Coffins, Costumes & Chaos: Forest Park's Casket Races Return October 24!
One of the near-west suburbs' wildest Halloween traditions is back, and it's absolutely worth experiencing.
Only in Forest Park could a group of people racing homemade coffins down a neighborhood street become one of the most entertaining fall traditions around.
On Saturday, October 24, 2026, the 14th Annual Forest Park Casket Races return to Beloit Avenue for a morning of spooky creativity, questionable aerodynamics, and some seriously competitive coffin pushing.
And the best part? It's completely free to watch!
A Race to Die For
Forget traditional go-karts. In Forest Park, teams build their own rolling caskets, dress in costumes, and race down Beloit Avenue between Madison and Adams Streets.
Each team features four runners pushing a wheeled coffin with a fifth teammate riding inside as the designated "ghost." It's part race, part Halloween parade, and entirely ridiculous in the best possible way.
Some teams go for speed. Others go all out with elaborate decorations, outrageous costumes, and hilarious themes.
Awards aren't just for the fastest teams, either. There are trophies for the funniest and creepiest caskets, plus the much-coveted honor of finishing Dead Last.
Why Forest Park?
Forest Park has long been known as the Village of Cemeteries, home to several historic burial grounds. So when the community wanted a Halloween celebration with a personality all its own, coffin racing turned out to be a rather perfect fit.
The tradition began in 2012 and has grown into a beloved local spectacle that brings together neighbors, businesses, families, and some wonderfully creative competitors.
2026 Casket Races Schedule
Saturday, October 24 — Beloit Avenue between Madison and Adams Streets, Forest Park
9:00–9:30 AM: Team check-in
9:30 AM: Food vendors and festivities begin
10:30 AM: Parade of Caskets
11:00 AM: Let the races begin!
During the races: Kids and pets costume parade, before the final four heats
12:30–2:30 PM: Trick or Treat on Madison Street
The Parade of Caskets is especially worth catching. It's your chance to see the teams' wonderfully weird creations before they go speeding down the street.
The Fun Doesn't End at the Finish Line
When the last coffin crosses the finish line, head over to Madison Street for an afternoon of Halloween fun.
From 12:30 to 2:30 PM, Trick or Treat on Madison invites families to continue the festivities along Forest Park's popular shopping and dining corridor.
It's also a great excuse to explore the neighborhood, browse local shops, or grab lunch at one of Madison Street's many restaurants.
Planning Your Visit
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Where: Beloit Avenue between Madison and Adams Streets, Forest Park, Illinois
Cost: Free for spectators
Best time to arrive: By 10:15 AM if you want to catch the Parade of Caskets and find a good viewing spot.
Good to know: The event is outdoors, so dress for October weather. Check the organizer's website for any last-minute schedule updates or changes.
For official event information, visit the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce.
We'll See You at the Finish Line!
Whether you're a Halloween fanatic, a fan of quirky neighborhood traditions, or just looking for something different to do with the family, the Forest Park Casket Races deserve a spot on your October calendar.
Because really, how often do you get to cheer for a speeding coffin?
For more local events, restaurants, hidden gems, and neighborhood adventures, keep exploring Discover Berwyn.
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Sources & Additional Information
Forest Park Chamber of Commerce — 14th Annual Casket Races — Official event information, schedule, location, and festivities.
Explore Oak Park & Beyond — Forest Park Casket Races — Background on the tradition, history, and what makes this annual event unique.
Event details are subject to change. Please check with the organizers for the latest information before attending.
