Holiday Magic 2024: Chicagoland’s Longest-Running Lights Festival at Brookfield Zoo

Step into the enchantment of Holiday Magic 2024, the longest-running holiday lights festival in Chicagoland, featuring over 2 million twinkling LED lights and captivating new displays. Celebrate the season with family-friendly attractions, seasonal treats, and festive experiences that create unforgettable memories.

Event Dates and Hours

• Dates: November 22–24, 29–30; December 1, 5–8, 12–15, 19–22, 26–31, 2024
• Park Hours: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Holiday Magic Dates Only)

Choose from four convenient ticket types. Remember to select both admission and parking during checkout.

• North Gate Admission:
  Address: 8400 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513
  Get North Gate Tickets
• South Gate Admission:
  Address: 3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL 60513
  Reservations required.
  Get South Gate Tickets | Redeem Free Passes
• Member Admission:
  Members can enter through North Gate without reservations but need reservations for South Gate entry. Member guest passes require advance reservations.
  Get Member Tickets
• Military Admission:
  Active, reservist, and retired military members with valid ID receive free entry.

1. Candy Cane Lane: Explore the Wild Encounters pathway, transformed into a festive red-and-white-striped wonderland.
2. Sparkling Coast: Stroll through the Living Coast area illuminated with underwater-themed lights and magical displays.
3. Holiday Market: Shop unique holiday gifts, enjoy craft cocktails at the Cranberry Bar, and indulge in seasonal treats like funnel cakes and hot chocolate.

• Dates: November 22–December 22
• Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  Visit Santa’s Workshop at the Pavilions and send letters to the North Pole using the Zoo’s exclusive mailbox.

• Light Displays: Marvel at giant illuminated animals, a 41-foot-tall choreographed LED tree, a gingerbread house, and a 300-foot synchronized light tunnel.
• Seasonal Experiences: Enjoy nightly Dolphins in Action shows, Penguin Encounters, and more.
• Rides: Take a spin on the Carousel or enjoy the Ferris Wheel before it closes on December 31.

Stay warm while exploring indoor exhibits like The Swamp, Living Coast, and Seven Seas Underwater Viewing. Don’t miss outdoor habitats featuring reindeer, kangaroos, big cats, and more.

Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic has been nominated for USA Today’s 10BEST Zoo Lights! Cast your vote daily through December 2 to support this spectacular event.

Celebrate the holiday season with lights, laughter, and magic at Brookfield Zoo. Plan your visit and make memories that last a lifetime! ?