ML Interest Tag: cottonwood-farm

Get Your Fall Fix at these Chicago Pumpkin Patches

by Debra Flanagan

These amazing Chicagoland pumpkin patches have just what you need to make the most of the fall season

Give Charlie Brown a run for his money and find your own Great Pumpkin this fall season. We dug deep to bring you a list of the best Chicagoland pumpkin patches. Warm your face on the steam of a hot apple cider, breathe in the crisp air, and listen to the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot as you hoof your way through these family-friendly spots. You’ll find there are so many wonderful things to do near Chicago this season!

Pro-tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance!

Chicago Park District Pumpkin Patches

two kids playing in a pumpkin patch in la
istock

When it comes to pumpkin picking within the Chicago city limits, there’s nothing quite so convenient as your local park! Hand-select your favorite pumpkin from these Chicago parks filled with pumpkins of all shapes and sizes. If you have to choose one, consider stopping by Jefferson Memorial Park, which will host a full-on Fall Fest filled with crafts, games, and—of course—pumpkins. 

Oct. 8, 12p.m. – 2p.m.

Jefferson (Thomas) Memorial Park
4822 N. Long Ave.
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Related: How ‘Bout These Apples? U-Pick Apple Orchards Worth the Trek

Fall Fest on the Riverwalk

For a new twist on tradition take a hayride on the river with an autumn skyline behind you. Afterward, all ages can enjoy seasonal foods and drinks in the pumpkin patch, a bounce house, games, and live music at Island Party Hut.

Sep. 30, 12p.m. – 8p.m.

355 East Riverwalk South

Online: eventbrite.com

Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up

All ages are welcome at the city’s largest fall festival that includes more than 10,000 pumpkins, a corn maze, gem mining, food trucks with apple cider donuts, carnival games, and tons of photo ops for your Instagram accounts! There is even axe throwing for ages 18 and up. After 7 p.m., children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Sep. 21 – Nov. 5

1265 W. Le Moyne Dr.
Online: jackspumpkinpopup.com

Sonny Acres Farm

Shutterbugs looking for a prime pumpkin patch photo to Instagram will love the mountainous spread of pumpkins of varying shapes, sizes, and colors sitting under the watchful eye of scarecrows and ghostly wooden cutouts. Allow time for play and visit the Dizzy Zone spinning tunnel, enjoy a ride atop a friendly pony or camel, take a 15-minute tractor-pulled wagon ride, and tiptoe into the haunted barn that’s just the right amount of scary for littles ages 10 and up. Food stands with taffy apples, elephant ears, brats, and spiced cider are scattered in the patch. If you’re still on the lookout for the perfect Halloween costume, don’t fret because they have a novelty shop with masks, wigs and disguises, plus a farmer’s market with gourds, squash, and Indian corn. 

Sept. 16 – Oct. 29

29W310 North Ave.
West Chicago
Online: sonnyacres.com

Related: Walk This Way! Colorful Spots for Fall Strolls in Chicago

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm

Located just outside of Joliet, Siegel’s offers 40 acres of family fun with 30 attractions, including a tractor ride to their u-pick pumpkin patch and a beehive demo. Explore three different play areas that offer physical play, see the farm in style by taking a ride on the Ghost Town Railroad, and squeeze in relaxation for the whole family when you sit back in the giant 100-year-old rocking chair. 

Sep. 23 – Oct. 29

17250 S. Weber Rd.
Crest Hill
Online: ourpumpkinfarm.com

Stade’s Farm and Market

The Fall Festival has been a family favorite since its inception in 1995. Take a hayride back and forth between the patch, visit four-legged friends in the petting zoo, test your navigation skills in the corn maze, and indulge in your favorite festival foods.  

Sep. 2 – Oct. 29

3709 Mill Rd.
McHenry
Online: stadesfarmandmarket.com

Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm

You can pack a full day’s worth of fun that goes well beyond the pumpkin patch at this gem located about an hour southwest of Chicago. General admission includes unlimited turns on kiddie rides including the Happy Swing, a Frog Hopper, and twirling t-cup honey pots, pig races that occur every hour, adorable furry fun in the petting zoo, a walk through Kid Village, and lots more. Note, the farm is now cashless. 

Sep. 20 – Oct. 31

13341 W. 151st St.
Homer Glen
Online: pumpkinfarm.com

Happy Times Pumpkinfest

Put an unexpected colorful twist on Halloween by going beyond the typical orange roundie and select one of the speckled, green, or white pumpkins instead. Visit Pumpkin Playland, where kids can ride the kiddie carousel and Ferris wheel, mine for gems, ride mini tractors, play corn hole, get up close and personal with birds in the Parakeet Encounter, conquer a straw bale mountain, and weave their way through corn stalk or kiddie straw mazes. 

Sep. 16 – Oct. 29

Didier Farms
16678 Aptakisic Rd.
Lincolnshire
Online: happytimespumpkinfest.com

Related: Field Day! Local Chicago Corn Mazes to Get Lost In

Kroll’s Fall Harvest Farm

Whether you want to bake, carve, or decorate, Kroll’s carries many specialty breed pumpkins that vary in size, color, and shape ready for you to load up in their pumpkin carts. Hayrides with a focus on educating visitors on farming (crop rotation, hay versus straw, pollination) and the crops they grow (gourds, corn, pumpkins) are offered. Continue the education with a visit to the donkeys, sheep, goats, chickens, and turkeys and learn about each from one of the knowledgeable employees. Don’t forget to check out a hayride or the corn maze!

Sep. 16 – Oct. 31

13236 W. Town Line Rd.
Waukegan
Online: krollsfarm.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch

A visit to Goebbert’s has been a long-held tradition for local families since they opened their roadside pumpkin stand in 1978. Not only do they have a fantastic assortment of pumpkins eager to adorn your fall displays, but kids will leave with happy memories of the 1/2-mile tour aboard the Pumpkin Express, watching the weekend pig races, experiencing the insatiable appetite of the giant mechanical pumpkin-eating dinosaur, and wandering through the corn stalk maze. Don’t leave without a stop into the petting farm where you’ll be greeted by a mama pig and her piglets, the furry residents of Bunny Town, llamas, cows, fuzzy chicks, and goats looking down from atop the 25-foot wooden Goat Mountain. Feed giraffes at their South Barrington location.

Aug. 25 – Oct. 31

42W813 Reinking Rd.
Pine Grove
Online: goebberts.com

Sep. 9 – Oct. 30

40 W. Higgins Rd.
South Barrington
Online: goebbertspumpkinfarm.com

County Line Orchard

Well known for its u-pick apple orchard, County Line is also a stop for your fall-inspired favorites like pumpkins as big as a small child, gourds, squash, hay bales, Indian corn, corn stalks, zinnias, sunflowers, and mums. Kids can experience barnyard jams, a corn maze, a cow-themed barrel train, and tons of exciting animals at the kids farm!

Aug. 30 – Oct. 31

200 S. County Line Rd.
Hobart, IN
Online: countylineorchard.com

Make sure to capture all the fall fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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These Chicago Halloween Events Are So Much Fun, It’s Scary!

by Debra Flanagan

From scary to sweet, Chicago has it all this October. Bonus: many of the family-friendly Halloween events around the city are free!

Here in Chicago, Halloween seems to last the entire month of October, and for many that makes it the most wonderful time of the year. And considering how questionable fall weather can be, it gives everyone the chance to get in on the fun. If one parade or trick-or-treating event gets cancelled due to weather, you have several more to choose from.

So, take a break from getting lost and found in corn mazes and working your way around all the harvest festivals Chicago has to offer to focus on more faboolous fun. There are Halloween events for all ages throughout the city (and nearby suburbs), from the scary to the sweet, and we’ve rounded up some of the best. Go to one or go to all—we dare you!

Free Halloween Events in Chicago

Chicago Pumpkin Patches & Halloween Parties

Halloween in the Parks
The Chicago Park District will host pumpkin patches with decorating stations, Halloween-themed carnival games, inflatables, and some surprise visitors. Pumpkins cost $5. They will also host numerous Halloween celebrations in the parks. Events vary by location but many include costumes, treats, and games.

Oct. 1-31
Various city park locations
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Pier Pumpkin Lights
Navy Pier will once again transform into an experiential fall spectacle with nearly 1,000 pumpkins for the month of October. Guests will explore a variety of pumpkin pop-up installations and enjoy Pier-wide deals and other Halloween festivities throughout the month.

Oct. 1-31
600 E. Grand Ave.
River North
Online: navypier.org

Gallagher Way Annual Pumpkin Party
Trick or treat among the various candy stations, dance and sing along to music by the Old Town School of Folk Music, and/or make a kid craft. Be on the look-out for wandering performers such as stilt walkers, magicians, caricature artists and balloon artists. There will be lots of lawn games and every kid can leave with a free junior pumpkin. 1pm-5pm

Oct. 22
3635 N. Clark St.
Lakeview
Online: gallagherway.com

Related: Our Ultimate Guide to Chicago-Area Pumpkin Patches

Chicago Halloween-Themed Movies & More

Movies at Gallagher Way
Pack a picnic and lay down a blanket at Gallagher Way for some Halloween themed movies, starting with Coco, followed by Gremlins and Hocus Pocus. Gates open at 6 p.m. Movies start at 7 p.m. Alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for sale at the park.

Oct. 6, 12, 19
3635 N. Clark St.
Lakeview
Online: gallagherway.com

Wednesday Night Live – Halloween Edition
Decorate a pumpkin, dress up for a costume contest, and stay for a free outdoor screening of Hocus Pocus in the Ainslie Art Plaza. Gates will open at 5 p.m. with the movie starting around 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 19
4844 N. Lincoln Avenue
Lincoln Square
Online: lincolnsquare.org

Chicago Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating Events

Pup-O-Ween
Take your pup trick-or-treating around Ainslie Arts Plaza. Vendors will be passing out various treats and promotions to pets and owners alike.

Oct. 22
4844 N. Lincoln Ave.
Lincoln Square
Online: lincolnsquare.org

Spooky Zoo
Kids can trick-or-treat around the Lincoln Park Zoo grounds from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. or while supplies last. Families can stick around to enjoy the fall fest, seasonal food and drink, or other family-friendly entertainment.

Oct. 22
2001 N. Clark St.
Lincoln Park
Online: lpzoo.org

Roscoe Village Halloween Block Party
Roscoe Street will be shut down from Damen to Hoyne. Wear your costume and at 12 p.m. join or watch the parade. The parade ends at Damen where the marching band will give a final performance before the kids are let loose to trick-or-treat at all the local businesses. Families can also congregate in the center for Halloween themed activities and a live DJ. The party will wrap up at 4 p.m.

Oct. 23
Roscoe St. between Damen and Hoyne
Roscoe Village
Online: roscoevillage.org

Trick or Treat Southport
Trick or Treat on Southport is a free annual community event featuring family-friendly activities, a pumpkin patch, pet parade and trick or treating at local businesses. Enjoy food trucks and a beer tent. 4pm-8pm

Oct. 24
Southport Ave. from Roscoe to Grace
Lakeview
Online: southportcorridorchicago.com

Halloween on Catalpa
Trick or treat among the many Andersonville businesses for a fun and safe Halloween experience.

Oct. 29
Catalpa St.
Andersonville
Online: andersonville.org

Lincoln Scared Ravenswoooood
For one day, Lincoln Square and Ravenswood will transform into Lincoln Scared and RAVENSWoooooD as children trick-or-treat between participating businesses from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Maps of participating businesses are available online.

Oct. 30
Lincoln Square and Ravenswood neighborhoods
Online: lincolnsquare.org

NorthCenter Trick-or-Treat
NorthCenter will host a morning of trick-or-treating around local business, as well as free crafts and entertainment in the Town Square

Oct. 29
4100 N. Damen Ave.
NorthCenter
Online: northcenterchamber.com

Wicked West Trick or Treat
Commercial Park will host a Halloween Parade & After Party from 2 p.m.-3:15 p.m. immediately followed by safe and family-friendly trick-or-treating around the local retail business and restaurants.

Oct. 31
1845 W. Rice St.
West Town
Online: westtownchamber.org

Chicago Halloween Parades

Upside Down Halloween Parade
The 2022 Upside Down Halloween Parade, presented by LUMA8 and the City of Chicago, is a bit off-kilter. Instead of a parade passing its audience as it marches down the street, dance troupes, circus acrobats, musical groups, and more will occupy a stationary space and parade goers will walk past them, giving ample time to enjoy each performance. Halloween costumes are encouraged, and complimentary goody bags sponsored by Blommer Chocolate Company, Mars Wrigley, and others will be handed out.

Oct. 22
5531 S. King Dr.
Washington Park
Online: artsinthedark.com

Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade
The Arts in the Dark Halloween Parade is the most fun and unique parade. Parade participants represent the many art institutions including performing arts theaters around the city, each accompanying an imaginative float or staging creative performances along the parade route. Costumes are made to glow-in-the-dark for added spectacle. 6 p.m.-8 p.m.

Oct. 29
State St. from Lake to Van Buren
The Loop
Online: artsinthedark.com

Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade
If anyone has any energy left after trick-or-treating, stop by the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade. Participants pull out all the stops for their costumes. See dancers and fire-eaters, and the most elaborate costumes.

Oct. 31
Halsted St. from Belmont to Brompton
Lakeview
Online: northalsted.com

Related: Walk This Way! Colorful Spots for Fall Family Strolls

Chicago Halloween Carnivals

Highwood Pumpkin Fest Carnival
Highwood’s annual pumpkin fest features carnival rides, games, food, live music, and plenty of pumpkins! There’s also a Super Hero 5K fun run, walk, & stroll. Admission is free. Games and rides are additional fees.

Oct. 7-9
Downtown Highwood
Highwood, IL
Online: highwoodpumpkinfest.com

Ticketed Halloween Events in Chicago

Chicago Haunted Attractions

The 13th Floor Chicago
Get ready for the most fun you’ve ever had getting scared at the world-famous 13th Floor Haunted House in Chicago! New this year, they also have mini escape rooms for only $5 per game. The 13th Floor is not recommended for kids under 13.

Now through Nov. 5
5050 River Rd.
Schiller Park
Online: 13thfloorchicago.com

Nightmare on Clark Street
For a few weeks of fall, Deuce’s Major League Bar in Wrigleyville transforms into Nightmare on Clark Street. The Halloween Pop-up includes an over-the-top immersive haunted house experience for those who dare. Tickets are required. Kids must be 15 or older and must be accompanied by an adult. If the haunted house is too terrifying, you can just enjoy the ghoulish decor, themed cocktails, and festive snacks by reserving a table online. Kids are welcome before 5pm on weekdays or before noon on the weekends.

Oct. 1-31
3505 N. Clark St.
Lakeview
Online: deucesmlb.com

TILT Terror Nights
After 6 p.m., 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the top of the John Hancock Building will host TILT Terror Nights where you can experience a longer, more intense experience on Chicago’s highest thrill ride. Note: you must be 42 inches or taller to take part.

Oct. 1-31
875 N. Michigan Ave.
Magnificent Mile
Online: 360chicago.com

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest
Go early to admire the Halloween decorations and seasonal menu items. Stay for the rides, live shows, the Monster Bash (an interactive Halloween party for tiny goblins), and the trick-or-treating on Saturdays and Sundays. But make your way to the exit at 5:45pm when The Uprising Parade: Nightly Call of the Dead begins. This is the cue for kids 13 and under to make their way to the park exit or dare to be scared. Fright Fest includes four different haunted houses and four different scare zones, where you can expect to be terrorized by jump scares.

Sep. 17-Oct. 31
1 Great America Pkwy
Gurnee, IL
Online: sixflags.com

Related: Field Day! Local Chicago Corn Mazes to Get Lost In

Chicago Zoos

Boo! at the Zoo
If the zoo was photo worthy already, several Halloween themed photo spots have been created to fulfill all your Instagram needs. There are giant inflatables, a “Crazed Maize,” a Creepy Carousel, and Zoo Chats each day. Pumpkins are given to different animals on different days (check the online schedule), and everyone gets a treat as you leave. Guests age 13 or older are not permitted in the zoo wearing full-body costumes with their head covered.

Oct. 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, 23
3300 Golf Rd.
Brookfield, IL
Online: czs.org

Chicago Halloween-Themed Movies & More

Drive-In Movies
Fill up your car with snacks and kids, and head over to Little Beans Cafe for a special screening of The Adams Family 2 from 7:30 p.m.-10 p.m. There will be 15 car spots ($30/car) and 10 blanket and chair spots ($20/spot) in the parking lot. Tune into the sound on your radio.

Oct. 28
430 Ashbury St.
Evanston, IL
Online: littlebeanscafe.com

The Forge Celebrates Halloween
All ages can enjoy hayrides through the Quarries, ghost stories in the forest, scavenger hunts, a costume contest, dance party, and family movie beginning at 2pm.

Oct. 15, 16, 29, 30
1001 Main St.
Lemont, IL
Online: forgeparks.com

Chicago Ride-Thru Halloween Attractions

Santa’s Village Spooktacular Drive-Thru
Visit Santa’s Village Spooktacular Drive-Thru this October for a Not-Too-Spooky Halloween Experience. The park will be transformed into a Halloween Haven with family-friendly scenes, featuring The Witches Broom Lot, Mad Scientist, Alien Landing, Monster Mash Bash, and more. At the end of the route, enjoy tasty treats, including funnel cakes and hot chocolate, photo opportunities, and fun activities.

Oct. 1, 2, 7-9, 14-16, 21-23, 27-31
601 Dundee Ave.
East Dundee, IL
Online: santasvillagedundee.com

Pumpkin Train
Take a ride on a Halloween-themed electric interurban trains to the Illinois Railway Museum’s own pumpkin patch. Plenty of pumpkins and picture opps await!

Oct. 22, 23, 29, 30
7000 Olson Rd.
Union, IL
Online: irm.org

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Field Day! Local Chicago Corn Mazes to Get Lost In

by Maria Chambers

Get your corn maze fill at any of these amazing Chicago corn mazes that’ll entertain the family for hours

Local farms know that if they build it, we will come. And by “it,” we obviously mean acres of intricate corn mazes to maneuver through—and get lost in—with your kids. If that isn’t enticing enough, a lot of the maze locations have added bells and whistles like petting zoos and pumpkin doughnuts. Plus, you can check off plenty of fall activities at once as most have options to pick apples or pick pumpkins to complete your fall experience. So lace up those walking shoes and check out this year’s crop of Chicago corn mazes.

Konow’s Corn Maze
A huge indoor western-themed playland, 2 corn pits, gem mining, straw playgrounds, animal barn, tractor-pulled grain train and more make this Homer Glen attraction a fall favorite. The keystone, however, of the operation is the corn maze. Depending on how much stamina your kids have, you could spend a chunk of the day winding your way through the miles-long behemoth.

16849 S. Cedar Rd.
Homer Glen
Online: konowscornmaze.com

Kroll's Fall Harvest Farm
Each year, the cornfields at this farm are cut into elaborate circuits and the activities are designed to entertain your entire clan, Kroll’s has hayrides, a petting zoo with goats, donkeys, sheep and turkeys and a pumpkin patch. Timed entry tickets are required on weekends to help control numbers, so be sure to book online before visiting. The maze is open Sep. 17-Oct. 31.

13236 W. Town Line Rd.
Waukegan
Online: krollsfarm.com

Richardson Farm
Home to the world’s largest maze, it’s go big or go home at Richardson. This sprawling attraction includes 4 separate mazes that make up 9-10 miles of trails winding through 28 acres of live corn. The trail includes games that range from solving puzzles to map reading that keep the littles engaged. In addition to the corny fun, kids can glide on zip lines, cheer for pig races, mosey through pumpkin patches, go for wagon rides and loads more. The maze is open Sep. 10-Oct. 30. 

9405 Richardson Rd.
Spring Grove
Online: richardsonadventurefarm.com

Related: Walk This Way! Colorful Spots for Fall Strolls in Chicago

Odyssey Fun Farm
Romp around 110 acres in Tinley Park and enjoy a pumpkin patch, inflatables zone, zip line, hay rides, a petting zoo and the crown-jewel 15-acre Pac Man-themed corn maze. In case that seems like a lot walking for little feet, the farm also features a pint-sized hay maze. Brave souls may also be interested in the twilight flashlight maze, wherein visitors peruse the maze at night. Don’t worry . . . it’s not haunted . . . or is it? (It's not). The farm opens Sep. 24.

19111 S. Oak Park Ave.
Tinley Park
Online: odysseyfunfarm.com

County Line Orchard
Just over the Indiana border lies an awe-inspiring orchard complete with pumpkin doughnuts, concessions, apples galore and corn mazes. Along with a larger maze, there is also an Albanese gummy bear-themed maze that's perfect for the little ones. Once you’re all maze-d out, pick apples and peruse the massive barn to get your fill of fudge and other farm essentials.

200 S. County Line Rd.
Hobart, IN
Online: countylineorchard.com

Jonamac Orchard
This apple-picking oasis is also home to one stellar corn maze. While mostly renowned for its extensive apple orchards, the 10-acre corny adventure should not be overlooked. And with three miles of pathways and two bridges, it’s almost impossible to ignore. There’s also a nighttime haunted version on Friday and Saturday evenings for the brave corn stalkers. The maze is open Aug. 27-Oct. 30.

19412 S. Shabbona Rd.
Malta
Online: jonamacorchard.com

Related: 100 Things to Do in Chicago Before the Kids Turn 10

Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up

Looking for a corn maze, but don't want to leave the city? You're in luck! Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up has the city's largest family-friendly corn maze (before 7 p.m.), carnival games, a pumpkin patch, and so much more. It's recommended that you buy your tickets in advance, but they do accept walk-ups. They are open everyday from Sept. 22 - Oct. 31.

1265 W. LeMoyne St.
Chicago
Online: jackspumpkinpopup.com

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm
With 30 attractions on hand, Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Crest Hill, truly is a solid catch-all for kids of all ages and interests, whether said interests include pumpkin-picking, pony rides, climbing walls, jellies and jams, hay rides, or even “zombie” paintball. Then, of course, there’s the corn maze, open weekends through October 31. Spanning 15 acres, the corn maze contains 5 miles of winding pathways.

17250 S. Weaver Rd.
Crest Hill
Online: ourpumpkinfarm.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch
Through October 31, the farm opens its gates to visitors clambering for homemade fudge and caramel apples and those eager to ride the ponies and take a run through the mazes. The mazes here come in two varieties: a larger corn maze good for slightly older children and a “munchkin maze” ideal for younger kids.

42W813 Reinking Rd.
Hampshire
Online: goebbertspumpkinpatch.com

 

 

 

 

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Holiday Train & Sleigh Rides to Jump Aboard Now

by Maria Chambers

Dash away, dash away, dash away all! It’s time to dash away on a one-horse open sleigh. Or on an old-fashioned locomotive. Or even on a CTA train. Whether you’re gliding across snow-capped fields or gliding down the rails of downtown Chicago, there are holiday train and sleigh rides you shouldn’t miss. Flip through our photo album to see which are worth jumping aboard now.

Polar Express at Union Station

Polar Express

Relive the magic of the holiday classic The Polar Express with a one-hour train ride to meet Santa, set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack. Passengers will climb aboard The Polar Express and work their way through the car to punch their golden ticket before indulging in hot chocolate and a cookie served by dancing chefs. Bring your books, if you have them, for a read-along of the book written by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his elves will make an appearance to greet passengers with the first gift of Christmas and characters on each car will lead riders in an immersive onboard experience—just like in the film! Each person will take home a keepsake sleigh bell and golden ticket to remember the cherished evening. 

Select dates Nov. 23-Dec. 29; Union Station, 225 S. Canal St., Loop; Online: chicagothepolarexpressride.com.

Christmas at Cottonwood

Siegel's

Take a breather after a long morning of Black Friday shopping and kick off the holidays the right way—with fun on the farm. Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm hosts Cottonwood Christmas with activities, food and fun for the entire family. Activities include sleigh rides, Santa meet-and-greets, petting zoo, train rides, giant mountain slide, play areas, candy cannon and more.

Nov. 30, noon-3 p.m.; Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, 17250 Weber Rd., Lockport; Online: cottonwoodfarms.net.

CTA Holiday Train

Marco Sanchez via flickr

Santa and his merry band of elves will make an appearance on every El line this holiday season. In fact, the big guy in red comes jingling his way through in grand style, pulled in a sled by faux reindeer. A gift from the Chicago Transit Authority, the festive El — decked out in colored lights, garland, bows and tinsel — arrives with pomp and glee, leaving you and your little ones smiling ear to ear long after your stop. You might even get a candy cane handout if you're onboard.

The CTA Holiday Train runs on select days on select lines through December 23. Usual El fares apply. The 2019 schedule has not been released; Online: transitchicago.com.

Blackberry Farm Holiday Express

Blackberry Farm

And what to your wondering eyes should appear? A decorated miniature open-air train that runs continuously through Aurora's living-history museum. Catch the Holiday Express train around Lake Gregory amidst thousands of twinkling lights. It's part of the farm's annual Victorian Christmas celebration, Holiday Express, which includes music, storytelling in a historic schoolhouse, a visit from Santa, craft stations and a Reindeer Food Bar.

Tickets go on sale Nov. 12. The Holiday Express runs December 5, 12, 13, 19 & 20, 5 p.m.-8 p.m. and Dec. 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22, 2 p.m.-7 p.m.; 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora; Online: blackberryfarm.info.

Navy Pier Winter WonderFest Arctic Express Train

Nick Ulivieri

Hop aboard this family-friendly trackless train, which travels nearly 300 feet around a holiday village display during Navy Pier’s annual Winter WonderFest. Zig-zagging and weaving through lighted houses and scenes, you’ll meet favorite holiday characters and see lots of twinkling sights. The fun doesn’t end with the train; the festival also includes dozens of rides for all ages, including a climbing wall, ice skating rink, 50-foot-tall indoor Ferris wheel and more.

Dec. 6-Jan 12; 600 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; Online: navypier.com.

Apple Holler

Sharonang via Pixabay

Get whisked away on a sleigh through beautiful hardwoods, many of which are over 100 years old. That's the scene at Apple Holler, just across the Wisconsin border. Halflinger horses take you and your family or friends on a special orchard tour, which winds down with S'mores and a cup of hot chocolate or tasty warm apple cider. While you're there, cut down your own Christmas tree. . . a festive activity that will surely become a family tradition. 

Sleigh rides are available upon request throughout December whenever there is snow; 5006 S. Sylvania Ave., Sturtevant, WI; Online: appleholler.com.

Santa's Village

Santa's Village

Santa’s Village will host Magical Christmas Days filled with holiday cheer, entertainment, shopping, festive treats, rides, and of course, visits with the Man in Red, Santa Claus himself. Included in all this magical fun is Kringle's Convoy, semi-trucks lined up like trains for kids to help Santa deliver presents, and the Alaskan Railway that takes you on a journey through Caribou Crossing to get an up-close view of reindeer, bobcats and foxes.

Nov. 29, 30 & Saturdays and Sundays in Dec.; Santa's Village, 601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee; Online: santasvillagedundee.com.

Lionel Train Adventure at LPZ ZooLights

Lincoln Park Zoo

The most wonderful time of the year deserves the most wonderful event of the year. Join Lincoln Park Zoo for their 25th annual ZooLights, a one-of-a-kind, festive holiday experience that happens under the glow of 2.5 million lights. Hop on the Lionel Train Adventure for a luminous ride across a quaint country bridge, past forest and canyon scenery before returning to the red brick station.

Nov. 29 & 30, Dec. 1, 6-8, 13-23, 26-31 & Jan. 1-5; 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.; Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park; Online: lpzoo.org.

Homewood Holiday Lights

City of Homewood

The annual Homewood Holiday Lights celebration in Homewood offers all the holiday traditions in one evening. The Martin Avenue Outdoor Market begins at 5 p.m. with food vendors, a live reindeer petting zoo, music by the Southwest Community Brass Ensemble, an ice sculpting demonstration and free rides on the Polar Express electric trackless train. An antique car show precedes the 7 p.m. tree lighting ceremony at Irwin Park, when Santa and his friends arrive on a fire engine to flip the switch for the grand tree lighting.

Dec. 6; Irwin Park, 18120 Highland Ave., Online: village.homewood.il.us.

Miracle on Martin

City of Homewood

Gather in Homewood for Miracle on Martin to enjoy a bonfire with s'mores and beverages that will take the chill away. Santa will be at the Homewood Science Center, where you'll find a sensory-friendly holiday scene that sets the perfect backdrop for a quiet visit with the big guy himself. Horse-drawn carriage rides are available through the downtown area from 3 to 6 p.m. Holiday characters stroll Martin Ave along with holiday carolers. There is also a special “I Spy” community event with maps of the windows and lists of items to seek. Kids of all ages can fill out an “I Spy” treasure hunt brochure and receive a holiday treat.

Dec. 14, 2 p.m.-6 p.m.; Homewood Science Center, 18022 Dixie Hwy.; Online: village.homewood.il.us.

— Maria Chambers & Kelly Aiglon

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10 Things You HAVE to Do in Chicago this October

by Maria Chambers

October is a great month to be a Chicagoan. Between the changing leaves, fall festivals and pumpkin patches popping up all over the city, there’s always something to see and do in the Windy City. Read on for our Editor’s favorite picks for family fun this month.

photo: Chicago Children’s Museum

(1) Seafaring Adventure Aboard Boats 
October is your last chance to set sail on a high-seas adventure at the Chicago Children’s Museum Boats exhibit. Climb aboard lifelike boats of all kinds and don your captain’s garb for a little seafaring on Lake Michigan. Fill a bucket with fake night crawlers at the Bait & Tackle Shop then grab a fishing pole at the Dock. See how many faux fish you catch. Then head off to Ride-the-Wave Word Play, an afternoon event that blends story time and songs.

When: now through Nov. 1
Hours: Fri.-Wed., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Where: Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Streeterville
Cost: $14; free Thursdays & Oct. 4
Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

(2)  Good Night Moon & The Runaway Bunny
Introduce the next generation of theatergoers to Chicago Children’s Theatre’s season opener, Goodnight Moon & The Runaway Bunny. Combining two beloved bedtime books from Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd, this enchanting double-bill delights with innovative puppetry, striking effects and evocative original music.

When: Sept. 30-Oct. 11
Hours:  Tues. & Wed., 10 a.m.; Thurs., 10 a.m. & noon; Fri., 10 a.m. & 6:30 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m., 2 p.m. & 6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.; 2 p.m.
Where: Ruth Page Center for the Arts, 1016 N. Dearborn, Gold Coast
Cost: $39/adult; $28/children; $10/day-of tickets
Online: chicagochildrenstheatre.org

photo: Lincoln Park Zoo

(3) First-Ever Fall Fest at Lincoln Park Zoo
Usher in the harvest season with your animal friends at Lincoln Park Zoo’s first-ever Fall Fest, a family celebration complete with rides, activities and entertainment. An a-maize-ing corn maze, Ferris wheel, hay mountain, a giant 60-ft. burlap sack slide and hay wagon rides round out the fun. Pumpkins will be available for sale at the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo pumpkin patch daily throughout October.

When: Oct. 2-4, Oct. 9-11, Oct. 12 & Oct. 16-18
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park
Cost: Free admission; $3/ride tickets
Online: lpzoo.org

Photo: Nature Connects®: Art with LEGO® Bricks 

(4) Nature Connects®: Art with LEGO® Bricks
Enjoy a day built on fun at Nature Connects Art with LEGO Bricks by Sean Kenney, who’s a “professional kid” and the first-ever LEGO Certified Professional. LEGO enthusiasts of all ages will be dazzled as they search for 13 larger-than-life, nature-inspired sculptures throughout the east side of the The Morton Arboretum. See if your kid’s little eyes can spy a 7-foot tall regal peacock, a grandfather and grandchild gardening, a giant corn spider (eeek!), a hummingbird sipping nectar from a colorful trumpet flower, an 8-foot dragonfly and more! Be sure to stop by the play-and-stay area where kids can get creative with LEGO bricks.

When:  now through Nov. 1
Hours:  7 a.m.-sunset
Where:  Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL Rte 53, Lisle
Cost:  $14/adults; $9/ages 2-17; free for children 1 & under
Online: mortonarb.org

photo: Hofbräuhaus Chicago via Kelly Aiglon 

(5) Hofbräuhaus Chicago Oktoberfest
The sister location to the legendary original in Munich is surprisingly family friendly on weekend afternoons. In a grand dining hall packed with communal tables, you can get excited about a rotating array of European musicians that play oompah music on stage (brace yourself for the chicken dance). There are also kids’ parades and games, and you might even see an aplhorn, a long horn used by Swiss mountain dwellers. Come hungry for traditional german fare.

When: now through Oct. 31
Hours: Sun.-Wed., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thurs., 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-2 a.m.
Where: Hofbräuhaus Chicago, 5500 Park Pl. , Rosemont
Cost: Free
Online: hofbrauhauschicago.com

(6) Trick or Trees
Come in your costume to play tricky games, fashion fall crafts and plant a tree seed to take home as a treat. Small pumpkins to paint will also be available for purchase.

When: Sat. & Sun. in October
Hours: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Morton Arboretum
Cost: Free with admission
Online: mortonarb.org

photo: Fischer Farm

(7)  Fabulous Fall Fun at Heritage Day
Welcome the changing leaves and milder temps at Heritage Day, the annual fall celebration at Fischer Farm, where families and history lovers can explore the buildings, touch the artifacts, and connect with history. A $5 wristband will get your child a pumpkin, pony rides and unlimited access to the petting zoo. Along with a pig roast there will be plenty of fun activities like candle making and pumpkin painting, arts and crafts, a Bluegrass band, rug braiding, colonial reenactors and more!

When: Oct. 10
Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Fischer Farm, 16W680 Grand Ave., Bensenville
Cost: $5
Online: bensenvilleparkdistrict.org

Photo: Angelic Organics

(8) Cornbread From the Ground Up
With the help of Angelic Organics, make tasty cornbread from the ground up! Starting with ears of dried corn and eggs from the farm’s chickens, you’ll whip up a tasty snack. Families are welcome to take turns as they shuck, shell, winnow and grind the corn. Learn about the long history of corn, receive recipe tips and seeds and spend a wholesome day with the family.

When: Oct. 24
Hours: 2-4:30 p.m.
Where: Angelic Organics Learning Center, 1547 Rockton Rd., Caledonia
Online: learngrowconnect.org

photo: Morton Arboretum

(9) Splendid Spiders
Scary or spectacular – Morton Arboretum lets you be the judge. Find out where spiders live and how they help our gardens grow. They’ll even have spiders available for viewing.

When: Oct. 1-31
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 1-4 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL Rte. 53, Lisle
Cost: Free with admission
Online: mortonarb.org

(10) Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm Pumpkin Fest
Harvest memories with your family with a visit to Siegel’s Pumpkin Fest. Guests will find a petting zoo, hayrack rides to a u-pick pumpkin field, train rides, haunted barn, 2-acre corn maze, pony rides, zombie paintball ride, a climbing wall, gem mining and more! Don’t forget your Siegel’s Suds, homebrewed sodas in a special souvenir cup.

When: now through Nov. 1
Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, 17250 S. Weber Rd., Lockport
Cost: $15
Online: ourpumpkinfarm.com

Tell us in the Comments below what’s on your family’s agenda for October.

—Maria Chambers

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