Walking Tours Return For 2021 'Illumination' At Morton Arboretum

LISLE, IL— Visitors can once again stroll through Morton Arboretum to see thousands of holiday lights sparkling during the 2021 installment of "Illumination: Tree Lights." The popular exhibit, which will transform the arboretum grounds into a twinkling winter wonderland starting Nov. 20, required visitors to stay in their cars in 2020 due to coronavirus.

Holiday tunes, colorful lights and crackling fires will set the scene as guests follow a one-mile path that will feature five new lights displays in addition to several familiar favorites. The new displays for 2021 Illumination include 150 brightly hued lanterns that will light up the summit of Frost Hill, a "gateway" of lights that leads the way to Meadow Lake and a light installation that adorns "Hallow," part of artist Daniel Popper's Human + Nature exhibit.

"Every year since its inception, we have embraced The Morton Arboretum’s mission as the champion of trees,” said "Illumination" lighting designer John Featherstone of Lightswitch.

Featherstone added, "'Illumination' is an unparalleled lighting experience, immersing guests in nature and highlighting the many ways trees are a gift to people and communities."

The family-friendly exhibition will also feature food and drink tents and opportunities for guests to make S'Mores.

On Nov. 18 and 19, Morton Arboretum will host, Illumibrew, a special preview event that includes beer tastings.

Timed-entry tickets for "Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum"go on sale starting Oct. 1. Visitors are encouraged to buy tickets ahead of their visit and can purchase tickets on a first-come, first-served basis at the Morton Arboretum Visitor Center. Guests can also click the link to buy tickets to "Illumination."

Discounted early bird tickets are for arboretum members Oct. 1 through Oct. 31. Ticket prices start at $7.

"Illumination" is open nightly starting Nov. 20 from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with the last entry permitted at 8:30 p.m. The exhibition will be closed Nov. 22, 25 and 29, along with Dec. 6, 13, 24 and 25.

Face masks are required indoors at Morton Arboretum. Visitors who are not fully vaccinated against coronavirus are encouraged to wear masks outdoors and maintain six feet of social distance from other parties.