Music Under Glass offers a unique experience of wandering through the tropical gardens at dusk, providing a warm escape from the winter cold while enjoying live performances by local musicians. These free concerts take place in the Sunken Garden, where, due to fire code regulations, seating is not provided. However, the music is simulcast into other areas of the gardens where additional seating is available. While the zoo closes at 4:00 p.m., the Conservatory remains open for guests to enjoy the concert. Beer and wine are available for purchase to enhance the evening experience.

2026 DATES:

Sunday, January 4 – Jaspar Lepak with Ben Cook-Feltz – Folk/Americana Singer-Songwriter Jaspar Lepak (pronounced JAS-per LEE-pack), writes feminist folk songs from the heart—poetic, honest, and “always evocative” (Mostly Minnesota). Her clear, pure voice and classic folk sound have earned comparisons to Kate Wolf and Nanci Griffith.

Sunday, January 11 – Curt Obeda with Brian Z – The Butanes leader and Minnesota Blues Hall of Fame member, Curt Obeda, teams up with Brian Z for downhome NOLA & Memphis Blues.

Wednesday, January 14 – Jack Knife & The Sharps – Jack Knife & The Sharps’ primary musical style is rockabilly, although they blend different musical styles with ease and artistry. Country, blues, swing, and surf sounds all come together in one of the most spirited sets of good-time, rockin’ music you will hear.

Sunday, January 18 – Siama’s Congo Roots – Back in Africa, Siama Matuzungidi (see-AHH-maw) became a soukous legend, recording his intricate guitar on hundreds of songs and touring the world with popular artists. Now in Minneapolis, his catchy, upbeat songs and musicianship have earned him a McKnight Fellowship, numerous grants and a Parents’ Choice Parent Approved award.

Wednesday, January 21 –  Switchgrass – Their sound has been described as porch music, caffeinated sweet tea, and backwoods bluegrass. All accompanied by the sweet sounds of an accordion.

Wednesday, January 28 – Katy Tessman & Sweet Lou – Blending the heart of Americana and the soul of the blues, Katy Tessman and Louis “Sweet Lou” Tessman Stanoch are an authentic Mom + Son duo who have a unique ability to inspire listeners with heartfelt songwriting celebrating life’s stumbles and summits.

Sunday, February 1 – Annie Mack – “Annie Mack is full of soul – within her rich vocals, poignant lyrics, her strong production, and her immaculate musicianship. Hailing from North Minneapolis, Annie is a blues/roots musician that incorporates influences of folk, rock, and country gospel, all of which are prevalent on her latest project, Testify.”  Alex Rae — Americana Highways

Wednesday, February 4 – Jeff Ray with Mikkel Beckmen – Jeff Ray, an innovative slide guitarist and songwriter, blends acoustic blues with world music influences. He’ll be joined by Mikkel Beckmen, a one-man rhythm section.

Funding for “Music Under Glass” is provided through the Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.