Get ready to rock & roar: Brookfield Zoo Chicago hosts final Roaring Nights concert

Experience a fusion of music and wildlife at Roaring Nights, Brookfield Zoo's Chicago premier summer concert series. With two concerts that already took place in June, its final concert will be held on Saturday, August 16, promising a lively evening filled with music, dancing, and nature, all along the iconic Route 66. Ideal for summer outings, the concert also contributes to animal care and conservation efforts at the zoo. Attendees of the August event can enjoy free same-day admission to the zoo starting at 1 p.m.

Concert-goers can enjoy performances by two acclaimed bands during the event. Headliners Better Than Ezra will take the stage at 8 p.m., bringing their celebrated mix of hummable melodies and impactful guitar riffs. Known for hits like the 1995 chart-topper "Good" and inspiring Taylor Swift's cover of "Breathless," the band maintains its status among Billboard's "100 Greatest Alternative Artists of All Time," according to the Brookfield Zoo website.

Opening for Better Than Ezra, Tonic will perform at 6 p.m. The Grammy Award-nominated, multi-platinum trio boasts a string of anthemic hits since their 1996 debut "Lemon Parade," the website reports. Their acclaimed single "If You Could Only See" was the "#1 Most-Played Rock Song of 1997." Both bands are sure to provide unforgettable performances.

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Add-on experiences and zoo entry

For an additional $30, concert attendees can secure the Early Access for Conservation pass. This ticket offers exclusive entry to the concert area 30 minutes prior to opening, giving guests prime seating, early access to food and beverages, and first dibs on merchandise.

Beyond the music, visitors can explore Brookfield Zoo Chicago. From big cats on the East Mall to Ferris Wheel rides, the free daytime zoo entry from 1 p.m. enhances the concert experience. Note that Ferris Wheel rides require a separate ticket.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Brookfield Zoo's official website. With live music and wildlife encounters, Roaring Nights provide a unique and memorable summer night in Chicago.