News Summary
Busch Gardens Williamsburg marked its 50th anniversary by unveiling the new roller coaster, The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge. Originally debuting in 1984 and closing in 2009, the coaster has returned as North America’s longest inverted family coaster, featuring thrilling speeds. The anniversary celebrations included live music, special promotions, and nostalgic presentations reflecting the park’s evolution since its inception. The summer promises more exciting events, maintaining the park’s status as a premier destination for family entertainment.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Marks 50 Years with New Coaster The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge and Special Events
Williamsburg, Virginia – Busch Gardens Williamsburg celebrated its 50th anniversary on May 16, 2025, with a grand event unveiling the new roller coaster, The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge. The roller coaster, which originally opened in 1984 and closed in 2009, has made its highly anticipated return as North America’s longest inverted family coaster, featuring over 2,500 feet of track and speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Excitement filled the park as guests gathered at the Globe Theatre for a nostalgic presentation marking this momentous occasion.
The anniversary celebration included a slideshow presentation and live music, where park president Kevin Lembke highlighted the park’s evolution since its opening as the Old Country in May 1975. Initially, the park occupied approximately 3,000 acres and featured just eight rides, including one roller coaster. Over the years, it has grown extensively, introducing numerous attractions and seasonal events such as Howl-O-Scream, Christmas Town, a dedicated Sesame Street area, and a popular summer concert series.
The new coaster, The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge, is set to attract families and thrill-seekers alike, with height requirements of 42 inches when accompanied by an adult, and 48 inches unaccompanied. The grand opening event featured a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and a lively DJ dance party attended by local dignitaries, setting the tone for a summer full of celebration.
In addition to the coaster, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is implementing exciting promotions in honor of the anniversary. Memorial Day events included $0.75 beers, $19.75 commemorative t-shirts, and free admission for guests born in May 1975, making it a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the park’s offerings at a special rate. The celebration also featured live entertainment from a 1970s cover band and showcased historic displays reflecting on the park’s impressive history over the decades.
The park, which has been recognized as the world’s Most Beautiful Theme Park for 35 consecutive years, continues to impress guests with its stunning landscaping and variety of attractions. This year, visitors can expect the debut of a new stage show in the German Festhaus next month. Additionally, Busch Gardens will host its inaugural “Coasters After Dark” event on June 13, extending the park’s operating hours into the night for the Oktoberfest area, promising a unique experience among its thrilling coasters. Nearby, Water Country USA will also provide a nighttime event called Aqua Glow, enhancing the summer experience for families and visitors.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg first opened its doors as one of Anheuser-Busch’s parks in the U.S., following parks in Tampa and Los Angeles. The original California park closed in 1979, solidifying Busch Gardens Williamsburg’s status as a key location for family entertainment. The park made headlines in 1978 with the introduction of the Loch Ness Monster, which became the world’s first coaster to feature interlocking loops. Since then, the park has seen numerous changes, including the closure of several fan-favorite rides like Le Mans Raceway, Drachen Fire, Corkscrew Hill, and Mach Tower. Most recently, the Flying Machine, one of its oldest rides, ceased operations in March 2025.
The park was sold to United Parks & Resorts Inc. in 2009, marking a new chapter in its history. Despite changes in ownership and the introduction of new rides, the park has maintained its focus on family-oriented attractions and immersive experiences. Busch Gardens continues to thrive as a premier destination for entertainment and has secured its place in the hearts of both locals and visitors.
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