Morton Aboretum's 'Illumination' transforms a winter walk in the woods
"Illumination: Tree Lights" opens Friday, Nov. 21, at the Morton Arboretum with more lights and unique experiences that encourage visitors of all ages to see trees in a different light.
The festival continues from 5 to 9:30 p.m. most nights through Saturday, Jan. 3, at the outdoor museum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. There are no shows on Thanksgiving, nor on Dec. 1, 8, 15, 24 and 25.
Tickets are available at mortonarb.org or by calling (630) 725-2066. Reservations are highly encouraged because some nights might sell out. Tickets are $12 for members and $17 for others Nov. 21-26, Dec. 2-19 and Dec. 29 to Jan. 3. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for others Nov. 28-30, Dec. 20-23 and Dec. 26-28.
Now in its second year, "Illumination" unites colorful LED lights, interactive features and nature to transform a wintertime walk in the woods into an awe-inspiring journey.
Along the milelong "Illumination" path, hundreds of programmed LED lights transform wintering trees into a palette of hot pinks, neon greens and electric blues, while interactive features encourage visitors to play with the trees - to sing to them, hug them or "paint" them with the touch of a hand.
This season, some trees have been transformed into a virtual outdoor amphitheater in the new Symphony Woods experience, where lights appear to dance to the music of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
"We're thrilled to bring 'Illumination' back for its second year following a successful debut season," said Sue Wagner, vice president of education and information at the Morton Arboretum. "This year's event offers the best of our 2013 season, along with surprising and engaging new activities for all ages to experience nature in a new way."
In addition to Symphony Woods, 'Illumination' offers several other new features and activities this year, including:
• Meadow Lake Magic: Light-patterned trees and a series of lit orbs dotting Meadow Lake create a visually entrancing experience.
• Expanded Tinsel Colonnade experience: The popular Tinsel Colonnade will be expanded to double its size, as cascades of multicolored strings of LED lights hang from trees like tinsel.
• More kid-friendly features: This year's event incorporates child-friendly elements to engage the whole family, including simpler interactive stations and a scavenger hunt.
• Find Glowman: Kids of all ages should be on the lookout for Glowman along the Illumination trail. Spot him, then stop at the Visitor Center information desk and tell us where you saw him to claim a reward. Follow Glowman's adventures on Twitter, @FindGlowman.
• More live entertainment: Catch top local bands every weekend during "Illumination." Check the website for the latest schedule.
• Warm Up Chicago hat and glove drive: Bring gently used or new hats and gloves to help Chicago Cares collect critical cold-weather clothing for thousands of Chicago-area seniors, adults and children.
• Lights recycling: Not sure what to do with your non-working holiday lights? Recycle them at the Visitor Center.
If you go
What: "Illumination: Tree Lights"
When: 5 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, to Saturday, Jan 3; no shows Nov. 27 or Dec. 1, 8, 15, 24 or 25
Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle
Cost: $12 for members, $17 for others off-peak; $15 for members, $20 for others on peak days
Info: (630) 725-2066 or mortonarb.org