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Busch Gardens Williamsburg Unveils New Coaster for 50th Anniversary

The upcoming Big Bad Wolf coaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, set to launch in May 2025.

News Summary

Busch Gardens Williamsburg is excited to announce the launch of ‘The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge’ on May 23, 2025. This new ride will be North America’s longest family inverted coaster, offering over 2,500 feet of thrilling track. Members can enjoy exclusive preview rides starting May 16, just as the park kicks off its 50th anniversary celebrations. The park will also host special events, including live performances and themed displays, making this an unforgettable milestone year.

Williamsburg, Virginia – Busch Gardens Williamsburg is gearing up to launch its latest thrill ride, “The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge,” on May 23, 2025. This highly anticipated attraction, part of the park’s 50th anniversary celebrations, will become North America’s longest family inverted coaster, featuring over 2,500 feet of thrilling track.

Park members will have the exclusive opportunity to experience preview rides starting May 16, 2025, just as the anniversary festivities kick off. Additional special ride times for members will also be available on May 17 and 18. The coaster’s top speed will reach 40 miles per hour, slightly slower than its predecessor, the original Big Bad Wolf, which could reach speeds of 48 mph.

To ensure safety, the minimum height requirement to ride “The Wolf’s Revenge” is set at 42 inches with a supervising companion, or 48 inches if riding alone. The ride is designed to be family-friendly, accommodating guests of various ages while providing an exhilarating experience.

Location and Design

“The Wolf’s Revenge” will be situated in the Oktoberfest section of the park, taking over the area where the previous Drachen Fire coaster operated, which is a testament to the park’s commitment to continually evolving its attractions. Designed by the renowned coaster manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, this new addition marks the park’s 11th coaster.

Anniversary Celebration

Busch Gardens Williamsburg first opened its gates on May 16, 1975, making 2025 a significant milestone as it celebrates 50 years of operation. The anniversary festivities on May 16 will kick off with a lookback presentation, showcasing the park’s history and evolution. Additionally, a 1970s cover band will perform, culminating in a grand fireworks display.

Throughout the park, guests can expect to find special 50th-anniversary experiences, including unique photo opportunities and displays of historic signage. On this special day, visitors will also enjoy exclusive promotional offers, such as 75-cent beer, a $19.75 commemorative t-shirt, and complimentary cupcakes for park members.

In a nod to its anniversary, Busch Gardens will grant free admission on May 16 to individuals born in May 1975, provided they present a valid photo ID. The first 1,000 guests arriving early on this date may receive a limited-edition 50th-anniversary item, with excitement building as the park begins this next chapter.

Grand Opening Festivities

The grand opening of “The Wolf’s Revenge” will feature a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a DJ dance party, and special photo opportunities. Busch Gardens describes the ride as an immersive journey through a Bavarian village, infused with thrilling elements and thematic storytelling that resonates with the park’s charm and commitment to family-friendly attractions.

As Busch Gardens Williamsburg approaches this important anniversary, the introduction of “The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge” underscores the park’s dedication to providing visitors with innovative and exhilarating experiences. This new coaster is expected not just to pay homage to its iconic predecessor but also to set a new standard for family rides in amusement parks across North America.