Lake Forest’s ‘Spooktacular’ Halloween Celebration Returns on October 24

Lake Forest is getting ready for its beloved Halloween bash, the “Spooktacular,” which lands on Saturday, October 24. If you’ve been to one before, you’ll recognize the buzz of candy‑scented air, colorful booths, and a line of cars decked out in goofy, spooky decorations.

The festivities kick off at 2 p.m. and wind down around 6 p.m., all taking place at the spacious Lake Forest Sports Park. Organizers have lined up a handful of local food trucks—think tacos, funnel cakes, and those ever‑popular caramel apples—so you won’t have to go hungry while you’re hunting for treats.

One of the biggest draws is the “trunk‑or‑treat” area, where volunteers transform the backs of cars into mini‑haunted houses. Kids can crawl from one spooky setup to the next, collecting candy and maybe a few extra‑sweet surprises. It’s a low‑key alternative to traditional door‑to‑door trick‑or‑treating, and it usually ends up with a lot of giggles.

Beyond the sweets, there are dozens of games and craft stations. Think pumpkin‑painting, spider‑web weaving, and even a mini‑bounce house for the younger crowd. Local musicians will spin a mix of classic Halloween tunes and upbeat pop, providing a lively soundtrack that keeps the energy high.

If you’re wondering about the cost, entry is simple: a wristband priced at $10 gives you access to all activities. Parents can slip in for free, and children under three get a complimentary pass—so the whole family can join without breaking the bank.

Parking is plentiful at the sports park, and the city encourages you to bring reusable water bottles and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to linger until the final spooky hour. As always, the event follows standard safety guidelines, so you can relax and enjoy the night’s thrills.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or just passing through, the Spooktacular is a great way to kick off the Halloween season, make some memories, and maybe even discover a new favorite food‑truck treat. See you there—costumes encouraged, smiles mandatory.