Each fall, the staff at Shriners Children’s Chicago pulls out all the stops to make Halloween a fun and colorful time for patients and their families. Just before Halloween, departments find time for a friendly but intense competition. The annual pumpkin decorating contest brings in more than 20 creative entries each year, many featuring popular children’s characters and movies. All are kid-friendly and full of imagination, perfect for a pediatric audience. With just two rules — no carving and no plug-in accessories — the staff transforms simple pumpkins into amazing temporary works of art enhanced with backdrops, props, sound effects and music.
Once completed, all the decorated pumpkins are unveiled in the Patient Activity Mall where patients, families and staff cast their votes for their favorites. In 2025, the rehabilitation department won first place with their “Lilo & Stitch” inspired pumpkins.
Halloween celebrations at Shriners Children’s Chicago also include a staff costume contest. The annual Halloween party for patients and families organized by our recreational therapy and child life department brings together accessible, indoor trick-or-treating, music, crafts and special guests, making for a fun, inclusive experience for all.
