Arts in the Dark brings Chicago artists and students together for Halloween parade

Chicago’s Arts in the Dark Halloween parade returned Saturday for its 12th year, drawing an estimated 100,000 spectators. The procession began at Balbo and traveled north along Columbus Drive, bringing large-scale artistic creations, music and dance into the downtown celebration.

Among the most eye-catching entries were a fire-breathing dragon, giant alebrijes and an illuminated worm measuring 60 feet long. Floats and costumed participants filled the route, with butterfly outfits and a lowrider decorated for Christmas adding to the variety of designs on display.

More than 1,000 performers took part, including marching bands and dance groups. Organizers said the parade aims to welcome artists across disciplines and from every Chicago ward, making the annual event a shared showcase for creative work from throughout the city rather than a celebration of just one art form.

Schools and youth organizations had a substantial presence. This year’s participants included 11 high schools and three universities, alongside youth programs and cultural organizations. Children from Second II None Performance Academy performed on the route, while other young participants danced or rode on floats in festive clothing.

Cultural traditions were also visible throughout the procession. Ballet Folklórico Xochitl dancers participated, and a Día de Muertos float carried an ofrenda north along Columbus Drive. Together with the giant alebrijes, those entries contributed distinct forms of artistic expression to the Halloween gathering.

For local arts groups and student performers, the parade offered a downtown audience on a large scale. Its combination of school participation, neighborhood talent and cultural organizations put Chicago’s creative community at the center of the seasonal celebration.