Nothing puts me in the holiday spirit better than an enchanting light display. In the neighborhood where I grew up, there was one house that was known for its fantastic holiday lights – so much so that they were featured on the news each year. I can remember how excited I would get to drive by at night and see what looked like millions of lights gleaming in the darkness.
Lucky for me I know a place that puts that house from my childhood to shame – Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo! After hearing rave reviews from friends, I finally got my act together and headed out for a night of enchantment with my boyfriend.
Sparkling Lights
After the long and arduous task of parking the car (see my tips for how to avoid below), we finally were able to make our way over toward the zoo. On our way we passed the ice skating rink at Farm-in-a-Zoo, where many happy couples and families were gliding over the ice, enjoying a beautiful night out in December.
Just past the rink, we could see the lights of the zoo spread out before us. Some lights twinkled like falling stars, while others formed the shapes of beloved animals from the zoo. There were mythical creatures, such as a fire breathing dragon, and signature holiday characters. Lights of every color in the rainbow adorned the trees along the pathway all throughout the zoo – my favorite was the huge candy cane colored tree with white and red lights wrapped around its trunk and branches.
We warmed ourselves up at the Park Place Cafe with wonderful warm spiced wine. It was the perfect holiday treat to mark the halfway point to our journey through the lights.
One of my favorite light displays was featured on the South Lawn. As we approached, we could hear festive music playing and lights blinking on and off in time to the songs that were playing. Everyone, including me, danced and sang along with the classic holiday songs and watched the trees and lights dance along with us.
Holiday Activities
There are loads of fun and festive activities being hosted at the zoo every night including the following:
- Ice Skating at Farm-in-the-Zoo
- Ice carving
- Musical Light show
- 3-D Light Displays
- Carousel Rides ($3 per ride)
The kiddies will love the following:
- Riding the Lionel Train Adventure ($3 per ride)
- Holiday Wagon Rides ($3 per ride)
- Photos with Santa (last day December 23)
- Free Holiday crafts
- Cookie Decorating ($5)
Hours and Dates
Zoo Lights runs all the way through December (except December 24th and 25th) and into the beginning of January (last day January 4th). As of December 12th, the lights will be twinkling every night from 5pm until 9pm.
Tips
Zoo Lights is an extremely popular event, especially on the weekends. I was dumbfounded by the number of cars driving around the area of the zoo looking for parking. Even blocks away people were still searching. If you can, public transportation, or an Uber are definitely the way you want to travel to the event.
If you are looking for a fun and free holiday event this season, you need to go check out the Zoo Lights. It is a magical experience that is perfect for a date night or the whole family!
The Deal
I Spent: Nothing! Entrance is free!
I Got: A holiday celebration at Lincoln Park Zoo
Company Info
2001 N Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60614
(312)742-2000