A guide to Chicago’s fall activities, including festivals, Halloween events, live music and community celebrations happening throughout early October.
A guide to Chicago’s fall activities, including festivals, Halloween events, live music and community celebrations happening throughout early October.
As the summer sun bids farewell, the beauty of fall is imminent as the trees start to transform into red-orange hues. Fall is here, and so are the autumnal festivities that come with the month of October.
For those looking to get started on the Halloween fun, attend the Spooky Book Fair at Three Avenues Bookstore or the Cabaret Yard Sale to get ahead on costume shopping. Fall festivities are also in full swing at the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest and the Lincoln Park Zoo fall fest.
Other activities in the beginning of October include the World Music Festival and the Benefit Concert for Ignatian Solidarity.
World Music Festival: Sept. 25-Oct. 4
From Sept. 25-Oct. 4, the World Music Festival will set the stage at the Chicago Cultural Center, all organized by the city’s Cultural Affairs and Special Events Department. Music lovers from across Chicago can stop by to celebrate and discover diverse music from nations across the world. Each day offers a new lineup of musicians, offering a unique experience for each day attended. Admission is free on a first-come, first-serve basis as some venues have limited capacity.
Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest: Sept. 25-Nov. 1
The Lincoln Park Zoo is hosting their 12th annual Fall Fest Sept. 25-Nov. 1, where visitors can celebrate the autumn season with family and friends alike. The event will feature pumpkin patches, fall treats and professional pumpkin carvers. Tickets are free, but visitors looking for an elevated experience can purchase tickets for the ferris wheel, inflatable attractions and inflatable slide.
Spooky Book Fair: Oct. 2
Three Avenues Bookstore is kicking off the spooky season by hosting their own spooky book fair Oct. 2. in Lincoln Park. From 6-10 p.m., visitors can stop by and enjoy sweet treats, sip on cider and find a new favorite book. The spooky ambiance will come to life through a fog machine, a temporary tattoo stand, giveaways and other attractions.
Cabaret Yard Sale: Oct. 2-4
Idea Box Integrated Arts is prepping locals for the Halloween season through their Cabaret Yard Sale Oct. 2-4. Burlesque, circus, cabaret and drag performers are offering up their gently-used costumes, jewelry, props and more, making this the perfect opportunity for visitors to snag a one-of-a-kind costume before the holiday madness begins.
Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest: Oct. 2-4
The Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce is presenting the 39th annual Apple Fest Oct. 2-4. Visitors can partake in all things apple — sip on an apple cider, purchase a fresh batch of apples or try apple-inspired dishes from local restaurants and food vendors. Admission is free, allowing apple-lovers to enjoy live music, hands-on activities and connect with local artists, makers and businesses.
Benefit Concert for Ignatian Solidarity: Oct. 9
The Indivisible chapter of Rogers Park and West Ridge is hosting a benefit concert and celebration of community Oct. 9 from 7-10 p.m. at the United Church of Rogers Park. Guests will hear powerful songs by musical groups like Singing Resistance, Son Monarcas, Zondo and more. While tickets are free, the organization encourages attendees to pay what they can. All proceeds will go to the Immigrant Solidarity Fund for Rogers Park and West Ridge.
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