THE EXPERIENCE
What can I expect from the event?
✨ Step into a world where light transforms the night!
Stroll beneath shimmering archways, glowing fields, and larger-than-life installations designed by international artists.
As you wander, lights dance to music, colors ripple through the trees, and the Garden transforms into a festive dreamscape perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.
Where is the experience located?
The experience is located at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois 60022, USA
Does the experience take place in an indoor or outdoor venue?
This experience is held outdoors. If due to the weather forecast, the event cannot be held, we will notify you via email at the same address linked to your Fever account. When in doubt, please remember to check your spam folder too.
How should I dress for this event?
This is an outdoor event, so please come prepared for the elements by wearing appropriate footwear and dressing warmly. Umbrellas are allowed on the trail in/near most installations, and we ask that you be courteous of other patrons when using them.
How long does the experience last?
That depends on your pace and how often you stop. However, as a rule, you should allow about 60 to 90 minutes.
Are there any special events or evenings?
Yes. There are three 21+ nights featuring signature cocktails and mocktails and a stroller-free trail: November 19, December 4, and January 2.
There are also three Jingle Jam Family Nights featuring Bluey and Bingo, the Snow Queen and Olaf, and Santa and Mrs. Claus and children will receive a free glow stick: December 16, 17, and 18.
Will food and beverage be available on site for purchase?
Yes, there will be multiple locations along the trail to purchase cold and hot beverages, savory and sweet snacks, and food for adults and kids.
Are there places to shop?
The Lightscape Booth at the event entrance will be open Thursdays through Sundays, 4:30 – 8 p.m. and the Garden Gift Shop at the event exit each evening 5 – 10 p.m.
Is there parking available?
There will be parking available. Buy your parking in advance and save $7. Advance parking for nonmembers is $18 per vehicle; if purchased upon arrival on the night of your visit, the nonmember parking fee is $25.
Will there be additional sessions?
At this time, no additional dates are planned.
Is there Virtual Reality?
This experience does not have virtual reality.
ABOUT TICKETS
Can I purchase tickets at the door?
You may purchase upon arrival, however, tickets may be sold out by the time you arrive at the event, so we highly recommend you book your tickets in advance in order to guarantee your spot.
Can I transfer my tickets to another person?
Yes, you can transfer your tickets to anyone for free. It is as easy as clicking "Transfer Tickets" on your ticket in the Fever App. Please contact us if you need additional help. Make sure to include your ticket order number.
Do I need to print my ticket?
You can find your ticket in the "Tickets" section of the Fever app (you can download it from the Apple App Store or Google Play). Please remember to log in with the same login method used to make the purchase.
You will also find your QR code in your purchase confirmation email.
I can't find my ticket. What should I do?
You can view your ticket in the Fever app, within the Tickets section. If you don't have the app installed, you can download it from the Apple Store or Google Play. Remember to log in using the same account that you used when buying the tickets. If you still cannot find your ticket, please contact us.
Can I change the date of my ticket? Are refunds allowed?
For this event, all sales are final and tickets can’t be refunded, changed or modified. For more information, please refer to our T&Cs.
Can I make a group booking?
If you're looking to book for a large group or arrange a private event, please contact us here.
About access to the event
Do I need to arrive at the start of my scheduled session?
Please do allow extra time for entry and parking, but do not arrive more than 15 minutes before the entrance time printed on your ticket. Your entry time is a 15-minute window from the time printed on your tickets (e.g., 4:30 – 4:45 p.m.). After you are admitted, you may stay as long as it takes you to walk the route. Our goal is to reduce wait times by staggering ticket sales, although there may still be some waiting time.
Can I bring animals? Are service dogs allowed?
Service animals are permitted on Garden grounds, but no pets please.
Is the venue accessible?
The route is designed so that it can be navigated on paved and crushed gravel paths. The Chicago Botanic Garden has manual wheelchairs that can be loaned, free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of use; no advance reservations accepted.
The Garden’s ECVs (scooters) are not available for rent during this event. If weather conditions prohibit the trail from being fully accessible for those who need mobility devices (wheelchairs, ECVs, walkers, etc.), consideration will be made on a case-by-case basis to allow for tickets to be transferred to alternate dates. If you have particular access requirements, please call the Garden at (847) 835-6801 for further inquiries.
Code of Conduct:
The Chicago Botanic Garden is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment. Garden staff, volunteers, and all visitors have the right to an environment free from abusive and/or threatening behavior, including use of derogatory or offensive language about another person’s race, ethnicity, gender, disability, age, sexual orientation, or national origin. In the event of any such behavior or other conduct that is disrespectful to our staff, volunteers, visitors, and property at any Garden site, we reserve any and all rights permitted by applicable law, including removal, revocation of membership privileges, and prosecution. The Chicago Botanic Garden also reserves the right to determine what constitutes unacceptable behavior.
Is the experience accessible for deaf/visually impaired people?
We are happy to confirm that people with visual or hearing impairments will be able to enjoy this experience.
Will there be strobe lights?
There will be some lighting sequences that have some flashing lights contained within them; however, there is no strobe lighting.
Are there chairs available? Can I be seated during the experience/exhibition?
This is a walk through experience. Seating is available at various points along the exhibit path.
Will restrooms be available on site?
Yes, restrooms will be available along the Lightscape trail.
Can I take photos or record the experience?
Feel free to take photos and share them. When taking photos, please make sure not to disturb other customers. Professional equipment, tripods and monopods are not permitted.
Is there a Lost & Found?
Yes, please check with the Information Desk in the Visitor Center at the event.
Is there an age requirement?
All ages are welcome to this experience! However there are three 21+ nights; November 19, December 4, and January 2.
Will there be an audio guide?
Unfortunately, this experience does not include an audio guide.
Are strollers allowed?
Yes, strollers are allowed. However, strollers are not allowed on 21+ nights: November 19, December 4 and January 2.