Things to Do This Weekend October 17-19, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 10/16/2025

Fall has arrived in Lake County! This weekend, as the air turns crisp, find your favorite fall activities. From Zombies unleashed to family celebrations, Lake County is bursting with different events for every fan of fall. Get ready to put on a costume, enjoy some fall treats and make the most of the October air with this guide to the best events happening nearby.

Here are the top five things to do in Lake County this weekend.
Check out other fall events happening in Lake County and see the Lake County Trick or Treat hours.

1. ZombieWAUK in Waukegan

Art meets the undead this weekend as downtown Waukegan transforms into a haven for the creatively creepy during ZombieWauk, part of the city’s monthly ArtWauk celebration. ArtWauk has long been a cornerstone of Waukegan’s creative scene, showcasing local galleries, pop-up exhibits, live music and performances. This October, it takes on a ghoulish twist as costumed zombies, eerie installations and hauntingly good entertainment fill the streets for a night where imagination runs wild. Whether you come dressed to thrill or simply to admire the creativity, ZombieWauk offers a spirited fusion of culture and community that proves—at least for one night—that art in Waukegan is truly alive. For more information, visit WaukeganIL.gov.

Saturday, October 18; 5-10 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Waukegan, various locations on Genesee, Clayton and Washington Streets and Grand Avenue, Waukegan. 

2. HALLOWEEN HOOPLA FAMILY FUN FEST IN VILLAGE OF DEERFIELD

Costumes, candy and plenty of creepy fun are on the agenda at Halloween Hoopla Family Fun Fest. This annual favorite invites families to celebrate the spooky season with ghoulish games, a trick-or-treat trail, balloon twisters, an interactive DJ and festive surprises throughout the evening. With its mix of music, laughter and imaginative play, Halloween Hoopla delivers a frightfully fun start to the weekend for the whole family. For registration, visit DeerfieldParks.org.

Friday, October 17; 6-8 p.m. Free admission for parents and kids ages two and under. Registration is $10 for residents and $15 for nonresidents. Sachs Recreation Center, 455 Lake Cook Rd., Deerfield.

3. Lindy’s Landing 60th Anniversary Bash in Village of Wauconda

A beloved lakeside landmark is celebrating a milestone this weekend as Lindy’s Landing Restaurant and Marina hosts its 60th Anniversary Bash at The Beach Club. Founded by Robert E. “Lindy” Lindstrom, the family-owned restaurant has been a staple of Bangs Lake for six decades, known for its waterfront views, live music and community spirit. Festivities feature food and drink specials, live performances by Duane Hanson and Kevin Purcell and Derrick Procell, along with a 50/50 raffle, giveaways, photo booth and commemorative merchandise. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the show outdoors. With 60 years of great food, family memories and lakeside fun, Lindy’s Anniversary Bash promises to be a night to remember on Bangs Lake. For details, visit LindysLanding.com.

Saturday, October 18; 5 p.m. Free admission. Lindy’s Landing Restaurant and Marina, 115 Park St., Wauconda.

4. Frights and Delights in Village of Vernon Hills

Get ready for a day packed with spooky fun and seasonal cheer as the Sullivan Community Center hosts Frights and Delights. The new Halloween festival combines the best of Trucks, Trunks and Treats and Fall Fest, creating one action-filled celebration for families and pets. Guests can enjoy trunk-or-treating, hayrides, inflatables, food trucks, a DJ and costume contests for both kids and dogs, with furry friends from Border Tails Rescue available for adoption. Trick-or-treat bags will be provided. With its mix of festive activities, Frights and Delights promises a frightfully fun fall day for the whole family, even the four-legged ones. For registration, visit VHParkDistrict.org. 

Saturday, October 18; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Registration: $8. Sullivan Community Center, 635 N. Aspen Dr., Vernon Hills. 

5. Fall Bash at Deer Park Town Center

Celebrate the season in style at Deer Park Town Center’s Fall Bash, a family-friendly afternoon that promises festive fun with a DJ dance party, magic shows, pumpkin decorating, crafts, balloon art and costumed characters roaming the shopping center. Guests can also catch giant pumpkin carving demonstrations by a local artist and indulge in sweet fall treats. This seasonal celebration captures the best of autumn charm—perfect for families looking to make the most of a crisp October afternoon. Learn more at ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com. 

Saturday, October 18; noon-3 p.m. Free admission. Deer Park Town Center, 20530 N. Rand Rd., Deer Park. 

See more things to do this weekend, October 17-19.