Playland opens, but without speedy ThunderVolt
Roller-coaster will make its debut in July
Playland opened its gates to the public on Saturday.
Along with its opening came the return of most of its usual amusements. But the new ThunderVolt roller-coaster, to be installed on the site of the retired Corkscrew coaster, won't be available to ride until July.
“This coaster will be the fastest of its kind in North America,” said President Shelley Frost of the Pacific National Exhibition, a non-profit organization owned by the City of Vancouver, upon announcing the project in November 2022.
The electric ride is a three-car train that whips passengers through a tunnel before a steep incline and a nearly 18-metre drop. At a price of $9 million, it's being built by the Italian company Zamperla.
The roller-coaster will be the fourth at the PNE grounds after the Giant Dipper, the Little Dipper and the wooden roller-coaster, which wasn't in operation on opening weekend. Other rides, including the Atmosfear, Hell's Gate and musical swings — were open, in addition to the carnival midway games.
Playland is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends in May, then during select weekdays and all weekends after school lets out for summer at the end of June.
The PNE Fair will run from Aug. 17 to Sept. 2.
Special events slated for the amusement park include Eras Night on June 15, where guests are invited to dress like Taylor Swift. On June 29, Playland Nights 19+ will see alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included with the price of admission.
Starting at $89, a season pass offers unlimited entry to the park, unlimited rides and 10 per cent off food and games. For kids and family rides, tickets start at $38.
Visit PNE.ca/playland for information.