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Nothing says Christmas in Chicago quite like ZooLights. For over five weeks each year, Lincoln Park Zoo becomes an enchanted wonderland, illuminated by 2.5 million lights. But it’s more than just a bunch of LED bulbs—Within the light display are a series of parties, talks, crafting sessions and displays. Here’s what’s worth checking out when you bundle up for ZooLights this year.
Note: Some events are ticketed. Tickets are available to purchase for $3 each, or 10 for $27.
Light Maze presented by PowerShares QQQ by Invesco
The Farm In The Zoo may have scrapped its outdoor ice rink this year, but in its place, ZooLights has added this dazzling light maze. The attraction features 30,000 lights and is located at Foreman Pavilion.
(Open Nov 24–26, Dec 1–3, 8–23, Dec 26–Jan 7, 4:30pm–9pm; 1 ticket per person)
Sea Explorer 5-D
Yet another new attraction for ZooLights 2017. Step into a virtual submarine with a hydraulic floor for a 4-D underwater wildlife exploration. Visitors choose between Polar Dive and Deep Sea Dive. It’s located at the Kovler Lion House.
(Every night of ZooLights, 4:30pm–9pm; 1 ticket per person)
Holiday Market
Knock your gift shopping out at this second annual Christmas bazaar. The one-night fair features dozens of booths from local makers, shops and boutiques, including Foursided, Six Point Pet and Katherine Anne Confections.
(Nov 28, 6:30–10pm; $10, $8 for zoo members)
Adults Night Out: Holidaze
Grown-ups get full range of the holiday spectacular at this 18+ event. Drink hot chocolate, mulled wine and beer from cash bars, and enjoy a zoo-themed quiz challenge, music, and an all-new Gnome Hunt. (We’re not quite sure what that last one means, either).
(Nov 30, 6:30–10pm; $15, $12 for zoo members)
BrewLights presented by Louis Glunz Beer
This über popular, open bar, 21+ event is back for the fourth year running. Enjoy the light displays while drinking from a selection of craft beer, including Begyle Brewing Co., Baderbräu and Saugatuck Brewing Co. Food is available for purchase.
(Dec 7, 5:30pm–9:30pm; $49 advance ticket, $60 day-of ticket, $40 designated driver)
Monday Family Nights
Enjoy unlimited, free sides on the Lionel Train Adventure and AT&T Endangered Species Carousel Monday nights during ZooLights. Plus, kids eat free at the Park Place Café (if paired with a full-price adult meal).
Dec 11, 18 and January 1, 4:30–9pm; free.
Other odds and ends
- Visit Santa at the Helen Brach Primate House. He’ll be there through December 23, before he goes back to the North Pole. Professional photos are available for purchase.
- Enhance your ZooLights experience and pick up 3D glasses while supplies last. You can grab ’em at the Wild Things! Gift Shop and at Café Brauer.
- The light show at Winter Wonderlawn, set to holiday songs, repeats every 10 minutes throughout ZooLights on the South Lawn.
- Watch artists create spectacular frozen sculptures at the Ice Carving next to the Kovler Seal Pool.
- A Members Lounge is open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 4:30 to 8pm, complete with sweets and hot drinks, on the lower level of the Park Place Café.
- Sunday is the best day for animal lovers to visit. Educational chats at the Regenstein Center for African Apes, Regenstein African Journey, Regenstein Small Mammal-Reptile House and the Robert and Mayari Pritzker Penguin Cove all happen on Sunday nights.