Cirque Italia Water Circus. Photo by Joseph Gage via Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Swiftie Events and More Things To Do in Chicago This Weekend With Kids
Photo courtesy of Pioneer Farm, Facebook
12 Animal Encounters and Petting Zoos Near Chicago
Eclipse photo by Andrew Shirey. Courtesy of the National Park Service
20 Fun and FREE Things To Do in Chicago April 2024 With Kids
Kids at the Lincoln Museum in Springfield. Photo by Maureen Wilkey for Mommy Poppins
Springfield with Kids: Best Things to Do in Springfield, IL
Celebrate Mom with one of these fun things to do on Mother's Day in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Odyssey at Navy Pier
30 Things to Do on Mother's Day 2024 in Chicago
Photo courtesy of the Chicago Park District
GUIDE
Chicago Summer Camp Guide
Try an outdoor festival this spring in Chicago. Photo courtesy of the Mole de Mayo Festival
35 Spring Festivals and Fairs in Chicago for Families
The lion cubs; Pesho, Lomelok and Sidai! Photo courtesy of the Lincoln Park Zoo
What's New at Chicago Zoos: Cute Cubs and a Primate Forest at the Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoos
Teen performers. Photo courtesy of CircEsteem
Best Summer Camps for Teens in Chicago
Photo courtesy of the Chicago Architecture Center
Best Chicago Museums For Kids and Families
Three boys having fun at an arcade. Photo courtesy of Laser X in Addison
Top Spots for Laser Tag and Paintball Fun for Kids in Chicago
St. Louis has tons of kid-friendly things to do. Photo courtesy of the City Museum in St. Louis
Fun Budget Weekend Getaways for Chicago Families
Birthday Party fun! Photo courtesy of POW! Gym
The Best Indoor Birthday Party Spots for Chicago Kids
Chicago has so many things to do with little kids. Photo courtesy of Aster Hall, Chicago
25 Things To Do With Little Kids in Chicago Before They Turn 5
Rides, a children's museum, and more on Navy Pier. Photo courtesy of Navy Pier
Things to Do with Kids on Navy Pier in Chicago
Whether your kids are into theater, cooking, sports, or STEM, we've got you covered! Photo courtesy of Snapology Chicago
School Break Camps: Holiday and Spring Break Camps to Keep Kids Busy on Days Off
Ride high on Maxx Force at Six Flags Great America.
The Best Amusement Parks Near Chicago for Families
An offbeat Chicago museum makes a fun outing for teenagers. Photo courtesy of the WNDR Museum
Chicago's Best Indoor Places for Tweens and Teens To Hang Out
Tiny Picassos can enjoy different activities every day at the Art Institute’s Family Room. Photo by Maureen Wilkey, for Mommy Poppins
25 Free Things To Do in Chicago on Cold and Rainy Days: Indoor Places To Play
GUIDE
Guide to Indoor Play Spaces for Chicago Kids
Butterfield Park is one of several great outdoor spots in Elmhurst. Photo courtesy of the Elmhurst Park District
Elmhurst with Kids: The Best Things to Do in Elmhurst, Illinois
Starved Rock State Park
Visiting Starved Rock State Park With Kids: Things To Do, Places To Stay, and More
Batter up! There are classes for kids of all ages and interests in Chicago.
GUIDE
Guide to the Best Classes for Kids in Chicago
Checking out the exhibits at Adler Planetarium in Chicago. Photo by Maureen Wilkey
Chicago's Adler Planetarium with Kids: Top Things to See and Do
We've launched a partnership with Care.com to bring background-checked nannies and sitters to the Mommy Poppins Directory.
Find Trusted Babysitters and Nannies Now on Mommy Poppins–Powered by Care.com
Chicago has many great swim schools in the area. Photo courtesy of Lakeside Swim School
Best Swim Schools and Swimming Lessons in Chicago for Kids
The Skydeck at Willis Tower has spectacular views spanning four states.
100 Best Things To Do in Chicago with Kids Before They Grow Up
State parks near Chicago offer more than just hiking. Photo courtesy of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources
State Parks Near Chicago to Hike, Camp, and Swim with Kids
Checking out CAMP's new immersive experience in Chicago. Photo by Maureen Wilkey for Mommy Poppins
Doodles X CAMP: Chicago's Exciting New Immersive Experience for Kids
There are both woodland and paved trails at the Morton Arboretum. Photo by Maureen Wilkey
Best Places to Hike with Kids Near Chicago
Love Bug Dance photo courtesy of the Dupage Childrens Museum
Valentine's Day, Lunar New Year, Mardi Gras, and More Things To Do in Chicago February 2024
Stroller hikes make it easier to get outside with babies and toddlers. Photo courtesy of the Morton Arboretum
Best Stroller-Friendly Hikes and Trails Near Chicago
Try one of these Chicago salons for baby's first haircut. Photo courtesy of My Kids Place
Best Places for Kids Haircuts in Chicago For Baby or Toddler’s First Cut
Enjoy a kid-friendly tube fest at Sunburst Ski Hill. Photo courtesy of Sunburst Ski Hill
Best Places for Snow Tubing Near Chicago for Families
Hit the spa with your kid for a spa party in Chicago. Photo by Lisa Gagne for Canva
Kid-Friendly Spas and Kid Spa Parties in Chicago
GUIDE
Guide to Indoor Play Spaces for Chicago Kids
​Chicago History Museum located in Old Town. Photo by Maureen Wilkey
Old Town with Kids: What to Do Just North of Downtown Chicago with Kids
Photo courtesy of Enterrium in Schaumburg
Themed Restaurants in Chicago for Family-Friendly Interactive Dining
Obstacle courses and climbing gyms provide indoor fun for big kids. Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Boulders
Best Ninja Warrior Gyms and Climbing Gyms in Chicago for Kids
Climb and play all day no matter the weather, at Present Place. Photo courtesy of Present Place
Best Indoor Playgrounds in Chicago for Kids
Have some fun in the water even in the winter at one of these indoor water parks near Chicago. Photo courtesy of the Kalahari Resort
Best Indoor Water Parks Near Chicago
The Chicago Skydeck offers kids a great view of the city. Photo courtesy of the 360 Chicago Skydeck
3 Days in Chicago with Kids: Ultimate Itinerary by a Local Mom
Tiny Picassos can enjoy different activities every day at the Art Institute’s Family Room. Photo by Maureen Wilkey, for Mommy Poppins
25 Free Things To Do in Chicago on Cold and Rainy Days: Indoor Places To Play
Free activities for kids in Chicago include the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is always free. Photo courtesy of the museum via Facebook
GUIDE
Guide to Free Things To Do in Chicago with Kids
There are many popular bar and bat mitzvah venues in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Pinstripes
Top Bat and Bar Mitzvah Venues in Chicago
Family-friendly and voted one of the top 5 escape rooms in the USA! Photo courtesy of Escape Factor in Forest Park
Best Kid-Friendly Escape Rooms in Chicago
Top 10 Best Hotdogs in Chicago to Try with Kids
Take pregnancy classes from a birth center or doula if you choose. Photo courtesy of Chicago Family Doulas
Pregnancy Classes and Parenting Classes in Chicago
Cooking classes for kids in Chicago. Photo courtesy of The Kid's Table
Cooking Classes for Kids in Chicago: A Baker's Dozen of the Best Culinary Experiences in the City and Suburbs
Bright Horizons operates more than 1,000 nurturing, enriching, and convenient early education centers across the globe.
How to Find the Right Chicago Daycare or Preschool for Your Kid
Birthday parties at these indoor skydiving venues include a flight class, two flights per guest, and party room time. Photo courtesy of iFly
Teen Birthday Party Ideas in Chicago: 18 Cool Party Places for Teens
Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago. Photo by @zoblue, Flickr (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)
Garfield Park Conservatory with Kids: Best Things to See and Do
The Zoo is one of the best things to do with kids in Lincoln Park. Photo by Maureen Wilkey
Best Things to Do in Chicago's Lincoln Park Neighborhood with Kids
Best Things to See and Do at the Shedd Aquarium with Kids
Get packing and check out this list of hotels in Chicago for a family vacation.
10 Kid-Friendly Hotels in Chicago for a Family Vacation
Happy Kids Chicago offers some of your kid's favorite characters as birthday party entertainers.
The Ultimate List of Chicago Children's Birthday Party Entertainers and Rentals
There are plenty of fishing lakes in Chicago. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Park District
Fishing Lakes Near Chicago and More Kid-Friendly Places To Go Fishing
Photo courtesy of the Museum of Science and Industry
Free Museums and Free Museum Days for Kids in Chicago
Pancakes served all day long in Chicago's West Loop! Photo courtesy of The Little Goat, Facebook
Things to do with Kids in Chicago's West Loop
Chicago's museums are some of the top attractions in the city. Photo courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago
Top Attractions in Chicago: Best Things to See and Do With Kids
Semicolon is a Black-owned bookstore in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Semicolon
Black-Owned Businesses to Discover in Chicago
Kids will have a hard time deciding between all the delicious treats at Dinkel's, the 100 year old Bavarian bakery
Favorite Things To Do with Kids in Roscoe Village and North Center
The iconic ConAgra mural in Chicago, created by artist Jeff Zimmermann, is visible from the 606 elevated Bloomingdale Trail. Photo courtesy of jazim.com
Our Favorite Things to Do with Kids in Bucktown and Wicker Park
Spectacular city views of the Chicago Skyline in River North. Photo courtesy of Wendella Boat Tours.
The Best Things to Do In Chicago's River North and Gold Coast Neighborhoods with Kids
The Field Museum is home to some of the country's most complete dinosaur skeletons.
The Land Before Time: How to Do Chicago's Field Museum with Kids
Calling all Chicago Cubs fans! Photo courtesy of Gallagher Way
Things To Do in Wrigleyville with Kids
See the elephants at the Milwaukee Zoo.
The Best Zoos and Aquariums for Chicago Kids
Take your little one for a splash in the Crown Fountain. Photo by Sandor Weisz
20 Things To Do with Chicago Babies Before They Turn One
Dad and son having fun at the auto show. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Auto Show
Presidents Day 2024: 19 Things To Do In Chicago With Kids
GUIDE
Winter Activities Guide for Chicago Kids
Delight in an outdoor rink across Chicago. The Skating Ribbon is a popular destination. Photo courtesy of Maggie Daley Park
33 Things To Do in Chicago This Winter with Kids
St Patricks Day parade in downtown Chicago. Photo by US Army Reserve photo by Sgt 1st Class Michel Sauret via Flickr.
St. Patricks' Day Weekend 2024 in Chicago: Parades, Festivals, Music, and More
Spring Egg-Stravaganza. Photo courtesy of the Lincoln Park Zoo
Easter Weekend 2024: 20+ Things To Do in Chicago With Kids
Hop to It! It's time for Easter Bunny pictures near Chicago at Woodfield Mall. Photo courtesy of the mall
Meet the Easter Bunny at Bunny Brunches and Easter Bunny Pictures in Chicago
Two girls at the art museum. Photo courtesy of the Art Institute of Chicago
Spring Break 2024: 39 Fun Things To Do in Chicago

Best Harvest & Pumpkin Festivals in Chicago for Fall Family Fun

Explore our list of Chicago's best festivals this fall. Photo courtesy of the Printer's Row Lit Fest
Explore our list of Chicago's best festivals this fall. Photo courtesy of the Printer's Row Lit Fest
9/3/23 - By Maureen Wilkey

Chicago is full of kid-friendly fall festivals, and many of them FREE. From neighborhood festivals honoring Chicago's diverse communities, like Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest or 79th Street Renaissance Festival, to kid-friendly festivals in Chicago that dig deep into our thriving food and art scenes, like the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts or Renegade Craft Fair, there's a celebration happening every weekend from now 'til Thanksgiving, with fun things for kids and families to do at each. Even Oktoberfest celebrations in Chicago, which might make you think of boozy crowds, make room for families with kids' zones and activities. And of course, there's Halloween and all the fun that goes along with it.

Bookmark this long list of the best fall festivals in Chicago to do with kids. And get your calendar and your favorite fall sweater ready!

OUR LATEST VIDEOS

There's a kid-friendly fall festival nearly every weekend. Photo courtesy of Last Fling in Naperville
There's a kid-friendly fall festival nearly every weekend. Photo courtesy of Last Fling in Naperville

September Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Buffalo Grove Days

Thursday, August 31, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023—Buffalo Grove
Celebrate the northwest suburbs with a carnival, food trucks, live music for kids and grown-ups, bingo, a family fun walk, a pancake breakfast, and a rotary duck race. Fun and games are available for kids in the children's area. READ MORE

West Loop Art Fest

September 2, 2023, and September 3, 2023--West Loop
Shop for art, experience interactive art, make art with your kids, or enjoy live music in the West Loop at this annual street festival celebrating the arts. The fest features four blocks of art and 12 bands over two days. READ MORE

Taste of Polonia

Friday, September 1, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023-- Jefferson Park
The country's largest Polish festival takes place at the Copernicus Center in Chicago on Labor Day weekend. More than 30 bands will play on four stages over the course of the weekend, and families can enjoy inflatables, a climbing wall, face painting, clowns, Disney characters, tastings and cooking classes, carnival rides, and games. Polish foods from pierogis to sausages to potato pancakes will also be available. READ MORE

African Festival of the Arts

Friday, September 1, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023—Washington Park
Washington Park hosts the annual African Festival of the Arts, featuring vibrant drumming, museum quality and collectible artifacts, colorful and rich handwoven fabric and textile, family friendly activities, music, and food.  READ MORE

Nashwood

Friday, September 1, 2023- Sunday, September 3, 2023—Highwood
North suburban Highwood celebrates country music on Labor Day weekend with live country, bluegrass, blues and Southern rock music. Southern inspired food and drinks will also be available. Some stages will feature family friendly music throughout the festival. READ MORE

Last Fling

Friday, September 1, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023—Naperville
Naperville's annual end of summer festival features live music, food vendors, a carnival and Family Fun Land. The family area includes sack races, water balloon contests, and eating contests featuring cotton candy, spaghetti, and cupcakes. Music, dancing, stilt walkers, and a real live princess round out the family fun. READ MORE

Taste of Melrose Park

Friday, September 1, 2023- Monday, September 3, 2023—Melrose Park
Summer winds down with this annual festival in the near west suburbs. Families can enjoy a live entertainment, including kids' musicians, bagpipes, the Sabor de Mexico stage, and the Jesse White Tumblers, along with carnival rides and games and a free interactive racing game. Taste food from more than 60 booths featuring Chicago classics and unique local treats. READ MORE

Schaumburg September Fest

Saturday, September 2, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023—Schaumburg
Septemberfest offers arts & crafts, live music, kid's activities, carnival, and much more. READ MORE

Long Grove Irish Days

Saturday, September 2, 2023- Monday, September 4, 2023—Long Grove
Experience the luck of the Irish on Labor Day weekend in historic Downtown Long Grove. Visitors can see Irish dancers, hear Irish music, sample Irish inspired food and beverages, and judge contests for best Irish dog and best looking men's legs in a kilt. READ MORE

Frankfort Fall Fest

September 2, 2023- September 4, 2023-- Frankfort
Celebrate fall in the southwest suburbs at this annual event featuring concerts, a carnival, food vendors, and more. A parade steps off on Sunday at 1 p.m., and families can visit the KidWork Children's Museum or Frankfort History Museum nearby. READ MORE

Winfield Good Old Days

Friday, September 8, 2023- Sunday, September 10, 2023 — Winfield
Bike races, a bags tournament, a steak cook-off, duck races, shoe-kicking contests, and a meatball eating contest are the highlights of this nostalgic west suburban festival. Kids can also enjoy historic trolley rides, live music, and a parade on Sunday at Church and Beecher Streets in downtown Winfield. READ MORE

Renegade Craft Fair

Saturday, September 9, 2023 - Sunday, September 10, 2023 — Wicker Park
Arts and crafts fans can enjoy Renegade's largest event of the year, featuring over 400 incredible makers and designers from all over the US, as well as live entertainment, local DJs, workshops, art installations, food trucks, nonprofits, cocktails, craft beers, and more. READ MORE

Downtown Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival

Saturday, September 9, 2023 - Sunday, September 10, 2023— Downers Grove
Visual artists and musicians will display their works at the 43rd Annual Downtown Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival. Indian Boundary YMCA will host a kids' booth at Main and Curtiss during the event. READ MORE

West End Arts Festival

Saturday, September 9, 2023- Sunday, September 10, 2023 — LaGrange
Families can enjoy visual, culinary and performing arts at this annual festival in west suburban LaGrange. More than 60 artists will display their works, while jazz musicians will perform throughout the festival. Chefs from local restaurants will offer cooking demonstrations and kids can enjoy art activities including face painting near Stone Avenue train station. READ MORE

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

September 9, 2023- September 10, 2023-- Lakeview
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts offers over 150 artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, photography furniture, jewelry, and more. In addition to live music on two stages, the festival includes live demonstrations, family activities and a garden oasis.     READ MORE

German-American Fest

Friday, September 8, 2023- Sunday, September 10, 2023—Lincoln Square
Families can don their dirndls and lederhosen and step out to Lincoln Square for German and American food, music, and gemuetlischkeit. The event features carnival games, the annual Steuben Parade through North Center and Lincoln Square, and traditional German music and dancing. READ MORE

Printers Row Lit Fest

Saturday, September 9, 2023 - Sunday, September 10, 2023—South Loop
Bibliophiles of all ages are welcome at Printers Row Lit Fest, where they can enjoy talks, demonstrations, and workshops with authors of all genres. Kids authors and books will be featured throughout the fest. READ MORE

Rock the Block Party

Friday, September 8, 2023- Sunday, September 9, 2023—Elmhurst
Families can celebrate the end of summer with live entertainment and local food vendors at this annual Elmhurst festival. Kids can enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, games, a photo booth, and a performances from local musicians. Adults can enjoy beverages from the beer and wine tent. READ MORE

79th Street Renaissance Festival

Saturday, September 10, 2023—Auburn Gresham
Attendees can enjoy local food, retailers, organizations, and performers from all genres from cultural to modern dance and blues to hip hop at the 79th Street Renaissance Festival! READ MORE

Throwback Music Fest

Friday, September 8, 2023- Sunday, September 10, 2023—Norwood Park
Introduce kids to the music of the '50s, '60s, '70's, and 80's at this annual northwest side festival. While grownups enjoy tribute bands, a throwback pinup contest, and a classic car show, kids can play games, do crafts, have their faces painted, or bounce in a bounce house. In addition to traditional street festival food, the Kona Ice truck and food trucks featuring pizza, tacos, and Greek food will be on hand. READ MORE

Taste of Chicago Grant Park

September 8, 2023- September 10, 2023-- Downtown
Foodies of all ages can enjoy Chicago restaurants, live music, and family-friendly activities at the annual Taste of Chicago outdoor food festival. The summer series of festivals culminates in September with a full weekend of foodie fun in Grant Park. READ MORE

World Dumpling Fest

September 9, 2023-- Logan Square
Logan Square hosts the World Dumpling Fest, where dumpling fans of all ages can come together to celebrate and experience diverse cultures through performance, art, and delicious dumplings!  READ MORE

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

September 9, 2023- September 10, 2023-- Lakeview
Lakeview East Festival of the Arts offers over 150 artists, featuring paintings, sculptures, photography furniture, jewelry, and more. In addition to live music on two stages, the festival includes live demonstrations, family activities and a garden oasis.     READ MORE

Tinley Park Oktoberfest

Friday, September 15, 2023- Sunday, September 17, 2023 — Tinley Park
Families can enjoy authentic German food and drinks, oompah and polka music, a carnival and a ceremonial keg tapping at this annual Tinley Park event. Guests are encouraged to wear traditional German garb to celebrate the arrival of fall. READ MORE

Glendale Heights Oktoberfest

September 14, 2023- September 24, 2023-- Glendale Heights
Families can enjoy German foods and music under a spacious tent in Camera Park for a full 10 days at this Glendale Heights Festival. Strolling Oompah bands and souvenirs like German hats and steins will complete the fun. READ MORE

Norwood Park Fall Fest

September 15 ,2023- September 16, 2023-- Norwood Park
Celebrate fall with live entertainment, food and drink vendors, and kids' activities for all ages. Kids can enjoy carnival games, a magic show, tattoos and henna, an inflatable corn maze and kids' music and dance performances. READ MORE

Celebración de los Árboles

September 16, 2023- September 17, 2023-- Lisle
This fun-filled festival at The Morton Arboretum will immerse guests in celebrating the diverse cultures of Latin America. Sample foods from different Latin America countries, listen to music, and learn traditional dances at this family friendly outdoor event. READ MORE

West Loop Bavarian Block Party

September 16, 2023- Septeber 17, 2023
Families can enjoy live music and fun food vendors at this annual fundraiser for Haymarket Center. Donations will benefit underserved community members who need mental health and substance abuse services.The Bavarian Block Party will center on an authentic celebration of German culture, complete with popular German foods such as bratwurst and pretzels along with traditional American fare. READ MORE

Ravenswood ArtWalk: 20th Annual Tour of Arts & Industry

Saturday, September 16, 2023- Sunday, September 17,2023 — Ravenswood (FREE)
The ultimate end-of-summer festival returns to Chicago’s northside with the 20th Annual Ravenswood Artwalk on Saturday, September 16th and Sunday, September 17th. The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce (GRCC) partners with the historic Ravenswood Industrial Corridor for a weekend that showcases the bustling hub of artisans, manufacturers, and brewers. READ MORE

Oaktoberfest

Friday, September 22, 2023 and Sunday, September 23—Oak Park
Oak Park celebrates the changing of the seasons at Oaktoberfest with music, food from local restaurants, specialty craft beers and a kids' root beer garden. The kids' root beer garden is open from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 23, and will feature zucchini races, a ninja obstacle court, root beer floats, crafts and other activities sponsored by local businesses. READ MORE

Oak Brook Autumn Fest

Saturday, September 23, 2023 — Oak Brook
Families can enjoy a fall afternoon in Oak Brook with live music food from local vendors, beer (for the grown-ups), and kids' activities. Children's activities include hay rides, carnival games, arts and crafts, a DJ, a juggler, and more! READ MORE

St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest

Friday, September 22, 2023- Sunday, September 24, 2023—Lakeview
Bring your lederhosen and dirndls for some German family fun. Enjoy some bratwurst, some live music, and all things Bavarian, as well as music from favorite Chicago acts. READ MORE

Long Grove Apple Fest

Friday, September 22, 2023- Sunday, September 24, 2023—Long Grove
How do you like them apples? Long Grove will make them any way you want-- baked in pies, dipped in chocolate or caramel, or chopped up in sangria. Families can also enjoy a carnival and live music with their apple treats. READ MORE

Elim Dutch Fest

Saturday, September 22, 2023—Crestwood
You don't have to be Dutch to love Dutch Fest! This annual Crestwood event starts early with a Dutch pancake breakfast and continues with musical entertainment at 8:30 a.m. Kids can enjoy pony rides, wooden shoe dancers, a reptile show, a kids' parade, games, and Dutch or American foods. READ MORE

Hyde Park Jazz Festival

Saturday, September 23, 2023 and Sunday, September 24, 2023—Hyde Park
Music fans of all ages can enjoy free performances by world class jazz musicians at Hyde Park Jazz Festival, as well as local food vendors and a free shuttle between concert locations! READ MORE

Beverly Art Walk

September 23, 2023-- Beverly
The Beverly Art Walk is a free art festival celebrating work from over 150 juried artists, as well as live music, food, and hands-on activities for art lovers of all ages. Guests can embark on self-guided tours through over 100 participating venues. READ MORE

Brookfield Zoo Oktoberfest

Saturday, September 24—Brookfield
Put on your lederhosen or dirndl and enjoy some polka music at Brookfield Zoo. Bands will be playing throughout the day on the East Mall, or families can catch mobile music from the PolkaPedi. German foods will be available for purchase throughout the zoo. READ MORE

World Music Festival

September 22, 2023-October 1, 2023-- Citywide
World music fans can enjoy FREE concerts throughout the City of Chicago during the 23rd Annual World Music Festival. This city-wide, multi-venue, 10-day festival will include 34 bands representing 22 countries. Experience music from all regions of the world including Brazil, South Korea, and Senegal. READ MORE

Lemont Scarecrow Fest

September 25, 2023-- Lemont
Families can walk the scarecrow trail and vote for their favorites at Lemont Heritage Woodland Sanctuary and Community Center. Kids can also make crafts, play games, go on a hay ride or a nature trail scavenger hunt, and gather around a campfire for cider and stories. READ MORE

Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest

September 30, 2023- October 1, 2023-- Lincoln Square
The 34th annual Lincoln Square Ravenswood Apple Fest offers activities for apple lovers of all ages. Food vendors and farm vendors will be on hand for families to buy fall-themed foods! Kids can enjoy apple themed activities like an apple sensory bin and an apple slime kit, as well as activities from Fit City Kids, Itsy Bitsy Play & Cafe, Nonku's Corner, and several local schools. READ MORE
"Night of 1,000 Jack-o'- Lanterns. Photo courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden

October Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up

September 23, 2023- November 5, 2023-- Goose Island
Jack's is one of Chicago's largest fall themed festivals. With 10,000 pumpkins, fortune tellers, a corn maze with a secret bar, gem mining, photo opportunities, carnival games, and food trucks, Jack's provides to unique experience for each guest that comes through the doors. It is also kid friendly! READ MORE

Fall Fest - Lincoln Park Zoo

September 29, 2023- October 29, 2023—Lincoln Park
Fall Fest offers a pumpkin patch, hay mountain, professional pumpkin carvers, Ferris wheel and more throughout Lincoln Park Zoo. READ MORE

Naper Settlement Oktoberfest

October 6, 2023- October 7, 2023—Naperville
Naperville Heritage Society celebrates October with its signature beer tent full of local Oktoberfest brews for the grown-ups, plus plenty of kids activities for the little ones. Live polka and rock music take center stage while families can also participate in themed contests. READ MORE

Chicago Food Truck Festival

October 7, 2023- October 8, 2023—LaBagh Woods
Enjoy a fall day outside enjoying live entertainment with up to 40 food trucks to choose from.  READ MORE

Boo at the Zoo

Saturdays and Sundays, October 7, 2023- October 22, 2023— Brookfield
Kids can trick or treat with the animals at Brookfield Zoo at this not-so-scary event during the three weekends leading up to Halloween. Other activities include giant pumpkin carving, a Halloween craft, cupcake and cookie decorating, a haunted hayride, creepy cowboy carousel, a corn maze, a pumpkin smasher, costume parade, and costume contest. Zookeepers will give special chats about Halloween-related critters such as bats, spiders, owls, scorpions, wolves, snakes, and ravens. READ MORE

The Great Highwood Pumpkin Festival

October 6, 2023- Sunday, October 8, 2023—Highwood
Visit Highwood for all the pumpkin-based fun you could wish for. This three-day festival includes all-you-can-carve pumpkin stations, a carnival, live entertainment, a 5k, craft and food vendors, and pet and kid costume contests. READ MORE

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival

October 6, 2023- October 8, 2023-- St. Charles
More than 100 handmade and mechanical scarecrows will be on display in downtown St. Charles for this 34th annual fall tradition. Families can make their own scarecrow, enjoy live entertainment, shop at the arts and crafts show, or ride carnival rides while enjoying the fall weather. READ MORE

Family Fall Fest

Saturday, October 8—Elmhurst
Safety Town trick or treating, an inflatable corn maze obstacle course, and fall games are on hand for families at Wild Meadows Trace in Elmhurst. Families can stay for lunch to visit food trucks including Serna's Grill, Dope Sandwich, Smallcakes and Sugar Mama's. Kids can also enjoy face painting and a balloon artist. READ MORE

Lombard Fall Fest

October 7, 2023—Lombard
Kids can kick off the Halloween season at Lombard's annual fall event. Kids can enjoy games, dancing, face painting and a candy hunt. The Lombard Community Building will host Boo Bingo from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. READ MORE

Columbus Day Parade

October 9, 2023— Chicago Loop (FREE)
Chicagoans of all ages can enjoy watching 150 groups, including bands, floats, and marchers, march down State Street for the 70th annual Columbus Day Parade.  READ MORE

Open House Chicago

October 15, 2023 - October 16, 2023— Citywide (FREE)
The Chicago Architecture Center hosts Open House Chicago, a free public festival that offers behind-the-scenes access to more than 20 buildings throughout Chicago. Guests can enjoy access to Chicago's architectural gems, including skyscrapers, repurposed mansions, opulent theaters, exclusive private clubs, private offices, and breathtaking sacred spaces. READ MORE

Night of 1,000 Jack-o'- Lanterns

October 11 - 15, 2023 and October 18-22, 2023— Glencoe
Don't be a scaredy cat, these hand-carved jack-o'-lanterns are a real treat. Explore the Chicago Botanical Gardens for a spook-tacular adventure with more than 1,000 hand-carved jack-o-lanterns to light the way. This event tends to sell out.  READ MORE

Cantigny Fall Fest

October 14, 2023-October 15, 2023—Wheaton
Cantigny Park hosts a celebration of fall complete with hay rides, pumpkin decorating, a petting zoo, wax hands, inflatables, and face painting. Live music will play on Cantigny's Parade FIeld. Families can purchase seasonal foods at food trucks or at Bernie's Bistro in the Visitors Center. A kids' book fair and plant and pumpkin sale bring more seasonal fun to the event. READ MORE

Arts in the Dark

October 21, 2023—Downtown (FREE)
Arts in the Dark is an evening parade that celebrates Halloween as the "artist's holiday," bringing together Chicago institutions and organizations dedicated to art and education. Audience members will be delighted by unique floats, spectacle puppets, and creative performances set against the backdrop of Chicago’s majestic skyline. READ MORE

Harvest Pow Wow

October 14, 2023- October 15, 2023-- Wheaton
Touring a tipi, making arrowheads, watching presentations about horses and birds of prey, and listening to Native American music are just a few of the activities available for children at SOARRING's Annual Harvest Pow Wow. Dancers and drummers will perform continuously throughout most of the festival, and families can also sample Native American foods and learn more about Native American Culture. READ MORE

Fall Paddle Festival

October 14, 2023—Winnetka
Enjoy some fall time out on the water with a canoe trip. Families can also learn about archery, take a guided hike, paint pumpkins, and play in nature. READ MORE

Hinsdale Fall Family Fest

October 14, 2023—Hinsdale
West suburban families can visit Katherine Legge Park to paint pumpkins, enjoy giveaways from local businesses, visit food trucks, and trick-or-treat at downtown businesses. Inflatables and roaming entertainment will also be on hand. READ MORE

Batfest

October 21, 2023—Batavia
Visit downtown Batavia to enjoy bat-themed fun including trick or treating, a parade, pumpkin bowl, bat art, stories, games and more. Kids can see a show of live bats, see dance performances, and listen to live music. READ MORE

Bunker Hill Pumpkin Palooza

October 21, 2023—Niles
Families can enjoy nature's contributions to Halloween by painting pumpkins, playing gourd ring toss, making leaf rubbings, and running through a fall-themed obstacle course. READ MORE

BOOmingdale Halloween Party

October 21, 2023-- Bloomingdale
Fall festivities abound at this event sponsored by the Bloomingdale Park District, Village of Bloomingdale, Bloomingdale Public Library, and Friends of the Bloomingdale Public Library. The Police and Fire Department offer Halloween themed building tours and trunk or treat while the library will host a hay maze, moon jump, balloon artist, face painter and refreshments. The Park District will offer arts and crafts, a pumpkin decorating contest, and a gymnastics play station. READ MORE

Spooky Zoo

October 21, 2023-- Lincoln Park
Kids can trick-or-treat at Lincoln Park Zoo from 10 a.m. until candy runs out. Family friendly entertainment will keep the party going. READ MORE

Pumpkin Palooza

October 28, 2023—Naperville
Kids can celebrate the season by coming in costume to the DuPage Children's Museum for STEAM-themed, non-scary activities. Build your own Franken buddy from recycled toys, create wearable art, brew your own slime, and mix and mash pumpkin guts! READ MORE

Lincoln Scared and Ravenswoooooood

October 29, 2023-- Lincoln Square and Ravenswood
Lincoln Square and Ravenswood transform into Lincoln Scared and Ravenswooooooood for early trick-or-treating. Businesses hand out candy and other treats, and a pumpkin decorating station sets up on Damen Avenue. READ MORE
Illuminations: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum. Photo courtesy of the Arboretum
Illuminations: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum. Photo courtesy of the Arboretum

November Fairs and Festivals in Chicago for Kids

Chicago International Children's Film Festival

November 3, 2023 - November 19, 2023 — Lincoln Park
The 40th annual Chicago International Children's Film Festival features high quality international independent films for kids of all ages. Guests can choose from dozens of new films from many different countries along with workshops, director presentations, and seminars, at Facets Cinema in Lincoln Park or virtually. READ MORE

Lightscapes at Chicago Botanic Garden

Wednesdays through Sundays, November 10, 2023-January 7, 2023—Glencoe
Go for a stroll down a mile-long path filled with holiday wonder at the Chicago Botanic Garden. READ MORE

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

Wednesdays through Sundays, November 18, 2023-January 6, 2024—Lisle
Visitors walk a one-mile path with thousands of lights in displays illuminating the trees, accompanied by music. An awe-inspiring display illuminates the new Grand Garden. Visitors can enjoy some old favorites and new displays. Stop along the way to roast s'mores around a campfire or drink a hot beverage from concession stands.  READ MORE

Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza

November 17, 2023- December 24, 2023-- Downtown
The 25th annual Christkindlmarket features holiday themed drinks, snacks, shopping, and games outside the Daley Center. READ MORE

Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville

November 17, 2023- December 24, 2023-- Wrigleyville
Fröhliche Weihnachten! Taste a lit bit of Germany during the holiday season at this authentic outdoor market. READ MORE

Christkindlmarket Aurora

November 17, 2023- December 24, 2023-- Aurora
The annual Christkindlmarket features a variety of German and European vendors selling holiday decor, gifts and treats. Throughout the market, families can also experience live performances from European artists. READ MORE

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

November 18, 2023—Magnificent Mile
Chicago's Magnificent Mile hosts the annual Lights Festival, complete with a parade of lights with Grand Marshalls Minnie and Mickey Mouse. The event includes booths full of family friendly activities, including pictures with Santa. The parade of floats, giant helium balloons, exciting marching bands, celebrities, musical performances, Santa Claus, and more begin at 5:30 p.m., helping illuminate the more than 200 trees along The Magnificent Mile. READ MORE

Heart of the Holidays Highland Park

Sundays, November 19, 2023- December 10, 2023-- Highland Park
Santa arrives in Downtown Highland Park on November 19, along with carolers and street entertainers. Shoppers can continue to enjoy the holiday festivities each Sunday through December 10. Look for Santa's mailbox, enjoy a carriage ride from Highland Park Bank & Trust, donate to the Toys for Tots toy drive, delight in holiday window displays, enter the Sugar Plum Shopping Spree raffle and more! READ MORE

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo

Thursdays through Sundays, November 26, 2023- December 31, 2023
Featuring more than a million LED lights, a 41-foot talking Christmas tree, and a 600-foot tunnel of lights with coordinating music, Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic highlights the holidays and loads of animals. READ MORE

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

November 23, 2023— Downtown
Chicago's Thanksgiving Parade will have the theme of "Where Grateful Hearts Gather." Families can watch as floats, bands, and dignitaries travel along State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. READ MORE

Places featured in this article:

Naperville Central High School
Logan Center for the Arts
Various sites throughout Chicago
Lemont Heritage Woodland Sanctuary and Community Center
The Morton Arboretum