The Haunted Runway: Goodwill Kicks Off Arts in the Dark with DIY Style and Community Spirit

A Night of Creativity, Community, and Chicago Magic

This year’s Arts in the Dark parade opened with a hauntingly stylish twist.

Before the official procession even began, Goodwill Thrift Studio took over State Street with The Haunted Runway — a live DIY costume contest that blended fashion, imagination, and secondhand artistry.

Presented in partnership with LUMA8, The Haunted Runway brought the energy of a Halloween preshow to life. As the crowd of tens of thousands gathered under glowing lights and party beats, Goodwill kicked off the night by celebrating the creativity that fuels Chicago’s cultural scene — and the sustainable spirit that defines thrifting.

Meet the Finalists Who Stole the Show

After weeks of online voting, five finalists were selected to bring their DIY creations to life — with three marching the full parade route.

Each finalist was accompanied by a “handler” holding signs featuring QR codes that let paradegoers vote in real time for their favorite look.

Ultimately, the crowd crowned Janna, whose Mad Hatter costume captivated audiences with its bold, whimsical design.

“From the tip of my purple wingtip shoes to the collar of my blinged-out topcoat, my costume is entirely thrifted,” Janna shared. “The hat is handmade — cardboard, secondhand fabrics, and a lot less madness than mercury.”

Lights, Music, and Movement: The Energy of Hip Hop ConnXion

The Haunted Runway was brought to life by Suavé, a professional MC/DJ and the founder of the renowned Chicago dance organization Hip Hop ConnXion (@hiphopconnxion).

Alongside DJ Ray (@rayengmusic), Suavé and HHC’s high-energy entertainers turned the preshow into a full-on street performance — hyping the crowd, tossing out glow bracelets and custom-printed shirts, and dancing with thousands along the route.

Even parade officials and Chicago police couldn’t resist moving to the beat. One officer was spotted singing along as the crowd clapped, cheered, and waved light-up swag in rhythm.

The Haunted Runway may have been the parade’s opener, but it felt like the main event.

Fashion with a Purpose

Every costume on The Haunted Runway represented more than creativity.

Each look was built from thrifted finds and reclaimed materials, turning secondhand items into wearable art.

By shopping and donating at Goodwill, you help fund programs that connect people to jobs, support youth development, and keep millions of pounds of materials out of landfills every year.

100% thrifted. 100% nonprofit. 100% Chicago.

Follow the Creativity

The Haunted Runway was just the beginning. Follow @GoodwillGreaterMC on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to see behind-the-scenes moments, finalist stories, and upcoming community activations.

And if this year’s preshow is any sign, next Halloween’s runway will be even bigger, bolder, and thriftier.

Want to join the fun next year?

Follow Goodwill Greater Milwaukee & Chicago for event updates, thrift inspiration, and future community contests that celebrate creativity and sustainable style.

Thanks to Arts in the Dark and Daveed Holmes of Apertrue Photography!