It can be a long day for parents when Halloween falls on a weekend, when there’s no school to distract your kids and they’re up and itching to start trick-or-treating by 7am. Following, some things to keep them busy until late afternoon or so when your neighborhood’s festivities get under way.

Get an early start on the scary stuff by attending the Shedd Aquarium’s Spooky Seas overnight. Come in costume tonight to get a close up view of some of the creepier aquatic residents and participate in Halloween-themed games and crafts. There’s also a live DJ and inner before  you have the option of retiring with sleeping bags inside the aquarium for the night. Breakfast will be served in the morning, so the kids can get some real food in before all the candy. For ages 5 and up. Evening-only event is $25; overnight is $60. Register by calling 312-692-3206.

Kids will get free nutrition placemats and water bottles at the kick-off Saturday for Chicago Marathon Kids, a six-month running/walking, nutrition and gardening program aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle. Hanson Stadium, 5100 W Fullerton Ave 9am. FREE!

Theater troupe Barrel of Monkeys will keep everyone entertained at the Chicago Cultural Center’s annual Halloween event. Hallowed Halls: On Stage! kicks off Saturday at 10am with mask and costume making, followed by playwriting and acting workshops and performances by BOM. Don’t forget your costumes! 78 E Washington St, 312-744-6630, 10am-1:30pm. FREE!

Head to Lincoln Park Saturday for the Clark Street Spooktacular from 1- 4pm. After kids register at “Halloween Headquarters” (2338 N Clark St) they can do some early trick-or-treating on Clark Street between Armitage Ave and Diversey Pkwy, and on Diversey from Orchard St to Lakeview Ave, plus join in free games and crafts. Also planned: a scraecrow display, a Hoyle Brothers concert at 1pm and a costume contest at 3:30pm. Free.