The Poets and Writers Guild for the Arts in the Dark Parade is looking for poets, writers, spoken word artists, novelists, short story writers, journalists, memoirists, essayists, graphic novelists, illustrators, educators, booksellers, literary arts organizers, literacy advocates, readers, and bibliophiles to participate in the 11th annual Arts in the Dark Parade on October 18, 2025! The parade takes place in the Loop on State Street moving south from Lake Street to Van Buren from 6 to 8 p.m.
Now in its 11th year, Arts in the Dark is a magical evening parade celebrating Halloween as the “artist’s holiday” and drawing together world-renowned institutions, celebrated Chicago cultural organizations, important youth programs, and aspiring artists in every field. It is a dazzling production that delights an audience of 100,000 with unique floats, spectacle puppets and creative performances – all set against the backdrop of historic State Street.
More than just a parade, Arts in the Dark is a mission-driven and curated event that brings performance and creativity to the street. It draws together cultural organizations and artists from every Ward in Chicago to celebrate our values as artists and cultural organizations – and provide a platform for Chicago’s creative youth to explore a path in the arts. Most importantly, Arts in the Dark reminds us that we are all connected through the creative spirit that is at the core of our humanity no matter our race, ethnicity, class, age, ability, gender identity or sexual orientation.
Learn more about the parade and how to get involved here!
