Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic returns on select nights from November 21, 2026 through January 3, 2027. The event runs from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. and features more than 3.5 million lights, interactive displays, seasonal refreshments and holiday experiences across the zoo. Use this guide to check the confirmed dates, plan your evening and explore accommodation in nearby Countryside, Illinois.
Event information checked against Brookfield Zoo Chicago on September 8, 2026. Confirm details on the official event page before travelling.
Holiday Magic 2026 Dates and Hours
| Month | Confirmed dates |
|---|---|
| November 2026 | 21–22 and 27–29 |
| December 2026 | 3–6, 10–13, 17–23 and 26–31 |
| January 2027 | 1–3 |
| Hours | 3 p.m.–9 p.m. |
Holiday Magic operates on selected dates rather than every night. Check the official event listing and ticket availability for your preferred date before travelling.
Holiday Magic Tickets and Parking
General-admission tickets currently start at $29.95, while Brookfield Zoo Chicago members receive Holiday Magic admission free. Prices, availability and admission conditions may vary by date, so check the official ticket page before purchasing.
Parking arrangements depend on the entrance and membership type. The zoo currently states that North Gate parking is free for members, while South Gate entry requires a fee and advance ticket. Confirm the appropriate entrance and parking arrangements when booking.
What to See at Holiday Magic
Brookfield Zoo Chicago currently lists the following experiences for Holiday Magic 2026:
- More than 3.5 million lights.
- A giant light-up maze and interactive displays.
- Light tunnels and a star walk-through.
- Animal-themed light displays.
- Holiday Dolphin Show.
- Fire pits for roasting s’mores.
- Seasonal food and beverages.
- Holiday Market shopping.
Open animal buildings and other programme details have not yet been fully announced. Heated igloos require a separate reservation, and carousel operation is weather dependent. The zoo currently lists the Ferris wheel as closed for the season.
What to Check Before You Go
Before leaving for Holiday Magic:
- Confirm that your chosen date is an event night.
- Buy the correct admission and parking option for your entrance.
- Check which animal buildings and attractions will be open.
- Review the weather forecast and dress for an outdoor evening.
- Confirm whether any add-on experience needs a separate reservation.
- Check accessibility information if anyone in your group has mobility or sensory requirements.
- Allow time for arrival, parking and entry.
Brookfield Zoo Chicago has announced a sensory-friendly Holiday Magic evening with dimmed lights, softer music and reduced visual effects, presented with KultureCity. The date is currently listed as TBD, so check the official event page before planning around it.
Planning an Overnight Stay
If you prefer to stay overnight after Holiday Magic, William Tell Hotel MOD Collection by Sonesta offers rooms and suites in Countryside, Illinois. Before travelling, check directions from your chosen zoo entrance, current room availability and the hotel information relevant to your stay. Tell's Tavern is the hotel's on-site restaurant. Its currently published dinner hours are 4 p.m.–10 p.m. daily, but service availability can change. Check the <a href="https://thewthotel.sonesta.com/dining/">Dining page</a> or contact the hotel before planning a meal after the event.
Explore Rooms & Suites
Holiday Magic pairs naturally with everything else that makes a Brookfield Zoo weekend easy from here. Our full guide to staying near Brookfield Zoo covers the basics if this is your first trip, and where to eat before or after the lights rounds up La Grange’s best dinner options for whichever side of 9 p.m. you land on. Travelling with a dog? Check our pet-friendly hotel guide before you book.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo in 2026?
Holiday Magic runs on select nights from November 21, 2026 through January 3, 2027, from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Check the official event page before visiting in case programme details change.
How much are Holiday Magic tickets?
Tickets currently start at $29.95, and Brookfield Zoo Chicago members receive free Holiday Magic admission. Parking and add-on arrangements may vary, so review the ticket details for your preferred date and entrance.
What can visitors see at Holiday Magic?
The confirmed programme includes more than 3.5 million lights, interactive displays, a light-up maze, light tunnels, a star walk-through, animal-themed lights, a Holiday Dolphin Show, fire pits, seasonal refreshments and Holiday Market shopping.
Is there a sensory-friendly Holiday Magic evening?
Brookfield Zoo Chicago has announced a sensory-friendly evening with dimmed lights, softer music and reduced visual effects. The date is currently listed as TBD. Check the zoo’s official event page for the confirmed date.
Where can I stay when visiting Holiday Magic?
William Tell Hotel MOD Collection by Sonesta is located at 6201 Joliet Road in Countryside, Illinois. Check directions from your chosen zoo entrance and explore current room availability when planning your visit.