Chicago’s in that sweet spot where the air is crisp, the drinks are warm, and half the bars are covered in fake blood. Whether you’re apple picking or summoning demons via themed cocktail, fall’s giving us everything we want right now. Scroll for some of the newest treats (and maybe a few tricks).

Calling all ghouls and goblins! Adults Night Out: Howl-o-ween Presented by Grey Goose Vodka and Patrón Tequila is back at Lincoln Park Zoo! This 21+ Halloween party will be a real scream with a haunted trail, free rides on seasonal attractions, and more. Get your tickets today.*

JUST ANNOUNCED

• This October, Cookies Chicago is giving away a $250 Baller Bag just for text and email subscribers. No purchase, all perks with Chicago's go-to premium dispensary. Enter to win by October 31st. Must be 21+ w/ valid ID. One winner, all the bragging rights.*

• You + 1 at Paranormal Activity. On us. We’re giving away tickets to Paranormal Activity, a brand-new psychological thriller LIVE ON STAGE. Late-night Halloween show. Win tickets to the scariest show of the season.*

• Australia’s pop-punk heartbreakers are back with Scarlet Demore and Latenightsinmycar — all angst, no brakes at Bottom Lounge on October 22nd. Good luck keeping your voice the next day. Grab tickets now.

• Catch dreamy, slow-burn alt-country from Cowboy Junkies at Old Town School of Folk Music. Come for “Sweet Jane,” stay for the hypnotic hush that only they can pull off. Buy tickets before someone beats you to it.

• Plus other just announced shows from Fountains of Wayne, Magic City Hippies, Sudan Archives, NewDad, John Oates, and more!

HALLOWEEN POP-UPS IN CHICAGO

Skeletons in the bathroom mirror. Eyeballs in your cocktail. We rounded up the best Halloween pop-ups haunting Chicago this month — from blood-soaked dancefloors to horror movie hideaways.

• BLACK LAGOON: Through November 1st at Albion Manor

• VOODOO LOUNGE: Through November 1st at Ina Mae Tavern

• NEVER TRUST THE LIVING: Through November 2nd at The Dandy Crown

• FRANKENSTEIN’S MAD SCIENTIST COCKTAIL LAB: Through November 7th at 932 W Randolph Street

• NIGHTMARE ON CLARK STREET: Oct 10th through November 3rd at Stolen Saddle

• I|O GODFREY HALLOWEEN: October 25th at I|O Godfrey

IN THE FUTURE

LOCALS ONLY

•  Chicago Climate Bash is coming to The Lincoln Lodge on October 26th — an all-ages event with live music and panelists, and a live recording of The Climate Pod. Learn more and buy tickets.

• The Chicago Toy & Game Fair returns to Navy Pier November 8th–9th with hands-on exhibits, new games, and plenty of kid-friendly fun. Kick off the holidays with a bang.

• The 61st Chicago International Film Festival runs October 15th–26th — film premieres, global storytellers, and indie storytellers at AMC Newcity, Music Box, Gene Siskel & more. See the full lineup here.

• Need an extra dose of cuture? We made a cheat sheet for all the best free museum days in October. Perfect for broke geniuses and curious first dates. Check out the full list.

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If you make it through the weekend without drinking out of a skull-shaped glass, were you even in Chicago?