Times-Herald (Vallejo)

SIX FLAGS DISCOVERY KINGDOM ANNOUNCES RETURN OF RIDES

Theme park ready to become a ‘thrill capital’ once again

- By Chuck Barney

The sound of rumbling roller coasters and bumping bumper buggies soon will be heard in Vallejo again.

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom on Thursday announced that it will go back to operating its full complement of rides in early April — with COVID-19 safety measures in place.

The theme park that proudly claims to be the “Thrill Capital of Northern California” will hold a special preview for members and season pass holders on April 1 and 2, and then will welcome the general public April 3.

“California­ns are ready to visit their favorite Six Flags theme park and have some fun,” said Senior Vice President of Park Operations Bonnie Weber in a statement. “Last year, we set the standard for operating our parks safely and entertaine­d nearly seven million guests in adherence to government and CDC health guidelines. We will follow those same stringent guidelines as we reopen our rides and attraction­s in our California parks.”

“We are very excited to be able to offer our full selection of rides and attraction­s for the first time in over a year,” added Six Flags Discovery Kingdom Park President Janine Durette. “Six Flags creates wonderful memories through the incredible experience­s we provide guests of all ages. We are excited to welcome more guests to the park and to bring back more of our dedicated team members.”

Like other amusement parks, Discovery Kingdom completely suspended operations in March of last year to help slow the spread of the coronaviru­s. In July of 2020, the park reopened with an animals-only “Marine World Experience” as its 40plus rides remained silent.

But now, brave park-goers will once again be able to take on Kong, Medusa, Cobra, The Joker and more.

Discovery Kingdom officials said the rides will be operated in accordance with state, county and local government guidelines. That includes reduced attendance levels as dictated via the park’s online reservatio­n system. Park guests must be California residents and guests over the age of 2 are required to wear face masks. (Masks will be available at the front gate for any guest without one).

Discovery Kingdom reopening dates are subject to change based on local, state, and federal guidelines related to COVID-19.

Hurricane Harbor Concord, also operated by Six Flags, is expected to open at a future date based on current state guidance.

To make park reservatio­ns and learn more about its COVID-19 safety features and requiremen­ts, go to www.sixflags.com/discoveryk­ingdom.

 ?? CHRIS RILEY — TIMES-HERALD ?? Thrill-seekers ride the roller coaster Medusa at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. The park will open its thrill rides on April 1 with strict COVID-19 measures in place. Get more informatio­n on the opening of the park at sixflags.com/discoveryk­ingdom.
CHRIS RILEY — TIMES-HERALD Thrill-seekers ride the roller coaster Medusa at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo. The park will open its thrill rides on April 1 with strict COVID-19 measures in place. Get more informatio­n on the opening of the park at sixflags.com/discoveryk­ingdom.

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