Minnesota Zoo Wild Nights 2025

What to Expect

Wild Nights has a stellar lineup of local music!
Indie-rock band Cloud Cult is performing on the Amphitheater main stage, and we want to ensure there’s space for all fans. To see Cloud Cult, you must pick up a wristband when you arrive. Scan your tickets at the Zoo entrance, collect a wristband, choose a Green wristband to attend the 7:30-8:30 p.m. performance; a Yellow wristband for 9:00-10:00 p.m. Cloud Cult will play two sets, and guests will have a chance to choose a timeslot. Wristbands available at ticket scanning only; colors are first-come, first-served, and no exchanges after distribution.

About the Lineup

Alexis Rose:

DJ Jake Rudh: Jake Rudh is both a Minneapolis club and radio DJ hosting "Transmission" the program heard on 89.3 The Current every Thursday night at 10 p.m. Jake's worked in music for over 30 years including at Capitol Records, NPR, and Twin Cities alternative favorites REV 105 and Radio K. Having been voted "best club DJ" in the Twin Cities for ten straight years by the readers of City Pages magazine, he brings the varied mix of the club nights to the airwaves each week with a different theme to his show.

Sweet & Tender Hooligans:

Cloud Cult:

What food and beverage options will be available?

Each Wild Nights 2025 date will feature a unique array of local food vendors and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for purchase. Food and beverage are not included in the cost of your ticket and are not allowed in the Llama Trek walk-through exhibit. No outside food or beverage can be brought to Wild Nights events.

Are tickets required in advance?

All tickets must be purchased online and in advance of the event. Please note that Wild Nights are 18+ adults-only events; no children or infants will be admitted.

Is there a Minnesota Zoo member discount?

Minnesota Zoo members enjoy discounted tickets and Ticket Plans for Wild Nights 2025. Log into your Member account to see your savings.

Not yet a Minnesota Zoo Member? Join today to get your discounted tickets to Wild Nights 2025! In addition to discounted events and activities, Members also receive free daily admission and contribute to wildlife conservation here at the Zoo and around the world! Check out the many benefits of Minnesota Zoo Membership and sign up on the website.

Buy More, Save More

This option offers a discount of $5 per ticket when purchasing 2-15 tickets at once, with prices set at $25 per night for members and $35 per night for non-members.

Is this a concert at the Zoo?

Wild Nights features a festival-like atmosphere with the opportunity to explore the entire Zoo campus, visit your favorite animals, take in diverse musical acts at multiple stages, enjoy unique food and beverage options, and engage with local artists and vendors at this adults-only event.

Does my ticket guarantee a seat?

This event is festival style, not seated. Headline bands perform at their designated stage at 8 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. (see timing below). This will give music fans that chance to catch both the acts. This event does not sell specific seats.

What animals can I see?

All animal trails and exhibits at the Zoo will be open and accessible to guests from 5 – 8 pm, including the Llama Trek walk-through exhibit and camel rides. Camel rides, llama walks, and llama feeding are available for additional fees.

Are there separate tickets for each stage?

Your Wild Nights ticket includes general admission access to all activities which operate on a first-come first-served basis. Seating is limited in some locations, so we encourage you to plan your evening accordingly.

What is included in the cost of a ticket?

Your ticket to Wild Nights includes general admission to all live music and entertainment, access to the entire Zoo campus including animal trails and exhibits (open until 8 pm), general event admission and parking, access to food and beverage vendors and local artisans. Food and beverage can be purchased separately. The Llama Trek walk-through exhibit will be open; Camel rides, llama walks, and llama feeding are available for additional fees.

Can I bring my own food and beverage?

Outside food and beverage is not permitted at Wild Nights events.

Is Wild Nights weather dependent?

Wild Nights is rain or shine. If there is severe weather and the event needs to be canceled, ticket holders for that evening will be contacted by Zoo Guest Services.

Does the Zoo offer Group ticket sales to Wild Nights 2025?

Yes! If you would like purchase 16 or more single tickets or Ticket Packages for your group, please contact [email protected]

Sponsor Spotlight Bonfe is proud to be the Presenting Sponsor of Wild Nights at the Minnesota Zoo, a summer series that brings the Twin Cities together for music and fun. As a locally owned company, Bonfe is all about supporting the community they proudly call home—whether it’s keeping your home comfortable or helping create experiences like Wild Nights that bring people together. They’re excited to be part of something that makes summer in the Twin Cities even better. Enjoy the music, the energy, and the great company—Bonfe has your home covered when you get back.