Rolling Meadows offers fall community events from late October into early December 2026, including seasonal library programs, the Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K, Halloween skating, a flashlight walk, pumpkin recycling, live music and Santa’s Workshop. Some are drop-in activities, while others require registration, so check the official listing before attending.
Key Takeaways
- The fall calendar continues through November and reaches into the first weekend of December.
- Highlights include outdoor activities, cultural programs, local history, job resources, crafts, ice skating and live music.
- Several library programs require registration, while other activities are designed for drop-in participation.
- Event details can change. Confirm times, locations, costs and registration with the organizer before attending.
What fall events are happening in Rolling Meadows in 2026?
The local fall calendar stretches from late October through December 5. Here is the quick view, followed by the details you will want before choosing what fits your calendar.
Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
Morbid History | October 20, 2026 from 7:00–8:30 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Community Room |
Book Lover’s Day | October 24, 2026 from 12:00–2:00 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Community Room |
Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K | October 25, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. | Starts at Rolling Meadows High School |
Day of the Dead / Celebración del Día de los Muertos | October 27, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Youth Program Room |
Job Fair in Partnership with IDES | October 29, 2026 from 10:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Community Room |
Spooky Stories and Costume Parade | October 29, 2026 from 6:00–7:00 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Youth Program Room |
Drop-In Crafts | October 30, 2026 | Rolling Meadows Library Youth Craft Table |
Spooky Skate | October 30, October 31 and November 1, 2026 | Nelson Sports Complex |
Family Flashlight Walk | November 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. | See the Park District event listing |
Pumpkin Smash | November 7, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. | See the Park District event listing |
The Witches of November | November 18, 2026 from 7:00–8:30 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Community Room |
Arts Alive Concert: Petra Sings | November 22, 2026 from 2:00–3:00 p.m. | Rolling Meadows Library Community Room |
Wrap It Up Gift-Wrapping Station | Begins November 27, 2026 | Rolling Meadows Library Readers Services Area |
Santa’s Workshop | December 5, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. | See the Park District event listing |
Which Rolling Meadows fall events should I put on my calendar?
The best choice depends on whether you want an outdoor tradition, a cultural or history program, a practical community resource, live music, ice skating or a simple drop-in activity. These are the strongest verified highlights on the seasonal calendar.
Morbid History | October 20, 2026 from 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Community Room
Award-winning filmmaker Lorrisa Julianus shares true stories involving grave robbing, iron coffins and unusual historical mysteries. The program is for adults and teens age 13 and older, and registration is required.
Mari’s planning note: This is a strong seasonal choice for people who enjoy history with a slightly eerie edge.
Book Lover’s Day | October 24, 2026 from 12:00–2:00 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Community Room
An afternoon centered on books, reading and conversation with other book enthusiasts. The library listing says a light lunch is included, and registration is required.
Mari’s planning note: Register ahead and check whether any seating or meal details have changed.
Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K | October 25, 2026 at 8:30 a.m.
Where: Starts at Rolling Meadows High School
An annual run and walk held the Sunday before Halloween. The event includes a kids fun run and costume contests for participants and pets. Proceeds support the Shannon McNamara Scholarship Fund and the Rolling Meadows Park Foundation Scholarship Fund.
Mari’s planning note: This is a community event as much as a race, so walkers and costumed participants can be part of the morning too.
Day of the Dead / Celebración del Día de los Muertos | October 27, 2026
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Youth Program Room
This bilingual Día de los Muertos celebration for children and families includes two one-hour sessions, beginning at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Registration is required, and each session has its own registration page.
Mari’s planning note: Choose the session that fits your evening and register for that specific time.
Job Fair in Partnership with IDES | October 29, 2026 from 10:00 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Community Room
The Rolling Meadows Library is hosting a community job fair in partnership with the Illinois Department of Employment Security. It is open to Rolling Meadows residents and does not require registration. Veterans have early access from 9:30–10:00 a.m.
Mari’s planning note: Bring updated copies of your résumé and cover letter, and review the library listing for any employer or preparation updates.
Spooky Stories and Costume Parade | October 29, 2026 from 6:00–7:00 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Youth Program Room
A Halloween costume parade through the library followed by spooky stories and seasonal activities. The program is designed for babies through first grade, and registration is required.
Mari’s planning note: Choose a costume that is comfortable for walking, sitting and listening to stories.
Drop-In Crafts | October 30, 2026
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Youth Craft Table
A flexible library craft activity available throughout the day. The event is designed as a drop-in option, and younger participants may need help from an adult.
Mari’s planning note: Because supplies may be limited, check the listing before making a special trip.
Spooky Skate | October 30, October 31 and November 1, 2026
Where: Nelson Sports Complex
Celebrate Halloween weekend on the ice with music, candy, costumes and decorations. Sessions are scheduled for Friday from 8:00–9:00 p.m., Saturday from 1:30–4:00 p.m. and Sunday from 2:30–4:00 p.m. The Park District lists $5 admission for guests wearing a costume, with skate rental available for an additional $4.
Mari’s planning note: A costume can make the event more fun and lower the admission price, but choose one that is safe and comfortable for skating.
Family Flashlight Walk | November 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m.
Where: See the Park District event listing
The Rolling Meadows Park District has scheduled its Family Flashlight Walk for an early-November evening. Check the official event page for the current location, participation details and what to bring.
Mari’s planning note: Dress for the weather and confirm whether the event is drop-in or requires advance registration.
Pumpkin Smash | November 7, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.
Where: See the Park District event listing
The Park District’s November calendar includes a morning Pumpkin Smash. Review the official listing for the current drop-off location and rules for removing candles, decorations or other materials from pumpkins.
Mari’s planning note: Do not assume decorated pumpkins will be accepted. Follow the organizer’s preparation instructions.
The Witches of November | November 18, 2026 from 7:00–8:30 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Community Room
An adult program exploring the deadly Great Lakes storms known as the Witches of November, from the loss of Le Griffon to more recent disasters. Registration is required.
Mari’s planning note: This is one of the season’s most distinctive local learning programs and a good fit for Great Lakes history fans.
Arts Alive Concert: Petra Sings | November 22, 2026 from 2:00–3:00 p.m.
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Community Room
Chicago vocalist Petra van Nuis and pianist Dennis Luxion perform an all-ages concert. Registration is required.
Mari’s planning note: This is a relaxed indoor option as the season shifts toward colder weather.
Wrap It Up Gift-Wrapping Station | Begins November 27, 2026
Where: Rolling Meadows Library Readers Services Area
Adults and teens age 13 and older can use a quiet library space to wrap gifts. The library provides supplies and a festive workspace as a drop-in activity.
Mari’s planning note: Check the event page for station dates, hours and any supply limits before bringing several gifts.
Santa’s Workshop | December 5, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
Where: See the Park District event listing
The Rolling Meadows Park District calendar lists two Santa’s Workshop time slots on the first Saturday in December. Check the official listing for location, registration, age guidance and current availability.
Mari’s planning note: Seasonal programs can fill quickly, so confirm space before making plans.
Do I need to register for Rolling Meadows fall events?
Registration varies by event. Morbid History, Book Lover’s Day, Día de los Muertos, Spooky Stories and Costume Parade, The Witches of November and the Arts Alive concert require advance registration. Registration is also available for the Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K. The job fair and several craft activities are listed as drop-in programs. Always check the individual event page for current availability.
Because capacity, weather and program details can change, use the official event page rather than relying on a saved social post. For a broader view, check the Rolling Meadows Park District calendar, the City of Rolling Meadows calendar and the Rolling Meadows Library calendar before you leave home.
What do these events say about life in Rolling Meadows?
A local event calendar can tell you something useful about a community. In Rolling Meadows, fall programming is spread across parks, recreation facilities, the high school and the library. That makes the season feel connected to everyday neighborhood places instead of centered on one commercial destination.
It is also a good example of why I encourage people who are learning a suburb to look beyond home listings. Community traditions, public spaces and the rhythm of local events help you picture what ordinary weekends could feel like. My guide to living in Rolling Meadows adds context on housing, transportation and local amenities.
How should I plan a fall day in Rolling Meadows?
Start with one scheduled event, then leave room for a meal, a walk or time at a nearby park. For outdoor programs, review the weather, parking and what to bring. For library programs, confirm the room, registration status and recommended arrival time.
If you are visiting because you are considering a move, drive through the area at a normal pace. Notice how the parks, civic buildings, schools and everyday errands connect. A community event is useful, but the quieter parts of the day often tell you just as much.
If the visit becomes part of a serious relocation plan, my complete guide to moving to or from Rolling Meadows walks through local timing, utilities, parking and other practical details. If school assignments matter to your search, review my Northwest Chicago suburbs school districts guide and verify every property by its exact address.
What should I confirm before attending?
- The event date and start time
- The exact location and parking instructions
- Whether registration is required
- Any fee, age guideline or participation rule
- Weather updates, cancellations or changes
- What to bring, especially for pet events, skating or outdoor activities
Follow-Up Questions
How late do fall events continue in Rolling Meadows?
The seasonal calendar continues through November and into the first weekend of December. The Park District lists Santa’s Workshop on December 5, giving the guide a natural bridge from late fall into the winter holiday season.
Which Rolling Meadows fall events require registration?
Registration is required for several library programs and is available for the Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K. The job fair and selected craft activities are listed as drop-in events. Check each event page because capacity and availability can change.
When is Spooky Skate in Rolling Meadows?
Spooky Skate is scheduled at Nelson Sports Complex on October 30 from 8:00–9:00 p.m., October 31 from 1:30–4:00 p.m. and November 1 from 2:30–4:00 p.m. Confirm admission, skate rental and any schedule changes with the Park District.
Can I bring my dog to the Shannon McNamara Memorial 5K?
The event listing mentions a costume contest for pets, but participants should confirm the current animal rules with the organizer. Keep any dog leashed and consider whether crowds, costumes and race activity will be comfortable for your pet.
When is the Rolling Meadows Día de los Muertos event?
The Rolling Meadows Library lists two Día de los Muertos sessions on October 27, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Both are designed for children and families, and each session requires its own registration.
Where can I find last-minute Rolling Meadows event updates?
Check the Rolling Meadows Park District, City of Rolling Meadows and Rolling Meadows Library event calendars. Those official pages are the best places to confirm weather changes, registration status, times and locations.
Event details can change. Please confirm current information with the Rolling Meadows Park District or Rolling Meadows Library before attending.
