Every October, there are always posts on what to do for Halloween, and they’re always filled with the same things. Pumpkin carving to baking spooky themed cookies – none of the ideas are new. Keep reading to find new and specific Halloween plans in the Downers Grove area.

See a scary movie at the Music Box

The Music Box, in the Wrigleyville neighborhood of Chicago, is hosting a film series entitled “Music Box of Horrors: Dead and Loving It!” The series includes many spooky films such as the 1925 “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Bride of Frankenstein” and “Cure.” There’s something for everyone to enjoy. Many of these screenings come with unique experiences, such as a live score played along with the film and real amphibians before the show.

Try candy from around the world

Every Halloween, you’ll always find Smarties and Hershey’s bars in trick-or-treater’s buckets, but what about Carambars and Pulparindo? Go on a hunt at different cultural grocery stores, like World Market in Oak Brook, to find candies you’ve never tried before. Who knows–maybe you might find your new favorite candy.

Have a Halloween costume contest (but with a twist)

Get all your friends together, have them each bring five pieces of old clothing they no longer wear and combine them all into one pile. Choose a theme, set a timer for five minutes and everyone uses what’s in the clothing pile to create a costume that fits the theme. Finally, everyone votes on who made the best costume; the winner gets a big bag of candy – or bragging rights.

Visit real haunted places in Chicago

Walking in Chicago, you’re sure to find at least one spooky building with tons of interesting history. From the Congress Plaza Hotel to the John Hancock Center, there are plenty of haunts to be found in the Windy City. Perhaps you’ll even come face-to-face with a ghost yourself.

Whether you’re into frights or a cozy night, there’s always something to do to celebrate Halloween. So grab your friends and black cats and make the most out of your Hallo-weekend this year.