Get ready to plunge headfirst into a descent of live music, immersive horror, and post-apocalyptic chaos at Nightmare on Chicago Street 2026 in downtown Elgin. Team Gregula is hex-cited to be a part of all the frightful fun as the macabre media! For the first time ever this event will be taking place on TWO nights for double the scares!!!
Nightmare on Chicago Street: The Arrival
(Friday, October 16)
Gym Class Heroes. Plain White T’s. The Ataris.
Three nationally touring artists take over Chicago Street for a one-night concert event unlike anything in Nightmare on Chicago Street history.
Featuring live performances from Gym Class Heroes, Plain White T’s and The Ataris, The Arrival combines a full evening of music with immersive entertainment, food and beverage vendors, a haunted attraction, roaming performers and access to Cirque D’ Freak, Nightmare’s twisted circus-themed zone filled with sinister clowns, sideshow performers and carnival chaos.
This event takes place on Chicago Street only and does not include access to the full eight-block Nightmare on Chicago Street event on Saturday.
Show Schedule:
5:00PM — Gates Open
6:00PM — The Ataris
7:30PM — Plain White T’s
9:00PM — Gym Class Heroes
Upgrade to The Arrival All Access for expedited private entry, plus an exclusive lounge, enhanced amenities, and additional experiences.
Please note: Tickets for Friday and Saturday are sold separately. Guests wishing to attend both events must purchase a ticket for each date. Combination ticket packages are not available.
Age limit: 17+
Nightmare on Chicago Street
(Saturday, October 17)
Eight city blocks. Hundreds of performers. Complete immersion.
The Midwest’s largest immersive horror event returns to downtown Elgin, transforming eight blocks into a sprawling post-apocalyptic world filled with monsters, mayhem and unforgettable encounters.
Explore immersive themed zones, encounter hundreds of costumed performers, experience live entertainment throughout the night, and brave Nightmare Alley, the event’s featured haunted attraction. From Plaza Mictlan’s Aztec underworld to fan-favorite destinations throughout downtown, every block offers new characters, surprises and stories to discover.
General admission tickets get you into the zone at 6:00PM and includes access to the full eight-block Nightmare on Chicago Street experience, featuring:
- Immersive themed zones and environments
- Three stages featuring live music and DJs
- Hundreds of specialty horror performers
- Nightmare Alley, the event’s signature haunted attraction
- Celebrity appearances
- Costume contest hosted by Elliott Serrano and SVENGOOLIE!!!
- Photo opportunities
- Retail, food and beverage vendors
- Themed cocktails and specialty drinks
Nightmare on Chicago Street takes place October 16– 17, 2026 in downtown Elgin, IL (along Chicago St from Douglas Ave to Villa St). The main address is 150 Dexter Ct, Elgin, IL 60120
HOURS:
Friday, October 16 – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Saturday, October 17 – 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM (with VIP/All-Access early entry at 5:00 PM).
TICKETS:
Prices vary, click HERE for more information.
Upgrade to ZDI All Access for expedited private entry beginning at 5:00PM, plus an exclusive lounge, enhanced amenities, and additional experiences.
Please note: tickets to Friday and Saturday are sold separately. Guests wishing to attend both events must purchase a ticket for each date. Combination ticket packages are not available.
All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Refunds will not be issued for weather-related or other unforeseen delays, shortened performances, schedule changes, or event cancellations.
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