Free family fun: Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo. Head to Lincoln Park Zoo for the brilliance of this annual fun, free, family-oriented holiday celebration, featuring luminous displays and holiday-season activities throughout zoo grounds.
When: Opening Day—Friday, November 25, 2016: 4:25 p.m. join a lighting ceremony next to Café at Wild Things to kick off the festivities.
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street, 312-742-2000. The zoo is open daily 10AM-5PM during Zoo Lights. The Lincoln Park Zoo is always free. Other Holiday events around Chicago
All dates
November 25–27, December 2–4, 9–23, 26–31; January 1, 2017 4:30–9 p.m. Santa heads back to the North Pole after December 23.
Festive Activities
- Photos with Santa through December 23
- Free crafts for children
- Unique educational chats
- 3D displays
- Warm spiced wine and frosty lagers
- Delicious holiday snacks
- Holiday gift shopping
- Live ice-sculpture carving
- Carousel and train rides
- Musical light shows
- 3D holiday specs while supplies last.
Standard parking rates apply in the zoo lot. Please be advised that, due to the popularity of this event, traffic—especially on weekends—can lead to congested roadways in the vicinity of the zoo. We highly recommend taking public transportation if it’s an option for you.
ZooLights Coat Drive
Throughout ZooLights, the Zoo will be collecting new and gently used winter clothing. Donated items will be distributed to Chicago charities. Donation boxes will be located inside Park Place Café.
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