When October rolls around, Chicago turns into a playground for thrill-seekers, costume lovers, and anyone who enjoys a good scare. From eerie haunted houses to festive pumpkin patches, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate spooky season in style. Whether the plan calls for a night of fright, a pumpkin-filled day trip, or a unique interactive experience, these Halloween events in Chicago are guaranteed to deliver chills and fun.

Get Spooked at Chicago Haunted Houses

If screams and scares are part of the plan, Chicago has some of the best haunted attractions in the Midwest. 13th Floor Chicago in Schiller Park brings Hollywood-quality sets, terrifying actors, and spine-chilling special effects that guarantee a night of heart-pounding fun. For something extra immersive, Basement of the Dead in Aurora has been voted one of the scariest haunted houses in America, with elaborate storylines and impressive frights. These Chicago haunted houses aren’t for the faint of heart, but they’re perfect for those chasing adrenaline.

Celebrate in Style at Halloween Parties

No Halloween season is complete without a costume contest and a dance floor. Chicago’s Halloween parties range from upscale masquerade balls to all-out bar crawls. The Haunted Halloween Ball at the Congress Plaza Hotel combines DJs, dancing, and a costume contest in one of Chicago’s most famously haunted hotels. Over at Navy Pier, the annual Pier Pumpkin Lights sets the stage for themed events, light displays, and seasonal entertainment. Whether dressed to impress or aiming for “scariest costume,” these parties guarantee a spirited night.

Pick the Perfect Pumpkin

For a lighter, family-friendly option, Chicago’s pumpkin patches and fall festivals bring autumn charm to the city and suburbs. Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch in South Barrington offers hayrides, corn mazes, and of course, fields of pumpkins ready for carving. Closer to the city, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up transforms two acres near Goose Island into an autumn wonderland, complete with photo ops, corn mazes, and carnival games. It’s the perfect way to add a little pumpkin spice to the Halloween season.

Solve a Mystery at a Murder Mystery Dinner

For something truly unique, skip the jump scares and opt for a night of laughs, food, and intrigue. A Chicago murder mystery dinner theater hosted by The Murder Mystery Company offers a one-of-a-kind Halloween experience where guests become part of the story. A delicious three-course meal is paired with an interactive show full of costumes, clues, and comedy. It’s Halloween entertainment with a twist—and no chainsaws required.

Host Your Own Private Murder Mystery Party

Want to keep things spooky and exclusive? Hosting a private murder mystery party is the perfect way to bring the Halloween fun home (or to a chosen venue). Professional actors lead the way as the group becomes suspects in a thrilling whodunnit. Costumes are encouraged, laughs are guaranteed, and every guest gets swept up in the mystery. It’s part game night, part theater, and all about creating unforgettable memories with friends and family.

The Final Boo

From haunted houses that send shivers down your spine to pumpkin patches glowing under autumn skies, Chicago knows how to celebrate spooky season. Add in costume parties, light displays, and murder mystery experiences—whether public or private—and the city transforms October into a month-long festival of thrills.Ready to plan a Halloween to remember? Contact The Murder Mystery Company to host a private mystery event or grab tickets to a dinner theater show. Call 888-643-2583 or fill out the contact form on their website to start planning a frightfully fun night.