Brookfield Zoo’s annual Holiday Magic Christmas light festival is a highly anticipated event in Chicagoland, drawing thousands of visitors each year to experience the stunning display of lights, interactive exhibits, and festive entertainment. This blog post will provide you with all the essential details you need to plan your visit to the Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event.
Dates and Times
The Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event takes place over several weeks in the months of November and December. Here are the key dates for the 2023 and 2024 events:
2023 Dates:
– November 24-26, 30
– December 1-3, 7-10, 14-17, 21-23, 26-31
2024 Dates:
– November 22-24, 29-30
– December 1, 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 26-31
The park is open from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on all Holiday Magic dates, allowing visitors to experience the stunning light displays and festive atmosphere during the evening hours.
Entertainment and Activities
The Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event offers a wide range of interactive displays, lights, and entertainment to delight visitors of all ages. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect:
Interactive Displays and Lights
- Dance Party at Polar Plaza: Get your groove on at the lively dance party, where you can groove to the beat of holiday tunes.
- Letters to Santa and Animals: Pen a letter to Santa or your favorite zoo animals and drop it off at the designated stations.
- Photo Ops: Capture unforgettable memories with the giant animal sculptures, the mesmerizing tunnel light show, and various walkthrough displays.
Entertainment from 5-8 p.m.
- Carolers Singing Tunes: Enjoy the soothing sounds of carolers as they fill the air with the spirit of the season.
- Ice Carving at the Nature Stage: Watch in awe as skilled ice carvers transform blocks of ice into stunning sculptures.
- North Pole at The Pavilions: Venture to the North Pole and meet the Those Funny Little People, Juggling Elves, and even Santa himself (through December 23rd).
Plus Attractions
- Carousel: Ride the classic carousel, weather permitting.
- Elf Power Virtual Reality Experiences: Immerse yourself in the magic of the North Pole through the Elf Power VR experiences (separate fees apply).
Admission and Parking
Visiting the Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event requires the purchase of admission tickets and parking. Here are the details:
Admission
- Adults: $29.95
- Children: $20.95
- Seniors (65 and older): $24.95
Parking
- Cost: $17-$20
Additional Information
Here are some additional details to keep in mind when planning your visit to the Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event:
- Advanced Reservations: While not required for North Gate entry, it’s recommended to make advanced reservations for South Gate entry and parking to ensure a smooth arrival.
- Animal Habitats: Several indoor and outdoor animal habitats, such as Tropic World, Big Cats, and The Swamp, remain open during the Holiday Magic event, allowing you to explore the zoo’s diverse wildlife.
- Food and Shopping: Satisfy your hunger with a variety of restaurants and food stands offering standard menu items and holiday favorites. Additionally, the zoo’s shops feature unique gift options for your loved ones.
The Brookfield Zoo Christmas Light event is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the magic of the holiday season. With its dazzling light displays, interactive exhibits, and festive entertainment, it’s a truly unforgettable experience that the whole family can enjoy. Start planning your visit today and get ready to be captivated by the wonder of Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic!
References
- https://explore.visitoakpark.com/info/zoo-lights-brookfield-zoo
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5B2-ATNIXIY
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Brookfield-Zoo-s-Holiday-Magic-Returns-for-Another-Dazzling-Season
- https://www.choosechicago.com/event/brookfield-zoos-holiday-magic/2023-12-23/