One of Chicago’s most iconic Halloween traditions is turning 30 — and this year, Boystown is making an entire day of it.
The 30th annual Haunted Halsted Halloween Fest & Parade returns to Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood on Saturday, October 31, 2026. For the first time, the nighttime parade expands into a free, all-day street festival with family-friendly activities, trick-or-treating, music, vendors, and a costume competition offering $4,000 in prizes.
Halloween festivities begin at 11 a.m.
From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., a stretch of North Halsted Street becomes a pedestrian-friendly Halloween block party. Expect trick-or-treating at more than 25 neighborhood businesses, more than 50 vendor booths, live music, street performers, a dedicated kids’ zone with games and crafts, and a 360-degree costume photo experience. Food and seasonal beverages will be available for purchase.
Organizers say the overall festival runs through 10 p.m., with the street cleared at 6 p.m. so spectators can move to the sidewalks ahead of the parade.
The Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade starts at 7 p.m.
The main event steps off at Halsted and Belmont at 7 p.m., heading north to Brompton Avenue. More than 300 costumed participants are expected to take part in the celebration, known for its elaborate handmade costumes, inventive group looks, and high-energy performances.
Organizers have announced appearances by the Lakeside Pride Marching Band, Chicago Thriller, Chicago Spirit Brigade, Windy City Rollers, Windy City Jeep Club, and Chicago Full Moon Jam fire performers.
$4,000 costume contest after the parade
The fun continues at 8 p.m. in the NoHa parking lot at 3514 N. Halsted Street with the costume contest and post-parade party, plus DJs, live music, and drag performances.
Categories include Character, Creative, Scary, Group, and Youth. Organizers advertise $500 for first place, $200 for second, and $100 for third in each category. Watching the parade is free; costume contest participation costs $5. Contestants are encouraged to register in advance. Day-of registration begins at 2 p.m. at 3211 N. Halsted Street; organizers list parade check-in from 2 to 6:15 p.m.
2026 Haunted Halsted schedule
- 11 a.m.: Haunted Halsted Fest begins
- 6 p.m.: Street clears and parade staging begins
- 7 p.m.: Halloween Parade steps off at Halsted and Belmont
- 8 p.m.: Parade concludes at Halsted and Brompton; costume contest and post-parade party begins at 3514 N. Halsted
- 10 p.m.: Official festival ends
Street closures and parking restrictions
Plan ahead if you live nearby or are visiting Lakeview on Halloween. Parking restrictions begin at 7 a.m. Saturday, October 31, on Halsted between Belmont and Addison and affected portions of nearby cross streets. Vehicle traffic restrictions begin at 10:30 a.m. and are scheduled to last until 2 a.m. Sunday, November 1. Check posted signs carefully; vehicles in restricted areas may be towed.
Public transit or walking is strongly recommended. The event proceeds rain or shine.
Three decades of Halloween in Boystown
For 30 years, Haunted Halsted has showcased the creativity and community spirit of Chicago’s historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood. What started as a nighttime costume parade has become a signature Lakeview tradition — one celebrated for its theatrical flair, memorable costumes, and welcoming energy.
This year’s expansion gives families a chance to enjoy the neighborhood during the day before the parade and Halloween nightlife take over after dark.
Will you be heading to Halsted this Halloween? What’s the best costume you’ve ever seen at the parade? Let us know in the comments.
Event information and updates: Northalsted Business Alliance — Haunted Halsted Halloween Fest & Parade.