The Morton Arboretum unveils its most ambitious winter light display

This year’s iteration marks a significant expansion for the nationally acclaimed event. Beyond the northern lights canopy, the grounds will feature a tunnel of shifting chrome spheres and a hillside landscape of glowing orbs designed to mirror meditative sand gardens. The addition of a fantasy woodland model train experience—winding through nearly 1,000 feet of track inside the Firefly Pavilion—provides a new interactive dimension for families. Amy Scott, the Arboretum’s head of exhibitions, noted that the season is designed to encourage visitors to engage with nature through these large-scale artistic reinterpretations.

Returning favorites like Symphony Woods and the Vivid Creatures sculptures will see refreshed lighting enhancements, while the exhibition continues its commitment to accessibility through dedicated sensory-friendly nights and reduced pricing for EBT and WIC cardholders. Special events include a 21+ IllumiBrew preview and recurring dog-friendly evenings. Public tickets become available October 15, with members gaining early access on October 1. Visitors can further customize their experience with private IllumiDome rentals, which include seasonal concessions and lounge-style seating throughout the winter run.