Halloween comes early this weekend with the family-friendly Spooktacular in Glenview. Or, plan a date night or girls’ night out at Art Attack, a Nicholas Sparks book signing, or the newest exhibit at the Chicago History Museum.

Plus, if you’re thinking about adopting a dog or cat, don’t miss PAWS Chicago’s mega adoption event in Highland Park.

Halloween Spooktacular

Oct. 16
Glenview

Start the Halloween fun a little early with inflatables, face painting, crafts, games and more entertainment at the Glenview Park Center. Costumes are optional.

Art Attack

Oct. 16
Winnetka

Take a stroll through the Hubbard Woods Design District and browse artwork or talk to artists. And don’t miss the after party at Get Dwell.

Nicholas Sparks

Oct. 16
Winnetka

Nicholas Sparks will be in Winnetka to introduce his newest novel, “See Me.” You must purchase a copy of the book from The Book Stall. (Author Rainbow Rowell will also be in Winnetka on Oct. 18. Find more information here.)

Chicago Authored

Opens Oct. 17
Chicago

The first-ever entirely crowd-sourced museum exhibit opens this weekend at the Chicago History Museum. The café-style space is filled with works from writers who explore the history of our favorite city.

Angels With Tails

Oct. 18
Highland Park

For the first time ever, PAWS Chicago is bringing this adoption event to Highland Park. If you’ve been thinking about adding a furry friend to your family, this is the perfect time to meet adoptable dogs, cats, puppies and kittens as you stroll Central Avenue in Downtown Highland Park.

Bonus

• The YWomen Leadership Awards on Oct. 15 will honor Sunny Fischer, Delores Holmes and Blair Brettschneider. Buy your tickets here.
• Posh Essentials is hosting “Get FITed,” a free bra fitting event, Oct. 15-16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Plus, throughout the month, bring in a new or gently used bra to donate to The Bra Recyclers and receive 15 percent off for each bra you bring in during October.