Electric Illumination

Electric Illumination offers a special late-night Illumination experience on three special weekends in November and December, each with a unique theme.

Please note: Electric Illumination events have concluded for the 2024–25 season. Browse available dates and times for Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum.

Enjoy a night out at the Arboretum with a live DJ and a synchronized display of music and lights on three weekends in November and December. Exclusively for adults 18 and older, Electric Illumination is a late-night Illumination experience with musical themes that make each weekend unique.

Event Highlights

The one-mile Electric Illumination path is ADA compliant for mobility.

Hot chocolate, snacks, alcoholic beverages, and s’more kits can be purchased in a warm concession tent or enjoyed by crackling bonfires along the path.

A live DJ will be stationed in Arbor Court during Electric Illumination hours.

Plan Ahead and Save on Tickets

With plan-ahead pricing for Illumination and Electric Illumination, choose the price, date, and time that best fits your budget and schedule. The further in advance you purchase your tickets, the more you save!

Ticket prices are always 20% lower for Arboretum members. Become a member to access the best prices.

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What’s the difference between Illumination and Electric Illumination?

Illumination is a family-friendly light and sound installation open from November, 2025 through January, 2026. Electric Illumination is a late-night experience for adults 18 and older on three special weekends in November and December, each with a unique theme and live DJ.
I can’t get tickets to Electric Illumination because it’s sold out. Can I use my tickets for the Illumination 8:00 p.m. entry time and stay late?

No. Entry to Electric Illumination requires a separate ticket for the 8:30 p.m. entry time. The trail will be cleared and temporarily closed shortly before 8:30 p.m. for the transition from Illumination to Electric Illumination. Those with Illumination tickets must complete their experience by that time and may not re-enter the trail without an Electric Illumination ticket.
If I have an Electric Illumination ticket, how early can I come so I can see regular Illumination, too?

Electric Illumination tickets do not include entrance to Illumination. Arboretum members may enter the Arboretum at any time. Electric Illumination ticketholders who are not members may enter the Arboretum as early as 8:00 p.m. to park before walking the trail at 8:30, but will not have access to the Visitor Center until their ticketed time.
Can I use my Illumination ticket for Electric Illumination if I’m running late?

Electric Illumination is a separate event with a specific capacity to maintain a pleasant experience for all guests. Those with 8:00 p.m. Illumination tickets who arrive late will be permitted to complete the Illumination experience, but the trail will be cleared prior to the start of Electric Illumination at 8:30 p.m.