Chicago Halloween parade, festival in the works

CHICAGO -- The Chicago Cultural Mile Association says it's organizing what it calls the first-of-its-kind, all-day Chicago Halloween festival that'll end with the nighttime parade. The inaugural event is scheduled for October 24.

Among those who are playing a role in the organization is the Field Museum, The Art Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The city's Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events is also involved.

In remarks prepared for a Tuesday announcement, the Chicago Cultural Mile Association's president, J.R. Davis, says he wants the festival to "become an iconic annual event" in the city.

The association seeks to promote the less-traveled section of Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River south to Roosevelt Road.