ST. CHARLES — This year, the St. Charles Legends and Lanterns make their return. After weeks of preparation, they are set to open on October 14–15, 21–22, and 27–29 on St. Charles’s Historic Main Street.

Legends and Lanterns is an annual journey through Halloween history, drawing inspiration from the past.

Photo by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz DowellPhoto by Liz Dowell

From the vintage charm of Halloween in the 1910s and 1930s to the historical rituals and customs introduced by the Druids and Victorians, and even the ethereal atmosphere found in American ghost stories and Brothers Grimm fairy tales, this event is for guests of all ages.

Visitors can expect to encounter various historical figures, including Martians, Lizzie Borden, Van Helsing, and many more.

St. Charles’ list of Legends and Lanterns events:

The Summoning of the Spirits: Opening Ceremony

Haunted History Trail: Discover the Mysteries of Main Street’s Past

Tinseltown Terror: A Salute to the Golden Age of Monster Movies

Morbid Curiosity: Mourning Traditions of the Victorian Age

Plaza Del Dia De Los Muertos

Writers Block

Grimm Brothers Oddities & Curiosities

Scarecrow Glen

Gargoyles: History’s Stone Guardians

Botanical Rascals: A Study of Poisonous & Carnivorous Plants

Ghost Stories at the First State Capitol

Van Helsing’s BOO-venir Outpost

Scaredy Cat Scavenger Hunt

Pumpkin Glow

Musical Entertainment

Monster Banishing Procession & Jam-BOO-ree