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Open House Chicago Spotlight: Get Witchy at the Colvin House

Posted on October 15
Kayleigh Padar

Kayleigh Padar

The Colvin House in Chicago, a beige brick mansion with columns and an arched doorway surrounded by an iron fence.

The Colvin House, 5940 N. Sheridan Rd., was built in 1909 and sits on one-third of an acre of lakefront land. (Courtesy Colvin House Events)

If stepping back in time to live out your mystical dreams in a century-old mansion sounds like the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit, stop by the Colvin House in Edgewater during Open House Chicago.

Every year, the Chicago Architecture Center invites visitors to explore more than 200 architectural sites throughout the city. Among them is the Colvin House, which will be open for tours on Sunday, Oct. 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Built in 1909, the Colvin House is a prairie-style mansion that sits on a one-third acre of land along Chicago’s lakefront in Edgewater. The landmarked building features sixteen rooms, a grand staircase with a crystal chandelier, three fireplaces, and adjoining sunrooms.

Nowadays, the building is also home to the Colvin Coven, a group of spiritual people who regularly host witchy community events. (It’s also a co-working space and private events venue, run by Creative Coworking.)

One of the Colvin Coven’s recurring events is Tarot Tuesday, when people gather at the Colvin House for tarot readings, crafting, and enjoying refreshments. Attendees are encouraged to BYOS (Bring Your Own Spell), which they can work on in community with others.

Other Spooky Colvin House Events:

Monstrosity: A Halloween Experience | On Oct. 24 at 8 p.m., the historic mansion will transform into Dr. Victor Frankenstein’s lab. Attendees can expect an immersive theatrical horror experience, complete with actors, curated decor, gourmet appetizers, and drinks. There’s even a dance floor!

Samhain | The Colvin Coven is gathering to honor Samhain, a Pagan holiday that marks when it’s believed that the veil is thinnest, on Nov. 1 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. During the event, attendees will build a group altar for their ancestors. (Make sure to bring an object or photo that represents your loved one!) Then, everyone can create an ancestor candle to use for similar rituals at home.

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