Marietta's Big Chicken Reopens Thursday

MARIETTA, GA -- The Big Chicken, Marietta's most iconic landmark, is set to reopen Thursday, the city announced recently. The 56-foot-tall bird atop the KFC restaurant closed down in January for a $2 million renovation. The city plans a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the occasion.

The city recently teased the release of a short movie to build anticipation for the marquee event, which will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony and, well, lots of chicken. The event is using the hashtag #GrandReHatchingMay11 on social media.

"You know, some things just age well, like fine wine for example, maybe gormet cheese, or even Barbie, but The BIG Chicken - KFC Marietta, GA doesn't look a day over 25," the city said on Facebook.
"We know where we will be on May 11th at 11am, will you be there? Just look for the 56 foot tall chicken who just had a little work done, tastefully done though of course, you know like the fried chicken."

Although the big bird remained visible for visitors to gawk at, the eatery has been out of commission for more than three months. Mike Kulp, president and CEO of KBP Foods and KFC franchisee said in January that the restaurant would be upgraded with new designs the eatery has rolled out.

“Once completed, our new restaurant will be among the greatest KFCs in the world with design and guest experience features you won’t be able to find anywhere else in the U.S. We can’t wait to bring these designs to life for the community of Marietta and all those who stop along their travels to see this historic landmark.”

The Big Chicken is historic indeed. Built in 1963, the steel structure on Cobb Parkway was originally part of Johnny Reb’s Chick, Chuck and Shake. Kentucky Fried Chicken bought the spot 11 years later.

Image via city of Marietta / Facebook