Holiday Magic

A family walks through a red and white striped tunnel.

Overview

We’re lighting up the night this holiday season!

Holiday Magic returns with a brand new light display, celebrating more than 40 years of Holiday Magic.

Now with more than 3.5 million lights, this spectacular interactive display transforms the Zoo into a dazzling winter wonderland. Stroll through themed areas featuring giant holiday displays, a maze, tunnels, and animal-themed lights.

Experience the magic that has made this event a beloved holiday tradition.

Thank You to Our Holiday Magic Sponsors

  • Presenting Sponsors

    • comed-logo
    • Meijer logo
  • Premier Sponsor

    • A logo that says, "Ford" with "Your Local Ford Dealers" under it. It's navy blue.
  • Signature Sponsor

    • A logo that is forest green that says "Country Financial"
Members Enjoy Holiday Magic FREE!

At the Zoo

Zoowide

November 19, 21-22 and 27-29, 2026

December 3-6, 10-13, 17-23 and 26-31, 2026

January 1-3, 2027

3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Tickets starting at $29.95 / Free with Membership

All ages

Holiday lights showing Santa and a tic-tac-toe board featured.

Holiday Magic: Know Before You Go

Holiday Magic Must Sees

  • A giant light-up maze & interactive light displays

  • More light tunnels & a twinkling star walk-through experience

  • Holiday Dolphin Show

  • Fire pits to roast s'mores

  • Seasonal treats and beverages

  • Shopping in the Holiday Market

  • And so much more!

Open Animal Buildings

Check back for more details!

Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic

Date: TBD

You are invited to join us for Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic, a special evening designed to make the Holiday Magic experience welcoming and enjoyable for guests of all ages and sensory needs. During this modified night, lights will be dimmed, music will be softer, and visual effects will be reduced to create a calmer, more comfortable environment. This event is presented in partnership with KultureCity as part of our ongoing commitment to creating inclusive experiences for all.

Member-only Discounts

Holiday Magic and North Gate parking are FREE for Members. There is a fee and advanced tickets required for South Gate entry. If you have free passes, they may be redeemed at North Gate — no reservations required.

Members Experience Holiday Magic FREE

The lights. The sparkle. The holiday wonder.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago is the only place in the Chicagoland area that gives members FREE access to our spectacular Holiday Magic light show.

Things to do at Holiday Magic

A structure that looks like an igloo is sitting behind a firepit.

Rent the Igloo

Perfect for small groups, our rentable heated igloo will offer a warm and stylish retreat amid the sparkle of our Holiday Magic lights. Enjoy delicious food and beverages while soaking in the magic of the season. More details and rental information to come!

A bottlenose dolphin jumps out of the water, the background decorated with Christmas trees.

See the Dolphins

Come upstairs inside Dolphin Bay! On select nights, view the bottlenose dolphins from above and warm up while you watch them interact and explore. Plus, enjoy the merry music from our holiday carolers.