Summer fun is heating up, and one of the Indianapolis Zoo’s longest-running traditions is back to help guests chill out with the smooth sounds of live jazz.
The 29th season of Animals and All That Jazz presented by Central Indiana Honda Dealers kicks off July 7 and continues every Thursday night through Aug. 4.
Featuring a diverse lineup of some of the Midwest’s top artists, music will run from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Additionally, animals and rides will be available until 7pm so that concert goers can enjoy a full day at the Zoo then stay late for the free concerts.
In addition to regular Zoo fare, each concert features a different menu of specialty food options, available for purchase from 5-7:30pm. Plus, adult guests can sample wines provided by Monarch Beverage Company or Barefoot Wine as well as local beers from Sun King Brewery, TwoDEEP Brewing or Daredevil Brewing Co.
The music will play rain or shine inside the Zoo’s Party Pavilion, which offers both an open-air atmosphere as well as protection from the weather. Tables are open on a first-come, first-served basis, plus guests can bring their own lawn chairs and blankets.
This year’s Animals and All That Jazz at the Indianapolis Zoo includes:
July 7: Tucker Brothers Quartet
This young, talented quartet led by Joel and Nick Tucker complement each other’s strengths individually and as a group.
• Menu: “Taste of Summer” with beer can chicken, salad bar and apple dumpling a la mode.
July 14: Gene Markiewicz DM Jazz 8
This high-energy group with a big band feel takes great pride in giving a traditional jazz take on great standards plus classic and contemporary pop, even some original arrangements.
• Menu: “Taste of Italy” with pasta bar, salad bar and build-your-own ice cream sundae.
July 21: Ty Causey
With a sound reminiscent of Marvin Gaye, this piano-driven combination of singer-songwriter, indie rock and a hint of jazz brings a variety to every show.
• Menu: “Southern Comfort” with “Zoul” food, salad bar and bread pudding.
July 28: Craig Brenner & the Crawdads
The beat goes on with this foot-stompin’ sound that brings together New Orleans-style R&B, Zydeco, blues, jazz and swing. It’s perfect for chillin’ out on a summer evening.
• Menu: “Creole Night” with jambalaya and Creole, salad bar and cinnamon fried bread.
Aug. 4: Cathy Morris and Brazilian Jazz
The series will end on a high note! Zoo audiences will certainly remember Cathy’s unique electric violin and vocal performances. Plus, this popular big band blends talented musicians to perform innovative jazz and pop arrangements.
• Menu: “Brazilian BBQ” with roast chicken or lamb, salad bar and peach empanada a la mode.
Additionally, concert evenings provide a perfect opportunity for visitors to see the Zoo’s newest Nature Connects®: Art with LEGO® bricks exhibit presented by Citizens Energy Group and Indiana Members Credit Union, which is open until 6pm daily in White River Gardens.
Animals and All That Jazz concerts are free to Zoo members and included with regular admission. Guests can save by purchasing advance tickets at Indiana Members Credit Union and at IndianapolisZoo.com.
