It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Or at least should be. With COVID-19 restrictions still put into place, a lot of holiday activities are pushed into virtually or stay-in-your-car type of event. Regardless, it’s still nice to be able to go see holiday lights, no matter the circumstances. Here are a few different ideas of places to go or things to see!

1. Lincoln Park ZooLights

Running from November 21st, 2020 til January 3rd, 2021. The 2.5 million bulbs will be displayed for everyone to come and see from 4pm-10pm daily. This year is a little different, there is a $5 entrance fee and you have to reserve the tickets online before you go, so it’s a good idea to plan this trip ahead. Groups can not exceed 10 people due to COVID regulations. The animal buildings will be closed, but some animals could be outside in their habitats for viewing. They are offering 5 free nights to the ZooLights, November 24th, December 9th, 17th, 21st and 29th. The tickets will be released the Sunday before at 4pm and you must have a ticket to enter.

This year they are also doing an “Adults Night Out” where you must be 18+ to enter.

Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614

2. Holiday Magic At Brookfield Zoo

This year Holiday Magic will run from November 27th, 2020 til December 31st, 2020. The dates are as followed:

• Friday-Sunday, November 27-29

• Wednesday-Sunday, December 2-6, 9-13, & 16-20

• Saturday-Thursday, December 26-31

You must reserve your time online before going.

The price per ticket is $25 per adult, $18 for children ages 3-11 and $20 for seniors. Military members get in free. Parking is an additional $15.

This year they made a game called “Game of Gnomes”, made for all ages. You are on a scavenger to find 24 gnomes, measuring from 12-20 inches throughout the park.

Location: 8400 W 31st St, Brookfield, IL 60513.

3. Ice Skating Ribbon Maggie Daley Park4.

If you enjoy ice skating this would be the thing for you. Enjoy the beautiful city of Chicago while skating around with friends. Masks must be on at all times, and no more than two people can skate together. They are open all days of the week, but you must have a reservation before going. Here are some of the prices:

• Skate rental: $16

• Skate with your own skates: $5

• Season pass: $25

• Locker rental, small: $5 large: $8

• Skate Aids: $10

Location: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

4. Let It Shine Lightshow

Open from November 15th, 2020 through January 9th, 2021. Stay in your car and watch the light displays that are synchronized to holiday tunes.

Online tickets are required and are priced at:

• Weekday- $29.99 + taxes and fees

• Weekend & Holidays- $39.99 + taxes and fees

• Fast Pass Add On- $15.00 (optional) + taxes and fees

  ONE TICKET PER VEHICLE

To avoid busier times, plan your visit during the weekday or avoid 6-8pm.

Location: 1515 Lake Cook Rd, Northbrook, IL 60062

Although circumstances are different because of COVID-19, try not to let it take away your holiday spirit! Go out and see some Christmas lights and enjoy the festive month of December.

Guest Contributor: Tiffany Powell