Naper Settlement, the beloved outdoor living‑history museum in Naperville, has announced a full slate of October programs designed to bring history, culture, and seasonal fun to families and adults alike. The museum will be open Tuesday‑Friday, 10 a.m.‑4 p.m., with general admission at $12 for adults (13+), $10 for seniors (62+), $9 for veterans, and $8 for youth (4‑12). Naperville residents with proof of residency, children under four, and members enjoy free entry.
German‑Style Oktoberfest (Oct. 2‑3)
Kick off the month on Friday, October 2, from 5‑10 p.m., and continue Saturday, October 3, from 3‑10 p.m. for a lively Oktoberfest celebration. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children (4‑12). Attendees are invited to don lederhosen, sample authentic German foods from local restaurants and food trucks, and enjoy a wide selection of Oktoberfest‑style beers in a large tent. The weekend also features men’s and women’s stein‑holding contests on Saturday at 5 p.m., plus an expanded children’s area with activities.
Naper Settlement Lantern Tour (Oct. 6)
On Tuesday, October 6, from 7‑8:30 p.m., the museum offers a Lantern Tour for $15 per person. Pre‑registration is required. Visitors will wander the historic grounds after dark, guided by lantern light, and hear stories about the people, places, and moments that shaped the Naperville community.
“Your Friendly Neighborhood Historian” – World Wars Program (Oct. 8)
Thursday, October 8, from 7‑8 p.m., the museum presents a program titled “You Think You Know…The World Wars.” For $10 per person, the series explores major events of the World Wars, highlighting misunderstood or overlooked aspects of American history as part of the nation’s 250th‑anniversary commemorations.
Craft By Beer: Mad Scientists (Oct. 15)
Adults seeking a blend of science and craft beer can attend the “Craft By Beer: Mad Scientists” night on Thursday, October 15, from 7‑9 p.m. Tickets are $20 per person (21+). Participants will engage in hands‑on experiments, chemical reactions, and explosive concoctions while enjoying a selection of craft brews. Valid ID is required.
Family STEM Night: Mad Scientist Potion Lab (Oct. 22)
Thursday, October 22, from 6‑7 p.m., the museum hosts a family‑focused STEM night for $8 per person. Children ages 5‑11 and their caretakers can create color‑changing potions, observe chemical explosions, and learn about forces that attract and repel.
Adult‑Only Halloween Bash (Oct. 23‑24)
For adults 21 and older, Naper Settlement presents a Halloween bash on Friday, October 23, and Saturday, October 24, from 5‑10 p.m. Admission is $25 per adult. The event features live music, a food‑truck graveyard, a BOOze Bar, costume contests, art displays, and photo experiences. IDs will be checked at entry.
Family Spooktacular (Oct. 24‑25)
Families can enjoy a more modest Halloween celebration on Saturday, October 24, from 10 a.m.‑2 p.m., and Sunday, October 25, from 12 p.m.‑4 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for children (4‑12). The program includes a trick‑or‑treat trail across the museum’s historic homes, performances by The Little Mermen & Princess Pals (a Disney tribute band), themed inflatables, a friendly haunted house, and a Ghoul School where kids can make slime. The event is designed for children ages 3‑12.
Plan Your Visit
All events require pre‑registration through NaperSettlement.org. For additional details or to purchase general museum tickets, visit the website or call (630) 420‑6010. With its 31 historic structures dating back to the 1830s, Naper Settlement continues to serve as a vibrant hub where history comes alive and the community gathers.
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
