October is filled with activities perfect for the whole family. From Halloween-themed events to classic farmers markets, here’s what to do with the family this month.
Hofbräuhaus Chicago Oktoberfest
What: Food, fun and more in the sister location to the original in Munich, Germany. Check out traditional German fare and music along with kids’ parades and other family-friendly activities.
Where: Hofbräuhaus Chicago, 5500 Park Place, Rosemont, IL 60018
When: Now through October 29, Sunday-Thursday 11am – 11pm, Friday and Saturday 11am – 2am
Pumpkin Patch in the Hard Rock Cafe Parking Lot
What: A somewhat traditional pumpkin patch in the heart of the city. Pick up your pumpkins, gourds and more along with costumes and carving kits.
Where: Hard Rock Cafe Chicago, 63 West Ontario Street, Chicago, IL 60654
When: Now through November 3 from 10am – 8pm
Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo
What: A family-friendly event in the city that has corn mazes, a Ferris wheel and hay wagon rides.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614
When: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday until October 29 from 10am to 5pm
Maxwell Street Market
What: A Mexican-inspired outdoor market that sells jewelry and crafts. Come hungry for traditional Mexican street food and live music.
Where: Maxwell Street Market, 800 South Des Plaines Street, Chicago, IL 60607
When: Every Sunday from 7am to 3pm
Cascade Drive-In
What: Take your family back in time to one of the last operating drive-in theaters in Chicago. Cascade features classic and throwback films that the whole family will enjoy.
Where: Cascade Drive-In, 1100 East North Avenue, West Chicago, IL 60185
When: Now through November 30 at 7pm
Boo! at the Zoo
What: The classic Halloween event returns to Brookfield Zoo this month. Check out hayrides, pumpkin carving, and costume contests for $10.50 per child and $15 per adult.
Where: Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513
When: October 21 and 28 from 10am to 4pm
Glenview Farmers Market
What: Your standard fresh food-filled farmers market that also offers live entertainment and activities for the kids.
Where: Historic Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview, IL 60025
When: Every Saturday from 8am to noon
Spooky Zoo Spectacular at LPZ
What: All of your classic Halloween activities like trick-or-treating and crafts, all in one place. And it’s free!
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614
When: October 28 from 10am to 1pm
34th Annual Chicago International Children’s Film Festival
What: The largest annual children’s film festival is making its 34th appearance in Chicago. With only $6 for admission for children, it’s a wallet-friendly activity for the whole family.
Where: Various theaters in and around Chicago
When: October 27 through November 5, showtimes vary
Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND Chicago
What: Trick-or-treating for Legos and scavenger hunts are available Halloween weekend at LEGOLAND. Children wearing costumes get $5 off regular admission.
Where: LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 601 North Martingale Road, Schaumburg, IL 60173
When: Oct. 27-31 from 10am to 7pm
