With just days remaining in its 13th season, Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum is heading into its final stretch, as organizers encourage visitors to take in one of the Chicago region’s most established outdoor holiday attractions before it closes on Jan. 3.
The exhibition, based in Lisle, Ill., will remain open nightly through Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with last admission at 8:30 p.m. The schedule includes both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, positioning the event as a seasonal option for families and visitors seeking an outdoor experience during the holiday period.
Illumination features a one-mile, fully ADA-accessible walking trail that winds through the arboretum’s winter landscape. This year’s installation includes 20 immersive light displays combining colour, music and large-scale visual elements. Since launching 13 years ago, the event has attracted more than two million visitors, according to the arboretum.
“As the year comes to a close, Illumination offers a meaningful way to slow down and celebrate the season outdoors,” said Preston Bautista, the Arboretum’s vice president of learning and engagement. “The final nights of Illumination are especially magical, whether guests are continuing a family tradition or visiting for the first time.”
Ticket prices vary by date and time, with advance purchase available online. During the final week, from Dec. 28 through Jan. 3, arboretum members receive a 40 per cent discount on Illumination tickets — the steepest reduction offered during the season. Organizers say the discount is intended to reward members and boost attendance during the closing days of the exhibition.
One of the final week’s most anticipated features is Dog Admission Night, scheduled for Friday, Jan. 2. The event, added after an initial date sold out, allows guests to bring their dogs along the illuminated trail. Admission requires a standard Illumination ticket for human guests, plus a separate $10 ticket per dog. Member discounts do not apply to dog tickets.
New elements introduced this season include four larger-than-life Vivid Creatures animal sculptures by artists Heather BeGaetz and Fez BeGaetz. The colourful installations are placed throughout the trail, adding playful visual moments among the illuminated trees and contributing to the event’s evolving creative approach.
Beyond the light displays, Illumination continues to expand its hospitality offerings. Visitors can warm up at bonfires along the trail or purchase snacks and beverages, including hot chocolate. A new featured drink this year is a s’mores hot chocolate served in a limited-edition Morton Arboretum mug, available exclusively at the concession tent. The on-site Ginkgo Restaurant is also offering a seasonal menu with views overlooking Meadow Lake’s illuminated finale.
For groups seeking a more private experience, the arboretum has introduced IllumiDomes — enclosed, heated 13-foot clear domes located in Arbor Court. Each dome can be reserved for 90 minutes and accommodates up to 10 guests. Rentals include s’mores kits, warm non-alcoholic beverages and festive treats, with an optional alcoholic beverage package available.
Accessibility and affordability remain part of the event’s operating model. Children aged three and under are admitted free. Through the Museums for All program, visitors with Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT/LINK) or WIC cards can access reduced ticket prices on select nights. Flexible ticket rebooking is also available, allowing guests to adjust reservations up to the event start time in response to weather or schedule changes.
Illumination was custom-designed for The Morton Arboretum in partnership with international exhibit designers Lightswitch and uses energy-efficient LED lighting. The exhibition is sponsored by Invesco QQQ, ComEd, Duly Health and Care and Morton Salt.
More information and ticket details are available at mortonarb.org/illumination.
