It is officially October in Chicago and Fall festivities have begun! This time of year the weather is chilly, the drinks are warm and there are so many activities to do to celebrate Autumn in Chicago, Illinois. Since the weather is significantly cooler, I feel like I could walk around outside for hours, so I’ve listed some fun activities that you can participate in this weather. Here are a few activities happening in Chicago, Illinois during the month of October:

Fun October Events Happening in Chicago

Go to the Lincoln Square & Ravenswood Apple Fest. (Sep 30 – Oct 1)

You can find the Lincoln Square/Ravenswood Apple Fest near Lincoln Avenue between Lawrence and Sunnyside. The price for admission is a $5 suggested donation.

Attend the Chicago Beer Festival at The Field Museum. (Oct 7th)

The Chicago Beer Festival is located at the Field Museum. With over 65 breweries you can sample seasonal beers while admiring the museum exhibits. General admission is proced at $50 per person.

Run the Chicago Marathon. (Oct 9)

The Chicago Marathon happens near Grant Park; if you aren’t running or volunteering, expect the area to be super congested. (One day I will complete that marathon)

Attend the Chicago International Film Festival. (Oct 11-22)

Chicago Film Festival sells single screening tickets for $22 as well as passes for those of you who want to watch multiple screenings; the 20 admission pass is $380 while the documentary for film bundle is $75.

Walk the Upside Down Halloween Parade near Washington Park. (Oct 21)

Arts in the Dark parade is from the Chicago Loop on Lake Street to Van Buren on State Street. There is no admission cost; it is completely free for you to admire the parade.

See the Halsted Halloween Night Parade. (Oct 31)

Haunted Hallstead. Parade starts on Hallstead & Belmont and ends on Hallstead & Brampton. There is no cost to watch the parade or to enter the costume contest; admission is completely free.

Go Apple Picking just outside of Chicago. (Oct)

Find some time to go apple picking just outside of the city. There are fees associated with apple picking; some farms offer experiences and others charge you for the apple – find more information here.

Fun Free Admission Activities During October in Chicago

Hike the trail at Riverbank Neighbors Park.

Walk around some of Chicago’s gorgeous parks.

Visit all the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo.

Go on a tour in some of Chicago’s neighborhoods.

Ready for your trip to Chicago, IL?

If you are spending more than a few days in Chicago, I highly recommend you check out my other blog posts for more things to do around the city. I have shared a fun three day itinerary for women travelers spending the first time in Chicago, a list of events that are free all year and a few of my favorite activities that should be on your bucket list around the city.