Jingle Jam Nights with Santa at Lightscape

Timed-entry Lightscape ticket required, bought online in advance; nonmembers also pay for parking.

Get alerts for this listingAn email if the date, time or place changes, it’s cancelled or sells out, or registration opens. Plus a reminder the day before.

Notify me

Or get a push on your phoneSave this listing in the free app. It’ll notify you about time or place changes, cancellations, sell-outs, when registration opens, and the day before.

About this adventure

On two Wednesday evenings in December the Chicago Botanic Garden turns its Lightscape light trail into Jingle Jam Nights, when families can meet Santa and other festive characters along the route. Lightscape itself is an after-dark walking trail of large light installations set to music, including a walk-in snow globe and a ballerina of light that dances across the sky; Jingle Jam Nights add the character meet-and-greets to the usual trail. It is aimed at families with children who want a Santa visit folded into an evening of holiday lights rather than a separate photo appointment. Tickets are sold for timed entry in 15-minute windows and prices vary by date, so buying ahead gives the best choice. Strollers are welcome. Hot cocoa, snacks and kids' food are sold at stands along the trail. Plan for cold weather: the event runs rain or shine and is cancelled only when conditions are hazardous.