With an always-classic Mad Hatter theme, this parade promises costumes, prizes and post-parade festivities in the surrounding neighborhoods. Register for the costume contest and take advantage of your big chance to strut your stuff (and demonstrate your vastly superior Halloween creativity).

Free | 3190 N. Halsted Street, north to Addison Street | Saturday, costume contest registration at 4 p.m., parade begins at 6 p.m.

Take advantage of the awesome combination of Chromeo's danceable techno-pop, Crystal Castle's hyper-indie electronica and Boys Noize's eclectic, funky sound at this Halloween-themed show. The tickets are on the pricey side, but it's worth it for the killer performances and dance party that make up the show as a pre-Halloween treat.

$35 | Congress Theater, 2135 N. Milwaukee Ave. |
Friday, 7 p.m.

Check out this 20-room haunted house after taking in the Navy Pier fireworks for the last time this fall. The haunted house hosts caged zombies, albino clowns and vampires played by 70 actors -- definitely plenty to freak you out this Halloween. (The Web site specifically claims that this is "not kid friendly.")

$20, $25 for a fast pass | Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. | Friday, Saturday 6 p.m. - 11 p.m.

It wouldn't be the complete Rocky Horror experience without the glam rock musical numbers, the tacky-fantastic energy of the cast and audience and the awesomely hypersexual Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Don't worry if you're not sure about when to throw the rice or yell about when the Criminologist has no neck -- audience participation kits are available.

$20 | Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave. | Friday, Saturday 8 p.m.

This annual Halloween art exhibition celebrates "the dark arts," perfect for putting you in a scary-yet-thoughtful Halloween mood. You can meet the artists at this culmination of Chicago Artists Month, or you can just enjoy the provocative paintings. Creative attire is encouraged, so put on your best artsy ghost costume (no sheet over the head, please).

$1 donation encouraged | Gallery Provocateur, 2125 N Rockwell | Saturday 8 p.m. - 12 a.m.

The Midwest's premier fire dancers will keep you and your family (especially younger siblings) entertained during a break in festivities this Parents Weekend, and the trip into the city will be worth it because of the free admission.

Free | Daley Plaza, Washington and Dearborn | Friday 6:30 and 7:15 p.m., Saturday 7:30 p.m.