The Indianapolis Zoo will have guests rockin’ into the weekend as Zoolapalooza presented by Indiana Members Credit Union kicks off June 19.
Now in its fifth year, this popular concert series runs for four consecutive Friday nights through July 10 and showcases some of the area’s top acts putting a unique flair on popular hits. Live music plays from 5:30 to 8:30pm, with animals and rides available until 7pm. Plus, Zoo members receive free access to a different featured ride each night.
In addition to regular Zoo fare and drink specials, each concert features new specialty food options with tastes to tempt everyone, available for purchase from 5-7:30pm. Plus, Sun King Brewery offers sampling for adult guests.
With plenty of animal exhibits nearby, as well as the Kroger Splash Park, concert goers can enjoy the full Zoo experience without missing a beat. This year’s Zoolapalooza series features:
June 19: My Yellow Rickshaw
This wildly entertaining group returns to kick off the concert season. The whole family will enjoy their fun and unique sound, featuring chart-topping pop, rock, bluegrass and R&B tunes.
• Menu: “Night at Tijuana” with street tacos, full salad bar and churros with dipping sauce.
• Featured ride: Carousel
June 26: The Bishops
Concert-goers can party the night away with this headliner band that is guaranteed to entertain. Audience members young and old will recognize songs from their diverse playlist that includes hits from Aretha Franklin and Journey to Cee Lo Green, Bruno Mars and more.
• Menu: “Creole Night” with jambalaya with Creole, full salad bar and cinnamon fried bread.
• Featured ride: White River Junction Train
July 3: Jayne Bond and the Pink Martinis
This dance band will transport guests through a time warp with music from the 1950s sock hops, the groovy ‘60s, disco party ‘70s, retro ‘80s up to today’s favorites.
• Menu: “Americana” with Zoo-liders, full salad bar and strawberry biscuit shortcake.
• Featured ride: Carousel
July 10: An Innocent Band
Zoolapalooza will round out with the Piano Man’s songbook. Carefully crafted renditions of Billy Joel’s greatest hits will have guests rocking into the weekend.
• Menu: “Taste of Italy” with pasta bar, full salad bar and build-your-own ice cream sundae.
• Featured ride: Kōmbo Roller Coaster presented by Outback Steakhouse
The music will play rain or shine inside the Zoo’s Party Pavilion, which offers both an open-air atmosphere as well as protection from the weather. Tables are open on a first-come, first-served basis, plus guests can bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.
Additionally, concert evenings provide a perfect opportunity for visitors to see the Zoo’s newest nocturnal residents at Koala presented by Citizens Energy Group.
Zoolapalooza concerts are free to Zoo members and included with regular admission. Guests can purchase discount tickets at Indianapolis-area Indiana Members Credit Union locations and enjoy the full day at the Zoo. Advance tickets are also available at IndianapolisZoo.com or concert goers can find a coupon on the Zoo’s Facebook page that’s good for $4 off admission at the gate after 4pm on the night of the event.