It sure is the most wonderful time of the year at the Morton Arboretum.
With the same charm since day one, the Arboretum is celebrating the 12-year anniversary of its Illumination exhibition. The Arboretum’s goal is to raise awareness of the value of trees as well as keep the grounds a greener, healthier and more beautiful place where people can escape their chaotic lives for some peace and quiet.
Covering only 50 of their 1,700 acres, the Illumination exhibition brings you into another world, a world full of lights and music that will leave you speechless. This year the exhibition features 17 displays along with two new ones.
Walking into The Grand Garden, you are welcomed with a beautiful tree in the center of the plaza with lights that are constantly changing color while being surrounded by smaller trees all around. Nostalgic Christmas music constantly plays as you walk from one place to the next.
“It’s really about enjoying the trees in winter. Most people don’t think about enjoying trees in winter,” says Amy Scott, head of exhibitions at The Morton Arboretum.
Continuing your walk through the exhibit, you are greeted by big evergreen trees with calming lights. Everything is quiet, but you can feel the stillness of everything around you, hear the howl of the wind going through the trees. Without even realizing it, you start to relax with every gust of wind that passes you and goes through the trees.
However, a personal favorite is the Golden Blades. You are greeted by lights covering both sides of the trail, all shimmering like glitter on the grass.
“I just feel like it’s a magical experience,” says Scott.
Stepping into this path feels as if you’re stepping into a Hallmark movie minus the small-town love of your life.
With music playing, you’ll come to interactive parts to the walk such as the Enchanted Forest, for kids from one to ninety-two, where with the push of a button, you can make lights shimmer from tree to tree.
Every spot on this walk makes for perfect photos. This magical experience makes for family memories or can just be a fun night out with friends. This would make a really cute date (and it definitely is Instagram-worthy!).
But don’t worry if you are third-wheeling your friends’ date; the Arboretum has something for everyone. There’s a lovely section where all the single pringles can Hug a Tree.
“You can enjoy a nice night out in nature,” says Scott.
Illumination at the Arboretum is now open through Jan. 5. Doors open at 4:30 p.m.; lights out at 9:30 p.m. Suggestion: Buy tickets in advance because they sell out quickly.
This quiet and peaceful one-mile walk gives you time to take a step back and enjoy what Christmas is really about. So grab your jacket and your boots, because it’s Christmas at the Arboretum.
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