Chicago Gets Ready to Shine Its Holiday ZooLights

The holidays are almost here and Chicago is getting ready to dazzle visitors and residents alike with its holiday decor, celebrations, and food.

One holiday event definitely not to be missed (and one that is free) is the Lincoln Park Zoo’s ZooLights that turn the city’s zoo into a winter wonderland of multi-colored lights and holiday decorations, music, and food.

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the few free zoos in the United States, and its ZooLights is are also complimentary thanks to donations and sponsorships.

Dates and Times

ZooLights begins November 27 and runs through the 29th and then runs again on December 4-6 and December 11-13 before it goes nightly starting December 18 through January 3. ZooLights will be closed on December 24 and 25. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m.

Highlights of This Year’s ZooLights Include:

- The Kovler Lion House where you can get a photo with Santa Claus.
- A musical light show on the zoo’s South Lawn.
- Hot chocolate, spiced wine, and frosty beer will be served.
- Arts and crafts area.
- Dinner at the  Park Place Café.
- And the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel and the LPZOO Holiday Express train.

If you are a member of the zoo, there will be a Members Lounge that is free for members and their guests and includes food and drinks, music, and activities for kids. The Members Lounge will be located on the lower level of Park Place Café. Not a member yet? Go here for details on how to become one.

For more information: Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street (map it), 312-742-2000, Web site

Photo credit: SXC