Pics: Marietta's Big Chicken 'Re-Hatches' In Thursday Grand Reopening

MARIETTA, GA -- The Big Chicken, Marietta's most iconic landmark, reopened Thursday at 11 a.m., capping a more than four-month wait as fans and patrons gathered outside for the event. 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.

Mayor Steve Tumlin was on hand along with his doppelganger, Col. Sanders as city leaders and proprietors celebrated the return of one of metro Atlanta's most recognizable landmarks. On its Facebook page, the restaurant asked fans to turn to 830 AM to hear the Big Chicken speak.

Earlier week 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.

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