Oct 15
Haunted Halsted: Boystown’s Iconic Halloween Parade Returns for a 28th Spooky Year
READ TIME: 2 MIN.
A Tradition of Creativity and Inclusion
On Halloween night, Chicago’s Northalsted neighborhood transforms into a vibrant spectacle as the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade—now in its 28th year—winds through the heart of Boystown. Lauded by Fodor’s Travel as one of the top ten Halloween events in the United States, the parade is more than a seasonal festivity; it’s a powerful celebration of LGBTQ+ visibility, creativity, and community spirit, drawing thousands of participants and spectators from across the city and beyond .
Key Events and Attractions
The 2025 event is scheduled for Friday, October 31, with festivities commencing at 6:30 PM at the intersection of Halsted and Belmont. Here, costume contest registration opens, inviting individuals and groups of all ages and identities to showcase their most imaginative, scary, or original looks . At 7:30 PM, the parade officially kicks off, with participants—ranging from drag queens and artists to families with children—marching north along Halsted Street until the event culminates in an awards ceremony at Halsted and Brompton at 8:30 PM .
A highlight of the evening is the renowned costume contest, featuring five prize categories: Character , Creative , Scary , Youth , and Group . Winners in each category receive cash prizes, with a total of $4,000 awarded, reinforcing the parade’s reputation for both spectacular creativity and community support .
Beyond the contest, the parade features special appearances and performances, including the Chicago Full Moon Jam fire artists, the Lakeside Pride Marching Band, the Chicago Spirit Brigade pep squad, and the Windy City Jeep Club’s decorated vehicles. The event’s Grand Marshals and celebrity hosts, to be announced, traditionally reflect and uplift Chicago’s diverse LGBTQ+ community .
LGBTQ+ Community and Cultural Significance
The Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade stands as a testament to the enduring vibrancy of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community. Since its inception in 1997, the parade has become a safe, affirming space for self-expression, where all are welcome regardless of age, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Its open-invitation format—free to attend and participate—underscores a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility .
The event also plays a central role in the broader month-long Halloween celebrations in Northalsted, which include after parties, drag competitions, community trick-or-treating, and the Lakeview Halloween Pup Crawl. These activities reinforce the neighborhood’s identity as a hub of LGBTQ+ culture and activism, creating opportunities for both celebration and solidarity throughout October .
A Night for Everyone
With its dazzling costumes, high-energy performances, and welcoming atmosphere, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade is a hallmark of both Chicago’s festival calendar and the national LGBTQ+ event circuit. Local residents, families, and visitors alike are encouraged to attend, whether marching in the parade or cheering from the sidelines. The parade goes on rain or shine, reflecting the resilience and enduring spirit of the community it celebrates .
Admission is free for all, with registration required only for those competing in the costume contest. Organizers encourage early arrival for those wishing to participate, as hundreds vie for a spot in one of America’s most celebrated queer Halloween extravaganzas .
