Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights, also known as Zoo Lights: Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic, is an annual light festival that transforms the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago into a dazzling winter wonderland. With over two million twinkling LED lights, giant animal sculptures, and a variety of interactive displays and entertainment, this event is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of the holiday season.
Dates and Times
The Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event takes place on the following dates in 2023:
- November 24-26, 30
- December 1-3, 7-10, 14-17, 21-23, and 26-31
The zoo is open from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on these special event days, allowing visitors to explore the enchanting displays and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Highlights of Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights
Light Displays
The heart of the Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event is the stunning light displays that adorn the zoo. Over two million twinkling LED lights transform the zoo into a true winter wonderland, with giant animal sculptures, a 41-foot-tall lit tree, and a 300-foot-long tunnel of lights that visitors can walk through.
Interactive Displays and Lights
In addition to the breathtaking light displays, the Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event also features a variety of interactive experiences for visitors to enjoy. These include:
- Dance Party at Polar Plaza: Visitors can groove to the beat of holiday tunes at this lively dance party.
- Letters to Santa and Animals: Guests can write letters to Santa or the zoo’s animal residents.
- Photo Ops: Visitors can capture memorable moments with the giant animal sculptures, the tunnel light show, and various other walkthrough displays.
Entertainment
The Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event also offers a range of entertainment options to keep visitors engaged and enchanted. These include:
- Carolers singing tunes from 5-8 p.m.
- Ice carving demonstrations at the Nature Stage
- The North Pole at The Pavilions, featuring performances by Those Funny Little People and juggling elves, as well as pictures with Santa (until December 23rd)
Additional Attractions
In addition to the light displays and entertainment, the Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event also offers a few additional attractions for visitors to enjoy:
- Carousel (weather permitting, with separate fees)
- Elf Power Virtual Reality Experiences (weather permitting, with separate fees)
Ticket Information
Admission to the Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event is as follows:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $29.95 |
| Children | $20.95 |
| Seniors (65 and older) | $24.95 |
Parking at the zoo costs between $17 and $20. Advanced reservations are not required for entry through the North Gate, but they are recommended for admission and parking. Reservations are required for entry through the South Gate, including for zoo members.
Location and Contact
The Brookfield Zoo is located at 8400 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513. You can visit the zoo’s website at www.brookfieldzoo.org for more information.
Conclusion
The Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights event is a truly magical experience that captures the essence of the holiday season. With its dazzling light displays, interactive exhibits, and festive entertainment, it’s a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the wonder of the winter wonderland. Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the Chicago area, the Brookfield Zoo Xmas Lights is sure to leave you with lasting memories and a renewed sense of holiday cheer.
References:
- https://explore.visitoakpark.com/info/zoo-lights-brookfield-zoo
- https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic
- https://www.choosechicago.com/event/brookfield-zoos-holiday-magic/2023-12-23/