Stay after dark and help us celebrate summer during Nighttime Zoo! Come “rock and roar” every day this summer with live music, fun shows, and special animal encounters. The fun begins before the sun goes down with an amazing trampoline act, Dr. Zoolittle’s special performances, and African-themed entertainment for the whole family. Musicians will serenade and engage guests with tunes ranging from classic rock riffs to jaunty brass band sounds to sweet beats from throughout Africa. A procession of larger-than-life animal puppets headline and end-of-the-evening performance that is sure to wow viewers of all ages.

There’s so much to do, see, and hear at Nighttime Zoo—it’s a good thing summer hours are longer!

The Californian is a replica of a gold rush era revenue cutter and the Official Tall Ship of the State of California.

Join the crew in sailing a traditionally rigged tall ship. Passengers will be invited to haul a line, man the helm and end their day with a cannon salute. Watch the crew as they scamper up and down the rigging to set and furl the sails. Listen as the Californian’s crew relates the history of sailing and exploration in San Diego, tales of whaling and sea otter trade, local sea battles, the art of ship’s gunnery, life at sea and more.

Enjoy close encounters with Scripps Institution of Oceanography scientists and search the galleries for unusual underwater creatures rarely seen at Birch Aquarium.

Discover a sea of glowing beasts (big and small), get sticky with slime, and enjoy spooky stories, all while boo-gieing down to live music and having a monstrously good time.

Recommended for ages 2+

 Activities:

- Scripps Institution of Oceanography Scientists showcasing exciting, and sometimes spooky, research
- Slime: Make your own seaweed slime to take home
- Frankensquid: Get up close and personal with a squid and learn what makes it unique inside and out
- Spooky species including skeleton shrimp and sea spiders
- Family-friendly costumes encouraged
- Glow Critters: Witness creatures that create their own light

Back for its 13th season, the Green Flash concert series combines live music with panoramic ocean views on the aquarium’s stunning Tide-Pool Plaza. Keep an eye out for a real “green flash,” a rare optical phenomenon caused by refraction of light as the sun sets on the horizon. 
Once again Venice and Pine Mountain logs are closing out the Green Flash Summer Concert Series with their repertoire of high energy classic hits range from Led Zeppelin to the Jackson Five, Tom Petty, TLC, Aerosmith, Outkast and more.