Published by Mariah Sturdivant
September 18th, 2022
If you are anything like me, you always find it hard to enjoy Fall in Chicago. There seem to be not a lot of things to do in the Fall, however, that could change. Maybe, we are just not looking hard enough. Here are some things that will give you some activities to get into the Fall spirit here in Chicago:
1. Candlelight Concert Series
The candlelight concert series is a classical music concert. The concert takes place in venues around Chicago where candlelights will surround the venue making it look absolutely beautiful. Some concerts taking place this Fall is listed below as well as a link to the tickets:
Candlelight: A Tribute to Taylor Swift Candlelight: A Tribute to Adele Candlelight: A Tribute to Amy Winehouse Candlelight: An Acoustic Tribute to David Bowie Candlelight: A Tribute to The Miles Davis Classic Quintet Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics Candlelight: The Best of Hans Zimmer at Music Box Theatre Candlelight: A Tribute to Juan Gabriel
The complete list can be found here: here.
2. Prince: The Immersive Experience
In the summer of 2021, I had the pleasure of going to an Immersive Van Gogh experience and it was terrific. It was nice to see Van Gogh's art come to life was breathtaking. The Prince Immersive Experience is an interactive experience. The tour includes ten different spaces that explore his life, music, and revolution. Tickets can be purchased in advance for the event. The event ends on October 9th so get those tickets fast. The location for the event is 540 N. Michigan Avenue (on the Mag Mile). The ticket price is $39.50. For full prices click here.
3. Immersive Monet and the Impressionist
Similar to the Immersive Prince Exhibit, this experience explores Monet and the way and how his paintings come to life. This exhibit ends October 29th and is located at Lighthouse ArtSpace at Germania Place, 108 W. Germania Pl, Chicago. Be sure t book your tickets in advance here.
4. Harry Potter: Magic At Play
This six-month hands-on experience gives you the opportunity to engage in the Wizardly World of Harry Potter. The adventures that Harry and his friends went on can be lived through you. You can play with witches and wizards and this experience is perfect for everyone of all ages. Your childlike imagination can roam free in this three-floor exhibit filled with your favorite moments from the beloved series. Tickets are on sale now. The experience opens on November 11th and is located at Water Tower Place, 835 N Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611 (corner of N Michigan Ave. and E Pearson St.). The link to the tickets is here.
5. Pier Pumpkin Lights
Navy Pier has everything that anyone can wish for. It has rides, games, and even a museum! In October, nearly one thousand pumpkins are lit to create a gorgeous spectacle. There will be pumpkin pop-up installations as well as other Halloween festivities. This will surely get you in the Halloween spirit and good family-friendly activity. To learn more visit Pier Pumpkin Lights here.
6. Six Flags: Fright Fest
One of the most iconic and classic things to do around Halloween is to attend the yearly Fright Fest at Six Flags. The park becomes a place of terror with employers dressing up and trying t scare you as you roam the park. The decorations and the ambiance of the park send a chill down your spine. Even the rides include scary-themed music and entertainment. Fright Fest surely lives up to its name and potential. This year, Fright Fest will run from September 17th-October 31st at Six Flags Great America. To learn more visit the Six Flags website here: Fright Fest Chicago 2022 | Six Flags Great America.
7. Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is going on its 20th year and the more that this event happens, the more its festivities expand. This three-day event takes place underneath a giant tent called the 'beer hall'. There is music, beer tasting, and Kinderfest which features family-friendly activities. A giant screen is even displayed for all the football lovers out there. Oktoberfest will take place September 23-25 and is located at Southport and Lincoln Avenue. For more information visit this link: Chicago's Oktoberfest - Sponsor Chicago
8. Lincoln Park Zoo Fall Fest
Lincoln Park Zoo will transform into a place of Autumn activities. These family-friendly celebratory activities will include a pumpkin patch and walk, live pumpkin carvers, music, entertainment and so much more. On top of that admission to the zoo is FREE with the activities being the only thing that you will need to pay for. Hurry to Lincoln Park Zoo located on 2400 N. Canon Drive to enjoy Fall Fest. The zoo hours are 10 a.m - 5 p.m and is open every day.
9. Pumpkin Patch
Believe it or not, there is actually various pumpkin patches located in or near Chicago. I was not aware of this until I researched it some more. A pumpkin patch is a good place to feel the fall spirit, and also makes a great place for a photo shoot, The pumpkin patches usually open in September and go until October. To learn more about pumpkin patches and where they are located visit. pumpkin patches in and near Chicago.
10. Arts in The Dark
Another festivity that I was not aware of until I did further research is Arts in The Dark. Arts in The Dark, according to the website, "is a magical evening parade that celebrates Halloween as the "artist's holiday". This program holds a "Halloweek" in which companies like the Art Institute, Lookinglass, and even After School Matters help collaborate with. Families and attendees are welcome to wear costumes and engage in the parade. This event is free and open to the public. Visit ABOUT – Arts In The Dark, to learn more. This will surely be an event that I will definitely want to check out.
11. Apple Picking
Even though it may seem like a big city like Chicago won't have a lot of apple orchards, there is actually a surprising amount located nearby. The best ones are located near the suburbs which are less than an hour away from Downtown. There are apple orchards for everyone. Here is a list for anyone that is interested in apple orchards near Chicago for apple picking.
I’ve lived in Chicago my entire life and did not know about all the things you listed in this article. Thank you for doing the research and posting these events and venues.