Season
Admission
Hours
Address
Chicago, IL 60614
Checked Nov 8, 2026 source how we check
Lincoln Park Zoo's holiday light show, Nov 20, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027, 4:30–9 pm. Tickets $7–12 when bought ahead; free on most Mondays.
ZooLights fills Lincoln Park Zoo with more than three million lights, including big animal light sculptures and light shows set to holiday music. The zoo is on the lakefront north of downtown, and the zoo itself is free every day of the year.
In 2026 ZooLights runs every evening from November 20 to January 3, 2027, from 4:30 to 9 pm. Fixed-date tickets cost $7 to $12 depending on the night if you buy ahead, or $20 on the day. A Flexible ticket ($20) is good for any night, which helps if you're worried about the weather. Mondays are free, except December 21 and 28. Free Monday tickets are released a week ahead at 11 am Central and go fast.
Santa is at the zoo through December 23 (professional photos are extra), and carolers stroll the paths on Sundays through December 21. Lincoln Park Zoo members get two to eight free fixed-date tickets depending on their level.
What you'll find
- Food on site
- Restrooms
- Wheelchair accessible
- Reservations required
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