Holidays & Parades

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo

#holidaylights#brookfieldzoo#winter#family#christmaslights#zoo
Date
Saturday, Nov 21, 2026 to Sunday, Jan 3, 2027
Date checked Oct 2026 on the organizer's site
Location
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513
Organized by
Brookfield Zoo Chicago

About this happenin

After dark, Brookfield Zoo Chicago turns into a holiday light show called Holiday Magic, held on listed nights from late November into early January. The zoo says it marks more than 40 years of lights. Themed areas hold larger-than-life holiday displays, glowing tunnels, animal-themed light displays and a maze. Visitors roast their own s'mores, dance in a Retro Christmas area, ride the carousel and shop the Holiday Market. Several animal buildings stay open, with Tropic World open until 7 p.m. Santa visits on set evenings. Gates run from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Members get in free and park free at the Main-North Gate, while South Gate entry needs advance tickets and a parking reservation. Heated igloos can be rented for a group, and one evening is set aside as a sensory friendly night with dimmed lights and softer music.

More in November: 8 other Chicago events.

Where

Brookfield Zoo Chicago · 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513

Open in Maps

More happenins

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade Holidays & Parades

Chicago Thanksgiving Parade

Thursday, Nov 26 State Street, Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street, Chicago
Free