Join us for our very own MTV unplugged!

Live performances by: Jamal Rashad, B. Deveaux & LBXX
Sounds by: DJ Moteef

From towering redwood forests to vast deserts, breathtaking coasts to bustling cities, California has it all. Get an exclusive first look at our new exhibit California: State of Nature at a special NightLife celebrating the Native people, communities, and creatures that make our state so special.

Sounds by Make Room

Check out Make Room's exclusive NightLife playlist on the NightLife Spotify page

Featured events:

• Be one of the first to experience the new exhibit, California: State of Nature before its public opening and dive into the unexpected connections between the species, places, and people that enable California to thrive. Check out animal specimens, hands-on interactives, scientific models, and more.

• Embark on a journey through space and time with artist Katie Dorame (Tongva) as she discusses her project "Alien Apostles", a series of paintings and drawings that reframe the story of the California Missions as an alien horror film.

• A century after eradication, coyotes are finally making a comeback in the city. Join urban ecologist Tali Caspi to learn about these urban carnivores and pathways for peaceful coexistence.

• Watch the magic unfold as artist Jesse Hernandez (Yaqui/Mexica) leads a live painting demonstration in the West Garden. He’ll show how he brought six animals sacred to the Indigenous cultures of the Bay Area to life on the canvas for the 2024 Art on Market Street Poster Series.

• Head to Morrison Planetarium to open your mind and get in touch with your senses. Academy Executive Director Scott Sampson will share how awakening five dominant senses—senses of place, awe, time, hope, and kinship— can unlock transformative action.

A few don't-miss NightLife details:

• NightLife is for adults 21+ only. Valid, physical photo ID required.

• Last entry into Osher Rainforest is 7:30 pm — our animals need their sleep.

• Gems and Minerals Unearthed opens to the public at 8:30 pm. It is reserved for NightLife Plus guests from 6 - 8:30 pm.

• Morrison Planetarium passes are available online in advance for $5 each while supplies last. Showtimes are 6:30, 7:30, 8:30, and 9:30 pm. A limited number of standby seats will be available for all showtimes as space allows on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Food and drink are not permitted in Osher Rainforest, Morrison Planetarium, or the Swamp.

• While not required, we encourage all guests to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and to mask up indoors. If you’re feeling sick or have been in close contact with someone who has recently tested positive for COVID-19 or another respiratory virus, please visit another time.