Slightly spooky Saturday: Trick-or-Treat trail leads straight to Navy Pier

If you're planning to hit Navy Pier for trick-or-treating this year, here’s what to know about Slightly Spooky Saturday  to make it fun and smooth. The event runs from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and it’s completely free to attend. The premise is simple but festive: guests are invited to trick-or-treat throughout the Pier while wearing costumes and, along the way, enjoy complimentary workshops, live performances, giveaways and thematic surprises.

Because the event covers the full expanse of Navy Pier, participants should expect a walking experience across multiple indoor and outdoor spaces. Arriving early is a good idea to catch all the programming before crowds build—especially families with young children, who tend to flood in later in the afternoon. Costumes are welcomed (and encouraged), so this is a chance to dress up, but be mindful of comfort and mobility since the trick-or-treating route will likely involve navigating through corridors, exhibition areas and attraction spaces.

Workshops and performances add extra flair to the trick-or-treating experience, so even beyond candy this is more of a “spooky season celebration” than just a candy grab. Because the event is free, you don’t need to purchase tickets in advance, though arriving early helps get the best access, especially for any limited-capacity performances or workshops. Keep in mind that with the event’s duration stretching across six hours, you’ll want to pace yourself, perhaps planning a rest or snack break. Also, since the Pier is a public and busy destination, it’s wise to plan your parking or transit route ahead of time, especially given potential crowds.

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In short: Dress the kids (or yourself) in a fun costume, come midday to grab the full offerings and treat Slightly Spooky Saturday as more than trick-or-treating, a day of community, performances and sweet seasonal energy at one of Chicago’s most iconic destinations. Have a boo-tiful Halloween!

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