Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is an event that locals look forward to as a sign of spring.
The annual event takes place in April each Thursday night and features live music and the zoo’s beautiful gardens.
I’m sharing more about why you’ll want to attend this event and what you need to know before you go.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links.
1. Tunes and Blooms is a FREE Event!
This event is the perfect way to enjoy an inexpensive evening out for families, friends, or couples.
When is the Tunes & Blooms Event at The Cincinnati Zoo?
Tunes & Blooms at the Cincinnati Zoo takes place every Thursday in April from 5-8:30 (weather permitting) at the Cincinnati Zoo.
When is the First Tunes & Blooms Event at The Cincinnati Zoo?
The first Tunes and Blooms event will be on Thursday, April 4, 2024.
The live music begins at 6pm.
2. Tulip Mania and Flowers Galore
There are more than 100,000 tulips at The Cincinnati Zoo. That makes it one of the largest tulip displays in the Midwest!
If you visit the Tunes & Blooms each Thursday evening in April, you can witness the blooming process evolving over time.
This is also a great chance to appreciate Zoo Blooms throughout the zoo featuring more than one million daffodils, hyacinths, flowering trees, shrubs, and other spring bulbs!
The best part is that you are there during the peak tulip bloom season.
3. See the Zoo Animals After Normal Hours
Many of the areas of the zoo are still open for guests to check out during Tunes and Blooms. This allows you to see some of the zoo during your visit.
It’s nice to walk around in the evening and discover the animals that are still out and active.
4. Enjoy Live Concerts
Each Thursday in April guests are treated to great music by a different live band at 6pm. You can check out their music ahead of time online or be pleasantly surprised when you get there.
April 2024 Concert Schedule For Tunes and Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo
The following local bands will be performing free concerts at Tunes & Blooms:
- (April 4 is now rescheduled for May 2) “The Tillers” at Vine Street Village and “Pickin’ Pear” at The Grove
- April 11 – “My Brother’s Keeper” at Vine Street Village and “Elementree” at The Grove
- April 20 – “Highly Likely” at Vine Street Village and “Nicole Polara” at The Grove
- April 27 – “Moonshine Drive” at Vine Street Village and “Cecil Jackson & Dry Ridge” at The Grove
5. Photo Ops Are Everywhere at The Cincinnati Zoo Tunes & Blooms
You can practice your photography skills while you’re at the zoo. The beautiful flowers are a great backdrop for a nice picture of your kids or a great family photo.
If you want water in the background take a picture from Swan Lake Bridge.
Bonus points if you have a collection of pictures of the tulips with family or friends over the years.
Tunes & Bloom at The Cincinnati Zoo FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about the event.
How Much is Admission to Tunes & Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo?
Admission to The Cincinnati Zoo is FREE after 5pm for Tunes & Blooms.
How much is parking for The Cincinnati Zoo?
There is a $10 fee for parking.
Where do you park for The Cincinnati Zoo?
Parking for The Cincinnati Zoo is at 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, OH.
Can You Bring Outside Food and Drinks to Tunes and Blooms at The Cincinnati Zoo?
You can pack a picnic dinner or purchase meals from vendors at the zoo.
No outside alcohol is permitted but the zoo does sell alcohol on-site.
*Bags will be checked before entering the zoo.
Can You Bring Your Own Chairs?
Yes, you can bring lawn chairs or blankets to Tunes & Blooms but no umbrellas are allowed.
What’s the Weather Like in Cincinnati in April?
The weather in Cincinnati can be unpredictable in April with an average high of 66F and a low of 43F.
Some nights it could be cold weather or it could possibly rain…and some evenings this time of year are PERFECT.
Want to Visit The Cincinnati Zoo During the Day?
If you want full access to The Cincinnati Zoo you might want to purchase a ticket to visit during the day.
How to Save on Cincinnati Zoo Admission
You can save money on admission to the Cincinnati Zoo with discount tickets.
Purchase discounts for the Cincinnati Zoo hereThe Cincinnati Zoo is also on the Cincinnati POGO Pass.
More Information About The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
You can learn more information from the Cincinnati Zoo’s website.
More Cincinnati Zoo Articles
- Tips For Visiting The Festival of Lights at the Cincinnati Zoo
- A Unique Adventure at the Family Twiga Overnight Camp
- Kanga Klimb Aerial Adventure Course at Cincinnati Zoo
