ZooFest kicks off celebration of Zoo Bar’s 50th anniversary

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Thursday was the start of the 25th ZooFest, and this year is extra special.

The festival is three days long this year to celebrate the opening of the Zoo Bar 50 years ago.

The bar became a nationally recognized blues venue for acts to perform at while on the road.

“That tiny stage has a mighty place in our hearts here in Lincoln,” Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird said while welcoming festivalgoers. “They’ve done so much to support local artists and put Lincoln on the map. I’m just thrilled to see all of you out here on this beautiful night. Listen to some great tunes; we have some amazing bands out here. Let’s give it up for the bands and this crowd and say, ‘Happy anniversary, ZooFest.'”

Two thousand attendees are expected on each night of ZooFest.

The festival is one of Nebraska’s biggest musical attractions of the year and features a diverse array of music types, from jazz to rock.

You can buy tickets online for $50 or at the door for $60.

The event starts at 5 p.m. on Friday and 1 p.m. on Saturday.

Go to the Zoo Bar’s website for more information.