Lincoln Park Zoo releases lineup of family-friendly summer events

Lincoln Park Zoo is lining up a busy slate of family-friendly summer events from late May through July, offering free admission days, after-hours celebrations, and child-friendly programs across its Chicago campus. The season includes music, animal chats, rides, cultural performances, meditation, and hands-on activities for young children.

Family nights & free Memorial Day Weekend for all ages

The zoo’s Summer Kickoff over Memorial Day weekend, Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25, offers free entrance from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with zoo programming available for guests of all ages and ride tickets sold separately online and on-site.

Two evening events, both called Family Fun Fur-iday, are set for Friday, June 12, and Friday, July 31. According to the announcement, children and caregivers can expect a live DJ, free carousel and train rides, animal chats, games, and other activities. The events run from 6-9 p.m. at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., and are open to all ages.

Tickets for the family nights are priced at $8 for member children and $10 for nonmembers, while adult admission is $12 for members and $15 for nonmembers, according to the zoo.

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On Friday, June 26, the zoo will host Zoo Fiesta, an after-hours event that celebrates Latin cultures and communities. The evening includes live music, culinary offerings, cultural performances, and animal chats focused on the biodiversity of Latin America. Guests also get unlimited rides on the Endangered Species Carousel and Lionel Train Adventure, plus games and activities. It runs from 6-10 p.m. and is open to all ages.

Ticket prices for Zoo Fiesta are $11.20 for member children and $14 for nonmembers, with adult tickets at $16 for members and $20 for nonmembers.

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Meditation and play with some age limitations

For ages 16 and older, Sound Meditation with Jay Taylor runs on select Saturdays from Saturday, May 16, through Saturday, Oct. 17, at the People's Gas Education Pavilion. The session blends intention-setting, singing bowls, gentle breathwork, and guided relaxation, with a view of the city and nature.

Families with small children can also visit Play! at Farm-in-the-Zoo on Wednesdays from Wednesday, May 27, through Wednesday, Sept. 2. The free, drop-in program is designed for children ages 1 to 5 with a caregiver, and includes story time, process art, sensory bins, and music-making activities.