Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

Shedd Aquarium

Nightmare On Chicago Street

Fri, Oct 16 – Sat, Oct 17, 2026 • 5:00pm - 11:00pm

Chicago Street (Douglas to Villa), Elgin, IL 60120

Nightmare On Chicago Street is the midwest's largest immersive horror event. Music, food and drink, and plenty of ghoulish entertainment.

For the first time ever, Nightmare on Chicago Street is expanding to two nights

Introducing: Nightmare Friday — an all-new concert-driven Nightmare experience hitting downtown Elgin on Friday, Oct. 16.

This isn’t a preview night or a smaller version of Saturday. We’re talking nationally recognized music acts, immersive horror, fire performers, bars, food trucks, Cirque, haunted attractions, and all kinds of twisted surprises throughout the night. Bands include Gym Class Heroes, Plain White T's, and The Ataris.

Then Saturday, Oct. 17, Nightmare returns in full force with the massive immersive horror event you already know and fear. Presented by the Zombie Defense Initiative, this year’s event promises an experience like no other. Prepare for an evening of pulse-pounding excitement with electrifying performances, immersive environments, apocalyptic-themed drinks, delectable food options, and a soundtrack that will keep your heart racing.

Citizens will once again unite in the Safe Zone. While some parts of the city may appear abandoned and overrun with chaos—boarded-up businesses, reclaimed vegetation, scattered trash, and remnants of a post-apocalyptic world—fear not. Your safety remains our top priority. Essential businesses will be open, providing food, beverages, shelter, and essential supplies.

Don’t miss out on this year’s Nightmare On Chicago Street—mark your calendars and get ready for two nights of spine-chilling fun and unforgettable memories.

More Information

  • Mon: Closed
  • Tue: Closed
  • Wed: Closed
  • Thu: Closed
  • Fri: 5:00pm – 11:00pm
  • Sat: 5:00pm – 11:00pm
  • Sun: Closed

Each night requires its own ticket. Both nights have standard and VIP options.

How to find us?

Back to Listings

Places to stay nearby...

Super 8 Motel - Elgin

Elgin

Count on value when you book a room at our Super 8 Elgin hotel!

Read more about Super 8 Motel - Elgin

Elgin Community College University & Business Center

Elgin

Elgin Community College allows businesses, corporations, not-for-profit organizations, and community groups to rent college facilities and grounds. These spaces are available when not in use for…

Read more about Elgin Community College University & Business Center

Colonial Lodge Motel

Elgin

Oldest motel in Elgin provides great service to incoming guests

Read more about Colonial Lodge Motel

You might also be interested...

Elgin Fringe Festival

Downtown Elgin •  Sep 23 – Sep 27

Elgin Fringe Festival brings dance, theater, comedy, music, and undefined art forms delight audiences to intimate settings across downtown Elgin. Fringe celebrates bold artistic experimentation, showcasing…

Read more about Elgin Fringe Festival

Downtown Elgin Market

S. Riverside Drive, Elgin •  Sep 25 @ 3PM

A seasonal open-air farmers market in downtown Elgin that hosts a variety of local produce and handmade goods.

Read more about Downtown Elgin Market

Elgin History Museum's Annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk

Bluff City Cemetery •  Sep 26 – Sep 27 @ 3PM

Take a guided tour that showcases gravesites of former residents portrayed by actors in period costumes.

Read more about Elgin History Museum's Annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.