Winter Magic in Chicago: Exploring ZooLights and Illumination
Chicago’s holiday season is defined by two premier light displays: the Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights and the Morton Arboretum’s Illumination. Both attractions offer unique ways to experience the winter landscape, blending artistry with nature and conservation.
Lincoln Park ZooLights: A City Tradition
The Lincoln Park Zoo, the second oldest zoo in the United States, hosts its annual ZooLights attraction starting November 21 and continuing through January 4. This year, the zoo has introduced a flexible admission option for the first time. Visitors can also experience the new “Zooltide” lightshow located on the South Lawn.
Tickets for ZooLights range from $7 to $12, depending on the date. While the event is a festive highlight, the zoo maintains a year-round commitment to botanical excellence. As of April 2024, the zoo achieved Level III arboretum accreditation through ArbNet, reflecting its professional standards in horticulture and its collection of over 1,800 plant species.
Illumination at the Morton Arboretum
For those seeking a more expansive experience, The Morton Arboretum in Lisle offers Illumination. Running from November 15 through January 3, this display features 1,700 acres of tree-filled landscapes. This year’s event includes four colorful animal sculptures from the Vivid Creatures exhibit.
Tickets for Illumination range from $18 to $38, with a 20% discount available for arboretum members. For guests looking for a curated experience, the “IllumiBrew” festival took place on November 14, offering local beers, ciders, and meads alongside a first glance at the lights.
Quick Comparison: ZooLights vs. Illumination
| Feature | ZooLights | Illumination |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Chicago (Lincoln Park) | Lisle (Morton Arboretum) |
| Dates | Nov 21 – Jan 4 | Nov 15 – Jan 3 |
| Ticket Price | $7 – $12 | $18 – $38 |
| Highlight | Zooltide lightshow | Vivid Creatures sculptures |
A Shared Legacy of Conservation
Beyond the holiday lights, these two institutions share a deep connection through botanical preservation. The Morton Arboretum supports the ArbNet program, which helped the Lincoln Park Zoo reach its current Level III accreditation. This partnership is further exemplified by the preservation of the zoo’s historic burr oak tree; after the tree was removed in May 2023 due to poor health, 36 scions were grafted and are now growing at the Morton Arboretum.
Key Takeaways for Visitors
- Check Dates: Both events run through early January, but opening dates differ by several days.
- Plan Budget: ZooLights is a more affordable option, while Illumination offers a larger-scale botanical experience.
- Member Benefits: Morton Arboretum members can save 20% on Illumination tickets.
Whether you prefer the urban charm of the Lincoln Park Zoo or the sprawling landscapes of the Morton Arboretum, both events provide a sophisticated blend of holiday cheer and environmental education.