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Kennywood opened for 123rd season Saturday

WEST MIFFLIN — Kennywood opened on Saturday with new food stands and special events as it kicked off its 123rd season of operation.

The first full season since the COVID-19 pandemic will feature the return of favorites, from the record-setting Steel Curtain to attractions like the Gran Prix, Black Widow and Raging Rapids. They’ll be joined by The Old Mill, which was reborn last season after a 17-year absence.

“We can’t wait to begin a new year that brings us closer to the typical Kennywood experience,” says Mark Pauls the general manager. “The 2021 season offers a lot to be excited about, and we’ll keep the safety of our Guests and Team Members as top priority as we welcome everyone back to the park.”

Opening Day began with a centennial celebration 101 years in the making: a ceremonial first ride on the legendary Jack Rabbit roller coaster, the fifth-oldest operating coaster in the world. Winners of last year’s 100 Years, 100 Memories contest honoring the iconic ride took the first spin to mark the start of the season.

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Along with reopened rides, popular events like early-season school picnics, community and heritage days, Celebrate America and the Fall Fantasy Parades will return in 2021, along with Kennywood’s new Bites and Pints Food Festival during the month of June.

Per state regulations, Kennywood attendance will be limited to 75% capacity, and the park will also limit capacity within indoor facilities such as restaurants and retail shops. To better monitor attendance, the park will have an optional, online reservation system. For more information on Kennywood’s 2021 schedule, Season Pass and single-day admissions and discount opportunities, as well as details on COVID-19 safety measures and the chaperone policy, visit Kennywood.com or contact the park at 412-461-0500.