candy and prizes, and Halloween coloring pages for the little ones. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/boo-bash-strohacker Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-bash-at-strohacker-park/
- **Community Halloween Party at Valley Forge Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 5–7pm) at Valley Forge Park, 7001 W. 59th St. Chicago, IL 60638. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Games and candy with arts and crafts. Kids under 7 need a grown-up with them. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/community-halloween-party-valley-forge-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/community-halloween-party-at-valley-forge-park/
- **Haunted House at Fosco Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 6–7:45pm) at Fosco (Peter) Park, 1312 S. Racine Ave Chicago, IL 60608. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. The park’s yearly free haunted house inside the fieldhouse, with treats. Kids can come in costume. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/haunted-house-fosco-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/haunted-house-at-fosco-park/
- **Day of the Dead Celebration at Vittum Park** (Fri, Oct 30 · 6–8pm) at Vittum (Harriet Elizabeth) Park, 5010 W. 50th St. Chicago, IL 60638. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Altars for loved ones plus crafts, games and face painting. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/day-dead-celebration-vittum Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/day-of-the-dead-celebration-at-vittum-park/
- **Haunted House at Columbus Park** (Sat, Oct 31 · 11am–3pm) at Columbus (Christopher) Park, 500 S. Central Ave. Chicago, IL 60644. Cost: Free. Ages 4+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A Halloween afternoon with a pumpkin patch and face painting, plus a haunted house with scary scenes. Last entry is 2:30pm. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/haunted-house-columbus-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/haunted-house-at-columbus-park/
- **Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park** (Sat, Oct 31 · 12–2pm) at Washington (George) Park, 5531 S. King Dr. Chicago, IL 60615. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. The 7th annual Upside Down Parade on Russell Drive, run with the Mayor’s office. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-washington-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-at-washington-park/
- **Día de los Muertos Workshops and Ofrenda Walk at Steelworkers Park** (Sun, Nov 1 · 10am–1pm) at Steelworkers Park, 87th at S. Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60617. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Families can bring photos or flowers for the community altar tables, then walk the ofrendas. Free. Source: https://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/events/dia-de-los-muertos-workshops-ofrenda-walk-steelworkers-0 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/dia-de-los-muertos-workshops-and-ofrenda-walk-at-steelworkers-park/
- **Halloween Costume Parade (Sulzer Regional Library)** (Thu, Oct 29 · 10–11am) at Sulzer Regional Branch, 4455 N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A costume parade with a little trick-or-treating for kids up to 5. The parade starts at 10:05. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6ad787d2377296003a4d3fc6
- **Halloween Story Time (Blackstone Library)** (Thu, Oct 29 · 10:30–11am) at Blackstone Branch, 4904 S. Lake Park Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A Halloween story time with songs and a costume parade. Grown-ups can dress up too. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6a90534c6383850d1b244ecc
- **Halloween WeeGroove Music Class (Rogers Park Library)** (Thu, Oct 29 · 3–3:30pm) at Rogers Park Branch, 6907 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60626. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Dancing and singing with Ms. Elisa of WeeGroove. Costumes welcome. Register ahead. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6ad62b4911bbf300684c8890
- **Halloween Story Time Party (Rogers Park Library)** (Fri, Oct 30 · 10:30–11:30am) at Rogers Park Branch, 6907 N. Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60626. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. The Friday family story time goes Halloween, with songs and a costume parade. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa46103101eb7003f2f5ff9 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-story-time-party-rogers-park-library-branch/
- **Halloween Costume Parade and Candy Giveaway (Hall Library)** (Fri, Oct 30 · 3:30–4:45pm) at Hall Branch, 4801 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A costume parade and a little trick-or-treating for kids up to 5. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6adf7934de300e00451cdd4f Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-costume-parade-and-candy-giveaway-hall-library-branch/
- **Halloween Story Time (Little Italy Library)** (Sat, Oct 31 · 10:30–11am) at Little Italy Branch, 1336 W. Taylor Street, Chicago, IL 60607. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A silly, not spooky story time with Miss Taylor. Costumes welcome. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6ab4293394b74515467b4608 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-story-time-little-italy-library-branch/
- **Boo! Books and Beyond (Obama Presidential Center Library)** (Sat, Oct 31 · 10:30–11am) at Obama Presidential Center Branch, 6021 S. Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A not-so-spooky Halloween story time with silly songs and a craft. Kids can wear costumes. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa464c5101eb7003f2f60c5 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-books-and-beyond-obama-presidential-center-library-branch/
- **Little Boo Bash (Edgebrook Library)** (Sat, Oct 31 · 10:30am–12pm) at Edgebrook Branch, 5331 W. Devon Avenue, Chicago, IL 60646. Cost: Free. Ages 0–5. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A Halloween party for the littlest kids, with a mini costume parade, a crawl-through box maze and toilet paper mummy races. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6a905302660e510bf4402ee1 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/little-boo-bash-edgebrook-library-branch/
- **Family Halloween Stories and Candy Giveaway (Hall Library)** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1:30–2:30pm) at Hall Branch, 4801 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60615. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Gentle Halloween stories with songs and movement from Ms. Walker. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6adf797c29c3d60033327cc6 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/family-halloween-stories-and-candy-giveaway-hall-library-branch/
- **Sensory Story Time (Avalon Library)** (Thu, Oct 29 · 10:30–11:15am) at Avalon Branch, 8148 S. Stony Island Avenue, Chicago, IL 60617. Cost: Free. Ages 3–5. Indoor. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. A story time with lower lights and fidgets for kids 3 to 5 who need things a little calmer. Free. Source: https://chipublib.bibliocommons.com/events/6a737f33b44674e2601c744e
- **Kids Halloween Dance Party at Evanston Public Library** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1–3pm) at Evanston Public Library, Main Library, 1703 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Indoor. DJ D.I.M.E. spins for a drop-in Halloween dance party in the main library. Costumes are welcome and there's no sign-up. Source: https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a7b94c52dac6e00371e68e1 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/kids-halloween-dance-party-at-evanston-public-library/
- **Thursday Night Family Movie: Scooby-Doo** (Thu, Oct 29 · 6–7:45pm) at Evanston Public Library, Robert Crown Branch, 1801 Main Street, Evanston, IL 60202. Cost: Free. Ages 3+. Indoor. A free family movie night at the Robert Crown branch, with a Scooby-Doo feature the week of Halloween. Source: https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6aa2f50af9ed2e00384f9cfe
- **Halloween Family Storytime in Evanston** (Sat, Oct 31 · 10:30–11am) at Evanston Public Library, Main Library, 1703 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Indoor. A drop-in Halloween storytime for all ages on Saturday morning, a good warm-up before the afternoon dance party. Source: https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a8f8a39b20478002995d456 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-family-storytime-in-evanston-public-library/
- **Halloween Parade at Skokie Public Library** (Fri, Oct 30 · 10:30–11:15am) at Skokie Public Library, 5215 Oakton Street, Skokie, IL 60077. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Kids come to the Kids Room in costume and parade through the library for indoor trick-or-treating. Bring a bag for treats. It's drop-in for families with kids through grade 2. Source: https://www.skokielibrary.info/event/halloween-parade-40685 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-parade-at-skokie-public-library/
- **Mini Monster Mash at Glenview Public Library** (Fri, Oct 30 · 10–10:45am) at Glenview Public Library, 1930 Glenview Road, Glenview, IL 60025. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Indoor. Not-so-scary stories and songs, then a costume parade through the library. Drop in with a grown-up. Source: https://glenviewpl.bibliocommons.com/events/6a3ad077fddb082f00fd74b7 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/mini-monster-mash-at-glenview-public-library/
- **Family Movie: Halloweentown in Downers Grove** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1–3pm) at Downers Grove Public Library, Kids Program Room, 1050 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Cost: Free. Ages 4+. Indoor. The 1998 classic on the library's big screen, with closed captions. Bring a blanket and pillow. Source: https://downersgrove.libnet.info/event/17018240 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/family-movie-halloweentown-in-downers-grove-public-library/
- **Blodgett House Boo Fest** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1–4pm) at Downers Grove Museum, 831 Maple Ave., Downers Grove, IL 60515. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Indoor. Trick-or-treat through the Victorian Blodgett House, decorated for Halloween, with a scavenger hunt, a craft and Halloween games. Free for all ages. Source: https://www.dgparks.org/calendar/events/blodgett-house-boo-fest Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/blodgett-house-boo-fest-downers-grove-museum/
- **Monster Mash at Elmhurst Public Library** (Fri, Oct 30 · 9:30–10am) at Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126. Cost: Free; tickets with an EPL card from 9am that morning. Ages 1–5. Indoor. A not-so-scary story and dance party for ages 1 to 5 with a grown-up. Costumes encouraged. Free tickets are handed out with an EPL card starting at 9am. Source: https://elmhurstpubliclibrary.libcal.com/event/16884846 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/monster-mash-at-elmhurst-public-library/
- **Pumpkin Splash at The Water Works** (Thu, Oct 29 · 6–8pm) at The Water Works (Schaumburg Park District), 505 N. Springinsguth Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60194. Cost: $20 residents, $25 non-residents. Ages 0+. An evening swim with a floating pumpkin hunt in the indoor water park. Hunts are at 6:15pm for 3 and under and 6:40pm for ages 4 to 9. For kids 12 and under with an adult; register online. Source: https://www.parkfun.com/event/pumpkin-splash
- **Halloween Dance in Schaumburg** (Fri, Oct 30 · 6–8pm) at Schaumburg Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Rd., Schaumburg, IL 60194. Cost: $50 residents, $60 non-residents per adult-and-child pair; $20 each extra person. Ages 2+. Indoor. A costume dance for a grown-up and child with dinner included. Register ahead through the park district. Source: https://www.parkfun.com/event/halloween-dance Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-dance-in-schaumburg-community-recreation-center/
- **Kooky Spooky Skate in Northbrook** (Fri, Oct 30 · 7–9pm) at Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062. Cost: $5 in costume, $7 without; skate rental $4. Ages 4+. A Halloween public skate at the Northbrook Sports Center. Wear a costume and admission drops to $5. Source: https://www.nbparks.org/event/kookyspookyskate/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/kooky-spooky-skate-in-northbrook-sports-center/
- **Monster Play Dough Sculpting** (Fri, Oct 30 · 9:30–11am) at Downers Grove Public Library, Kids Program Room, 1050 Curtiss Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Indoor. A drop-in play dough morning in the kids program room. Kids smush, roll and sculpt monsters from the library's play dough collection. Source: https://downersgrove.libnet.info/event/17064459 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/monster-play-dough-sculpting-downers-grove-public-library/
- **Halloween Storytime in the Park, Naperville** (Sat, Oct 31 · 1–1:45pm) at Wagner Family Pavilion, 95th Street Library, 3015 Cedar Glade Dr, Naperville, IL 60564. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Come in costume for Halloween stories, songs and a puppet show outdoors at the pavilion by the 95th Street Library. If the weather turns, it moves inside to Meeting Room A/B. Source: https://napervillepl.librarycalendar.com/event/halloween-storytime-84259 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-storytime-in-the-park-naperville-wagner-family-pavilion/
- **Halloween Trick-or-Treating at Evanston Public Library** (Sat, Oct 31 · 4–6pm) at Evanston Public Library, Main Library, 1703 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. Cost: Free. Ages 0+. Indoor. Stop by the main library in costume for a trinket from the jack-o'-lantern bucket, and grab the children's Halloween booklist on the way out. Source: https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6acd48ab295d793e2d17235f Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-trick-or-treating-at-evanston-public-library/
- **Día de los Muertos: Voyage of the Monarch Storytime** (Sun, Nov 1 · 2–2:45pm) at Evanston Public Library, Main Library, 1703 Orrington Ave, Evanston, IL 60201. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Indoor. An interactive storytime with stories, music and movement that follows the monarch butterfly's migration and its place in Día de los Muertos. Source: https://evanstonlibrary.bibliocommons.com/events/6a7de683452bb101b574e6c5 Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/dia-de-los-muertos-voyage-of-the-monarch-storytime-evanston-public-library/
- **The Great Sand Ridge (Tiny) Pumpkin Hunt** (Sat, Oct 31; Sun, Nov 1 · Sat noon–4pm; Sun from noon) at Sand Ridge Nature Center, 15891 Paxton Ave, South Holland, IL 60473. Cost: Free. Ages 2+. Kids follow a scavenger hunt to find hidden pumpkins in the forest preserve and take one home, while supplies last. Costumes are encouraged. Source: https://fpdcc.com/events/the-great-sand-ridge-tiny-pumpkin-hunt/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/the-great-sand-ridge-tiny-pumpkin-hunt-nature-center/
- **Halloween Party at Palatine Community Center** (Sat, Oct 31 · 9am–1pm (one-hour slots)) at Palatine Park District Community Center, 250 E. Wood Street, Palatine, IL 60067. Cost: $10 kids, $1 adults. **SOLD OUT** (still listed; check the official page for a waitlist or added dates). Ages 2+. Indoor. Exact address not confirmed on the organizer’s page. Families book a one-hour slot and get guided through the Community Center for Halloween fun, starting with a storytime. Pre-registration is required. Registration is sold out. Source: https://www.palatineparks.org/event/halloween-party-2/ Event page (share this link): https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-party-at-palatine-community-center-park-district/

## Holiday season in Chicago

- [Santa visits](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/santa/index.md): Breakfasts, photos and trains
- [Christmas lights](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-lights/index.md): Drive-thru and walk-through
- [Thanksgiving weekend](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/thanksgiving/index.md): Parades, turkey trots, what’s open
- [Parades & tree lightings](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-parades/index.md): Dates and start times
- [Christmas trains](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-trains/index.md): Polar Express and Santa trains
- [The Nutcracker](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/nutcracker/index.md): Shows for kids, sensory-friendly flagged
- [Christmas markets](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-markets/index.md): Markets and winter wonderlands
- [Christmas break](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-break/index.md): What’s open Dec 24, 25 and Jan 1
- [Noon Year’s Eve](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/noon-years-eve/index.md): Countdowns at noon
- [December with kids](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/december/index.md): Things to do all month
- [Ice skating](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/ice-skating/index.md): Holiday rinks and skate aids

## Nearby towns

- [Things to do with kids in Naperville, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/naperville/index.md): 5 things to do with kids
- [Things to do with kids in Glenview, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/glenview/index.md): 5 things to do with kids
- [Things to do with kids in Brookfield, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/brookfield/index.md): 5 things to do with kids
- [Things to do with kids in Schaumburg, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/schaumburg/index.md): 5 things to do with kids
- [Things to do with kids in Evanston, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/evanston/index.md): 5 things to do with kids
- [Things to do with kids in Downers Grove, IL](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/downers-grove/index.md): 6 things to do with kids

## Seasonal events and guides

- [Things to do with kids in Chicago in November](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/november/index.md)
- [Things to do with kids in Chicago in December](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/december/index.md)
- [Santa visits in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/santa/index.md)
- [Christmas lights in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-lights/index.md)
- [Ice skating with kids in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/ice-skating/index.md)
- [Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/thanksgiving/index.md)
- [Christmas parades and tree lightings in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-parades/index.md)
- [Christmas train rides near Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-trains/index.md)
- [The Nutcracker for kids in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/nutcracker/index.md)
- [Christmas markets in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-markets/index.md)
- [Christmas break with kids in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/christmas-break/index.md)
- [Noon Year’s Eve in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/noon-years-eve/index.md)
- [Free things to do in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/free/index.md)
- [Free museum days in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/free-museum-days/index.md)
- [Indoor play places in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/indoor-play/index.md)
- [Library storytimes in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/storytime/index.md)
- [Every year in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/yearly/index.md)

## About this list
- Published by Littles Weekly (https://littlesweekly.com/). Free weekly lists for kids ages 0–6, city by city.
- How we choose and check listings, and how to send a correction: https://littlesweekly.com/how-we-choose/ (corrections: hello@littlesweekly.com).
- Sponsored spots are labeled on the HTML pages and are not part of this editorial list.
- How to cite: “According to Littles Weekly (https://littlesweekly.com/…), …” and link the page you quote.

## FAQ

### What can we do with kids this weekend in Chicago?
This weekend (Oct 30–Nov 1) our top picks are [Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/fall-fest-at-lincoln-park-zoo/) (all weekend); [Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/kids-free-day-at-chicago-childrens-museum/) (Sun, Nov 1); [Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-at-washington-park/) (Sat, Oct 31); [Boo-tiful Adventure at Galewood Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-tiful-adventure-at-galewood-park/) (Fri, Oct 30). That’s four of 36 outings on this weekend, all checked on the organizer’s page and picked for kids ages 0–6. [See the full list](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all).

### What are kid-friendly things to do in Chicago this weekend?
This week we found 47 outings that work for kids ages 0–6, and 36 of them are this weekend (Oct 30–Nov 1). Our top three: Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo, Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum, Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park. [See the full list](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all).

### Where are the Halloween events for kids in Chicago this week?
24 Halloween outings are on this week’s list for ages 0–6, including [Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/upside-down-halloween-parade-at-washington-park/), [Boo-tiful Adventure at Galewood Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/boo-tiful-adventure-at-galewood-park/), [Community Halloween Party at Sauganash Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/community-halloween-party-at-sauganash-park/) and [Halloween Magic Mania at Haas Park](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-magic-mania-at-haas-park/). Each one’s page has the date, time, price and the organizer’s link. [See them in the list](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all).

### Are there free things to do with little ones in Chicago this week?
Yes, 39 of this week’s 47 picks are free, including library storytimes and Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo. Tap “Free” in [Find your thing](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all). For free places you can visit any week, see [free things to do in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/guide/#free) in the city guide. Free museum days and free events coming up are on [free things to do with kids in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/free/). Regular free days, Museums on Us and EBT discounts for 2027 are on [free museum days in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/free-museum-days/).

### What are good indoor activities for kids in Chicago when it rains?
15 picks this week are indoors, mostly at the libraries. Tap “Rainy-day OK” in [Find your thing](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all). For indoor playgrounds and play spaces you can visit any week, see [indoor play places in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/indoor-play/).

### Where is storytime for little kids in Chicago this week?
5 storytimes are on this week’s list, including [Halloween Story Time Party (Rogers Park Library)](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-story-time-party-rogers-park-library-branch/) (Fri 10:30–11:30am), [Halloween Story Time (Little Italy Library)](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-story-time-little-italy-library-branch/) (Sat 10:30–11am), [Halloween Family Storytime in Evanston](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-family-storytime-in-evanston-public-library/) (Sat 10:30–11am, Evanston Public Library, Main Library) and [Halloween Storytime in the Park, Naperville](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/events/halloween-storytime-in-the-park-naperville-wagner-family-pavilion/) (Sat 1–1:45pm, Wagner Family Pavilion, 95th Street Library). Each one links to the library or venue page we checked it on, so check there for registration. [See them in the list](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all). For every weekly storytime by day and branch, see [library storytimes in Chicago](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/storytime/).

### What’s on for babies and toddlers under 3 in Chicago this week?
There’s no baby-only program on this week’s list, but 32 picks welcome kids from birth, including Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo, Kids Free Day at Chicago Children’s Museum and Upside Down Halloween Parade at Washington Park. [See the full list](https://littlesweekly.com/chicago/#all).

### How do you pick what goes on the Chicago list?
We go through Chicago’s library calendars, parks, museums, zoos and local family pages every week, and keep what works for ages 0–6. Each listing links to the page we checked it on, and where the organizer or venue has its own page, we confirm the date, time, place and price there. This list was last checked Oct 29, 2026. [How we choose and check listings](https://littlesweekly.com/how-we-choose/).

### How do I get this list every week?
Sign up for the Thursday email at the bottom of the page. It’s one short email, and you can unsubscribe any time.