Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo
Guests can explore themed areas filled with larger-than-life light displays, glowing tunnels, animal-themed light sculptures, and a twinkling star walk-through experience. The event also features a giant light-up maze, interactive light displays, and a Holiday Market. Visitors can gather around fire pits to roast s'mores, enjoy seasonal treats and beverages, or ride the hand-carved carousel.
What to Expect
Over 40 years of sparkling lights, glowing tunnels, and festive displays.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Organizer
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Food & Drink
Seasonal treats and beverages are available, and visitors can roast s’mores at fire pits.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and visitors of all ages
Vibe
Sparkling and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Tickets start at $29.95; admission is free with membership. Zoo members get free admission and parking at the Main-North Gate, with no tickets or parking reservations needed there. South Gate entry has a fee and requires advance admission tickets and parking reservations. General admission and parking can be purchased online in advance or on arrival at the Main-North Gate; South Gate tickets and parking reservations must be made in advance. Holiday Igloo rentals are an upgrade, with a 10% discount for zoo members. Penguin Encounters are available for purchase on select Holiday Magic evenings; no price is stated for either add-on. – Get tickets
- Hours: 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.
- Parking: Zoo members get free parking at the Main-North Gate, with no parking reservations needed. South Gate entry has a fee and requires advance admission and parking reservations. General admission visitors can purchase parking online in advance or on arrival at the Main-North Gate; South Gate parking reservations are required in advance.
- Accessibility: Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic on December 3 dims the lights, softens the music and reduces visual effects.
Tips & Advice
- Book admission and parking ahead if you plan to enter at the South Gate, because both must be reserved in advance there.
- If you're a zoo member, use the Main-North Gate, where admission and parking are free with no tickets or reservations needed.
- Families with sensory needs should come on Thursday, December 3, when the lights are dimmed, the music is softer and visual effects are reduced.
- Reserve a heated Holiday Igloo for your small group if you want a warm spot with food and drinks surrounded by the lights.
- Stop at the fire pits to roast s'mores, and take a spin on the hand-carved carousel, which runs throughout Holiday Magic, weather permitting.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic on Thursday, December 3, with dimmed lights, softer music and reduced visual effects, presented with KultureCity.
- Penguin Encounters with the Humboldt penguins at The Living Coast on select evenings, purchased separately.
- Heated Holiday Igloo rentals for small groups, with food and beverages, as a paid upgrade; zoo members get a discount.
- Dinner with Santa, December 18–20, with a holiday buffet and a visit with Santa Claus at the Discovery Center.
- Members get free Holiday Magic admission and free parking at the North Gate.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do zoo members need tickets?
No, not at the Main-North Gate. Admission and parking are free there, and no tickets or parking reservations are needed. Entering through the South Gate costs a fee and requires advance admission and parking reservations, even for members.
Do I have to buy tickets in advance?
At the Main-North Gate, you can buy admission and parking online in advance or when you arrive. At the South Gate, advance tickets and parking reservations are required.
What is there to eat and drink?
You'll find seasonal treats and beverages, plus fire pits for roasting s'mores. Groups who rent a heated Holiday Igloo can also enjoy food and drinks inside.
Is there an evening for guests with sensory needs?
Yes. Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic is on Thursday, December 3. Lights are dimmed, music is softer and visual effects are reduced. It's presented with KultureCity and welcomes guests of all ages.
What extras can we add to our night?
You can rent a heated Holiday Igloo for a small group, ride the hand-carved carousel (weather permitting), or buy a Penguin Encounter with the Humboldt penguins at The Living Coast on select evenings.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.