Is Lincoln Park Zoo Open on Thanksgiving?

Zoo Core Editors Desk

Is Lincoln Park Zoo Open on Thanksgiving?

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Lincoln Park Zoo, a beloved attraction in Chicago, is closed on Thanksgiving Day. This closure is part of the zoo’s annual holiday schedule, which includes limited operations during the festive season. While the zoo is typically open 365 days a year, Thanksgiving is one of the few exceptions when visitors cannot explore the animal exhibits or participate in zoo activities. Understanding the zoo’s holiday hours and special events is crucial for planning your visit during the holiday season.

What Are Lincoln Park Zoo’s Regular Operating Hours?

is lincoln park zoo open on thanksgiving
Image ‘File:White pelican. Lincoln Park Zoo. 1900. (3404663929).jpg’ by The Field Museum Library, licensed under No restrictions

Lincoln Park Zoo typically operates on a year-round schedule, but its hours can vary depending on the season and special events. Here’s a breakdown of the zoo’s regular operating hours:

  • Spring and Summer (March through October):
  • Monday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

  • Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM

  • Fall and Winter (November through February):

  • Daily: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

However, it’s important to note that these hours can be subject to change, especially during holiday periods or special events like ZooLights.

Why Is Lincoln Park Zoo Closed on Thanksgiving?

is lincoln park zoo open on thanksgiving

Lincoln Park Zoo closes on Thanksgiving Day for several reasons:

  1. Staff Appreciation: Closing allows zoo employees to spend time with their families on this important holiday.
  2. Animal Care: It provides an opportunity for essential maintenance and animal care without visitor interference.
  3. Holiday Preparation: The closure enables staff to prepare for upcoming holiday events, such as ZooLights.
  4. Tradition: Many zoos and public attractions in the United States close on Thanksgiving as part of a long-standing tradition.

What Other Holidays Affect Lincoln Park Zoo’s Schedule?

While Lincoln Park Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, it’s not the only holiday that impacts the zoo’s operations. Here’s a list of other holidays that may affect the zoo’s schedule:

  • Christmas Eve: Early closure (typically at 3:00 PM)
  • Christmas Day: Closed
  • New Year’s Eve: Early closure (typically at 3:00 PM)
  • New Year’s Day: Open, but may have reduced hours

It’s always best to check the zoo’s official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on holiday hours and closures.

How Does ZooLights Impact Lincoln Park Zoo’s Thanksgiving Operations?

ZooLights, Lincoln Park Zoo’s popular holiday light display, typically begins in late November. However, it does not operate on Thanksgiving Day. Here’s how ZooLights affects the zoo’s operations around Thanksgiving:

  • Thanksgiving Day: Zoo is closed, no ZooLights
  • Days leading up to Thanksgiving: Regular zoo hours may be adjusted to prepare for ZooLights
  • Day after Thanksgiving: Zoo reopens with regular hours, ZooLights may begin in the evening

ZooLights usually runs from late November through early January, transforming the zoo into a winter wonderland with millions of colorful lights and festive displays.

What Can Visitors Do If They Can’t Visit Lincoln Park Zoo on Thanksgiving?

If you find yourself in Chicago on Thanksgiving and can’t visit Lincoln Park Zoo, don’t worry! There are plenty of alternative activities to enjoy:

  1. Explore Millennium Park: Take a stroll through this iconic park and snap a photo at the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean).
  2. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: Many museums remain open on Thanksgiving, offering a cultural experience on the holiday.
  3. Enjoy a Thanksgiving meal: Many restaurants in Chicago offer special Thanksgiving menus.
  4. Take a holiday lights tour: While ZooLights isn’t open, other areas of the city may have festive light displays.
  5. Watch the Thanksgiving Parade: Chicago hosts an annual Thanksgiving Parade on State Street.

How Can Visitors Plan Their Trip to Lincoln Park Zoo Around Thanksgiving?

If you’re planning to visit Lincoln Park Zoo around Thanksgiving, consider the following tips:

  1. Check the official website for the most current hours and closure information.
  2. Plan your visit for the day before or after Thanksgiving when the zoo is open.
  3. Be aware that the zoo may close early on some days to prepare for evening events like ZooLights.
  4. Consider purchasing tickets in advance for any special holiday events.
  5. Dress appropriately for the weather, as Chicago can be quite cold in late November.

What Special Events Does Lincoln Park Zoo Offer During the Holiday Season?

While the zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, it offers several exciting events during the holiday season:

  1. ZooLights: A dazzling display of holiday lights and festive activities.
  2. Holiday Market: Shop for unique gifts from local artisans.
  3. Ice Skating: Enjoy skating at the zoo’s seasonal rink (weather permitting).
  4. Photos with Santa: Available on select dates during the holiday season.
  5. New Year’s Eve celebration: A family-friendly event to ring in the new year.

How Does Lincoln Park Zoo Prepare for the Holiday Season?

Lincoln Park Zoo undergoes significant preparations for the holiday season, including:

  • Installing millions of lights for ZooLights
  • Setting up seasonal decorations throughout the zoo
  • Preparing special holiday-themed animal enrichment activities
  • Training seasonal staff for holiday events
  • Implementing cold-weather protocols for animal care

These preparations often begin weeks before Thanksgiving, which is another reason why the zoo closes on the holiday itself.

What Are Some Interesting Facts About Lincoln Park Zoo During the Holiday Season?

Here are some fascinating facts about Lincoln Park Zoo during the holidays:

  1. ZooLights uses over 2.5 million lights to create its dazzling displays.
  2. The zoo has been hosting ZooLights for over 25 years.
  3. Despite being closed on Thanksgiving, the zoo’s animal care team still works to ensure the animals receive proper care.
  4. Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America, founded in 1868.
  5. The zoo remains free to the public, even during special holiday events (though some events may require paid tickets).

How Does Lincoln Park Zoo Compare to Other Chicago Attractions on Thanksgiving?

While Lincoln Park Zoo is closed on Thanksgiving, many other Chicago attractions remain open. Here’s a comparison:

Attraction Thanksgiving Day Status
Lincoln Park Zoo Closed
Shedd Aquarium Open (reduced hours)
Field Museum Closed
Art Institute of Chicago Open
Adler Planetarium Closed
Navy Pier Open (select attractions)

This comparison shows that while some major attractions close for the holiday, visitors still have options for entertainment on Thanksgiving Day in Chicago.

In conclusion, while Lincoln Park Zoo is not open on Thanksgiving, it offers a wealth of experiences and events throughout the holiday season. By planning your visit around the closure, you can still enjoy all that this historic zoo has to offer during the festive period. Whether you’re looking to experience the magic of ZooLights or simply want to explore the zoo on a regular day, Lincoln Park Zoo remains a must-visit destination in Chicago.

References:
1. Lincoln Park Zoo Official Website
2. Choose Chicago – Thanksgiving in Chicago
3. ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo

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