Halsted Street Halloween Parade 2024

The Halsted Street Halloween Parade in Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood is one of the city’s biggest and most iconic Halloween celebrations.

It’s ranked among the top 10 Halloween events in the U.S., attracting thousands of participants and spectators.

Known for extravagant costumes, performances, A lively after-party, the parade is a must-see for anyone looking to enjoy Halloween night to its fullest.

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Key Details About the Parade

Date & Time: October 31, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: The parade begins at the intersection of Halsted and Belmont and ends near Brompton Avenue.
Cost: Attendance is free, and participation in the costume contest is also free.
Weather: The event takes place rain or shine.

This parade is especially popular among Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community and draws a diverse crowd from across the city.

The streets of Northalsted (formerly known as Boystown) come alive with creativity and inclusivity.

What to Expect

Extravagant Costumes and Performances

Participants bring out their most outrageous, creative, and scary costumes. From movie-inspired outfits to whimsical creations, the parade is a visual spectacle. Performers and local celebrities also host and judge the event, making it a grand affair.

Featured Hosts and Performers: Drag artists and local musicians add flair to the evening’s celebrations. Past hosts include characters like Batty Davis and Molly & Alex, enhancing the parade’s energy.

Costume Contest and Cash Prizes

The parade offers a chance to participate in a costume contest with prizes totaling $4,000. The contest includes categories such as:

Character/Pop Culture
Creative & Original
Scary/Horror Themes
Youth (Under 13)
Group Costumes

First, second, and third-place winners in each category win $500, $200, and $100, respectively.

Awards and After-Party

Following the parade, an Awards Ceremony and After-Party take place at 3514 N. Halsted. This post-event celebration is perfect for continuing the Halloween spirit with drinks, music, and dancing until late.

Tips for Attending

Arrive Early: The streets begin to close around 5:00 PM, so arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Parking and Transportation: Use public transportation or rideshares, as parking can be challenging.

Streets in the parade route close from 8:00 AM on October 31 until 2:00 AM the following morning.
Bring Pets: Pets are welcome to attend, but owners are responsible for their behavior and safety.

What is the Halsted Street Halloween Parade?

The Halsted Street Halloween Parade is an annual event held on October 31 in the heart of Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood, formerly known as Boystown.

Celebrating its 27th edition in 2024, this parade has become one of the most iconic Halloween events in the city.

It’s renowned for showcasing Chicago’s diverse community spirit, with a special focus on creative, bold, and inclusive expressions.

The event blends extravagant costumes, live performances, and a festive after-party, attracting thousands of spectators and participants each year.

This is the only parade in Chicago held on Halloween night itself, making it a highly anticipated part of the city’s Halloween festivities.

The event is not only a significant celebration within the LGBTQ+ community but also draws in families, groups, and individuals eager to experience the best of Halloween fun.

Parade Schedule and Key Events

6:30 PM – 7:30 PM: Registration & Costume Contest Sign-Up
Participants can register at the Halsted & Belmont intersection, setting the stage for the evening’s competitionNorthalsted Business Alliance.
7:30 PM: Parade Kickoff
The parade begins, filling the streets with intricate costumes and performances as it moves down Halsted Street toward Brompton Avenue. Spectators line the sidewalks, cheering on participants dressed as everything from superheroes to spooky creaturesHappeningNext.
8:30 PM: Awards Ceremony & After-Party
Held in the parking lot at 3514 N. Halsted, the post-parade event features a lively awards show and entertainment, including performances by local artists.
10:00 PM: Event Ends
Though the official parade wraps up, the celebrations often continue at various bars and clubs across Northalsted.

Costume Contest and Prize Details

The costume contest is a major highlight, offering $4,000 in cash prizes. Participants compete in categories such as:

Character/Pop Culture (inspired by media icons)
Creative & Original (handmade or unique designs)
Scary/Horror (spookiest costumes)
Group Costumes (multiple participants in one theme)
Youth (under 13) category for children HappeningNextHaunted House Events San Antonio.

First-place winners in each category receive $500, with second and third places winning $200 and $100, respectively.

The sheer volume of contestants and spectators makes the competition fierce, with some participants spending months preparing their outfits.

Tips for Visitors

Arriving early is recommended, as the streets close by 5:00 PM, and parking can be limited. Public transport is the easiest way to reach the event, with multiple bus and train routes serving the Northalsted area.

Pets are welcome to participate, but owners must ensure they are well-behaved and safe among the crowds.

The event also proceeds rain or shine, so attendees are encouraged to dress for the weather.

Why Attend the Halsted Street Halloween Parade?

The Halsted Street Halloween Parade is not just about costumes and competition—it’s a celebration of community and self-expression.

As one of the largest and most unique Halloween parades in the U.S., it offers something for everyone: families, individuals, and groups.

With live performances, cash prizes, and a festive after-party, the event encapsulates the spirit of Chicago’s vibrant and inclusive culture.

Conclusion

The Halsted Street Halloween Parade offers a unique and vibrant Halloween experience, embodying the spirit of creativity and community in Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood.

Whether you participate in the costume contest or simply watch the spectacle unfold, this event is one you won’t want to miss.

Be sure to plan your trip in advance, dress up in your spookiest costume, and enjoy one of the city’s top Halloween events!

FAQs

Can anyone participate in the parade?

Yes! Both spectators and participants are welcome. If you want to join the contest, registration happens at Halsted & Belmont from 6:30 to 7:30 PM.

Is the event kid-friendly?

Absolutely. There’s a dedicated youth category in the costume contest, and families with children are encouraged to attend.

What should I wear?

Costumes are highly encouraged for both participants and spectators, with many aiming to outdo each other in creativity.

Are there any prizes?

Yes! A total of $4,000 in prizes will be distributed among five costume categories.

What happens if it rains?

The parade continues regardless of the weather, so come prepared!

Halsted Street Halloween Parade 2024 | A Complete Guide