Kennywood 2025: New Themed Area, New Bunny Character Debut

WEST MIFFLIN, PA — A new themed area, a new costumed character, a new holiday event and the return of the Steel Curtain will be among the highlights of Kennywood's 127th season, which begins on April 12.

Park officials on Thursday provided a preview of what to expect at Kennywood, which is in the process of being sold by current owner Parques Reunidos subsidiary Palace Entertainment to Atlanta-based Herschend.

"This is the most excited I've been for the park to open in a long time and we can't wait to get started," Kennywood general manager Ricky Spicuzza said during a media tour of the park. "This will be our longest season yet. The last time we opened this early was in 1931.

Here's what to expect at the park this year:

• The Steel Curtain will return sometime this season, although Kennywood officials did not provide a specific date for its reopening. The coaster was closed for the entire 2024 summer season after officials announced that an extensive modification was necessary after frequent periods in 2023 when it was non-operational.

• The Thomas Town area has been re-themed as Kennywood Junction, which will be anchored by the Kennywood Express train and feature five renamed rides, a celebration room that can be rented and a new retail store.

• Kennywood's initial Eggcellent Celebration, which will run weekends April 12 through April 27. Visitors can participate in an Easter egg scavenger hunt and enjoy seasonal food and drink options. The park already is adorned with numerous Easter decorations.

• A new character, Tuft the Kennywood Easter bunny, who will be available for meet-and-greets in the all-new celebration space featuring a winding bunny trail, rolling hills, blooming flowers and more. Visitors also can schedule a special brunch with Tuft and his friends for early park access, additonal photo opportunities and an all-you-can-eat brunch.

• The Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival returns in May with two all-new countries represented: Cuba and Spain.

• July's highlights include fireworks on July 4-5, nine nights of drone shows July 11-19 and the new All-American Summer Festival.

• Fall fantasy parades, a park tradition for decades, will run Aug. 2-17.

• The longest Phantom Fall Fest in park history begins on Sept. 12, with the debut of an all-new haunted house.

• The Holiday Lights Festival, which runs from Nov. 14 through Jan. 4, will conclude the season.