Arts in the Dark Parade | Kids Out and About Chicago

Arts in the Dark Parade


*The event has already taken place on this date: Sat, 10/18/2025
Arts in the Dark returns to downtown Chicago on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. The bewitching parade will take place from 6 – 8 p.m. on State Street, marching southward from Lake Street to Van Buren. This spellbinding Halloween event welcomes spectators of all ages — no tickets required. Crowds gather early along the path of the procession, so arrive ahead of time for a good viewing spot. The parade takes place in the heart of the Chicago Loop on State Street moving south from Lake Street to Van Buren.

Please help us keep this calendar up to date! If this activity is sold out, canceled, or otherwise needs alteration, email mindy@kidsoutandabout.com so we can update it immediately. If you have a question about the activity itself, please contact the organization administrator listed below.

parade viewing tips

 
  • Arts in the Dark is a family-friendly event that is free an open to the public.
  • The parade is rain or shine – so be prepared with layers and inclement weather gear if it looks cold or rainy!
  • Make sure and arrive early if you’d like a good spot for viewing on the parade route! The north side of the route tends to fill up early – so you might try the south end to find a better spot.
  • The parade route is easily accessible by public transportation.  The L stations on State Street will remain open for the parade, but bus routes will rerouted close by since State Street will be closed to traffic. 
       PARKING: The Millennium Garages Grant Park North and Grant Park South garages are located two blocks east of the parade route on                Michigan Avenue and are conveniently located away from street closures. Click HERE for a special parking offer from Millennium Garages.
 
  • IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING!! The Chicago Police Department will have officers moving throughout the parade route – and parade marshals will be posted along the street.  Please inform someone if you see something suspicious.
Location: 
205 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
See map: Google Maps

*Times, dates, and prices of any activity posted to our calendars are subject to change. Please be sure to click through directly to the organization’s website to verify.
Contact name: 
Sharene Shariatzadeh
Email address: 
The event has already taken place on this date: 
10/18/2025
Time: 
6 - 8 pm