‘Illumination: Tree Lights’ event to light up the Morton Arboretum

The “Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum” festival has returned, bringing vibrant colors to the arboretum’s landscape to celebrate the holiday season.

The event, which is open daily from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m., runs through Saturday, Jan. 4.

The exhibition features 17 music and light displays that highlight the trees throughout the arboretum. Guests will marvel at the immersive installations along a one-mile path filled with light, color and sound, according to a news release. The exhibition is fully ADA compliant, according to the arboretum’s website.

Included in the exhibition are a secluded glade strung with fairy lights, kinetic LED tall grasses that honor a Midwest native species and trees lit up with a hug. The Gerald T. Donnelly Grand Garden will feature four sets of illuminated tree-shaped installations that are synced to music. This Celebration Circle exhibit is new for 2024.

When the temperatures are chilly, enjoy the warmth of a fire and roasted s’mores. Concession tents will be open for snacks and beverages along the Illumination trail. The Ginkgo Restaurant also will be open and offers a great view of the laser light finale on Meadow Lake.

A temperature-activated, color-changing ceramic mug will be available to buy on all Illumination dates.

Save money by buying tickets online at https://tickets.mortonarb.org/illumination.

Don’t miss Electric Illumination, an experience for adults 18 and over from 8:30 to 10 p.m. on three weekends in November and December. Each weekend will have a unique theme with a curated playlist synchronized to the light displays.

The theme on Friday, Nov. 29, and Saturday, Nov. 30 is 2000s pop hits.

Country music mashups is the theme on Friday, Dec. 6, and Saturday, Dec. 7.

Diva anthems is the theme on Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.

For more information, visit https://mortonarb.org.