Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic is an incredible event that takes place during the holiday season. It is a festive celebration that transforms the zoo into a winter wonderland. Visitors are greeted with dazzling lights, stunning decorations, and a joyful atmosphere. One of the main highlights of Holiday Magic is the impressive light displays. The zoo is illuminated with over one million twinkling LED lights, creating a magical and enchanting ambiance. Visitors can admire the beautifully lit trees, walk through illuminated tunnels, and enjoy the stunning light shows synchronized with holiday music.
We have gone on nights that were sold out in previous years, but it never seems crowded since Brookfield Zoo is so sprawling and there is plenty to see.
Several indoor and outdoor animal habitats, including Tropic World, Pachyderm House, Big Cats, Swamp, Feathers and Scales, Reptiles and Birds, Living Coast, Hamill Family Wild Encounters reindeer and goats only , Seven Seas underwater viewing gallery, Great Bear Wilderness, Australia House access to front section only , and Hamill Family Play Zoo, are open during Holiday Magic. To show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the men and women in the United States Armed Forces, the Chicago Zoological Society is offering free admission to Brookfield Zoo to all active, reservist, and retired members of the military.
Visitors can admire the beautifully lit trees, walk through illuminated tunnels, and enjoy the stunning light shows synchronized with holiday music. In addition to the spectacular lights, Brookfield Zoo offers a variety of activities for all ages. Children can meet Santa Claus and his reindeer, write letters to Santa, and participate in festive crafts.
Holiday Magic
Now in our 41st year, get ready to visit Chicagoland’s longest-running lights festival featuring over two million twinkling LED lights!
In 2022, for NORTH GATE ENTRY, Holiday Magic advance reservations are not required; however, you may purchase these in advance below. Advance reservations ARE REQUIRED FOR SOUTH GATE ENTRY. Holiday Magic admission is free for members of Brookfield Zoo.
NORTH GATE ENTRY (Reservations not required)
I am a nonmember and want to purchase Holiday Magic tickets in advance of my visit
SOUTH GATE ENTRY (RESERVATIONS ONLY)
I am a nonmember and want to purchase Holiday Magic tickets for SOUTH gate entry
I want to make a reservation with my member card
I have a member guest pass(es) I need to exchange
I have a general admission ticket with a barcode
I am an active, reservist or retired military member
I have a library pass
Holiday Magic Tunnel of Lights Presented by
Holiday Magic 2022 Dates
Friday through Sunday, November 25-27
Wednesday through Sunday, November 30, December 1-4, 7-11, 14-18,
Monday through Saturday, December 26-31
Holiday Magic 2022 Hours
Join us and enjoy:
Over 2 million lights!
The Sea of Lights, with over 2 miles of lights!
Play the Game of Gnomes - find all 27 hidden throughout the zoo!
600-foot Tunnel of Lights
Illuminated animal sculptures
Numerous photo ops
Drop off letters for Santa
Shop for unique gifts
Food and beverage refreshments throughout the zoo
*Located on the East Mall, the skating rink is made of a synthetic plastic known as Glice®. The 40-foot x 80-foot rink is open during the zoo’s Holiday Magic, from 3:00 to 8:30 p.m. The cost for unlimited time on the rink for all skaters is $7. A limited number of skates are available to rent for a $5 fee. Skaters are welcome to bring their own skates.
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Deliver up some delicious greens that the giraffes will take right from your hand!
To show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the men and women in the United States Armed Forces, the Chicago Zoological Society is offering free admission to Brookfield Zoo to all active, reservist, and retired members of the military. Qualified personnel who present a valid ID will be admitted free of charge.
Illuminated animal sculptures
There are also live entertainment performances, including carolers, brass bands, and ice carving demonstrations. Visitors can warm up with hot cocoa and tasty treats from various food vendors throughout the zoo. One of the highlights of Holiday Magic is the special animal exhibits. Visitors can see animals such as the Penguins, wolves, and reptiles during specially extended hours. These nocturnal animals are often more active during the evening, allowing visitors a unique opportunity to observe their behavior. Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season with family and friends. The dazzling lights, festive activities, and special animal exhibits create a truly magical experience. The event has become a beloved tradition for many, and visitors leave with memories that last a lifetime. Whether it's your first visit or an annual tradition, Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Magic is a must-see attraction during the holiday season..
Reviews for "Immerse Yourself in the Magic of Brookfield Zoo's Holiday Lights"
1. Alex - 1 star - I was extremely disappointed with the Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic event. The lights were minimal and the decorations were lackluster. I expected the zoo to be transformed into a magical winter wonderland, but instead, it felt like any other night at the zoo. The price of admission was not worth the experience at all. I would not recommend attending this event if you're looking for a festive holiday atmosphere.
2. Sarah - 2 stars - The Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic event was a letdown. The crowd was overwhelming, and it was difficult to navigate through the zoo. The lights were scattered around the exhibits and didn't create a cohesive holiday ambiance. There were also long lines for food and attractions, making the experience feel more like a stressful ordeal rather than a festive celebration. I would suggest looking for other holiday events in the area to truly get into the holiday spirit.
3. Jacob - 1 star - I had high hopes for the Brookfield Zoo Holiday Magic, but I left feeling disappointed and underwhelmed. The lights were sporadic, and the lack of theme left me confused as to what the event was trying to achieve. Additionally, the staff seemed overwhelmed and were not able to provide a seamless experience for guests. The event felt disjointed and overpriced for what it offered. I would not recommend attending this event if you're looking for a truly magical holiday experience.