Nothing says summer in Portland like a warm evening outdoors with good food and live entertainment. Over the course of five Fridays this summer, the Oregon Zoo will be offering Zoo Nights: evenings filled with local music, food carts, activities for all ages, and the chance to get to know some of the animals active during twilight hours.
“Portland is known for its perfect summer evenings, and once they’re here, I look for every opportunity to get outside and have a good time with the kids,” said Heidi Rahn, zoo director. “Zoo Nights is a chance to enjoy a fun evening together and learn about wildlife.”
Zoo Nights takes place every other Friday from mid-June through mid-August, with live music on the lawn at 6 p.m. and activities taking place from 5:30 on. The series kicks off June 17 with entertainment from the Garcia Birthday Band, a Portland group celebrating the music of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead.
Other upcoming dates include the salsa stylings of Melao de Cuba (July 1), zydeco by the Too Loose Cajun Band (July 15), country-bluegrass from the Caleb Klauder and Reeb Willms Country Band (July 29) and an Afrobeat dance party with Jujuba (Aug. 12).
Also on hand: food and snacks from Verde Cocina, Six Stix, Zeds and more — plus the ever-popular elephant ears and a selection of local beer and wine for adults.
Zoo Nights is a special event and is not included with regular daytime admission. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. For more information, visit oregonzoo.org/events.
Source: Oregon Zoo