Acorn Concert Series

Get ready for another great summer of music with the 2025 Acorn Concert Series!

Starting June 20, Gabis Arboretum invites families to enjoy five evenings of live music as part of our annual concert series. Pack a blanket or lawn chair and make lasting memories together in a beautiful, family-friendly setting.

Tickets

Advance tickets recommended—some shows sell out!

Free parking is available, but space is limited.

2025 Lineup

Saturday, August 9: Hyryder (Grateful Dead Tribute)

Gates open at 6 p.m.
Music begins at 7 p.m.

Purchase Tickets for Hyryder

Back by popular demand, Hyryder returns to play two full sets in true Grateful Dead fashion. Their immersive performances celebrate the spirit of the Dead’s improvisational style, allowing the music to flow organically in our natural setting.

The arboretum’s landscape provides the perfect backdrop for their jam-band approach that has made them regional favorites. Hyryder takes the stage at 7 p.m.

Friday, August 29: Mike & Joe (Modern Rock Tribute)

Gates open at 6 p.m.
Music begins at 7 p.m.

Purchase Tickets for Mike & Joe

Mike & Joe bring energy and versatility to their arboretum debut, covering alternative rock hits from the ’90s through today, with classics from the ’60s through ’80s mixed in. Known for their spontaneous jam sessions and crowd interaction, this regional favorite creates a genuine rock show experience that spans generations.

Opening Act: The Double Features

Friday, September 12: The Prince Experience (Prince Tribute)

Gates open at 6 p.m.
Music begins at 7 p.m.

Purchase Tickets for The Prince Experience

Closing out our 2025 series, The Prince Experience makes their arboretum debut performing the greatest hits from Purple Rain and beyond. With over a decade of electrifying performances, this full-production tribute features iconic costumes, dynamic choreography, and Prince’s unforgettable music.

Get ready to dance under the stars as they bring the Minneapolis sound to our natural setting.

Opening Act: Lauren Dukes

Inclement Weather & Refunds

• Concerts run rain or shine. In severe weather, the venue will decide on delays or cancellations.
• Updates on weather and show conditions will be posted on our website and Facebook.
• If the show is cancelled, ticket holders will be notified by 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 strictly prohibited.
• Coolers will be checked upon entry.
• Food, beer, wine, and other beverages will be available for purchase. Please support our local vendors!

What to Bring

• Bring a lawn chair or blanket; seating is not provided.
• Pop-up tents are not permitted.
• Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome.
• Smoking is permitted in designated areas only.

Accessibility

• The concert venue is on grass.
• Wheelchair-accessible restrooms and handicap parking spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Golf carts are available to transport guests from their vehicles to the concert venue.

To request a disability-related accommodation, please contact the Office of Civil Rights at civilrights@pnw.edu or (219) 989-2163 five days prior to the event.

In accordance with Purdue policies, all persons have equal access to Purdue University’s educational programs, services and activities, without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, genetic information, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability or status as a veteran. See Purdue’s Nondiscrimination Policy Statement. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these policies, please contact the Office of Civil Rights at civilrights@pnw.edu or (219) 989-2337.