Turn up the heat at the first-ever Heatwave House Party!
Close out summer in true Chicago style with a night of house music, electric vibes and after-hours access beneath the waves. Dress for the heat — think bold, breezy and sun-soaked looks — and dance to sizzling sets from top Chicago DJs.
Cool off with refreshing bites, signature cocktails and unexpected aquatic moments throughout the night. Whether you're chasing the last rays of summer or just here for the rhythm, this is your final splash of the season.
We are in the process of transforming our building as part of Shedd's Centennial Commitment. You may see construction fences, walls and trailers that indicate these changes are in progress. We appreciate your patience and look forward to sharing these incredible updates with you!
The event includes all exhibits, touch experiences and entertainment. Some exhibits may close early due to animal care needs, and lights in certain habitats will be dimmed to create a natural nighttime environment for the animals. Wild Reef closes at 9 p.m. Oceanarium and Amazon Rising close at 10 p.m. Please refer to event signage for more information.
Please note, this year’s event festivities are fully indoors - the North Terrace will be unavailable as we build new exhibits that will enhance your future visits and make events even more spectacular!
Boolu Master
Boolu Master’s experience in entertaining a mature assemblage has him in high demand for public and private events. The mixing of music from 70s soul, funk and disco, to 80s house, pop, rap, 90s new jack swing and classic hip-hop to today’s R&B, Chicago-style stepping and dancehall make him a favorite across the world.
DJ Ralphi Rosario
Ralphi Rosario is a mega-producer, Grammy Nominee and electronic and dance music legend. Shortly after his start as a DJ, Ralphi created dance/house music history as a member of the world-renowned Chicago HOT MIX FIVE. He delivered his DJ magic over the FM airwaves for over a decade and then began creating original work/production. Ralphi’s “You Used to Hold Me” became an overnight house music classic, along with “Brinca” and “Take Me Up.” To this day, he maintains a DJ residency in his hometown Chicago.
7 – 10:45 p.m. DJ Ralphi Rosario (Grand Hall Stage)
7 – 10:45 p.m. DJ Boolu Master (Bubble Net Stage)
7:30 p.m. Shark Chat (Wild Reef)
8 p.m. Cart Program (Amazon Rising)
8:30 p.m. Shark Chat (Wild Reef)
9 p.m. Kelp Forest Chat (Oceans Gallery)
9 p.m. Last Entry to Wild Reef
9:45 p.m. Last Entry to Oceanarium
10:00 p.m. Navy Pier Fireworks (Lakeside Terrace)
10:30 p.m. Last Call
Info coming soon!
Last entry for the event is at 10 p.m., one hour before the event concludes.
Please fill out our Performer Interest Form and a member of our team will contact you. Thank you!
Accessibility
We believe there should be no boundaries to your Shedd Aquarium experience. If you have an accommodation request related to a disability, please contact us at [email protected]
