Experience the Northern Lights Over Grundy County: A VIP Adventure in Illinois
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion needed; suitable for all fitness levels as this is primarily a stationary night viewing experience.
Overview
Discover a rare chance to witness the northern lights in Grundy County, Illinois. This VIP Pass offers an unparalleled night of celestial wonder just outside Morris, combining expert guides and optimal viewing setups to make your aurora adventure unforgettable.
VIP Pass
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About This Adventure
Experience the magic of the Northern Lights Christmas Drive-Thru Light Show in Grundy County! With over a million twinkling lights and themed displays stretching over a mile and a half, this enchanting attraction promises joy for the entire family. Enjoy delicious food from Grill Masters as you drive through this festive wonderland!
Drive-Thru Christmas Light Spectacular!
2022/23 Season Schedule:
Opening Night: November 14, 2022 Closing Night: January 7, 2023
Twinkling Nightly starting at 5:00pm
Duration
If you go at a slow and steady pace, it should take about 30 minutes to make it through the show!
About
A brand new Christmas attraction is coming to Grundy County this Christmas season! Bring the whole family and enjoy the experience of over one million Christmas lights at the Northern Lights Christmas Drive-Thru Light Show. Located at Grundy County Fairgrounds, this is bound to bring a smile to the face of your whole family, from youngest to oldest. With several themed areas and over a mile and a half in length, Northern Lights over Grundy County focuses on the joy of Christmas and real reason for the season!
This show contains flashing lights that may not be suitable for people with photosensitive epilepsy or other light-sensitive concerns.
Food and Refreshments Partnering with the Grill Masters Trackside Grill, we are pleased to offer food/beverage for you to enjoy during your drive! Place your order at check-in and it will be ready before you enter the lights!
Adventure Tips
Check Aurora Forecasts
Monitor local geomagnetic activity for the best viewing nights to maximize your chances of seeing the aurora.
Dress in Layers
Night temperatures can drop quickly; layering prevents chills during long sky-watching sessions.
Bring a Tripod for Photography
A stable tripod is necessary to capture the low-light aurora displays effectively.
Minimize Light Pollution
Turn off or cover all lights while watching to protect your night vision and the environment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Screech Owl
- White-tailed Deer
History
Grundy County, named in 1841 after Illinois Supreme Court Justice Felix Grundy, offers a surprising glimpse into natural phenomena rarely seen in this part of the Midwest.
Conservation
Local guides emphasize leave-no-trace principles to minimize light pollution and protect Grundy County’s nocturnal environment during aurora viewings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Insulated Jacket
Keeps you comfortable outdoors during cold nocturnal temperatures.
winter specific
Headlamp with Red Light
Allows navigation without disrupting night vision or disturbing others.
winter specific
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
For capturing the aurora in long exposures with high image quality.
winter specific
Thermal Gloves
Protects your hands from the cold while adjusting gear or camera settings.
winter specific