Brookfield Zoo Transforms Into a Winter Wonderland—Here’s What to Expect

Looking for a way to make your holidays extra magical this year? Brookfield Zoo in Chicago has something special planned that will light up your season—literally.

Experience the Magic of the Holidays at Brookfield Zoo in Chicago

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This holiday season, Brookfield Zoo is turning up the festive cheer by transforming into a dazzling winter wonderland. With Chicagoland’s longest-running holiday lights festival, new immersive attractions, and plenty of seasonal fun, it’s the perfect place to make unforgettable holiday memories with your family and friends.

Holiday Magic: A Tradition 43 Years in the Making

Back for its 43rd year, Holiday Magic is an absolute must-see.

Picture this: over two million LED lights twinkling in the winter air, giant illuminated animals lighting up the night, and a breathtaking tunnel show you’ll be talking about all season. Add to that 900+ community-decorated trees, and it’s like stepping into a storybook, according to abc7chicago.com.

Here are some of the can’t-miss features and favorites:

• Immersive Displays: Stroll through Candy Cane Lane or explore the Sparkling Coast, where every corner feels like magic.
• Nightly Shows: Catch the holiday-themed Dolphins in Action presentation or get up close with a Penguin Encounter—both at 6 p.m.
• Holiday Market: Warm up with craft cocktails, and seasonal bites like funnel cakes, and shop for handmade gifts and custom ornaments that make the perfect holiday keepsakes.

Snap a Selfie with Santa

Santa is trading his North Pole digs for the zoo! From November 22 to December 22, you can meet the big guy himself between 5–8 p.m. on Holiday Magic nights.

Pro tip: bring your wish list and a camera for that perfect holiday photo.

Plan Your Visit

Holiday Magic runs on select evenings, November 22–24 and 29–30, and throughout December (1, 5–8, 12–15, 19–22, and 26–31). The zoo will be open from 3–9 p.m., giving you plenty of time to soak up the festive vibes.

A few reminders:

• The zoo will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
• Some attractions, like the Dolphins in Action show and Penguin Encounters, require an additional charge.
• Advance registration and tickets are required for all events.

Get Your Tickets Now!

For all the details and to secure your spot, visit brookfieldzoo.org/Events. Don’t wait—holiday magic like this only comes once a year.

If you're looking to explore more holiday light displays near Brookfield Zoo, here are some festive options to consider:

• Lincoln Park Zoo's ZooLights: Located in Chicago, this annual event features dazzling light displays, holiday-themed activities, and seasonal treats.
• Illumination at The Morton Arboretum: Situated in Lisle, this interactive light experience allows visitors to walk through a mile-long path of illuminated trees and captivating displays.
• Aurora Festival of Lights: Held in Aurora, this drive-through light show offers a spectacular array of holiday scenes and animations.
• Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: Located in downtown Chicago, this annual event features a grand tree-lighting parade and fireworks, illuminating the city's iconic shopping district.

MORE: 5 Stunning Christmas Light Shows in Illinois You Must See