Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled the Chicago Fall Fest, a two-week series of cultural and community events running from October 18 to November 3. The initiative aims to provide activities for Chicago residents of all ages, focusing on celebrations like Halloween and Día de los Muertos. Details about these events can be found on ChicagoFallFest.org.

"We are excited to host the first annual Fallapalooza this Friday and begin an exciting two weeks of community events throughout Chicago," stated Mayor Brandon Johnson. "We are grateful for the partnership with community organizations, City departments, the business community, and our philanthropic community to help provide hundreds of activities across our city for Chicago’s families to enjoy this fall season."

The festival kicks off with Fallapalooza at Harold Washington Library Center's Winter Garden. Chris Brown, Commissioner of the Chicago Public Library (CPL), expressed support: "Chicago Public Library is proud to support Chicago Fall Fest, beginning with hosting Teen Fallapalooza in our very own Winter Garden at the Harold Washington Library Center."

On October 19, State Street will host the 10th Annual Arts in the Dark Parade from 6-8 p.m., celebrating Halloween as an “artists’ holiday.” The parade features cultural organizations and artists citywide. LUMA8 and the City of Chicago present it with support from various sponsors.

Throughout Fall Fest, My CHI. My Future. Safe Spaces for Youth partners will organize teen-focused "Kickbacks" across different regions in Chicago. These events are managed by youth employees within each organization.

Brandie Knazze, Commissioner of the Department of Family and Support Services (DFSS), commented: “The Department of Family and Support Services is proud to be a 2024 Fall Fest Partner.”

Additional "Fall-4-All" events supported by the Mayor's Office will occur between October 25 and November 1 in several neighborhoods. These gatherings offer DJs, free food, resources, and activities.

On October 26, Washington Park will host the UPSIDE DOWN Halloween Parade from noon until 2 p.m., presented by LUMA8 with sponsorships from Amazon and Ferrara Candy Company.

"LUMA8 is proud to be partnering with the City of Chicago," said Sharene Shariatzadeh, President and CEO of LUMA8.

The festivities also include Halloween in the Parks organized by Mars Wrigley across various city parks throughout October.

Rosa Escareño, Superintendent and CEO of the Chicago Park District remarked: “Chicago parks citywide welcome Chicagoans of all ages to celebrate Halloween in the Parks at more than 60 events throughout October.”

In addition to these highlights, over 170 fall-themed events will take place at various locations as part of CPL's contribution. Residents are encouraged to register their fall activities on ChicagoFallFest.org.

For further information about these seasonal activities or schedules related to Halloween in Parks events can visit www.ChicagoFallFest.org or www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/halloween.