Join the fun at our Wild Summer Nights Concert Series!
Experience an unforgettable evening of live music, engaging Zookeeper Chats and so much more. With a lineup of local artists playing a mix of genres, there’s something for every music lover to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the perfect summer night at the Zoo!
Summer Concert Series Schedule
-
July 9 – Steve Somers Band (Blues)
-
July 16 – Enchanted Princess Party (children’s music)
-
July 23 – KGB Motown Band (Motown)
-
July 30 – Your Generation in Concert (pop through the ages)
-
Aug. 6 – Olivia Van Goor (jazz)
-
Aug. 13 – Second Wind (classic rock)
-
Aug. 20 – Ashley Lynn Experience (country)
-
Aug. 27 – Rondo String Quartet (strings)
Stay tuned for more details!
Make Your Summer Nights Wild
Every Wednesday night this summer, Wild Summer Nights offers three extra hours to explore the Detroit Zoo. Enjoy full access to habitats, buildings and attractions through 8 p.m. — plus live music from local artists starting at 6 p.m. in the Main Picnic Grove.
Whether you stay for the music, the carousel or a peaceful evening walk past the animals, this is your chance to make the most of a Michigan summer night — all included with your admission.
Don’t forget to bring your own blanket or chair to relax and enjoy the show!
New This Year: Evening-Only Admission
Guests arriving after 6 p.m. on event nights will enjoy reduced admission at the gate.
No pre-purchase needed, just show up and save:
- $13 for general admission
- $12 for youth and seniors
What to Expect
- 10-14 3oz. tastings depending on ticket type
- A premium selection of summer cocktails, craft beers, wine and zero-proof drinks
- A complimentary welcome drink courtesy of Griffin Claw Brewing Co.
- Exclusive after-hours access to the Zoo until 10 p.m. (full Zoo access ends at 8)
- Access to Dragon Forest, an immersive mythical walk-through experience
- Interactive Connection Station centered on the eastern massasauga rattlesnake
- Live music from local artists Phoenix Theory and Devyn Mitchell
- Optional VIP experience starting an hour before general admission
- Oversized lawn games and golden-hour photo ops
- Food available for purchase
- Educational Zookeeper Chats with our staff
What to Expect
Sips & Bites
- Food and beverage pop-ups + retail open late
Exclusive Access
- Access to animal habitats and buildings until 8 p.m.
- All rides and attractions open until 8 p.m.
Main Picnic Grove Live Music
- Live music in the Main Picnic Grove from 6-7:30 p.m.
Wild Summer Nights 2025 Music Lineup
Concerts are held at the Main Picnic Grove.
July 9, 2025
Steve Somers Band (Blues)
July 16, 2025
Enchanted Princess Party (Kids/Pop)
July 23, 2025
KGB Motown Band (Motown)
July 30, 2025
Your Generation In Concert (Pop/Rock)
Aug. 6, 2025
Olivia Van Goor (Jazz)
Aug. 13, 2025
Second Wind (Classic Rock)
Aug. 20, 2025
Ashley Lynn Experience (Country)
Aug. 27, 2025
Rondo String Quartet (Strings)
What's New
This year, Summer Sips is raising a glass to the Michigan Summer by increasing the number of tastings from six 5 oz cups to 10 3 oz cups, giving you even more opportunities to sample and discover new favorite brews.
Ticket Options
Choose the Experience That’s Right for You
Members now get 10% off events—including Summer Sips! 
Click here to learn more and become a member today
General Admission
Standard admission to Summer Sips.
Admission to the Zoo
Ten (10) 3 oz. beverage tastings
Food available for purchase
VIP
All the benefits of general admission plus so much more!
Early Admission to the Zoo at 6 p.m.
Fourteen (14) 3 oz. beverage tastings
An exclusive commemorative gift
Access to the VIP Lounge (located in the Main Picnic Grove) and exclusive food options
Designated Driver
All the fun of Summer Sips without the alcohol.
Admission to the Zoo
Unlimited soft drinks
Unlimited access to non-alcoholic tasting selections
Designated Driver VIP
All the benefits of designated driver plus so much more!
All the same features as the DD ticket
An exclusive commemorative gift
Access to the VIP Lounge (located in the Main Picnic Grove) and exclusive food options
Four Nights. One Pack. Endless Fun.
Want more to do at the Detroit Zoo? Lock in four unforgettable nights with our limited-time 2025 After Hours 21+ Event Series Pass for $210, which includes general admission to Zoo Brew, Summer Sips, Spooky Spirits and Polar Beers. Sip, stroll and celebrate the seasons with exclusive, 21+ after-hours access, craft drinks, live entertainment and much more.
Why It Matters
Every visit to the Detroit Zoo helps ignite positive change for animals and nature. When you attend Wild Summer Nights, you’re not just enjoying a summer evening — you’re supporting evidence-based animal care, global conservation and education programs that reach thousands of learners annually. Your admission makes a difference.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
