Riding roller coasters and feasting on treats at a theme park is a hallmark of summer for many people. But, with the ongoing pandemic, many thrill-ride destinations have either been closed or are operating at a reduced capacity during the height of the summer season.
But local favorite, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, which is within easy driving distance of Northern Virginia, recently announced it will host an all-new special event to welcome guests back to the theme park for some end-of-summer fun. Coasters and Craft Brews is a ticketed event that will give a limited amount of guests the opportunity to ride some of their favorite rides, while enjoying local and craft beer and barbecue—all in a socially distanced environment that adheres to Virginia’s Phase 3 health and safety guidelines.
The park will remain closed to general admission guests, but ticket-holders for Coasters and Craft Brews will be able to explore select villages, including Ireland, Scotland, France and New France, as well as hop on a few of their favorite roller coasters. Attractions that will be open include: InvadR®, Griffon®, Loch Ness Monster® and the park’s newest attraction, Finnegan’s Flyer®.
Guests can also visit with Busch Gardens’ famous Clydesdales, plus wolves and eagles. Trappers Smokehouse will be open for dining too, and more than 20 local beers will be served at Grogan’s Pub.
“We want to thank our guests for their patience and are so excited to be able to give them a taste of Busch Gardens Williamsburg when we safely welcome them back to enjoy Coasters and Craft Brews,” said Kevin Lembke, president of Busch Gardens Williamsburg, in a press release. “The health and safety of our guests and employees is our foremost priority and we are working hard to prepare the park for this special event so guests can join us for a fun and safe experience.”
Colonial Williamsburg also recently reopened, including expanded museum offerings, for those looking to turn the trip into a weekend getaway. // Coasters and Craft Brews will run Aug. 6 through Aug. 16, Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The park will host a members-only sneak peek on Wednesday, August 5 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. You can purchase tickets for the event here. You can learn more about the park’s safety protocols here.
Feature image, © Jeremy Thompson/flickr.com
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