Acorn Concert Series
Get ready for another great summer of music with the 2024 Acorn Concert Series.
Starting Memorial Day Weekend, the Gabis Arboretum reignites with our annual concert series featuring SIX evening concerts! Bring your lawn chair or blanket and get ready for an unforgettable experience!
Advance tickets are not required, but are encouraged. Some shows do sell out.
Ticket Fees
- Individual Tickets: $20 in advance and increase to $25 the week-of the concert for non-members. Children 12 & under are free but require a ticket for entry. Parking is free.
- Group Tickets (10+): $17 each, available in advance only
- Season Tickets: $105 member/$115 non-member. Includes entry to concert and VIP parking closer to the venue.
2024 Lineup
Friday, May 24
Gone 2 Paradise
Gates open at 6:00 pm
Music begins at 7:00 pm
For over 20 years, “Gone 2 Paradise” – has been Celebrating the music of Jimmy Buffett as the Ultimate Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band! Be transported to a tropical oasis, where you can escape the daily grind and embrace the laid-back, Margaritaville state of mind. Whether you’re a long-time Parrothead or simply looking to escape reality for a while, this band promises an evening of pure tropical bliss that will leave you feeling like you’ve truly gone to paradise.
Friday, June 21
Elton Jeff & The Honky Cats
Gates open at 6:00 pm
Music begins at 7:00 pm
Elton Jeff & The Honky Cats is not just another tribute act. It’s a musical celebration spanning over six decades, featuring a review of Elton John’s chart-topping favorites that have been embraced by multiple generations. Their performance gives music enthusiasts a well-crafted experience featuring the heaviest hitters from the Elton John catalog.
Opening Act: Lauren Dukes Band
Sunday, July 21
The Cream of Clapton Band
Gates open at 4:00 pm
Music begins at 5:00 pm
Bringing a sensibility that comes from being around this music their whole lives, The Cream of Clapton Band features lead guitarist and vocalist, Will Johns (Eric’s nephew), and Grammy award winning drummer Steve Ferrone, who played in Eric’s band between 1986 and 1992.
The set includes not only the ‘Clapton Classics’ but rekindles hits from albums Behind the Sun, August and Journeyman – recordings that have particularly influenced this band and led to Eric’s record breaking 24-night residency at London’s Royal Albert Hall!
Friday, August 23
Trippin’ Billies
Gates open at 6:00 pm
Music begins at 7:00 pm
Trippin’ Billies provides the ultimate Dave Matthews Band experience. This high-energy performance sells out venues across the country, many of which were once graced by Dave himself. Comprised of some of the best musicians in Chicago, one need not be a diehard DMB fan to enjoy a show.
Opening Act: Fresh Hops
Saturday, August 31
The Fortunate Sons
Gates open at 6:00 pm
Music begins at 7:00 pm
The Fortunate Sons are a nationally- and internationally-touring Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band formed to bring the ultimate CCR experience to the stage. Each member was chosen to portray the playing style and appearance of Creedence Clearwater Revival in their prime. Using original vintage gear and instruments, accurate costumes, and spot-on musical ability, The Fortunate Sons instantly conjure up the full experience of the best CCR songs.
Opening Act: TBD
Friday, September 20
Hyryder
Gates open at 6:00 pm
Music begins at 7:00 pm
Immerse yourself in the timeless magic of the Grateful Dead with Hyryder, a tribute band dedicated to capturing the spirit, improvisation, and musical exploration that defined an era. Hyryder brings the legendary dead tunes to life with passion and authenticity. Come and join the ride—where the spirit of Jerry Garcia and the Grateful Dead lives on, revitalized by the sonic mastery of Hyryder.
Opening Act: Stealin’ the Farm
Inclement Weather & Refunds
Concerts run rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, the venue will determine whether or not the show will be cancelled or delayed. Updates on weather and show conditions will be made on our website home page and our Facebook page. In the event of a cancellation, those who pre-purchased tickets will be notified via email. Refunds are not available unless the venue cancels the show.
Outside Food & Beverages
Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted. Outside alcohol is not permitted under any circumstance. Coolers will be checked upon entry. Vendors will be available selling food, beer, wine, and other beverages. Please support your local vendors and consider purchasing your food at the venue.
What to Bring
Chairs are not provided so bring a lawn chair or blanket. Pop-up tents are not permitted.
Well-behaved dogs are permitted but must remain on leash.
Smoking is permitted in designated areas only.
Accessibility
The concert venue is located on grass. Wheel-chair accessible restrooms are available. Handicap parking spots are available on a first-come-first-served basis. Golf carts are available to transport guests from their vehicle to the concert venue. To request an additional disability-related accommodation not already mentioned, please contact the Office of Institutional Equity at oie@pnw.edu or (219) 989-2163 five days prior to the event.
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
Want to become a sponsor? Contact us to learn more!
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
Want to become a sponsor? Contact us to learn more!