Published October 30, 2026 | The Star Home Team
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, 2026, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate throughout Lake County and McHenry County, Illinois. From downtown trick-or-treating and family-friendly fall activities to haunted houses, live entertainment and drive-in movies, here's our guide to making the most of Halloween weekend in Northern Illinois.
Whether you're spending the weekend close to home in Grayslake, visiting friends in Crystal Lake, heading toward the Chain O'Lakes or exploring downtown McHenry, there is something for nearly every age and interest.
And with November arriving on Sunday, this is also a great opportunity to enjoy some of the area's final fall attractions of the season.
1. Celebrate Halloween in Downtown Crystal Lake
Saturday, October 31 | 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Downtown Crystal Lake is hosting its Halloween Handout on Saturday afternoon.
Participating downtown businesses and sponsor tents will distribute treats, creating an opportunity to enjoy Halloween while visiting the downtown shopping district.
It's a convenient option for anyone who wants a daytime Halloween outing before neighborhood trick-or-treating begins.
Crystal Lake's listed residential trick-or-treat hours are 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
More information: Naturally McHenry County's Halloween Guide
If you enjoy discovering local downtown destinations, you may also like our guide to year-round activities in McHenry.
2. Enjoy the Final Weekend at Richardson Adventure Farm
Friday, October 30 - Sunday, November 1
If you haven't visited Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove this fall, this weekend is your last opportunity during its scheduled 2026 fall season.
The farm's seasonal attractions include a corn maze, pumpkin-related activities, wagon rides and a variety of outdoor experiences.
Published operating hours for this final weekend are:
Friday, October 30: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Saturday, October 31: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Sunday, November 1: Noon - 9:00 PM
General admission varies by age and day, and some activities have additional charges.
Richardson is a particularly good option for anyone who wants traditional autumn fun without making the entire outing about scary Halloween attractions.
Official website: Richardson Adventure Farm
For more seasonal destinations in this part of Northern Illinois, see our guide to things to do near Lake Villa.
3. Experience Halloween at the McHenry Outdoor Theater
Saturday, October 31 | Event begins at 5:00 PM
Looking for a Halloween night activity that's a little different?
The McHenry Outdoor Theater is hosting a Halloween double feature featuring Scream and Halloween, along with a pre-show costume contest.
According to the theater's event announcement, visitors should arrive before 7:00 PM to participate in the costume contest.
The advertised admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children.
The movie presentation begins when it is dark enough for the screen.
Because these are horror movies, families should consider the films' ratings and content before attending.
Official event details: McHenry Outdoor Theater Halloween Double Feature
You can also explore our downtown McHenry guide for ideas on where to spend time before the movies.
4. Visit the Halloween Activities at Volo Museum
Saturday, October 31
Volo Museum has several Halloween activities listed for Saturday.
One is the Twisted Sisters Halloween Bash Artisan Fair, scheduled from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The outdoor artisan fair is advertised as free.
The museum's Halloween listings also include a special appearance by horror television personality Svengoolie, with scheduled meet-and-greet sessions.
These activities offer an alternative to traditional neighborhood trick-or-treating and may appeal to visitors who enjoy collectibles, Halloween entertainment and local events.
Admission and reservation requirements may differ between the artisan fair, museum attractions and special appearances.
Event listings: Naturally McHenry County Halloween Guide
5. Find Haunted Attractions in Lake County
For people who prefer a frightening Halloween experience, Lake County has several seasonal entertainment options.
One is Realm of Terror, which has announced Halloween weekend operating dates:
Friday, October 30: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Saturday, October 31: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Online tickets are advertised starting at $33.99.
Check the attraction's age recommendations, ticket availability and visitor policies before making plans.
Official website: Realm of Terror
For a broader collection of seasonal activities, Visit Lake County maintains its Spooks & Spirits Autumn Celebration guide.
The tourism guide highlights the county's fall festivals, haunted attractions, seasonal activities and entertainment.
6. Halloween Night Entertainment for Adults in McHenry
Halloween isn't only for children!
Several McHenry-area venues have scheduled entertainment for Saturday evening.
The Vixen in Downtown McHenry
The Vixen has announced a Halloween Bash featuring Modern Day Romeos from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM.
A DJ Halloween Bash follows at 10:30 PM, with a costume contest advertised.
These events are listed as ages 21 and older.
Details: The Vixen Events Calendar
Halloween DJ & Karaoke Dance Party
The McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce lists a Halloween DJ and karaoke dance party beginning at 7:30 PM on Saturday, October 31.
The event is advertised as free and takes place at 1331 N. Riverside Drive in McHenry.
Costumes and prizes are part of the event announcement.
Details: McHenry Area Chamber Event Listing
7. Halloween Fun Around the Chain O'Lakes
The Chain O'Lakes area offers its own Halloween weekend atmosphere, particularly around Fox Lake, Port Barrington and the Fox River.
The Broken Oar in Port Barrington has advertised its Halloween Headquarters celebration running through November 1, with live entertainment and Halloween-themed activities.
For people looking to enjoy local restaurants, waterfront surroundings and entertainment, this is another option to investigate.
Confirm the schedule, admission policies and any age restrictions directly before attending.
Event information: McHenry County Living Halloween Headquarters
The Chain O'Lakes is also a wonderful part of the region to explore beyond Halloween, with waterfront communities and year-round recreation.
8. What Time Is Trick-or-Treating on Halloween 2026?
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, but trick-or-treating hours vary by municipality.
Here are several published times for communities in our area:
CommunityOctober 31, 2026Crystal Lake3:00 PM - 7:00 PMAlgonquin3:00 PM - 7:00 PMCary3:00 PM - 7:00 PMJohnsburg3:00 PM - 7:00 PMMcHenry4:00 PM - 8:00 PMWoodstock4:00 PM - 7:00 PMHuntley4:00 PM - 8:00 PMLake Zurich3:00 PM - 8:00 PM
These hours are based on published community and local event resources. Municipal schedules may change, so confirm your community's current guidance before heading out.
Useful resources:
Naturally McHenry County Halloween Guide
Lake Zurich Official Trick-or-Treat Information
For Grayslake, Gurnee, Antioch, Lake Villa, Round Lake and other Lake County communities, check your municipality's official website for its specific 2026 hours rather than assuming neighboring towns follow the same schedule.
9. What Can You Do on Sunday, November 1?
Halloween may be over on Sunday, but the weekend doesn't have to end.
Enjoy One Last Fall Farm Visit
Richardson Adventure Farm is scheduled to remain open through Sunday, November 1, with published hours of noon to 9:00 PM.
This makes Sunday an opportunity for a final fall outing.
Explore a Local Downtown
If you prefer a quieter afternoon, consider exploring downtown McHenry, Crystal Lake, Antioch or another nearby community.
A walk, a meal and a stop at a locally owned business can be a pleasant way to spend a fall Sunday.
For more ideas, read our guide to exploring Antioch throughout the year.
Take a Fall Walk
Northern Illinois has numerous parks, forest preserves and natural areas worth exploring during autumn.
Consider a walk near the McHenry Riverwalk, a local forest preserve or a designated public trail.
Check trail access, weather conditions and posted rules before leaving.
10. Tips for Planning Halloween Weekend
A little preparation can make Halloween weekend more enjoyable.
Check event details before leaving. Halloween events may sell out, change schedules or be affected by weather.
Dress for late October weather. Outdoor events and trick-or-treating can become chilly after sunset.
Plan parking ahead of time. Downtown celebrations and popular attractions may draw additional visitors.
Bring a flashlight for evening activities. Visibility is important when walking near streets or parking areas.
Support local businesses. Consider pairing an event with a stop at a nearby restaurant, coffee shop or store.
Confirm trick-or-treat hours. Every municipality may follow a different schedule.
The Star Home Team's Perspective: Why We Love Our Local Communities
One of the things we appreciate most about living and working in Northern Illinois is the variety of experiences available throughout the year.
The same communities that offer lake activities, farmers markets, downtown shopping and summer festivals also come together for seasonal celebrations.
Halloween weekend is a great example.
Whether you're enjoying a small-town downtown, visiting a local farm, spending time near the Chain O'Lakes or simply walking through your neighborhood, these experiences are part of what makes each community distinctive.
At The Star Home Team, we believe understanding a community means knowing more than its housing market. It also means understanding the local amenities, recreation and everyday experiences that make a place feel like home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Halloween Weekend 2026
When is Halloween in 2026?
Halloween falls on Saturday, October 31, 2026. That means many Northern Illinois residents can enjoy Halloween activities throughout the weekend, from Friday evening through Sunday, November 1. Individual events may have different operating dates, so check the organizer's current schedule.
What are some family-friendly Halloween events in McHenry County?
Options include the Downtown Crystal Lake Halloween Handout on Saturday afternoon, seasonal activities at Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove and Halloween events listed at Volo Museum. Families should review admission information, age suitability and event schedules before attending.
What time is trick-or-treating in Crystal Lake in 2026?
Published trick-or-treat hours for Crystal Lake are 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Saturday, October 31, 2026. The downtown Halloween Handout is scheduled earlier, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Check the city or event organizer for last-minute changes.
Are there Halloween activities for adults near McHenry?
Yes. The McHenry Outdoor Theater has announced a Halloween horror-movie double feature and costume contest. The Vixen has scheduled live music and DJ entertainment, while a Halloween DJ and karaoke event is listed through the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce. Check admission requirements and age restrictions.
What Halloween attractions are available in Lake County, Illinois?
Lake County offers seasonal haunted attractions, fall festivals and other autumn activities. Realm of Terror has advertised operating hours for October 30 and 31, 2026. Visit Lake County's Spooks & Spirits guide provides additional ideas, although individual event dates and availability should be confirmed directly.
Is Richardson Adventure Farm open on Halloween 2026?
Yes. Richardson Adventure Farm's published 2026 fall schedule includes Saturday, October 31, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The farm is also scheduled to operate on Sunday, November 1, from noon to 9:00 PM, marking the final day of its fall season.
Where can I find updated Halloween events near Grayslake?
For Lake County, start with Visit Lake County's official tourism website and your local municipality's calendar. For neighboring McHenry County, Naturally McHenry County maintains a Halloween guide. Checking first-party event listings is especially important for time-sensitive activities.
Enjoy Halloween Weekend in Northern Illinois!
Whether your plans include costumes, candy, corn mazes, haunted attractions or a relaxing autumn afternoon, we hope you find something fun to enjoy this weekend.
Lake County and McHenry County have so much to offer throughout the year, and Halloween is another opportunity to appreciate our local communities.
From all of us at The Star Home Team, have a fun and safe Halloween!
Sources
Naturally McHenry County, McHenry County Halloween Guide 2026: https://www.naturallymchenrycounty.com/events/halloween/
Visit Lake County, Spooks & Spirits Autumn Celebration: https://www.visitlakecounty.org/spooks
Richardson Adventure Farm, 2026 Hours of Operation: https://richardsonadventurefarm.com/AdventureFarm/Hours
McHenry Outdoor Theater, Halloween Weekend Double Feature, October 31, 2026: https://www.goldenagecinemas.com/events/halloween-weekend-double-feature-9sy9k
The Vixen, Events Calendar: https://vixenmchenry.com/events/list/
McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce, Halloween DJ & Karaoke Dance Party, October 31, 2026: https://business.mchenrychamber.com/events/details/halloween-dj-karaoke-dance-party-37710
Realm of Terror, 2026 Haunted Attraction Schedule: https://www.realmofterror.com/
Village of Lake Zurich, Trick-or-Treat Hours: https://www.lakezurich.org/FAQ/Topic?mobile=ON&topic=15
About The Star Home Team
The Star Home Team | Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes
Susan Starwalt is the Broker Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Star Homes and The Star Home Team. Licensed since 1998, Susan works alongside Jim Starwalt and the company's management team to serve buyers and sellers throughout Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.
With more than 4,000 homes sold, The Star Home Team brings extensive experience and local market knowledge to communities throughout Lake County, McHenry County, Kenosha County and surrounding areas.
Our team is licensed in Illinois and Wisconsin and provides real estate guidance, marketing and personalized service to people buying and selling homes.
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