Chicago Challenges Salem for Halloween 2026 as Free Parades Face a Costly Hotel Price Showdown
Compare Chicago vs Salem Halloween 2026, from parades and visitor numbers to transport, costs and events on October 31. Chicago has been challenged by Salem, Massachusetts, for Halloween 2026, with two free Halloween parades set to take place on October 24 and 31 respectively. The Arts in the Dark parade attracted over 100,000 spectators, while Salem's Haunted Happenings festival will conclude with a special 400-drone show celebrating the city's 400th anniversary. Salem, which recorded 1.1 million unique visitors in 2025, also offers a unique appeal due to its association with the 1692 witch trials. Chicago's next major Halloween attractions are scheduled for October 31, with Haunted Halsted expanding into an all-day street festival with food, drinks, local vendors, live music, performances and activities for children. Visitors can combine the festival with historic sites and businesses benefit from a programme that encourages visitors to spend time in the city rather than isolated locations.
Published : Yesterday by Ankita Neogi Khan in Travel Lifestyle
Chicago vs Salem Halloween 2026 presents travellers with two sharply different ways to experience America’s most atmospheric season. Chicago’s Arts in the Dark parade took place on October 24, while H... [15207 symbols]
Topics: Holidays, Halloween
