Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Brookfield Zoo Chicago Tree Trim
Join the festive tradition of Tree Trim at Brookfield Zoo Chicago. Purchase and decorate a real tree to help bring the magic of the holidays to life as part of the Holiday Magic lights festival. It's a wonderful opportunity for schools, community groups, and businesses to create lasting memories while supporting the zoo.
What to Expect
Decorate a tree for the Holiday Magic festival.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Main Entrance Parking: $17.00 (cars), $25.00 (buses). South Gate Parking: $20.00 (cars), $25.00 (buses). Members receive free parking at the Main Entrance and discounted parking at the South Gate.
- Accessibility: Downloadable large print/service animal map available.
- Pets: Service animals welcome.
Other Christmas Events Near Brookfield
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, groups, community organizations, corporate events
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, creative, holiday spirit
Energy Level
Medium
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Receive 20 free zoo tickets and 5 free parking passes with community tree purchase.
- Receive 30 free zoo tickets and 10 free parking passes with corporate tree purchase.
- Commemorative Tree Trim Patches available for purchase.
Location
Event Details
Duration
Full day event
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Brookfield Zoo Chicago
Food & Drink
Tree Trim Treats Menu available for beverages and sweet treats.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase your tree and any desired treats in advance online to secure your spot and ensure availability, as trees are limited.
- Review the ornament guidelines carefully to ensure all decorations are safe for the animals; unsafe items will be removed.
- Consider visiting on the first day, November 8th, to have the widest selection of trees and potentially fewer crowds.
- Utilize the complimentary zoo tickets and parking passes included with your tree purchase to make a full day of your visit.
- Plan your transportation in advance, whether by car or public transit, and be aware of parking fees and public transport schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the tree purchase?
Each tree purchase includes a fully LED-lit tree, complimentary general admission passes, and complimentary parking passes for the event dates. Community trees also receive a sign with donor names, and corporate trees feature a company logo.
Can I bring my own lights or decorations?
Only the provided LED lights are permitted on the trees. Additional lights are not allowed. Please adhere to the ornament guidelines for safe decoration materials.
What is the refund policy?
All registrations are final, and no refunds will be issued for tree purchases.
When can I retrieve my ornaments?
Groups can retrieve remaining ornaments from their trees during the Tree UnTrim event, which takes place from January 5-18, 2026. Ornaments not retrieved by January 19 will be removed by staff.
Are there any food or drink options available?
Yes, a Tree Trim Treats Menu is available for ordering beverages and sweet treats to enjoy while decorating your tree. Reservations are recommended by November 6.
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.