Fifty acres of the Morton Arboretum’s majestic trees will glow in mesmerizing hues of blue, green, purple, and magenta all December long at Illumination. Along the wooded one-mile path, you’ll discover a series of experiences that encourage you to see trees in a different light. Whether you’re looking to marvel at a grove of hemlock trees as their color transforms from green to technicolor hues or to take in a dazzling show of lights that appear to dance in the trees in time to music, it’s a must-see holiday destination.
This year’s event includes new features to wow event-goers, including a new way to experience Illumination. Become part of the Illumination experience by wearing programmed interactive pendants that light up in sync with the event. Also new this year will be timed admission tickets, allowing visitors to enter every half hour throughout the event.
Morton Arboretum Illumination
Many returning fan favorites are back for the upcoming season, including:
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Treemagination – Marvel at projections on the trees that make it seem as though the trees are “breathing” one moment, drenched with saturated and surreal fields of color the next, only to be transformed again with amazing geometric patterns.
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Fantasy Forest – Redesigned for 2017, this experience showcases grouped white columns rising up between manicured hedges. Representing groves of trees, these structures provide the setting for sweeping beams of light that extend across the landscape and skyward in time with spirited music.
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Ornament Hill – Visitors will encounter a breathtaking and glittering vista of hundreds of giant glowing orbs nestled in the landscape and surrounded by thousands of points of LED light.
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Symphony Woods – Lights dance in the trees to classical music
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Crystal Promenade – 24 ethereal chandeliers adorn a forest of Douglas fir and spruce trees in this fairy tale-like spot
Three concession tents scattered throughout the trail will feature snacks and hot beverages, including gourmet hot chocolate. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a cozy fire and a break at one of the warming areas along the Illumination path.
Illumination tickets range from $18 to $22 for adults and $12 to $14 for children. For more information and to purchase tickets visit mortonarb.org/illumination.
