Holiday Magic
Overview
We’re lighting up the night this holiday season!
Holiday Magic is back, marking more than 40 years of sparkling lights, festive fun, and holiday memories.
Step into a sparkling winter wonderland as you explore themed areas filled with larger-than-life holiday displays, interactive experiences, glowing tunnels, a maze, and animal-themed light displays.
Experience the magic, make new memories, and discover why Holiday Magic is a beloved holiday tradition.
Free Member Admission
Parking and admission at the Main-North Gate are FREE, and no tickets or parking reservations are needed. For South Gate entry, there is a fee, and advanced admission and parking reservations are required.
General Admission
At the Main Entrance, you can purchase admission and parking online in advance or when you arrive.
At the South Gate Entrance, advance tickets and parking reservations are required.
Holiday Igloo Reservations
Make Your Visit Even More Magical! During Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, you can enhance your visit by renting our Holiday Igloo!
Host a Holiday Magic Birthday Party
Celebrate your birthday during Holiday Magic! This is the perfect way to gather your family and friends for a magical, unforgettable party.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Premier Sponsor
Signature Sponsor
Community Sponsor
Things to do at Holiday Magic
Meet Santa Claus
Santa is visiting Holiday Magic! See the list of dates and times he is visiting so you can make sure to see him!
Free with Admission
Holiday Igloo Rentals
Enhance your Holiday Magic by renting our Holiday Igloo including s'mores, hot chocolate, and more!
Ticket Add-on
Penguin Encounter
Meet our resident Humboldt penguins during this unforgettable zoo experience!
Ticket Add-on
Carousel
Take a spin in one of the largest hand-carved carousels in the country!
Open, weather permitting
Holiday Magic: Know Before You Go
Holiday Magic Must Sees
Wander through our expanded maze
Experience light tunnels and themed areas
Roast your own s'mores
Dance at the Retro Christmas dance area
Enjoy seasonal treats and beverages
Shop the Holiday Market
Ride the carousel
And so much more!
Open Animal Buildings
Hamill Family Play Zoo
The Swamp
Australia House
Tropic World (Open until 7 pm)
Gorilla Conservation Center
Clouded Leopard Forest
The Living Coast
Meet Santa
November
Saturday, November 21: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 22: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday, November 27: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, November 28: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, November 29: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
December
Friday, December 4: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 5: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 6: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday, December 11: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 12: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 13: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Friday, December 18: 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 19: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, December 20: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Monday, December 21: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 22: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, December 23: 4 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sensory Friendly Holiday Magic
Date: Thursday, December 3, 2026
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.
Zoo members receive a 10% discount on Holiday Igloo rentals. For details, email catered.events@brookfieldzoo.org or call 708-688-8355.
Holiday Igloo Rentals
Upgrade your Holiday Magic night by renting a Holiday Igloo! Learn more here!
Explore These Areas!
Ford Orb
Holiday Magic Maze
Candy Cane Lane
Holiday Market
Sparkling Coast
Flamin-glow Forest
Sweet Street
Butterfly Forest
Giant Present
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.
Enhance Your Experience
Dinner with Santa
Enjoy a delicious holiday buffet and see Santa Claus!
Host a Holiday Magic Birthday Party
Celebrate your birthday during Holiday Magic! This is the perfect way to gather your family and friends for a magical, unforgettable party.
