Kings Dominion reopening, with no masks required for vaccinated guests

Kings Dominion opens for its 46th summer season Saturday, a year after the COVID-19 pandemic shut the annual tradition down. Although the Hanover County amusement park will require masks worn by anyone who is not vaccinated (if they are age five or older), more than 60 rides, live entertainment and the redesigned water park will all be open, the park announced.

“The wait is finally over, and we are so very excited to welcome our guests back to the park,” Bridgette Bywater, Kings Dominion vice president and general manager, said in a statement. “This has been a difficult year-and-a-half for many, so it feels good knowing that Kings Dominion is a fun place where people can finally get out in a safe environment, have an amazing experience, and make some new lifelong memories with their family and friends.”

Following state orders, reservations are required for both Kings Dominion and Soak City, the water park, but fully vaccinated visitors will not need to wear masks. Grand Carnivale, an international music and food celebration, is set to take place July 17 through Aug. 1.

Last year, the Cedar Fair Entertainment Co. park was closed until December, when it reopened for a limited number of visitors who had to wear masks and maintain physical distance. Another change at the park this year is a significant pay raise, with seasonal positions starting at $13 an hour (up from $9.25) and lifeguard roles starting at $15 an hour.

For more information on safety precautions at Kings Dominion, visit the park’s website.