Free and cheap things to do in Chicago this weekend: Oct. 19-21

Halloween is quickly approaching, and there’s plenty to do if you want to celebrate.

If you’re craving something cute, there’s a doggie costume parade happening this weekend at the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Within city limits, pumpkin patches are planned at multiple city parks, as well as outdoor horror movie screenings.

Spooky Pooch Parade – Free

What: Pups dressed in their Halloween costumes parade through the Chicago Botanic Garden. There’s also a costume contest! This event is only free to human visitors, and those who want to bring their dog along must register.

When: Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe.

Visit one of the city park’s pumpkin patches – Free

What: Pick some pumpkins while kids get their faces painted. It’s perfect for the whole family.

When: Saturday or Sunday, depending on location

Where: Mt. Greenwood Park, 3721 West 111th St. or Humboldt Park, 1440 North Humboldt Boulevard, Chicago.

Outdoor screening of “Beetlejuice” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street” – Free

What: Grab some lawn chairs and blankets and check out a scary movie in Northerly Island. The Chicago Park District provides campfires, marshmallows and roasting forks.

When: 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.

Where: 1521 South Linn White Drive, Chicago.

Arts in the Dark – Free

What: Artists gather to celebrate Halloween with a parade, lanterns, costumes, music, dancing and more.

When: Saturday, 6 p.m.

Where: Parade starts at State and Lake Streets, Chicago.

More Sun-Times Guides with things to do

Feel like exploring a new neighborhood this weekend? Check out “The Grid,” a series of Sun-Times neighborhood guides that have the scoop on where to eat, drink and shop. If a farmer’s market is more your speed, check out our Sun-Times 2018 Farmers Market Guide.

Tell us about free and cheap things to do!

We’d love to hear about your suggestions for free and cheap things to do in Chicago. Email us at freeandcheap@suntimes.com and we may include your event in a future story.