Kennywood Kicks Off 127th Season with New Rides, Easter Event, and Longest Season Ever

Pittsburgh’s beloved Kennywood Park is just days away from opening its gates for the 127th season, launching a year of fun, thrills, and unforgettable memories on Saturday, April 12.

The park’s milestone Opening Day fittingly lands on 412 Day, a nod to the Steel City’s area code, and ushers in a packed calendar highlighted by brand-new attractions, expanded events, and the highly anticipated return of iconic rides.

This season kicks off with a ribbon cutting and the debut of Kennywood Junction, a completely reimagined area inspired by a classic small steel town. The charming neighborhood-themed section features five reimagined rides—including the Olde Kennywood Railroad, Kenny’s Cargo Drop, Parker’s Cloud Cruisers, Fire Bustin’ Brigade and Coal Haulin’ Convoy—as well as a new retail store, celebration room, and vibrant decor that sets the stage for the park’s all-new Eggcellent Celebration event.

Running weekends from April 12 through April 27, the Eggcellent Celebration marks the start of spring and brings Easter fun to life with larger-than-life displays, festive photo spots, and interactive entertainment. Guests can stroll through over 2,000 feet of springtime grass, snap photos alongside 150 oversized eggs, and meet Tuft, Kennywood’s newest Easter Bunny character, in a whimsical bunny trail filled with blooming flowers and gentle rolling hills. For those looking to elevate their experience, Brunch with Tuft offers early park entry, special photo opportunities, and an all-you-can-eat buffet.

To give families more chances to hop into the fun, Kennywood has already added two bonus operating days: Friday, April 18 and Monday, April 21.

One of the biggest transformations for 2025 is the return of the Olde Kennywood Railroad, which headlines the makeover of the former Thomas Town area. When it opened in 2018, Thomas Town was the second-largest Thomas & Friends attraction in North America. Now, the area is being re-themed to celebrate Kennywood’s own rich history, giving the beloved railroad ride a nostalgic Pittsburgh twist.

Guests can hop aboard the historic train for a scenic journey through Kennywood’s past, taking in views of the Monongahela River and the nearby Edgar Thomson Works — ”the city’s oldest operating steel mill.

The railroad features iconic pieces of park history along the way, including a Log Jammer boat, a Kiddie Cadillac, and a Turnpike car, offering a moving tribute to generations of family memories. The Gimbel’s Flyer, a classic train car that debuted at the 1939 World’s Fair, also returns to service alongside the new Kenny Express.

Also returning in 2025 is one of Kennywood’s most talked-about thrill rides: The Steel Curtain. After undergoing an extensive modification project, the record-breaking coaster is on track to make its grand return, conplete with a new logo later this season.

Towering over the park with its yellow steel track and jaw-dropping inversions, the coaster has been a fan favorite since it opened and is a symbol of the park’s modern thrill offerings.

Here’s your first look at Kennywood’s 2025 park map. Get a glimpse of what’s new and where the fun begins this season!

While the Easter festivities take center stage this month, they’re only the beginning of what promises to be Kennywood’s most event-packed season ever.

Among the highlights:

• Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival returns May 23 through June 29, expanding to include new culinary stops from Cuba and Spain.

• All-American Summer launches in July with fireworks on the 4th and 5th, followed by nine nights of dazzling drone shows from July 11-19

• Fall Fantasy Parades receive a Mardi Gras makeover August 2-17, transforming the midways into a French Quarter-style party.

• Phantom Fall Fest kicks off September 12, now longer than ever, featuring the debut of a new haunted house.

• Holiday Lights closes out the year in sparkling fashion from November 14 through January 4.

“This will be our longest season yet, and we can’t wait to welcome guests for a year packed with unforgettable thrills, family fun, and new traditions,” said Kennywood General Manager Ricky Spicuzza. “With the debut of brand-new events like the Eggcellent Celebration and All-American Summer, plus the long-awaited return of the Steel Curtain, there’s more to see, do and experience than ever before.”

As the season approaches, guests can take advantage of special Opening Day offers, including up to 50% off tickets and season passes. Select passholders will receive added perks like access to every event, free parking, and discounts on food and drinks throughout the year.

For more details on Kennywood’s 2025 event lineup, ticket deals, and the new Eggcellent Celebration, Click Here.