Get your costumes ready—one of Illinois’ most beloved Halloween traditions is returning this fall.
On Saturday, October 31, 2026, Galena will transform into a full-on Halloween spectacle as the annual Galena Halloween Parade takes over North Main Street.
Now celebrating its 46th year, the Galena Halloween Parade is a must for Chicagoans looking for a charming small-town Halloween night.
Often described as the largest, longest, and spookiest Halloween parade in the Tri-State area, the evening brings together decorated floats, marching bands, costumed performers, and plenty of entertainment.
When is the Galena Halloween Parade?
The 2026 Galena Halloween Parade takes place on:
- Saturday, October 31, 2026
- 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Arrive early to explore downtown, find a viewing spot, and enjoy the pre-parade festivities.
What to expect
Before the parade gets underway, visitors can look forward to:
- Floats and themed parade entries
- Marching bands and live entertainment
- Costumed participants of all kinds
- A Kids Fest for younger Halloween fans
- A local Food Festival with bites from area vendors
For those who can’t attend in person, Galena provides four live video feeds of the parade.
Where is it held?
The parade will take place along North Main Street in downtown Galena, Illinois.
With its historic architecture, independent shops, and rolling-hills backdrop, Galena makes for an especially magical setting once the Halloween festivities begin.
Parking and shuttle details
To help visitors get downtown, shuttle service will run from designated parking areas to Main Street.
- Shuttles begin running at 3:30 p.m.
- The final pre-parade shuttle leaves at 5:30 p.m.
- Pick-up is from the Walmart parking lot off U.S. 20
- Return shuttles will operate until 9:15 p.m.
- Round-trip rides cost $5 per person for guests ages six and older
- Riders will receive a wristband for shuttle access
Public parking is also available if you prefer to drive into town, though both free and paid options may fill quickly on parade night.
