Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade 2025

Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade 2025

Chicago's Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade returns for its 28th anniversary on Friday, October 31, 2025.  Once again, transforming the city's iconic Northalsted LGBTQ+ neighborhood (also known as Boys Town) for another queer Halloween, celebrating fun and creativity.

Recognized as one of America's top Halloween events by Fodor's Travel, this parade features an incredible costume contest with $4,000 in prizes, performances, and Chicago's Halloween spirit.

What Is the Haunted Halsted Parade?

Since 1997, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade has grown into one of Chicago's most popular Halloween events, blending LGBTQ+ pride with spooky celebrations. It has transformed into more than just a parade. Nowadays, it's a community tradition where drag queens, families, artists, and performers come together for a night of outrageous costumes and live entertainment, leading to an unforgettable Halloween experience. The event centers around a costume contest with categories including:

-Character (Best pop culture/movie/TV interpretations)
-Creative (Most original designs)
-Scary (Best horror-themed looks)
-Youth (For participants under 13)
-Group (Coordinated team costumes)

Haunted Halsted 2025: What to Expect

This year's parade promises to be bigger than ever, featuring:

-Special guest Grand Marshals (to be announced)
-Chicago Full Moon Jam fire performers
-Windy City Jeep Club's spooky decorated vehicles
-Lakeside Pride Marching Band's Halloween hits
-Chicago Spirit Brigade's high-energy pep squad
-Costume contest with $4,000 in cash prizes

The evening culminates in an awards show at Halsted & Brompton, where winners in all categories will be announced.

Why This Parade Matters

The Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade celebrates:

-LGBTQ+ visibility and creativity
-Chicago's performing arts community
-Inclusivity for all ages and identities
-The spookiest night of the year in true Chicago style

Plan Your Visit

Date: Thursday, October 31, 2025
Schedule:

-6:30PM: Costume Contest Registration (Halsted & Belmont)
-7:30PM: Parade Begins (Halsted & Belmont)
-8:00PM: Parade Concludes (Halsted & Cornelia)
-8:30PM: Awards Show (Halsted & Brompton)

Location: Northalsted District (3300 N. Halsted St.)
Admission: Free to attend (Costume contest registration required for competitors)

After Party Alert

Continue the Halloween fun at Boys Town's legendary bars and clubs hosting special parade after-parties, drag shows, and more spooky celebrations throughout the night.