Rock into the Evening at

Nighttime Zoo

May 26–September 4, 2023

Stay late and enjoy more fun during Nighttime Zoo—when the Zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.! Nighttime Zoo activities and entertainment begin at 4 p.m. daily.

As the sun goes down, the fun heats up this summer at the San Diego Zoo. From global rhythms and spectacular entertainment to one-of-a-kind moments with your favorite wildlife after dark, join us under the stars for wild and unforgettable experiences—perfect for the whole family.

For additional information on Nighttime Zoo, see the Seasonal Events section of the Zoo's FAQ page.

Special Entertainment

Rock & Roar

Daily
4 , 5, 6, and 7 p.m. (30 minutes)
Front Street Stage, Front Street

As the sun begins to set, Rock & Roar, the Zoo’s in-house rock and pop band, gets the evening started—playing hits from yesterday and today. Rock out to popular songs spanning decades!

Zoolamoves

Daily
4:30, 5:30, and 6:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
Front Street Stage, Front Street

Join our high-energy hosts as they get guests of all ages up and groovin’! The interactive dances and contests are enjoyable for all ages, and sure to get your toes tapping and blood pumping.

The Chameleons

Daily
4:45, 5:30, and 7:30 p.m. (30 minutes)
Outside Front Plaza and Sweet Shack

The Chameleons bring unique musical entertainment to Nighttime Zoo every evening, playing a variety of tunes from the Beatles to Broadway in their own interactive performances. Watch for our roving brass band, and join in the fun.

Whimsical Wildlife Performers

Daily
4:30 to 7:30 p.m. (continuous)
Along Front Street

Meet, greet, and get photos with our fanciful wildlife-themed performers.

Dr. Zoolittle's Exploration Station

Daily
5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m. (25 minutes)
Rady Ambassador Presentation Area, Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

Join Dr. Zoolittle for this fun, interactive, and informative presentation on the exploration of nature and parallel play with wildlife.

The Explorers

Daily
5, 6, and 8 p.m. (30 minutes)
Wildlife Explorers Basecamp

Enjoy the a cappella, four-part harmony of this talented group of singers as they perform wildlife-themed songs about the world we share!

Summer Songs

Daily
4:45, 5:50, and 6:55 p.m. (45 minutes; last set 30 minutes)
Boardwalk Beer Garden, Australian Outback

After a long day of exploring the Zoo, guests can take a break and listen to the soothing tones of acoustic guitar and vocals.

Bounce Back to the Outback

Daily
4:30, 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m. (15 min)
Behind Sydney's Grill, Urban Jungle

Join our jumping, bouncing, acrobatic group of animal-themed performers as they show off their amazing trampoline skills.

Amazing African Acrobats

Daily
5, 6, and 7 p.m. (15 min)
Africa Rocks Stage, Africa Rocks

Demonstrating an incredible mix of high-class skills, energy, and fun, these athletes are sure to impress with their jaw-dropping acrobatics.

Africa Beat

Daily
5:15, 6:15, and 7:15 p.m. (45 min)
Africa Rocks Stage, Africa Rocks

Drumbeats and rhythms come alive with these performers, as musicians and dancers showcase music from across Africa.

Whimsical Wildlife Performers

Daily
4:30 to 7:30 p.m. (continuous)
Upper Garden, Africa Rocks

Meet, greet, and get photos with our fanciful wildlife-themed performers.

Dr. Harry & Friends

Daily
5, 5:25, 6, and 6:30 p.m.
Boardwalk to Gardens, Africa Rocks and Australian Outback

Dr. Harry Lion and Friends will meet and greet guests of all ages, bringing fun to everyone they see.

Call of the Night

8:15 p.m. (12 min)
Hua Mei Plaza, Asian Passage

Our live musicians keep the music flowing as the stage features three spectacular specialty acts, culminating in a bubble-filled finale.

Jambo Dunia!

8:45 p.m. (15 min)
Along Front Street

Live music, fanciful puppets, dancers, and acrobats make up this high-energy and interactive celebration of people, wildlife, and the planet we all share.