85 Wickedly Fun Halloween Events for Kids in 2026

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Fall

Family-friendly Halloween events for kids are everywhere this year, and we’re sure they’ll be wickedly awesome. Kids can test out their costumes as well as their trick-or-treating skills. They’ll decorate pumpkins, dance to the “Monster Mash,” and play spooky games.

While some events no longer require registration, we don’t want you to miss out on a spook-tacular good time; we’d recommend clicking through the links for registration details before you go. Don’t forget a bag for all your kids’ treats!

This article is sponsored by Naper Settlement, The Forge: Lemont Quarries, Western Springs Park District, and Lisle Park District.

Family Spooktacular at Naper Settlement

October 24, 2026 | 10:00am – 2:00pm
Daily, until Oct 25, 2026
Naper Settlement, 523 S Webster St, Naperville, IL 60540

Grab your candy buckets and prepare for a magical trick-or-treat journey across Naper Settlement's 13-acre campus with candy stops at our historic homes.

After, rock out with The Little Mermen & Princess Pals — the #1 Disney tribute band performing 100 years of Disney hits (see performance schedule). From classics like Mary Poppins and The Lion King to modern hits like Frozen and Moana, the whole family will enjoy a nostalgic journey through the magical world of Disney, infused with rock and pop influences.

Steps from the stage, little ones can bounce to the beat in themed inflatables including a fright-free Haunted House adorned with friendly ghouls, grinning ghosts, and playfully spooky décor. Plus, don't miss our interactive Ghoul School, where your little witches and warlocks can craft custom slime. All activities and performances are included in admission!

Enchanted Adventure at The Forge: Lemont Quarries

The Forge Adventure Park & Ziplines
227 Heritage Quarries Dr, Lemont, IL 60439

This fall, The Forge: Lemont Quarries invites guests to experience Enchanted Adventure: An Evening of Pumpkin Monsters, Magic, and Mischief, running September 25 through November 1, Thursday through Sunday nights. The family-friendly experience features a ½-mile illuminated walking trail filled with thousands of intricately designed pumpkins across three themed worlds: Monsters, Magic, and Mischief.

In Monsters, encounter a 16-foot pumpkin Kraken, towering Troll, Zombie Graveyard, and Web Crawler spider. Magic brings witches, a bubbling cauldron, whimsical mushrooms, and Pumpkin Stonehenge. Mischief delivers playful pumpkin scenes, including a Pumpkin Catapult Crew, Pie Machine Chase, and tricksters causing chaos for Dracula.

Guests can also enjoy seasonal food and beverages, including festive fall drinks and food. Kids Activity Add-Ons, sold separately from trail admission, include the Creepy Crawly Kid Zone and Boos Bounces, where kids can climb, bounce, and play.

It’s a glowing evening of pumpkins, imagination, and fall fun for all!

Halloween Bash & Chill Cook-Off

October 31, 2026 | 10:00am – 2:00pm
Spring Rock Park, 4400 Central Ave, Western Springs, IL 60558

Kick off your Halloween celebration at the Halloween Bash & Chili Cook-Off before heading out for trick-or-treating! Families are invited to enjoy a fun, festive afternoon filled with costumes, seasonal activities, and community spirit in a safe and welcoming park setting.

Enjoy hayrides, a corn maze, a balloon artist, inflatables, live DJ music, and a costume contest with prizes for all ages. Think your chili is the best in town? Enter the chili cook-off and find out!

This popular (and free!) event is the perfect way to celebrate Halloween with friends and neighbors and get into the spooky spirit before the evening festivities begin.

Don’t forget to click the links for details about registration before attending.

Halloween Events for Kids in Chicago’s West Suburbs

Halloween Events for Kids in Chicago’s Northwest Suburbs

Halloween Activities Running All Season Long

Halloween BOO-tacular at Chuck E. Cheese
In years past, participating Chuck E. Cheese locations are offering extra play points, nightly trick-or-treating, haunted house parties, and spooky treats during the month of October. Check your nearest location as offerings may vary.

Looking for more Halloween fun? You’ll love our Halloween Guide, which has everything in one place!

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