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The Village of Forest Park is an unusual suburb of Chicago in that the majority of its “residents” are deceased. According to the 2020 census, the living population of Forest Park is 14,339. The village however is home to roughly four major cemeteries. While there’s not a firm number for the population of the dead, most estimates are north of 1,000,000 burials.

So how does such a village celebrate Halloween? By racing caskets of course!!!

I can’t honestly think of anything in the Chicagoland area that brings out the fun of Halloween quite like this event. Local organizations and residents form teams, build, and decorate a “casket” on wheels. Then late in October the caskets drag race down one of the central streets of Forest Park to the delight of the locals and visitors. One person must be in the casket, and four others push. It’s incredibly entertaining.

After the races, kids can Trick-or-Treat at the businesses along Madison Street until 2:30 pm.

If you would like to take part in the race, registration forms are due by October 2nd. The link below has all the information you need.

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Event Links

https://exploreforestpark.com/events/11th-annual-forest-park-casket-races/

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In The Area

Great local places to check out that will add more fun to your day.