Tens of thousands of people turned out on Saturday, Oct. 19, for the annual Arts in the Dark parade, a nighttime Halloween parade and festival showcasing the artistic part of the fall holiday.
This year marked the 10th anniversary of the “Arts in the Dark” parade, drawing in creative performers from all over the Chicagoland area.
Spectators lined both sides of State Street in the Loop from Lake to Van Buren, just blocks away from Columbia’s campus. The parade kicked off at 6 p.m. but spectators found their viewing spots hours before the start time.
The Columbia Renegades Dance Team were among dozens of other creative performances in the parade. There were many colorful floats, costumes and marching bands.
While many other states hold Halloween parades, the “Arts in the Dark” parade showcases Chicago’s creativity and celebrates artists. In 2023, the parade was named one of the top 10 Halloween events in the country by USA Today.
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