n Spooky Cat Café
Oct. 17
Hinsdale Humane Society
21 Salt Creek Lane
http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org
(630) 323-5630
Join in this spooktacular event, featuring treats, cider and cats to cuddle with. All ages are welcome; those younger than 15 must be with an adult. Time: 4 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. Cost: $25.
n ‘Young Frankenstein’
Oct. 17-27
Theatre of Western Springs
4834 Hampton Ave.
http://www.theatreofwesternsprings.com
(708) 246-4043
Comedy genius Mel Brooks’ adaptation of his legendary funny film makes for a brilliant musical stage production. Seats in the center section will be “FrankenSeats,” offering a shocking experience not for the faint of heart. Everyone in costume Oct. 19 will win a prize. Times: 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2:30 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $30, $17 for children and students.
n Pumpkin Night Hike
Oct. 18
Fullersburg Woods
3609 Spring Road, Oak Brook
(630) 933-7248
Use pumpkins and lanterns to light the way on a self-guided night hike. There will be a Halloween-themed scavenger hunt for kids and a treat at the end. Hikes leave every 15 minutes, with the last group departing at 7:30 p.m. and trails closing at 9 p.m. All ages are welcome; those under 18 must be with an adult. Time: 5:30 to 9 p.m. Cost: $10, free for ages 2 and younger.
n All Hallow’s Eve
Oct. 18-19
Naper Settlement
523 S. Webster St., Naperville
http://www.napersettlement.org
(630) 420-6010
Magic, monsters and mythical entertainment will be summoned during this annual fall festival for families with children 16 and younger. Enjoy the Dress for the Dead costume contest, escape from the Unknown Haunted Experience (additional $5 cost), visit the Gargoyle Graveyard and more. Time: 6:30 to 10 p.m. Cost: $20
n Harvest Hoedown
Oct. 19
KLM Park South Pavilion
5901 S. County Line Road
The Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club invites families to enjoy photo ops, munchies and entertainment by Miss Jamie’s Farm. Western boots and hats are encouraged. Time: 1 to 3 p.m. Cost: $40 a family.
n Paws & Pumpkin Fest
Oct. 19
Hinsdale Humane Society
21 Salt Creek Lane
http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org
(630) 323-5630
This event, hosted by the HHS Junior Board, is perfect for all ages. Bring a pumpkin to paint at the craft station, play exciting games, explore the haunted hallway and enjoy treats from the bake sale. Costumes are encouraged. Those under 15 must be with an adult. Time: 5 to 7:30 p.m. Admission: $15, $10 for kids.
n Boos & Brews
Oct. 19
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road
(708) 688-8000
http://www.brookfieldzoo.org/events
Dress up in your favorite costume and have a ghoulishly fun time at the zoo’s new 21-and-over after-hours event. Enjoy the Halloween-themed dance party, eerie entertainment, frightening animal experiences, and chilling specialty food and drinks. Time: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tickets: $40.
n Spirits & Séances
Oct. 22
Clarendon Hills Public Library
7 N. Prospect Ave.
http://www.clarendonhillslibrary.org
(630) 323-8188
In the spirit of Halloween, Rebecca Tulloch will offer a look into the history of American Spiritualism. Fueled by over 600,000 dead Civil War soldiers leaving their loved ones behind who were searching for comfort from the beyond, the spiritualism movement took hold. Rebecca will share photos taken by spirit photographers, describe how mediums talked to the spirits and lead attendees in a friendly séance. The program is enjoyable for all ages over 10. Time: 7 p.m. RR
n Mini Pumpkin Decorating Contest
Oct. 23
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
(630) 789-1986
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
Families are welcome to decorate a mini pumpkin together. Voting will take place in the Youth Services Department, with the winner receiving a gift card. Time: 6 to 7 p.m. RR
