How to Have a Heavanston Halloween

While Evanston may be known for its beautiful lots and breathtaking lake views, dubbing the city “Heavanston” all year round, don’t forget about Halloween. During the month of October, the city truly prepares for the fun, spooky season. From haunted houses to picking up pumpkins, there’s something for every type of Halloween lover in Evanston.

Evanston’s official trick-or-treat hours are on Monday, October 31st, from 4 to 7 pm.?If you are participating, have your porch lights on and consider handing out individual goodie bags on your porch or steps. And, if you are not participating, it is suggested that you have your lights off and a sign on your door. Finally, if you’re out and about, be aware that ghouls, ghosts, princesses, and pop stars will be roaming the streets.

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To help you get ready to make it another special Halloween in Evanston, here are some local seasonal events:

Weekends in October: Challenge yourself and your friends to survive the haunted house at the Harley Clarke Mansion, 2603 Sheridan. Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm, the self-guided tour is free, but donations are appreciated.

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October 18: Experience Ridgeville Park’s Fall Frenzy. Perfect for the whole family, there will be live music, candy scavenger hunt, arts & crafts, and pumpkin painting. Dress up or come as you are between 4 pm and 8 pm, Ridgeville Park, 908 Seward.

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October 21: Trick-or-treat as you stroll along the city’s Trunk or Treat. See all the costumed-up police cars, public work trucks, and other City of Evanston vehicles between 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm at the Chandler-Newberger parking lot. Designed for ages birth to 5-years-old, call 847-448-8252 to register for this free event

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October 22: Walk the 2-mile course through Ladd Arboretum, Butler Park and Twilggs Park as you try and avoid roaming “zombies” at the Zombie Scramble, between 5:15 pm and 8pm (you must register for a time). Perfect for ages 8 and up, team registration is recommended. Be sure to bring a flashlight! For more information and to register, go to www.cityofevanston.org/zombie-scramble.

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October 22: Enjoy live music in Independence Park and the arts and crafts at the Evanston Art Center at the Trick-or-Treat on Central Street, from 9 am to 2 pm. Perfect for all ages, kids will receive a free trick-or-teat-able tote bag! Registration is not required, but it’s highly encouraged. Go to: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/central-street-trick-or-treat-tickets-427950119327

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October 29: Trick or treat the businesses of Southeast Evanston during the Spooky Saturday, Main-Dempster Mile, from 9 am to 11am. All ages are welcome and costumes are encouraged!

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Finally, some local favorites for Halloween decorations include:

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·????????Corner of McDaniel and Hartzell

·????????Noyes & Wesley

·????????800 blocks of Monroe, Reba, Sherman and South

·????????Mulford between Ridge and Asbury

·????????Dobson between Ridge and Barton

·????????2100 Block of Cleveland

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If you know of other Halloween decorations favorites or additional events, please let us know and we’ll help spread the word.