Chicago’s holiday season is about to get a little brighter. ZooLights returns to Lincoln Park Zoo on Friday, November 20, 2026, bringing more than 3 million twinkling lights and hundreds of illuminated displays to one of the city’s favorite holiday traditions.
Running through January 3, 2027, the annual event will transform the historic zoo into a glowing winter wonderland. Visitors can stroll through a sparkling light tunnel, ride the Ferris wheel for views of the decorations and Chicago skyline, and warm up with hot chocolate, churros, and s’mores. Select evenings will also feature strolling carolers, ice carving, and other seasonal entertainment.
Santa will greet visitors at the Pepper Family Wildlife Center through December 23, and the South Lawn will host a festive light show. Special events include a sensory-friendly night on November 24 and an adults-only ZooLights celebration on December 10.
ZooLights runs from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on scheduled evenings, with last entry at 8 p.m. Advance fixed-date tickets cost $7 to $12, depending on the date; same-day admission is $20. Free admission is available on November 23 and 30 and December 7 and 14, with reservations required. Free Monday tickets are released one week in advance at 11 a.m.
The event will be closed on Thanksgiving, December 1, 8 and 15, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day, though it will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. A members-only preview takes place November 19.
Ticket proceeds support Lincoln Park Zoo’s animal care, conservation, and education programs, helping keep daytime admission free year-round.
For the complete schedule, reservations, and tickets, visit the official Lincoln Park Zoo ZooLights website.