Brookfield Zoo Offers Free Days for Kids

Let’s go to the zoo: Kids younger than 11 get into the Brookfield Zoo for free this week on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. The zoo will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the free days. (Slight buzzkill: Adults and seniors still have to pay.)

And speaking of the zoo: The Brookfield Zoo will be hosting its second annual Zoo Brew event from 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 10 and Sunday, Aug. 11. Twenty-four breweries are scheduled to tap more than 60 craft beers from across the country. The lineup includes Magic Hat, Blue Moon and my crew’s favorite, Boulevard Brewing Company.  Obviously this event is 21 and over, and you must bring a photo ID. Admission is $45 and includes beer samples, a tasting glass, zoo admission and parking. Designated drivers can get in at a discount for $25, which includes unlimited soft drinks. There will also be live music and food on hand to round out the afternoon.

Meteor madness: If you think you’re seeing things flying through the sky after Zoo Brew, it might not necessarily be the beer. The Perseid meteor shower will light up the night Sunday and Monday nights with more than 60 meteors per hour. The best time to view it is after midnight.