Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade: Wicked wonders on State Street

Chicago will once again be transformed into a nighttime stage of wicked wonders when the 11th annual Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade takes over State Street on Sat., Oct. 18, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. 

This magical evening procession honors Halloween as the “artist’s holiday,” weaving together floats, spectacle puppets, kinetic sculpture, dance, theater, light and musical performance into a nighttime pageant. Unlike most parades, Arts in the Dark avoids politics and corporate floats; instead it insists that every participating group bring creative agency, thoughtful design and community intention to the event. 

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Over the years the parade has grown in scale and ambition. Organizers say it will delight over 100,000 spectators in 2025, lining the route along State Street from Lake to Van Buren. In 2025, the parade introduces eight “Creative Guilds”, groups of professionals from fields such as architecture, photography, sound, writing, visual arts, theater, and film, each contributing themed elements and collaborative spectacles. Among the highlights this year are a 50‑foot cosmic serpent, a 40‑foot glowing worm, a motorized bathtub and 16 giant skeletal figures. 

Attendance is free and open to the public. The route is fully accessible and the parade proceeds rain or shine, so attendees are encouraged to dress in layers and arrive early for good viewing spots. Public transit along State Street remains available (though some bus routes will be rerouted) and parking is available at the Grant Park garages, just east of the route. 

Arts in the Dark is produced by LUMA8 in partnership with the City of Chicago, with the Chicago Loop Alliance among its major sponsors. The parade champions the idea that the streets of Chicago belong to its creative communities. Built to be inclusive across every ward, discipline and aesthetic, the event brings together cultural institutions, youth programs, independent artists and neighbors into one shared celebration. 

This year also introduces a public‑voted DIY costume contest in collaboration with Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago, inviting parade attendees themselves to compete in creating parade‑ready looks. 

With its fresh surprises, wider artistic partnerships and focus on a welcoming spectacle, Arts in the Dark 2025 will light up the night and celebrate art, community and shared creativity. (For all info, click here)

Sources: artsinthedark.com; loopchicago.com