Winter Lights at Central Park
Central Park transforms into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of twinkling lights. Experience a free, accessible 1/2-mile walk featuring dancing trees, rainbow arches, snowflakes, and musical displays. Enjoy photo opportunities and a dedicated sensory-friendly time each evening.
What to Expect
Thousands of twinkling lights in a park setting.
Event Details
Duration
4.5 hours
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Oak Brook Park District
Food & Drink
Indoor restrooms are available during Cocoa Cabin hours. Limited restrooms are available on other nights. Cocoa Cabin offers hot chocolate.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, individuals seeking festive holiday displays
Vibe
Magical, enchanting, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low (walking)
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High (may close due to inclement weather)
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Parking: Parking lots will fill quickly during busy times. An additional parking location is available, requiring a walk to the event start. Avoid parking in grass or non-designated areas.
- Accessibility: The walking path is paved and accessible for all, allowing anyone to walk or roll through the light show.
- Pets: Dogs are allowed on a leash.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early, especially on comfortable weather evenings, as parking lots fill quickly. Consider the additional parking area and walking to the event entrance.
- Check the event page for any closure notices due to inclement weather, such as heavy snow, ice, rain, or lightning.
- Take advantage of the dedicated sensory-friendly time (4:00 PM - 4:30 PM) for a calmer experience with static lights and no music.
- Donations are accepted to benefit the People's Resource Center and The Oak Brook Park District Foundation; consider contributing to support their work.
- Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners to enjoy the festive lights together.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory-Friendly Time: 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM daily
- Donations accepted for People's Resource Center and Oak Brook Park District Foundation
- Cocoa Cabin available for hot chocolate
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Winter Lights open?
The Winter Lights are open daily from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM, from mid-November through the first week in January.
Is there a cost to attend the Winter Lights?
No, the Winter Lights event is free to the community. Donations are accepted to benefit local organizations.
Are pets allowed at the Winter Lights?
Yes, dogs are permitted as long as they are on a leash.
What are the parking arrangements?
Parking lots can fill up quickly. An alternative parking location is available, and visitors may need to walk to the event entrance. Please do not park in undesignated areas.
Is the event accessible?
Yes, the event is inclusive and accessible. The walking path is paved, allowing everyone to walk or roll through the light show.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.