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October 2011 in Chicago - Annual Events Calendar

October in Chicago is more than just spooky costumes and haunted houses

By , About.com Guide

October Chicago Weather

Average High Temperature: 63°F (17°C)
Average Low Temperature: 44°F (7°C)
Average Precipitation: 2.5"

Weather wise, October can be a beautiful month in Chicago with crisp, cool temperatures and sunny days. It is also one of Chicago's busiest months with the annual Chicago Marathon, which attracts tens of thousands to the Windy City, as well as Halloween and more.

Here are some fun things to do in Chicago in October 2011 that go beyond the "boo" in Halloween.

October 1 - 31, 2011: Halloween Events - Enjoy hay rides, pumpkin decorating, costume contests as Chicago celebrates Halloween, which is on Monday, October 31, all month long, including Chicagoween when Chicago's Daley Plaza turns into Franken Plaza. (Get tips on planning a Halloween party and how to make your own Halloween costume.)

October 8, 2011: Yom Kippur - Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) is one of two Jewish High Holy Days and falls 10 days after Rosh Hashanah on the 10th of Tishrei, which is a Hebrew month that correlates with September-October on the secular calendar. The purpose of Yom Kippur is to bring about reconciliation between people and between individuals and God. According to Jewish tradition, it is also the day when God decides the fate of each human being. (For more information on Jewish holidays in October and throughout the year, read our Jewish Holiday Calendar 5772.)

October 9, 2011: Chicago Marathon - This annual favorite that attracts overe 40,000 runners and thousands of cheering spectators strides through some of Chicago's most popular and historic neighborhoods. (Get tips on marathon training and running advice for beginners and what to do the day before running a marathon.)

October 10, 2011: Columbus Day Parade - Enjoy the parade that marches along Columbus from Balbo to Monroe. Parade starts at 12:30 p.m. (Learn the history of Columbus Day.)

October 22, 2011: Spooky Zoo Spectacular! - The kid-friendly Lincoln Park Zoo turns into a Halloween fun place with events, costumes, and more.

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