Seasonal & Holidays

See Thousands Of Holiday Lights, Towering Trees At Cosley Zoo

More than 20,000 holiday lights will illuminate Cosley Zoo when the 2021 Festival of Lights and Tree Sale kicks off.

Cosley Zoo's 2021 Festival of Lights and Tree Sale runs Nov. 26 through Dec. 30.
Cosley Zoo's 2021 Festival of Lights and Tree Sale runs Nov. 26 through Dec. 30. (Scott Anderson/Patch)

WHEATON, IL — More than 20,000 holiday lights will sparkle and towering evergreens will line the grounds of Cosley Zoo for the 2021 Festival of Lights and Tree Sale, which kicks off Nov. 26.

“The holiday season possesses a magical quality that the zoo is truly blessed to share with so many people as they select the perfect tree or enjoy the spectacular Festival of Lights," Sue Wahlgren, Cosley Zoo director, said in a news release ahead of the opening.

Cosley Zoo will light up every day at 3 p.m. with strings of lights, festive illuminated displays and other light features. Admission to the Festival of Lights and Tree Sale is free and advance registration will not be required to attend.

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Related: See Thousands Of Poinsettias, Shop For Gifts At Cantigny Park

Visitors can get inspiration from the dazzling holiday display to take home their own Christmas tree. Choose from a variety of evergreen trees, including Scotch pines and Canaan, Douglas and Fraser firs. In addition to Christmas trees, garlands, wreaths and other greens will be for sale.

Find out what's happening in Wheatonfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Santa Claus himself will be at Cosley Zoo's Barn Learning Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 27, Dec. 4 and Dec. 11. Families can pay $20 to visit Santa's Craft Corner, share their holiday wishes, make crafts and enjoy refreshments.

On weekends, guests can grab a cup of hot chocolate from the zoo's Coyote Café Concession stand.

Cosley Zoo's Festival of Lights and Tree Sale runs through Dec. 30 from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

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