Roaring Nights is back this summer at Brookfield Zoo. (Photo by Brookfield Zoo Chicago)


Brookfield Zoo Chicago invites guests to sing songs, save species during the much-anticipated return of its Roaring Nights concerts this summer. The annual concert series features three nights of music, fun and animal experiences while supporting the Zoo’s mission to connect people with wildlife and nature. 

After welcoming sold-out crowds of nearly 13,000 guests throughout last year’s series, the Zoo’s East Mall will bring the ultimate rock playlist to live with performances by +LIVE+, Third Eye Blind, Tonic and Better Than Ezra. This year’s concert lineup is scheduled as follows: 

  • June 21 at 7:30 p.m.: Multi-platinum band +LIVE+ will kick off the summer concert series with hits like “Lightning Crashes” and “I Alone.” 
  • July 18 at 7:30 p.m.: Chart-topping alt-rockers Third Eye Blind will bring high energy with classic tracks like “Semi-Charmed Life,” “Never Let You Go” and “Jumper.” 
  • August 16 at 6 p.m.: The series closes out with an extended show featuring two standout acts. Two-time Grammy-nominated rockers Tonic will open with fan-favorite hits like “If You Could Only See” and “Open Up Your Eyes.” The concert series will then conclude with an 8 p.m. performance by Better Than Ezra, one of Billboard’s “100 Greatest Alternative Artists of All Time” known for hits like, “Good,” “Desperately Wanting” and “King of New Orleans.” 

The public sale for Roaring Nights tickets begins at 10 a.m. on April 24, with general admission beginning at $70 per ticket. Brookfield Zoo Chicago members will receive an exclusive $10 discount per ticket plus first access to a three-show pass for $175 per person. A discounted ticket for children ages 11 and under will be available for $15 per show with the purchase of an adult ticket. For music lovers interested in early entry, the Early Access for Conservation package can be purchased for an additional $30 per person for first access to seating, merchandise and food and beverage. Each ticket sold directly contributes to the Zoo’s Wildlife Conservation Fund, supporting animal care and conservation efforts both locally and globally. 

“Roaring Nights is a concert experience unlike any other in the city,” said Brookfield Zoo Chicago Senior Vice President of Guest Experience and Operations Andrea Rodgers. “This year’s lineup is packed with talent, and we’re excited to welcome guests back for another unforgettable season of summer evenings at the Zoo. Best of all, every ticket uplifts the Zoo’s mission to connect people with wildlife and nature.” 

In addition to enjoying the live music from the Zoo’s East Mall lawn, concert goers will have access to exclusive merchandise—including band T-shirts and swag—and other unique experiences, like up-close encounters with animal ambassadors and a scenic ride on the Zoo’s seasonal Ferris Wheel at sunset. 

Roaring Nights is made possible with support from a Preserve Route 66 grant as well as the concert series presenting sponsor Meijer. More information and tickets will be available at brookfieldzoo.org/roaringnights.