If you live in Clifton, you know the arrival of April means more than just spring showers—it means the return of Tunes & Blooms at the Cincinnati Zoo. Every Thursday in April, the garden transforms into one of the city's best free concert series, surrounded by over one million blooming tulips.
But for those of us in the 45220, this isn't just a city event; it’s a neighborhood tradition. To help you make the most of it, we’ve put together the Clifton Connect "Pro-Tips" for 2026:
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Admission is Free, but timing is everything: Admission is free after 5:00 PM. We recommend arriving early to find your "turf" near the Safari Camp Shelter before the music starts at 6:00 PM.
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The Parking Pivot: While Zoo parking is free for members, it fills up fast. Many Clifton locals prefer the short walk or bike ride from the Gaslight District to avoid the Vine Street congestion.
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The Bloom Status: With over 100 varieties of tulips, the gardens are the star of the show. Check the Zoo’s "Bloom Radar" to see which sections are peaking this week.
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Food Options: The LaRosa’s truck will be available for pizza in addition to other specialty food stations in Vine Street Village and The Grove! Enjoy concessions at Hop’s, Tusker’s, Wild Burger, The Coop, and Mai Thai’s Market.
Guests can explore wildlife habitats until dusk, such as Africa, Giraffe Ridge, Cat Canyon, Wolf Woods, and Roo Valley. Discover indoor habitats until 8:00 pm, including the Reptile House, Night Hunters, World of Insects, and Manatee Springs.
For weekly artist lineups, visit the Clifton Connect Events page.
This Week's Lineup:
Main Stage: Jonny Estep Music
Jonny Estep & Lonesome Blend is an exciting bluegrass band based in Covington, Kentucky. With their decades of combined experience in the music scene, they bring a unique blend of classic bluegrass and folk covers, cutting-edge newer material, and heartfelt original songs to every show.
Guitarist and bandleader Jonny Estep is the primary singer and emcee of the group. Mandolinist Phil Lawrence adds his “high lonesome” tenor vocals to the mix. Banjo player Ahmad Maghathe brings the punch and drive expected of any premier bluegrass ensemble. Gil Benson’s fiddle playing adds that smooth sound that gets toes tapping and eyes watering. Rounding out the group, Adam Hicks provides a rock solid foundation with his thumping bass playing.
Even folks who don’t typically consider themselves “bluegrass fans” get caught up in the Lonesome Blend that Jonny and the guys bring to the stage every single time.
The Grove: Nicole Polara
Nicole Polara is a soulful singer/songwriter and cover artist known for her expressive lyrics and melodies. Nicole draws inspiration from a blend of indie, folk, and pop music. Originally from New York, Nicole is now a Cincinnati-based artist, and she enjoys playing at local bars, restaurants, and special events.