Friday August 27, 2010
A Guest Blogger of Sorts...
It is amazing all of the wonderful things you can read about our park online. Fro people commenting on how beautiful their drive here was through the Laurel Highlands... or just blogging about their great time at the park.
Today while trying to make time to blog I came across a blog entry from "Little Town Mom" and decided to share it with you.
Idlewild Park
It seems like forever ago my family went on vacation!
I failed at blogging about the trip! Here's one of our stops. Any bets on how long it'll take me to post about the other stops on our trip?
After day one of our vacation, we spent day two at Idlewild Park and Soak Zone!
We started out the day heading to Mister Rogers Neighborhood of Make-Believe. While I was a big fan, and watched Mister Rogers often as a child, my boys have never seen the show. Regardless, the sure like the Hug-N-Song Party!
We spent the rest of our morning watching the kiddos play in Racoon Lagoon. They loved it, well almost all of it anyway. The tea cups were not a family favorite. I wouldn't recommend wearing a dress on them if you'd like to keep some dignity!
After lunching in the shade of some large trees, we headed on to explore Olde Idlewild. But before I get to that, let me just say that I LOVE the shade trees! We spent an entire day at the park and didn't spend too much time in direct sun!
Olde Idlewild consisted of some bigger kid rides that the boys got to enjoy with Mommy and Daddy! We rode the carousel.
We rode the Scrambler. At the time, there were not terribly excited about that one!
They even rode their very first real roller coaster! They were also not fans of it!
Then it was time for some ice cream and a trip over to Story Book Forest!
Story Book Forest made me realize there are a lot of great classic children stories out there that we're not passing on to our boys! I'm going to share Story Book Forest in a separate post all of its own.
We headed over to Jumpin' Jungle. I think the boys were most excited to get to play here!
This giant climbing net is in Jumpin' Jungle. My husband remembers this as a child. His family came to Idlewild on vacation. He remembers being nearly traumatized by the fact that he had made it nearly to the top when he started crying and some stranger helped him the rest of the way to the top and carried him back down to my in-laws. Some 20+ years later, he's back again to conquer it!
Caden's already well on his way up while hubby and Caleb are still at the bottom. To protect my dignity in my oh so comfortable cotton summer dress, and to protect my fear of heights, I was staying at the bottom to take pictures!
So far so good!
C'mon guys; you're taking too long!
Mommy, MOOOOOMMMMMMY! I scared will you come please!
And that is how I ended up facing my fear of heights and climbing this silly net in a dress for all the spectators below to see my underpants.
There are just some things I don't like to do. Hubby usually tries to convince me. It never works. The kids on the other hand, they get me. I have a feeling I'm going to be facing more of my fears with a smile on my face for those two little boys of mine.
If you would like to see the full blog, photos and all check it out here: Little Town Mom's Idlewild Blog
Thanks everyone!
Ed
ps: anybody interested in seeing a video blog?
Tweet
A Guest Blogger of Sorts...
It is amazing all of the wonderful things you can read about our park online. Fro people commenting on how beautiful their drive here was through the Laurel Highlands... or just blogging about their great time at the park. Today while trying to make time to blog I came across a blog entry from "Little Town Mom" and decided to share it with you.
Idlewild Park
It seems like forever ago my family went on vacation!
I failed at blogging about the trip! Here's one of our stops. Any bets on how long it'll take me to post about the other stops on our trip?
After day one of our vacation, we spent day two at Idlewild Park and Soak Zone!
We started out the day heading to Mister Rogers Neighborhood of Make-Believe. While I was a big fan, and watched Mister Rogers often as a child, my boys have never seen the show. Regardless, the sure like the Hug-N-Song Party!
We spent the rest of our morning watching the kiddos play in Racoon Lagoon. They loved it, well almost all of it anyway. The tea cups were not a family favorite. I wouldn't recommend wearing a dress on them if you'd like to keep some dignity!
After lunching in the shade of some large trees, we headed on to explore Olde Idlewild. But before I get to that, let me just say that I LOVE the shade trees! We spent an entire day at the park and didn't spend too much time in direct sun!
Olde Idlewild consisted of some bigger kid rides that the boys got to enjoy with Mommy and Daddy! We rode the carousel.
We rode the Scrambler. At the time, there were not terribly excited about that one!
They even rode their very first real roller coaster! They were also not fans of it!
Then it was time for some ice cream and a trip over to Story Book Forest!
Story Book Forest made me realize there are a lot of great classic children stories out there that we're not passing on to our boys! I'm going to share Story Book Forest in a separate post all of its own.
We headed over to Jumpin' Jungle. I think the boys were most excited to get to play here!
This giant climbing net is in Jumpin' Jungle. My husband remembers this as a child. His family came to Idlewild on vacation. He remembers being nearly traumatized by the fact that he had made it nearly to the top when he started crying and some stranger helped him the rest of the way to the top and carried him back down to my in-laws. Some 20+ years later, he's back again to conquer it!
Caden's already well on his way up while hubby and Caleb are still at the bottom. To protect my dignity in my oh so comfortable cotton summer dress, and to protect my fear of heights, I was staying at the bottom to take pictures!
So far so good!
C'mon guys; you're taking too long!
Mommy, MOOOOOMMMMMMY! I scared will you come please!
And that is how I ended up facing my fear of heights and climbing this silly net in a dress for all the spectators below to see my underpants.
There are just some things I don't like to do. Hubby usually tries to convince me. It never works. The kids on the other hand, they get me. I have a feeling I'm going to be facing more of my fears with a smile on my face for those two little boys of mine.
If you would like to see the full blog, photos and all check it out here: Little Town Mom's Idlewild Blog
Thanks everyone!
Ed
ps: anybody interested in seeing a video blog?
Tweet
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Sunday August 22, 2010
My last day with the Big Top in my backyard...
I can’t believe that summer is almost over! It seems like just yesterday that they were constructing the big-top circus tent and now here we are in our final weeks of operation.
It has been a great summer here at the park. One of the best parts was the Royal Hanneford Circus. It was awesome to have them with us this summer. The performers were all amazing and they always put on a great show. There have been many Season Pass Holders that have seen the circus dozens of times. It was a great show and seeing the Big-Top as you crossed the bridge into Raccoon Lagoon made for such an awesome sight as it peeked out between the trees.
Thank you to the Royal Hanneford Circus for entertaining us all summer and our awesome guests who came and watched the show. I am going to go and catch the final three shows today. I don't want to miss them.
Have a sparkling day!
Ed
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My last day with the Big Top in my backyard...
I can’t believe that summer is almost over! It seems like just yesterday that they were constructing the big-top circus tent and now here we are in our final weeks of operation. It has been a great summer here at the park. One of the best parts was the Royal Hanneford Circus. It was awesome to have them with us this summer. The performers were all amazing and they always put on a great show. There have been many Season Pass Holders that have seen the circus dozens of times. It was a great show and seeing the Big-Top as you crossed the bridge into Raccoon Lagoon made for such an awesome sight as it peeked out between the trees.
Thank you to the Royal Hanneford Circus for entertaining us all summer and our awesome guests who came and watched the show. I am going to go and catch the final three shows today. I don't want to miss them.
Have a sparkling day!
Ed
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Monday August 23, 2010 at 09:31 AM EST
We went to the 2pm show today too.Once again we enjoyed every min. of it! so sad to see it go:.( Hats off to all the Performers for all the fun they gave my family this summer!Hope they come back next year!!!!!!!!
Thanks Robin!
Thanks Robin!
Sunday August 8, 2010
First Coaster Ride!!!
So... I haven't blogged in a while and this morning seems as good a time as any.
I got to have an amazing experience at the park the other day... as a guest. My Family and I celebrated my son's second birthday here and had an amazing time. The best part was I got to take him on his first ever Roller Coaster ride on the Rollo Coaster. Many people talk about how it's their child's first coaster and what a great first coaster it is... but this week I lived it. It was a truly amazing experience. We rode at night and even in the front seat!! I was a little worried that he was scared because I couldn't really see he facial expressions. He loved it!! After we got off he talked for hours about the ride. We even bought the on ride photo (which will never be displayed here because I look scared to death and he looks to be having a blast). He is still telling me about going up and down and around the corner...
Overall it was a great memory and one that I hope everyone gets the chance to make at the park one day. I will never forget it.
Cheers,
Ed
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First Coaster Ride!!!
So... I haven't blogged in a while and this morning seems as good a time as any. I got to have an amazing experience at the park the other day... as a guest. My Family and I celebrated my son's second birthday here and had an amazing time. The best part was I got to take him on his first ever Roller Coaster ride on the Rollo Coaster. Many people talk about how it's their child's first coaster and what a great first coaster it is... but this week I lived it. It was a truly amazing experience. We rode at night and even in the front seat!! I was a little worried that he was scared because I couldn't really see he facial expressions. He loved it!! After we got off he talked for hours about the ride. We even bought the on ride photo (which will never be displayed here because I look scared to death and he looks to be having a blast). He is still telling me about going up and down and around the corner...
Overall it was a great memory and one that I hope everyone gets the chance to make at the park one day. I will never forget it.
Cheers,
Ed
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1 comment | leave a comment
Sunday August 8, 2010 at 09:10 AM EST
i would love to agree with Ed... its a great first experience for lil ones to go on for the first time.. my son did to go on the coaster for the first time last week.. he loved it.. up and down the hills..thats all i hear about.. we didnt get the photo though.. same thing here as Ed posted.. looked like he was having too much fun but i with me looked like i was scared ...ha ha ha ha... hes 2 years old as well.. i think the park is a great way to show younger ones that there is other rides to experience and make new memories that we will never forget... THANKS IDLEWILD..<3
Saturday July 17, 2010
Idlewild has a Sweet Spot for the Banana Split
The Banana Split was born in 1904 when David Strickler, a 23-year- old pharmacist at the Tassell Pharmacy in Latrobe, experimented with different ways to make an ice cream sundae. One day, Strickler sliced a banana in two, added scoops of strawberry, vanilla and chocolate ice cream, three kinds of flavored toppings and whipped cream.
Dr. Strickler hoped his banana split would draw students from nearby St. Vincent College. His idea worked! The college students loved the sundae and spread word about it when they returned home. The Banana Split became so popular, Dr. Strickler asked a local glass company to custom-make a long, narrow dish to hold his ice cream creation.
We are proud to be located so close to such a “cool” birthplace!
During the glory days of American soda fountains, dozens of banana split recipes were in circulation. The only required item is the banana cut lengthwise.
Here at the park, we serve a delicious Banana Split! They are the perfect treat on a warm summer day and great while watching our evening show. Just think, it's a serving of fruit. Right????
Cheers,
Ed
Idlewild has a Sweet Spot for the Banana Split
The Banana Split was born in 1904 when David Strickler, a 23-year- old pharmacist at the Tassell Pharmacy in Latrobe, experimented with different ways to make an ice cream sundae. One day, Strickler sliced a banana in two, added scoops of strawberry, vanilla and chocolate ice cream, three kinds of flavored toppings and whipped cream.Dr. Strickler hoped his banana split would draw students from nearby St. Vincent College. His idea worked! The college students loved the sundae and spread word about it when they returned home. The Banana Split became so popular, Dr. Strickler asked a local glass company to custom-make a long, narrow dish to hold his ice cream creation.
We are proud to be located so close to such a “cool” birthplace!
During the glory days of American soda fountains, dozens of banana split recipes were in circulation. The only required item is the banana cut lengthwise.
Here at the park, we serve a delicious Banana Split! They are the perfect treat on a warm summer day and great while watching our evening show. Just think, it's a serving of fruit. Right????
Cheers,
Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Thursday July 8, 2010
It’s a Beautiful Week In The Neighborhood!
This week the Neighbors from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood joined us here at the park.
Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was one of my favorite television shows growing up. Seeing the Neighborhood of Make-Believe come to life is a truly amazing experience! It’s great to have the “real” Neighborhood of Make-Believe here for both kids and adults to enjoy!
This week provided fans with the great opportunity to meet the Neighbors in person. They are some of the most genuine people I have ever met and they go out of their way to make this week special for everyone.
Guests are able to meet Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber and Purple Panda from 1-4pm near the entrance to the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood trolley ride in Raccoon Lagoon through Friday.
Fans travel from all over the country and world to experience this magical week.
It’s amazing to see how many lives the television show has touched and how many generations the fan-base spans.
Thank you to the Neighbors, Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber, and Purple Panda, for coming to the park and continuing to touch the hearts of the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood fans.
And thank you to the guests for your continued support in making this week such a success. It’s great to have you here and it wouldn’t be the same without you!
Have a beautiful day!
Ed
It’s a Beautiful Week In The Neighborhood!
This week the Neighbors from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood joined us here at the park.Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood was one of my favorite television shows growing up. Seeing the Neighborhood of Make-Believe come to life is a truly amazing experience! It’s great to have the “real” Neighborhood of Make-Believe here for both kids and adults to enjoy!
This week provided fans with the great opportunity to meet the Neighbors in person. They are some of the most genuine people I have ever met and they go out of their way to make this week special for everyone.
Guests are able to meet Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber and Purple Panda from 1-4pm near the entrance to the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood trolley ride in Raccoon Lagoon through Friday.
Fans travel from all over the country and world to experience this magical week.
It’s amazing to see how many lives the television show has touched and how many generations the fan-base spans.
Thank you to the Neighbors, Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber, and Purple Panda, for coming to the park and continuing to touch the hearts of the Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood fans.
And thank you to the guests for your continued support in making this week such a success. It’s great to have you here and it wouldn’t be the same without you!
Have a beautiful day!
Ed
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Thursday June 24, 2010
ACE visits Idlewild
On Tuesday "ACE", the American Coaster Enthusiasts, visited Idlewild & SoakZone
This group of coaster-lovers was founded in 1978 and consists of nearly 7,000 members from all 50 US states and over 12 countries.
This year, the organization held their annual Coaster Con event at the park. Coaster Con XXXIII consisted of 4 Pennsylvania parks: Kennywood Park (West Mifflin, Pa), Idlewild Park, Conneaut Lake (Conneaut Lake, Pa) and Waldameer Park (Erie, Pa).
The “ACEers” arrived at the park early Tuesday morning to gain some exclusive riding time before the gates opened. Over 400 coaster enthusiasts from 38 states and 3 countries were here yesterday. The group descended upon Idlewild for Coaster Con XXXIII despite some early morning rain.
It was great to have them all here. They are extremely friendly people who love making new friends. Hearing some of the stories about theme parks and coasters from around the world was awesome. The American Coaster Enthusiasts are a great group of people and we were so lucky to have them here with us. I have been sporting my ACE pin on my name tag and will be showing off my Coaster Con shirt to everyone.
Thank you “ACEers” for coming to our park!
Cheers,
Ed
ACE visits Idlewild
On Tuesday "ACE", the American Coaster Enthusiasts, visited Idlewild & SoakZoneThis group of coaster-lovers was founded in 1978 and consists of nearly 7,000 members from all 50 US states and over 12 countries.
This year, the organization held their annual Coaster Con event at the park. Coaster Con XXXIII consisted of 4 Pennsylvania parks: Kennywood Park (West Mifflin, Pa), Idlewild Park, Conneaut Lake (Conneaut Lake, Pa) and Waldameer Park (Erie, Pa). The “ACEers” arrived at the park early Tuesday morning to gain some exclusive riding time before the gates opened. Over 400 coaster enthusiasts from 38 states and 3 countries were here yesterday. The group descended upon Idlewild for Coaster Con XXXIII despite some early morning rain.
It was great to have them all here. They are extremely friendly people who love making new friends. Hearing some of the stories about theme parks and coasters from around the world was awesome. The American Coaster Enthusiasts are a great group of people and we were so lucky to have them here with us. I have been sporting my ACE pin on my name tag and will be showing off my Coaster Con shirt to everyone.
Thank you “ACEers” for coming to our park!
Cheers,
Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday June 21, 2010
Father’s Day & the “Battle of the Barrel”
Yesterday was an exciting day at the park!
It was Father’s Day – so Happy Father’s Day to all the dad’s out there.
Y108 visited the park yesterday and set up their booth near the entrance to Lot A in Jumpin' Jungle. They played music, games and gave away some great prizes including Ritz Pretzel Crisps, Oreo Cookies and Karate Kid t-shirts.
Yesterday also marked our Annual Firefighter & EMS Appreciation Day. The highlight was the traditional “Battle of the Barrel” contest that took place in Lot A. If you’ve never experienced this battle, you’re really missing out on something awesome.
A large crowd gathered to watch this “refreshing” contest take place. Two teams of Firefighters line up opposite one another and aim their hoses at a central “barrel,” trying to force it back at the opposing team. The competition got pretty close but everyone had a great time. The over spray provided spectators with a great cool down on such a hot day.
Cheers,
Ed
Father’s Day & the “Battle of the Barrel”
Yesterday was an exciting day at the park!It was Father’s Day – so Happy Father’s Day to all the dad’s out there.
Y108 visited the park yesterday and set up their booth near the entrance to Lot A in Jumpin' Jungle. They played music, games and gave away some great prizes including Ritz Pretzel Crisps, Oreo Cookies and Karate Kid t-shirts.
Yesterday also marked our Annual Firefighter & EMS Appreciation Day. The highlight was the traditional “Battle of the Barrel” contest that took place in Lot A. If you’ve never experienced this battle, you’re really missing out on something awesome.
A large crowd gathered to watch this “refreshing” contest take place. Two teams of Firefighters line up opposite one another and aim their hoses at a central “barrel,” trying to force it back at the opposing team. The competition got pretty close but everyone had a great time. The over spray provided spectators with a great cool down on such a hot day.
Cheers,
Ed
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Saturday June 19, 2010
Who’s Our Favorite Superhero? Amber Carney!
It started out as a simple school assignment that ended up saving a man’s life.
Amber Carney, a senior at Ligonier Valley High School as well as a team member here at Idlewild, created a poster informing people of the symptoms and risks of heart attacks.
The assignment, which was through Excela Health, was to create a poster on heart attack awareness and display it for others to read. Amber’s poster was initially displayed in our Main Office but was later moved to our maintenance shop, which was where Skip Flack fortunately became aware of it.
Skip Flack, our warehouse supervisor here at the park, came to work feeling sick one day. As he was punching in to start his shift, he noticed Amber’s poster. As the day progressed, he thought about what he read and realized that he was experiencing 3 of the posted heart attack symptoms.
Skip decided to leave work early and headed straight to the hospital and it was a good thing he did! Skip had to undergo immediate Heart Surgery and the Doctors told him Amber's poster saved his life. ...Just so you know Skip is back to work and is feeling better than ever all because of Amber’s poster.
Amber and Skip met at the fountain today when Excela Health came to take a few pictures of them. Skip was extremely thankful that her poster was there – it saved his life!
We are so lucky to have both of them as team members – What a great story!
Cheers,
Ed
Who’s Our Favorite Superhero? Amber Carney!
It started out as a simple school assignment that ended up saving a man’s life.Amber Carney, a senior at Ligonier Valley High School as well as a team member here at Idlewild, created a poster informing people of the symptoms and risks of heart attacks.
The assignment, which was through Excela Health, was to create a poster on heart attack awareness and display it for others to read. Amber’s poster was initially displayed in our Main Office but was later moved to our maintenance shop, which was where Skip Flack fortunately became aware of it.
Skip Flack, our warehouse supervisor here at the park, came to work feeling sick one day. As he was punching in to start his shift, he noticed Amber’s poster. As the day progressed, he thought about what he read and realized that he was experiencing 3 of the posted heart attack symptoms. Skip decided to leave work early and headed straight to the hospital and it was a good thing he did! Skip had to undergo immediate Heart Surgery and the Doctors told him Amber's poster saved his life. ...Just so you know Skip is back to work and is feeling better than ever all because of Amber’s poster.
Amber and Skip met at the fountain today when Excela Health came to take a few pictures of them. Skip was extremely thankful that her poster was there – it saved his life!
We are so lucky to have both of them as team members – What a great story!
Cheers,
Ed
1 comment | leave a comment
Sunday July 11, 2010 at 04:56 PM EST
Hooray for Amber and Skip!
Monday June 14, 2010
Wish 99.7 Day at Idlewild
Our good friends at Wish 99.7 visited the park today for some family fun. They played games with the kids, handed out some tasty snacks and interacted with guests. Kids competed in a hula hoop contest, a water balloon toss and a mini golf contest all for great prizes.
The crew from Wish always does a great job when they come to the park – guests leave their booth with smiles on their faces.
Cheers,
Ed
Wish 99.7 Day at Idlewild
Our good friends at Wish 99.7 visited the park today for some family fun. They played games with the kids, handed out some tasty snacks and interacted with guests. Kids competed in a hula hoop contest, a water balloon toss and a mini golf contest all for great prizes.
The crew from Wish always does a great job when they come to the park – guests leave their booth with smiles on their faces.
Cheers,
Ed
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Sunday June 13, 2010
Kiss FM: Mikey & Big Bob Visit Idlewild
96.1 Kiss FM visited the park today. The station set up in the gazebo near the Ferris Wheel giving guests the opportunity to come over and hang out and interact with the staff.
Morning Freak Show hosts Mikey & Big Bob brought their families along for a fun-filled day at the park and met some winners from the station to spend the day with.
To the people of the Laurel Highlands Mikey & Big Bob are kind of like BigFoot, often talked about, seldom seen... So, it was nice to have them at the park today interacting with Guests.
Cheers,
Ed
Kiss FM: Mikey & Big Bob Visit Idlewild
96.1 Kiss FM visited the park today. The station set up in the gazebo near the Ferris Wheel giving guests the opportunity to come over and hang out and interact with the staff. Morning Freak Show hosts Mikey & Big Bob brought their families along for a fun-filled day at the park and met some winners from the station to spend the day with.
To the people of the Laurel Highlands Mikey & Big Bob are kind of like BigFoot, often talked about, seldom seen... So, it was nice to have them at the park today interacting with Guests.
Cheers,
Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday June 12, 2010
A Little Glimpse of the Circus
So... I am pretty sure I have gone a little Circus crazy, as if you couldn't tell from the picture. Maybe it is the air in the Laurel Highlands or just the energy surrounding the Circus, but I can't get enough.
Yesterday I was lucky enough to get a really good seat and shoot a little video. I quickly threw some of it together and posted it on youtube for your enjoyment.
Now this is just a little glimpse. You'll have to stop out and check out the full show yourself under the Big-top.
Cheers,
Ed
A Little Glimpse of the Circus
So... I am pretty sure I have gone a little Circus crazy, as if you couldn't tell from the picture. Maybe it is the air in the Laurel Highlands or just the energy surrounding the Circus, but I can't get enough. Yesterday I was lucky enough to get a really good seat and shoot a little video. I quickly threw some of it together and posted it on youtube for your enjoyment.
Now this is just a little glimpse. You'll have to stop out and check out the full show yourself under the Big-top.
Cheers,
Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Thursday June 10, 2010
And the Winner Is…
“My life is a circus because my kids inspire, entertain and amaze me like the performers at a circus.”
First, I would like to thank all of the Mom’s who took the time to participate in our “I’m a Mom and Sometimes My Life Is a Circus” contest. Each entry was read by a panel of team members and after reading nearly 1,000 entries, we chose Erin Grabowski as our winner.
We really felt that Erin’s essay captured the true essence of our contest and family.
“The entertainers at the circus inspire us the way that our children do by making us laugh, lifting us up and amazing us everyday with their abilities, strength and uniqueness.”
Thanks again for participating – Hope to see you soon!
Cheers,
Ed
And the Winner Is…
“My life is a circus because my kids inspire, entertain and amaze me like the performers at a circus.”First, I would like to thank all of the Mom’s who took the time to participate in our “I’m a Mom and Sometimes My Life Is a Circus” contest. Each entry was read by a panel of team members and after reading nearly 1,000 entries, we chose Erin Grabowski as our winner.
We really felt that Erin’s essay captured the true essence of our contest and family.
“The entertainers at the circus inspire us the way that our children do by making us laugh, lifting us up and amazing us everyday with their abilities, strength and uniqueness.”
Thanks again for participating – Hope to see you soon!
Cheers,
Ed
2 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday July 6, 2010 at 01:56 PM EST
We had our VIP day this past Friday and it was great. The kids had a blast and Ed and other staff were wonderful. We really enjoyed our selves and just wanted to say Thank you!!!
Thanks Erin. Glad you had a great time.
Thanks Erin. Glad you had a great time.
Saturday June 12, 2010 at 07:22 AM EST
Are you at twitter?
@idlewildpark
@idlewildpark
Sunday May 30, 2010
Memorial Day Salute
In the Second day of our traditional Memorial Day Salute the Ballfield was transformed into a “Battlefield.” The kind folks from the Carpenter’s Battery performed for the eager history buffs and inquisitive park guests. Seeing an actual canon fired is incredible, it shakes the whole park! I didn't get the chance to fire a musket today – but there’s always hope for tomorrow!
Ed
Memorial Day Salute
In the Second day of our traditional Memorial Day Salute the Ballfield was transformed into a “Battlefield.” The kind folks from the Carpenter’s Battery performed for the eager history buffs and inquisitive park guests. Seeing an actual canon fired is incredible, it shakes the whole park! I didn't get the chance to fire a musket today – but there’s always hope for tomorrow!Ed
4 comments | leave a comment
Friday June 4, 2010 at 07:07 PM EST
I last visited Idlewild in June 2005, while at my 50th Class Reunion in Latrobe. I first visited Idlewild in about 1942. We rode a Train pulled by a steam engine from Latrobe to the park. I think I went at least two times a year from then until I went into the Air Force in 1955 and stayed in for the next 24 years. I hope to get there again when I come up from Miami for the Latrobe Class of "55" on our 55th reunion June 26, 2010. I can't relate in this space how great it has been to have those memories to think about all these years. There is no better family park.
Thank you Tom. That means the world to us.
Thank you Tom. That means the world to us.
Wednesday June 2, 2010 at 02:11 PM EST
Okay, Thanks for getting back to me. Growing up, I went to a church in Tampa named 'Idlewild' for the street where the folks originally met. It always seemed a 'different' name for a church, so I wondered if there might be a connection. If you find one, please contact me. See my e-address 'ACCINC' at the sign-up for Web Specials on 6-2-10. Thank you, Ed, and have a Great Week!
Thank!! You too.
Thank!! You too.
Wednesday June 2, 2010 at 01:41 PM EST
Ed, What happened to Jefff, he used to do the blogs.
He is our Sales Manager now.
He is our Sales Manager now.
Monday May 31, 2010 at 12:00 AM EST
Hi Ed,
Hope you are well. Do you know the origin of the name "Idlewild" for this property?? It would be Great to find out!
Have a Super Memorial Day,
Kimi
To be honest we really don't. The Darlington family that originally owned this property over 130 years ago just had that listed as the name of the property.
To be honest we really don't. The Darlington family that originally owned this property over 130 years ago just had that listed as the name of the property.
Thursday May 27, 2010
Opening Day!!!!
It's Opening Day!!! Summer is finally here.
An early morning stroll through the park this morning proved to be the perfect opportunity to capture the the natural beauty of the park on this perfect summer day. The empty walkways and stillness of the pool are now a distant memory as the gates have opened and the park is full of what brings it to life. YOU!!
The sun is shinning, The music is playing on the Merry-Go-Round & the pool looks way more fun with people in it. Today was the perfect day to kick of summer at Idlewild & SoakZone.
Thanks for coming-Have a sparkling day.
Ed
Opening Day!!!!
It's Opening Day!!! Summer is finally here.An early morning stroll through the park this morning proved to be the perfect opportunity to capture the the natural beauty of the park on this perfect summer day. The empty walkways and stillness of the pool are now a distant memory as the gates have opened and the park is full of what brings it to life. YOU!!
The sun is shinning, The music is playing on the Merry-Go-Round & the pool looks way more fun with people in it. Today was the perfect day to kick of summer at Idlewild & SoakZone.
Thanks for coming-Have a sparkling day.
Ed
1 comment | leave a comment
Thursday June 10, 2010 at 01:41 PM EST
DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT TIME THE CIRCUS WILL PERFORM ON SATURDAY JUNE, 12, 2010?
The Shows will be at 2,4,and 6.
The Shows will be at 2,4,and 6.
Saturday May 22, 2010
Join the Conversation & Foursquare: Weekend Update
Many of you are already our friends on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. If you're not.... What are you waiting for??? Join the conversation! These are the areas that get updated most frequently with cool info about the park and general conversation. I spend a lot of time in those two areas answering questions about the park from discount opportunities to my favorite attraction at the park (Today it is Confusion Hill, it changes almost daily). I also get to share cool behind the scenes photos and videos, just yesterday I posted new photos of the Circus tent being raised.
New for this summer we will be doing something that we think is very cool. We have added almost every location in the park on foursquare. Now you can check in and become mayor of places like the Rollo Coaster, the Pool or even the Fountain. If you don't know what foursquare is... It is a cool location based service that lets you check in from your phone wherever you are and let your friends know via Facebook, Twitter and even right in foursquare. Take some time to check it out now, I'll wait..... foursquare
Ok, Now that you're back and up to speed, listen to some of the cool things we are doing. Each location in the park has tips associated with it, including: menu choices at food stands, height requirements at rides and some fun facts that can help make your visit easier by having better access to information.
There are a lot of fun possibilities with foursquare but it will depend on how much you guys all use it. The more you use it, the more we can do with it, like: we can add some games and some specials... maybe we will even have a Mayor's meeting.
See you soon and don't forget to become my friend on foursquare.
Ed
Join the Conversation & Foursquare: Weekend Update
Many of you are already our friends on Facebook or follow us on Twitter. If you're not.... What are you waiting for??? Join the conversation! These are the areas that get updated most frequently with cool info about the park and general conversation. I spend a lot of time in those two areas answering questions about the park from discount opportunities to my favorite attraction at the park (Today it is Confusion Hill, it changes almost daily). I also get to share cool behind the scenes photos and videos, just yesterday I posted new photos of the Circus tent being raised. New for this summer we will be doing something that we think is very cool. We have added almost every location in the park on foursquare. Now you can check in and become mayor of places like the Rollo Coaster, the Pool or even the Fountain. If you don't know what foursquare is... It is a cool location based service that lets you check in from your phone wherever you are and let your friends know via Facebook, Twitter and even right in foursquare. Take some time to check it out now, I'll wait..... foursquare
Ok, Now that you're back and up to speed, listen to some of the cool things we are doing. Each location in the park has tips associated with it, including: menu choices at food stands, height requirements at rides and some fun facts that can help make your visit easier by having better access to information.
There are a lot of fun possibilities with foursquare but it will depend on how much you guys all use it. The more you use it, the more we can do with it, like: we can add some games and some specials... maybe we will even have a Mayor's meeting.
See you soon and don't forget to become my friend on foursquare.
Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday May 15, 2010
Weekend Update: Opening Soon...
We’re just about ready, are you? Our team members, managers, supervisors and maintenance crew have been working hard to gear up for the new season!
The sunny day proved to be the perfect opportunity to hang the NEW banners throughout the park (so far everyone seems to love them) – a sure sign that summer is here and the park is almost open!
While walking through the park today it really started to feel like summer. The rides are starting to run, the food stands are being stocked, season passes are being processed, team members are training and of course, the sun is shining! The only thing we’re missing is you!
See you soon!
Ed
Weekend Update: Opening Soon...
We’re just about ready, are you? Our team members, managers, supervisors and maintenance crew have been working hard to gear up for the new season!The sunny day proved to be the perfect opportunity to hang the NEW banners throughout the park (so far everyone seems to love them) – a sure sign that summer is here and the park is almost open!
While walking through the park today it really started to feel like summer. The rides are starting to run, the food stands are being stocked, season passes are being processed, team members are training and of course, the sun is shining! The only thing we’re missing is you!
See you soon!
Ed
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Saturday May 8, 2010
Weekend Update: Less than 20 days
Sorry for the lack of updates. I promise they are about to become much more regular. Things are pretty busy here getting ready to open but I wanted to take the time to give you a link to the "Season Opener." An E-Zine with information about Idlewild and our Sister Parks Kennywood and Sandcastle.
Season Opener
Enjoy, Less than 20 days.
Ed
Weekend Update: Less than 20 days
Sorry for the lack of updates. I promise they are about to become much more regular. Things are pretty busy here getting ready to open but I wanted to take the time to give you a link to the "Season Opener." An E-Zine with information about Idlewild and our Sister Parks Kennywood and Sandcastle. Season Opener
Enjoy, Less than 20 days.
Ed
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Wednesday April 14, 2010
UPDATED: 2010 Operating Calendar
We have had to update our early June 2010 Operating Calendar. Please see the official calendar below.
Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you this summer,
Idlewild & SoakZone
UPDATED: 2010 Buddy Days Calendar
We have had to make an update to our 2010 Buddy Days as a result of the change in our 2010 Operating Calendar. The Season Pass Holder Bring-A-Buddy Free day originally scheduled for June 7th has now been moved to June 10th.
Once again, thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you this summer,
Idlewild & SoakZone
UPDATED: 2010 Operating Calendar
We have had to update our early June 2010 Operating Calendar. Please see the official calendar below.
Thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you this summer,
Idlewild & SoakZone
UPDATED: 2010 Buddy Days Calendar
We have had to make an update to our 2010 Buddy Days as a result of the change in our 2010 Operating Calendar. The Season Pass Holder Bring-A-Buddy Free day originally scheduled for June 7th has now been moved to June 10th.
Once again, thank you for your understanding and we look forward to seeing you this summer,
Idlewild & SoakZone
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday April 12, 2010
Trying to really tap into the spirit of the Circus...
Trying to really tap into the spirit of the Circus...
1 comment | leave a comment
Monday May 24, 2010 at 09:50 AM EST
Nice Ed! LOL
Wednesday March 31, 2010
The Incredible Flying Fernandez Family
Last week I traveled to a TOP SECRET training facility to watch The Incredible Flying Fernandez Family, one of our Circus Acts, perform in preparation for The Royal Hanneford Circus here at Idlewild & SoakZone. These death defying performers from South America amazed me as they performed in the giant “Wheels of Destiny” with astounding feats of balance and agility, even blindfolded at one point! I wish I could tell you about the whole act but I was sworn to secrecy.
The “Wheel of Destiny,” is a large rotating apparatus on which the family carries out astounding feats. The "wheel" is actually a large space frame beam with hooped tracks at either end, within which the performers can stand. As the Fernandez Family runs around on either the inside or outside of the hoops, the whole apparatus rotates. While the facility was TOP SECRET I did manage to sneak this photo of the Fernandez family in action. Enjoy and see you at the Circus!!
The Incredible Flying Fernandez Family
Last week I traveled to a TOP SECRET training facility to watch The Incredible Flying Fernandez Family, one of our Circus Acts, perform in preparation for The Royal Hanneford Circus here at Idlewild & SoakZone. These death defying performers from South America amazed me as they performed in the giant “Wheels of Destiny” with astounding feats of balance and agility, even blindfolded at one point! I wish I could tell you about the whole act but I was sworn to secrecy. The “Wheel of Destiny,” is a large rotating apparatus on which the family carries out astounding feats. The "wheel" is actually a large space frame beam with hooped tracks at either end, within which the performers can stand. As the Fernandez Family runs around on either the inside or outside of the hoops, the whole apparatus rotates. While the facility was TOP SECRET I did manage to sneak this photo of the Fernandez family in action. Enjoy and see you at the Circus!!
1 comment | leave a comment
Friday April 9, 2010 at 05:33 AM EST
Why aren't you in my office? I need such hardworking people desperately :)
Thanks!!
Thanks!!
Friday January 15, 2010
Man Vs. Wild Mouse
Earlier this week I ventured out to get some photos of the Wild Mouse in its winter state. We have had some very heavy snow fall in this area and it has made for a beautiful landscape. Far different from the one you would see here in the summer so it was worth braving the cold and snow.
I started my adventure with no problems as most of our midways are plowed so our maintenance teams can still get around the park. I could have taken a rather nice photo from the midway and ended there, but where is the adventure in that.
While weighing the pros and cons of getting closer to the ride the snow continued to fall. I thought the snow would be slightly over my ankles and result in me resting my shoes on a heater for an hour and a little Hot Chocolate Therapy. -I was wrong.
The first few steps were fine as the fluffy snow barely covered my shoes. I made it to the exit ramp...I had gone too far to return without at least one photo.
While hiking up the exit ramp the snow passed my knees on occasion but I was able to get to see a sight that few have seen. A Wild Mouse in hibernation covered in a thick layer of wonderful winter snow.
Luckily I escaped with only some wet shoes and pant legs, cold fingers and a need for Hot Chocolate. It was well worth it- Enjoy some of the photos.
Man Vs. Wild Mouse
Earlier this week I ventured out to get some photos of the Wild Mouse in its winter state. We have had some very heavy snow fall in this area and it has made for a beautiful landscape. Far different from the one you would see here in the summer so it was worth braving the cold and snow.
I started my adventure with no problems as most of our midways are plowed so our maintenance teams can still get around the park. I could have taken a rather nice photo from the midway and ended there, but where is the adventure in that.
While weighing the pros and cons of getting closer to the ride the snow continued to fall. I thought the snow would be slightly over my ankles and result in me resting my shoes on a heater for an hour and a little Hot Chocolate Therapy. -I was wrong.
The first few steps were fine as the fluffy snow barely covered my shoes. I made it to the exit ramp...I had gone too far to return without at least one photo.
While hiking up the exit ramp the snow passed my knees on occasion but I was able to get to see a sight that few have seen. A Wild Mouse in hibernation covered in a thick layer of wonderful winter snow.
Luckily I escaped with only some wet shoes and pant legs, cold fingers and a need for Hot Chocolate. It was well worth it- Enjoy some of the photos.
3 comments | leave a comment
Thursday January 21, 2010 at 09:31 AM EST
Great pics! Who is that standing way in the background in the last photo? Did they want to be the first rider of the new year?
That was my arctic guide.
That was my arctic guide.
Wednesday January 20, 2010 at 10:05 AM EST
Neat pictures! When will the 2010 event schedule be available? We want to plan a trip this summer but would like to wait to see the schedule. Thanks!
Very Soon Kelly. If you have specific events in mind you can email pat@idlewild.com and we can take care of letting you know when things are currently scheduled.
Very Soon Kelly. If you have specific events in mind you can email pat@idlewild.com and we can take care of letting you know when things are currently scheduled.
Friday January 15, 2010 at 07:59 PM EST
I heard some talk from friends that Idlewild was taking out the Wild Mouse, since it breaks down a lot? any truth to this story? My kids love that Wild Mouse Ride.
That is incorrect. The Wild Mouse is here to stay.
That is incorrect. The Wild Mouse is here to stay.
Monday November 30, 2009
Ricky at Light-Up Night in Ligonier.
Ricky Raccoon helped escort Santa into town on Friday to participate in Ligonier's annual Light-Up Night. I am sure a great time was had by all and Ricky loved getting to see some of his summertime friends in the winter.
Ricky at Light-Up Night in Ligonier.
Ricky Raccoon helped escort Santa into town on Friday to participate in Ligonier's annual Light-Up Night. I am sure a great time was had by all and Ricky loved getting to see some of his summertime friends in the winter.
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Monday November 9, 2009
Nominate us!!!
Nominate Idlewild's Facebook page for the open web awards...
Nominate us!!!
Nominate Idlewild's Facebook page for the open web awards...
0 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday October 7, 2009
The Many Faces of Idlewild's HallowBoo!
Kids really seem to love the silly faces on some of our pumpkins here at HallowBoo. Just this weekend I saw a child walking around these pumpkins making silly faces back at them. Maybe this weekend you can get a picture of your family making silly faces next to one of our silly pumpkins.
The Many Faces of Idlewild's HallowBoo!
Kids really seem to love the silly faces on some of our pumpkins here at HallowBoo. Just this weekend I saw a child walking around these pumpkins making silly faces back at them. Maybe this weekend you can get a picture of your family making silly faces next to one of our silly pumpkins.
1 comment | leave a comment
Monday October 26, 2009 at 09:29 PM EST
I can't tell you how much fun my son and I had this season. We made it over several times, and to the last day of HallowBoo! He had such a blast trick or treating and seeing all of the cool stuff. He especially loved the green "zombie" water! Thanks for a great summer!
Thanks!
Thanks!
Wednesday September 30, 2009
The Rollo Coaster POV
Take a great first person view of the Rollo Coaster to get you through those mid-week blues.
The Rollo Coaster POV
Take a great first person view of the Rollo Coaster to get you through those mid-week blues.
4 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday March 30, 2010 at 02:02 PM EST
i just watched the video and i cant wait til i can go on it with my son! it makes the springtime alot easier especially when we still have these cold days! Cant wait to come and see idlewild and use my season pass!
Friday October 2, 2009 at 12:06 AM EST
thats so cool!
Thank You!
Thank You!
Wednesday September 30, 2009 at 01:02 PM EST
OSM Thank you!
Wednesday September 30, 2009 at 11:21 AM EST
This is awesome. I wish I could ride this right now.
Wednesday September 30, 2009
The Fountain changes like the Seasons for HallowBoo
From Green to Orange....
Check out the photos below showing the HallowBoo version of the fountain when it is off and when it is on. Look at the difference in color. A little HallowBoo magic!
The Fountain changes like the Seasons for HallowBoo
From Green to Orange....
Check out the photos below showing the HallowBoo version of the fountain when it is off and when it is on. Look at the difference in color. A little HallowBoo magic!
0 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday September 15, 2009
Plenty of Pumpkins
Now that the Highland Games are complete, we move our entire focus on to HallowBoo! As you can see in the photo, we have already started to receive the pumpkins that we spread through out the park. This is only the first delivery!!
I am going to continue to post HallowBoo set up pictures up until HallowBoo starts on September 26.
And this week I am going to post details on a TOP SECRET special event to be held the first weekend of HallowBoo!
See you soon...
Plenty of Pumpkins
Now that the Highland Games are complete, we move our entire focus on to HallowBoo! As you can see in the photo, we have already started to receive the pumpkins that we spread through out the park. This is only the first delivery!!
I am going to continue to post HallowBoo set up pictures up until HallowBoo starts on September 26.
And this week I am going to post details on a TOP SECRET special event to be held the first weekend of HallowBoo!
See you soon...
2 comments | leave a comment
Friday September 25, 2009 at 04:57 PM EST
Are there any buddy days for season pass holders during Hallow Boo?
There are not any buddy days during HallowBoo
There are not any buddy days during HallowBoo
Tuesday September 15, 2009 at 04:43 PM EST
is the car cruise still going on the first weekend of Hallowboo?
Yes, there is a Car Cruise the first weekend.
Yes, there is a Car Cruise the first weekend.
Tuesday September 15, 2009
Idlewild & SoakZone Strikes Gold Again as World’s Second Best Amusement Park for Children
"In its annual “Best of the Best” poll of experienced and well-traveled amusement park fans worldwide, Amusement Today (http://www.amusementtoday.com) awarded a prestigious Golden Ticket to Pennsylvania’s Idlewild & SoakZone for taking second place honors as the “best children’s amusement park” in the world for the sixth consecutive year."
Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards are the annual ‘Oscars’ of our industry and we’re honored that Idlewild & SoakZone is recognized once again as the second best kid’s park in the world for a sixth consecutive year. We appeal to people of all ages, but what makes us truly special and proud is that we are especially attractive to families with young children.
Thank you once again for helping make us one of the best Parks in the World!!!
Idlewild & SoakZone Strikes Gold Again as World’s Second Best Amusement Park for Children
"In its annual “Best of the Best” poll of experienced and well-traveled amusement park fans worldwide, Amusement Today (http://www.amusementtoday.com) awarded a prestigious Golden Ticket to Pennsylvania’s Idlewild & SoakZone for taking second place honors as the “best children’s amusement park” in the world for the sixth consecutive year."
Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards are the annual ‘Oscars’ of our industry and we’re honored that Idlewild & SoakZone is recognized once again as the second best kid’s park in the world for a sixth consecutive year. We appeal to people of all ages, but what makes us truly special and proud is that we are especially attractive to families with young children.
Thank you once again for helping make us one of the best Parks in the World!!!
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Friday September 11, 2009
#2 Best Kids Park in The World
For 6 years in a row now Idlewild & SoakZone has been named the #2 Best Kids Park in The World by Amusement Today.
Thank you all for making it happen.
http://www.amusementtoday.com/corndog/2009gtaParkAndRide.html
#2 Best Kids Park in The World
For 6 years in a row now Idlewild & SoakZone has been named the #2 Best Kids Park in The World by Amusement Today.
Thank you all for making it happen.
http://www.amusementtoday.com/corndog/2009gtaParkAndRide.html
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday August 22, 2009
Signs of HallowBoo! starting to appear at Idlewild...
Quite literally there are signs of HallowBoo! starting to appear. If anyone has been to the Park in the last few day I am sure they have noticed a few signs and scarecrows as we begin to prepare for HallowBoo!
Those of you who have been to HallowBoo! before... I'm sure you are starting to get excited. If you have yet to come you really should make a trip this fall. If you think the Idlewild setting is beautiful in the summer you should see the Laurel Highlands when the leaves begin to change.
Also nothing says Halloween like Trick-or-Treating through Story Book Forest.
Signs of HallowBoo! starting to appear at Idlewild...
Quite literally there are signs of HallowBoo! starting to appear. If anyone has been to the Park in the last few day I am sure they have noticed a few signs and scarecrows as we begin to prepare for HallowBoo!
Those of you who have been to HallowBoo! before... I'm sure you are starting to get excited. If you have yet to come you really should make a trip this fall. If you think the Idlewild setting is beautiful in the summer you should see the Laurel Highlands when the leaves begin to change.
Also nothing says Halloween like Trick-or-Treating through Story Book Forest.
1 comment | leave a comment
Thursday August 27, 2009 at 01:27 PM EST
Will Ricky's Racers be open for Hallowboo? My kids really love them.
Ricky's Racers is currently scheduled to be open for HallowBoo!
Ricky's Racers is currently scheduled to be open for HallowBoo!
Saturday August 15, 2009
The Summer heat is here!
This last week has marked some of the hottest days of summer. Once the temperature gets this warm there is one place on everyone's mind: SoakZone.
The SoakZone is our waterpark full of fun for everyone from kids to adults. Lil' Squirts is our area dedicated for little kids. With a wading pool and all sorts of waterworks fun for the littlest of ones in your family.
Once they have graduated Lil' Squirts the "kidds" move on to Captain Kidds' Adventure Galley. A full-size water-play structure. Most easily described as a playground playset with 1000's of gallons of water.
We also have a giant swimming pool and slides that are fun for your whole family.
If just relaxing and reading a book is your cup of tea, you can do that here too.
Summer is not over, while time for vacations may be up there is always a day or two to Staycation at Idlewild &, especially in the heat, SoakZone
The Summer heat is here!
This last week has marked some of the hottest days of summer. Once the temperature gets this warm there is one place on everyone's mind: SoakZone.The SoakZone is our waterpark full of fun for everyone from kids to adults. Lil' Squirts is our area dedicated for little kids. With a wading pool and all sorts of waterworks fun for the littlest of ones in your family.
Once they have graduated Lil' Squirts the "kidds" move on to Captain Kidds' Adventure Galley. A full-size water-play structure. Most easily described as a playground playset with 1000's of gallons of water.
We also have a giant swimming pool and slides that are fun for your whole family.
If just relaxing and reading a book is your cup of tea, you can do that here too.
Summer is not over, while time for vacations may be up there is always a day or two to Staycation at Idlewild &, especially in the heat, SoakZone
1 comment | leave a comment
Friday February 26, 2010 at 06:18 PM EST
OMG - Is this Lil Ed??????
Yes
Yes
Saturday August 15, 2009
Another Italian Day in the books
This year's Italian Day was amazing, it was my favorite one yet. So many great things happened. Bruno Sammartino and other great Italian wrestlers were here. FYI Bruno Sammartino could still be champion, he is in fantastic shape for his age (or any age).
The food was fantastic as usual, I ate more than my fair share of pasta and pastries.
The entertainment was the best it has ever been. ALFIO was fantastic, I have literally never seen an Italian Day crowd that in awe of a performer.
The Vogues also were the best that I have ever seen them. There were some many people dancing, from small kids to adults, it was difficult to even walk through.
My favorite Italian Day so far, I can't wait until next year. Mille Grazie to everyone who was here.
Another Italian Day in the books
This year's Italian Day was amazing, it was my favorite one yet. So many great things happened. Bruno Sammartino and other great Italian wrestlers were here. FYI Bruno Sammartino could still be champion, he is in fantastic shape for his age (or any age).
The food was fantastic as usual, I ate more than my fair share of pasta and pastries.
The entertainment was the best it has ever been. ALFIO was fantastic, I have literally never seen an Italian Day crowd that in awe of a performer.
The Vogues also were the best that I have ever seen them. There were some many people dancing, from small kids to adults, it was difficult to even walk through.
My favorite Italian Day so far, I can't wait until next year. Mille Grazie to everyone who was here.
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday August 10, 2009
Bonus Buddy Days Announced!!!
August 17-20 will all be Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days. Don't miss this opportunity to "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" with your Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass.
If you don't have a Season Pass, purchase your 2010 pass now and take advantage of these great Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days.
Tell your friends!!
Share
Bonus Buddy Days Announced!!!
August 17-20 will all be Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days. Don't miss this opportunity to "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" with your Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass.
If you don't have a Season Pass, purchase your 2010 pass now and take advantage of these great Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days.
Tell your friends!!
Share
0 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday August 4, 2009
Bird's Eye-View of Idlewild
Ever wonder what Idlewild would look like if you got a chance to fly over?
Well, not only is the park beautiful while on the ground, it looks great from above as well. In the Aerial shots you can really see why Idlewild has so much shade. Most of the paths and rides are not even visible through the tree tops.
A really good view of the Loggin' Toboggan and you can just see Story Book Forest Hidden away in there.
Great view of the SoakZone!
To check out an aerial view of the entire Laurel Highlands region click here to go to Bing!
Share
Bird's Eye-View of Idlewild
Ever wonder what Idlewild would look like if you got a chance to fly over?
Well, not only is the park beautiful while on the ground, it looks great from above as well. In the Aerial shots you can really see why Idlewild has so much shade. Most of the paths and rides are not even visible through the tree tops.
A really good view of the Loggin' Toboggan and you can just see Story Book Forest Hidden away in there.
Great view of the SoakZone!
To check out an aerial view of the entire Laurel Highlands region click here to go to Bing!
Share
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday August 3, 2009
Italian Day presents ALFIO
This year's Italian Day, on August 14, is going to be extra special. Not only will we have all the fine food and great fun that we have every year but we also have a special performance by ALFIO. ALFIO is considered one of the greatest voices in contemporary music today and is gearing up to take the United States by storm.
Sydney native ALFIO is reminiscent of a young Dean Martin. With his old-world charm and his confident swagger, ALFIO offers a refreshingly cool and modern throwback to the crooners to which he is often compared. His debut album was released on Warner Music Australia and achieved Top 10 album status and Top 20 on the ARIA charts. This international heartthrob, known as “The Voice of Passion” has graced stages all over the world singing English, Italian and Spanish classics, contemporary songs and Italian folk songs.
Watch ALFIO in action:
Share
Italian Day presents ALFIO
This year's Italian Day, on August 14, is going to be extra special. Not only will we have all the fine food and great fun that we have every year but we also have a special performance by ALFIO. ALFIO is considered one of the greatest voices in contemporary music today and is gearing up to take the United States by storm.Sydney native ALFIO is reminiscent of a young Dean Martin. With his old-world charm and his confident swagger, ALFIO offers a refreshingly cool and modern throwback to the crooners to which he is often compared. His debut album was released on Warner Music Australia and achieved Top 10 album status and Top 20 on the ARIA charts. This international heartthrob, known as “The Voice of Passion” has graced stages all over the world singing English, Italian and Spanish classics, contemporary songs and Italian folk songs.
Watch ALFIO in action:
Share
0 comments | leave a comment
Sunday August 2, 2009
Scrambling LEDs
We have had a lot of comments on how nice the new LED lights on the Scrambler look this year. They look really cool when you take photos of them and leave the shutter open just a little longer.
Scrambling LEDs
We have had a lot of comments on how nice the new LED lights on the Scrambler look this year. They look really cool when you take photos of them and leave the shutter open just a little longer.
2 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday August 5, 2009 at 03:02 PM EST
This really is an awesome photograph. I wish we stayed later and I was able to get one like this.
Sunday August 2, 2009 at 09:48 PM EST
Stunning and beautiful...not to mention LED lights are much better for the planet!
Tuesday July 28, 2009
Star 100.7 & MoZella at Idlewild
Star 100.7 is currently Broadcasting live from Idlewild & SoakZone and they brought along special guest MoZella to preform a few songs at the Main Stage. Currently as I write this Johnny Hartwell is Broadcasting live from the Wild Mouse and the getting ready to head back to the Gazebo to play some more games and pass out more prizes.
The crew from Star always does a great job and they are not disappointing today as park Guests are having a blast. If you are at home tune in or head out to the park now and catch some of the Broadcast live.
As I said before MoZella performed a few songs live and hopefully we can have that video posted on here soon!
It's another Great Day here at Idlewild & SoakZone.
Star 100.7 & MoZella at Idlewild
Star 100.7 is currently Broadcasting live from Idlewild & SoakZone and they brought along special guest MoZella to preform a few songs at the Main Stage. Currently as I write this Johnny Hartwell is Broadcasting live from the Wild Mouse and the getting ready to head back to the Gazebo to play some more games and pass out more prizes.
The crew from Star always does a great job and they are not disappointing today as park Guests are having a blast. If you are at home tune in or head out to the park now and catch some of the Broadcast live.
As I said before MoZella performed a few songs live and hopefully we can have that video posted on here soon!
It's another Great Day here at Idlewild & SoakZone.
0 comments | leave a comment
Thursday July 16, 2009
Become a Fan on Facebook
Become a Fan on Facebook
Idlewild & SoakZone on Facebook
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Sunday July 5, 2009
Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days- July 6th-10th
This week the Neighbors will be joining us to help celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe here at Idlewild & SoakZone. It is hard to believe it has been 20 years since since Mr. Rogers and Idlewild Park joined forces to help turn my favorite childhood television show into my favorite ride as an adult. For fans of the show this is truly a magical opportunity to meet the Neighbors in person. They are some of the nicest and most genuine people I have ever met and are sure to make you feel just as much a part of the Neighborhood as Trolley.
Meet and greet your favorite Neighbors, including Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber, and Purple Panda, straight from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe from 1 - 4 p.m. near the entrance to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood in Raccoon Lagoon.
Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days- July 6th-10th
This week the Neighbors will be joining us to help celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe here at Idlewild & SoakZone. It is hard to believe it has been 20 years since since Mr. Rogers and Idlewild Park joined forces to help turn my favorite childhood television show into my favorite ride as an adult. For fans of the show this is truly a magical opportunity to meet the Neighbors in person. They are some of the nicest and most genuine people I have ever met and are sure to make you feel just as much a part of the Neighborhood as Trolley.
Meet and greet your favorite Neighbors, including Mr. McFeely, Mayor Maggie, Neighbor Aber, and Purple Panda, straight from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe from 1 - 4 p.m. near the entrance to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood in Raccoon Lagoon.
5 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday July 14, 2009 at 09:04 PM EST
We live in Illinois and drove over 8 hrs to visit visited Idlewild Park in June. I had no idea that Mister Rogers' days were going on 3 weeks AFTER our trip! So we just HAD to come back for the event! IT was wonderful and I'm so happy we were able to visit the park a second time. I'm still reeling with the excitement of having been there. Maggie, Chuck and Mr. McFeely were the kindest most gracious hosts in the world. Idlewild staff was amazingly friendly and helpful. GENUINE kindness abounds at Idlewild. The trolley ride was wonderful and it even brings a tear to my eye thinking about it now. THANK YOU to ALL! We plan to visit again next summer. And I can't wait!
Sunday July 12, 2009 at 08:44 PM EST
We are from northeast Ohio and although we have a very popular"park" close to home, it can't compare to the family atmosphere found at Idlewild. We visited Thurs. July 9th and were able to meet the wonderful people from Mr. Rogers Neighborhood. They were nice enough to sign autographs for each of our four children! I tell everyone I know about this gem tucked away in PA! We plan to visit for years to come.
Thank you for visiting! We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Thank you for visiting! We look forward to seeing you again soon.
Thursday July 9, 2009 at 08:19 PM EST
So sad we will be missing this, but we will be there the 14th! It will be my daughters (who is 2 1 1/2) first trip to the park. I, on the other hand, have been coming to Idlewild since I was a little girl. Im so excited for her and for myself too! Its been years!! LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL!!
Wednesday July 8, 2009 at 12:17 AM EST
Last year Mister Rogers' Neighbors and Idlewild's staff were amazing in granting my son's Make-a-Wish dream come true. Everyone so willingly gave of their time to spend with our son and family. We cherish the kindness we experienced from Mr. McFeely,Mayor Maggie, and Neighbor Aber and Purple Panda. We hope to visit our newest neighbors again. It is with much love and admiration that we remember our visit to Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe.
Monday July 6, 2009 at 09:36 PM EST
We were there today and Mr. McFeeley, Mayor Maggie and Neighbor Aber were the nicest people. I hope that one day we can find the whole series on DVD to share with future generations this landmark in children's programming.
Friday June 26, 2009
Guest Blogger
Phillip Cashmere is a park visitor who recently wrote a great blog entry about his visit to Idlewild & SoakZone. Phil also tweeted while he was at the park giving up to the minute information about what a great time he was having.
We took the kids to Idlewild Park in Ligonier, Pennsylvania for our first family vacation. It was raining in Ohio when we left for our adventure, but thanks to Josh’s prayers the night before, it was nice and sunny when we arrived in PA.
Nestled in the forest just off of Route 30, Idlewild to me was everything that a great, old amusement park should be. From the rides to the sights, sounds and smells of the midway, it rekindled many wonderful childhood memories within me.
My kids had a blast riding the rides! They loved the Log Ride as well as the numerous kiddie rides located in Raccoon Lagoon. I particularly enjoyed the hand cart ride. These were similar to the hand carts that Erieview Park at Geneva-On-The-Lake had except these carts were made to accommodate both children AND adults. With little to no wait times for the rides, the kids were always busy having fun!
Next, we all had a great time riding the Mister Rogers trolley through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. I am a huge Mister Rogers fan, so I was really looking forward to this ride the most, and I was NOT disappointed! The ride was an amusing interactive journey through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe visiting each of the neighborhood’s colorful character along the way. The ride concluded with a Hug and Song party at King Friday’s castle complete with a heart-warming rendition of the classic Mister Rogers song, “It’s Such A Good Feeling”.
We then concluded our day by playing various carnival games, and the kids got their faces painted.
Guest Blogger
Phillip Cashmere is a park visitor who recently wrote a great blog entry about his visit to Idlewild & SoakZone. Phil also tweeted while he was at the park giving up to the minute information about what a great time he was having.
We took the kids to Idlewild Park in Ligonier, Pennsylvania for our first family vacation. It was raining in Ohio when we left for our adventure, but thanks to Josh’s prayers the night before, it was nice and sunny when we arrived in PA.
Nestled in the forest just off of Route 30, Idlewild to me was everything that a great, old amusement park should be. From the rides to the sights, sounds and smells of the midway, it rekindled many wonderful childhood memories within me.
My kids had a blast riding the rides! They loved the Log Ride as well as the numerous kiddie rides located in Raccoon Lagoon. I particularly enjoyed the hand cart ride. These were similar to the hand carts that Erieview Park at Geneva-On-The-Lake had except these carts were made to accommodate both children AND adults. With little to no wait times for the rides, the kids were always busy having fun!
Next, we all had a great time riding the Mister Rogers trolley through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe. I am a huge Mister Rogers fan, so I was really looking forward to this ride the most, and I was NOT disappointed! The ride was an amusing interactive journey through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe visiting each of the neighborhood’s colorful character along the way. The ride concluded with a Hug and Song party at King Friday’s castle complete with a heart-warming rendition of the classic Mister Rogers song, “It’s Such A Good Feeling”.We then concluded our day by playing various carnival games, and the kids got their faces painted.
2 comments | leave a comment
Thursday July 16, 2009 at 02:55 PM EST
Great idea you had to give Twitter updates while you were at the park. I think I saw you there!
Monday June 29, 2009 at 02:39 PM EST
I just wanted to thank you for finding my watch.It was not an expensive watch but I liked it I replaced the band and it's like new. Thank you again for going the extra mile I did not think that I would see it again thanks to you and your wonderful staff they did make our day at the park fun we were there on Greensburg comunity days.
Sunday June 21, 2009
Firefighter & EMS Appreciation Day
Today marked our Annual Firefighter & EMS appreciation day at the park. The highlight of the day is the equipment display and the Battle of the Barrel that takes places in Lot A. If you have never seen a Battle of the Barrel it is truly something to behold. Two teams of Firefighters line up opposite one another and both spray their hoses at a central "barrell" trying to push it back at the opposing team.
It is a very popular event as you can see from the crowd gathered. The best part, on a day like today, is that you get a little bit of that over spray to cool you down.
Firefighter & EMS Appreciation Day
Today marked our Annual Firefighter & EMS appreciation day at the park. The highlight of the day is the equipment display and the Battle of the Barrel that takes places in Lot A. If you have never seen a Battle of the Barrel it is truly something to behold. Two teams of Firefighters line up opposite one another and both spray their hoses at a central "barrell" trying to push it back at the opposing team.
It is a very popular event as you can see from the crowd gathered. The best part, on a day like today, is that you get a little bit of that over spray to cool you down.
1 comment | leave a comment
Wednesday June 24, 2009 at 02:26 AM EST
thanks
SUPER !
Sunday June 21, 2009
Dear Dads,
Thanks for always carrying the cooler. Thanks for listening to us ask, "are we there yet?" hundreds of times on the way to the park. Thanks for buying us the big Ice Cream cone even though you knew we wouldn't be able to finish it. Thanks for spending the day with us in Kiddieland and riding the Trolley three times in a row. Thanks for riding rides you didn't want to, just because we did. Thanks for carrying us to the car at night when we were too tired to walk. And most of all thanks for all the great memories.
Happy Father's day from Idlewild & SoakZone.
Dear Dads,
Thanks for always carrying the cooler. Thanks for listening to us ask, "are we there yet?" hundreds of times on the way to the park. Thanks for buying us the big Ice Cream cone even though you knew we wouldn't be able to finish it. Thanks for spending the day with us in Kiddieland and riding the Trolley three times in a row. Thanks for riding rides you didn't want to, just because we did. Thanks for carrying us to the car at night when we were too tired to walk. And most of all thanks for all the great memories.
Happy Father's day from Idlewild & SoakZone.
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Saturday June 20, 2009
Looking to Staycation at Idlewild?
With lots of families "staycationing" this year I have been asked by some Guests how to plan a great family vacation around Idlewild. Well look no further....
The Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau has a new site giving you the inside scoop on what's happening in the region. With this great site and LaurelHighlands.org you can plan your entire Stayation around Idlewild.
Also, please visit the Events page of our website for a complete listing of all the fun happenings at Idlewild in the coming months to pick the best time for your family to visit. We have some special things planned including a week with the Neighbors from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. More on that soon.
We can't wait to see you at the park.
Looking to Staycation at Idlewild?
With lots of families "staycationing" this year I have been asked by some Guests how to plan a great family vacation around Idlewild. Well look no further....
The Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau has a new site giving you the inside scoop on what's happening in the region. With this great site and LaurelHighlands.org you can plan your entire Stayation around Idlewild.
Also, please visit the Events page of our website for a complete listing of all the fun happenings at Idlewild in the coming months to pick the best time for your family to visit. We have some special things planned including a week with the Neighbors from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. More on that soon.
We can't wait to see you at the park.
1 comment | leave a comment
Sunday June 21, 2009 at 06:56 AM EST
thanks
Friday June 19, 2009
Greensburg Community Picnic
Our good friends at SAM FM 107.1 visited today to help celebrate Greensburg's Community Picnic. In addition to playing games and interacting with Guests they did a few live call backs from the Park. It is always really nice to see a local radio station support the community.
Greensburg Community Picnic
Our good friends at SAM FM 107.1 visited today to help celebrate Greensburg's Community Picnic. In addition to playing games and interacting with Guests they did a few live call backs from the Park. It is always really nice to see a local radio station support the community.
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Monday June 15, 2009
Ever wonder what 300 gallons of water looks like?
No day at the SoakZone is complete without some time spent under the Giant Tipping Bucket. I can't think of anything more refreshing on a hot summer day than 300 gallons of water raining down from the sky.
Ever wonder what 300 gallons of water looks like?
No day at the SoakZone is complete without some time spent under the Giant Tipping Bucket. I can't think of anything more refreshing on a hot summer day than 300 gallons of water raining down from the sky.
1 comment | leave a comment
Tuesday June 16, 2009 at 05:14 AM EST
Hi. I like the way you write. Will you post some more articles?
Sunday June 14, 2009
Froggy Radio - Mascot Day
Our Friends at Froggy radio stopped by today for Mascot Day. Froggy had a great time giving out prizes and spinning the birthday wheel with our Guests. Mr Frog, the official Froggy Mascot also arrived in this cool Hummer.
Mr. Frog had a few friends here today. Ricky Raccoon, Kenny Kangaroo from Kennywood, and Duncan Dragon from Sandcastle. Ricky and Duncan became such good friends they even went on a few rides together.
Froggy Radio - Mascot Day
Our Friends at Froggy radio stopped by today for Mascot Day. Froggy had a great time giving out prizes and spinning the birthday wheel with our Guests. Mr Frog, the official Froggy Mascot also arrived in this cool Hummer.
Mr. Frog had a few friends here today. Ricky Raccoon, Kenny Kangaroo from Kennywood, and Duncan Dragon from Sandcastle. Ricky and Duncan became such good friends they even went on a few rides together.
1 comment | leave a comment
Friday July 31, 2009 at 01:25 PM EST
We can never find Duncan at sandcastle when were there (frequently). It's because you guys got him lol
Saturday June 13, 2009
The Stanley Cup visits Idlewild
So maybe it's not the real Stanley Cup, but our Guests were excited all the same. It takes a dedicated fan to carry a homemade Stanley Cup around the SoakZone.
Congratulations, to the 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins from your neighbors, Idlewild & SoakZone.
FYI: If any of the Pens want to bring their kids and the cup to the park. You are always welcome.
The Stanley Cup visits Idlewild
So maybe it's not the real Stanley Cup, but our Guests were excited all the same. It takes a dedicated fan to carry a homemade Stanley Cup around the SoakZone.
Congratulations, to the 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins from your neighbors, Idlewild & SoakZone.
FYI: If any of the Pens want to bring their kids and the cup to the park. You are always welcome.
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Thursday June 11, 2009
Idlewild at Night
One of my favorite times of the day at Idlewild starts with the evening shows. As the shows start at 7:00pm people start to gather in the center of the park, the lights start to come on, guests start buying popcorn and funnel cakes. It really is the most fun time of the day to me. Trying to get that one last ride in for the day. For me, as a child, my strongest memory has always been the last ride of the day.
Idlewild at Night
One of my favorite times of the day at Idlewild starts with the evening shows. As the shows start at 7:00pm people start to gather in the center of the park, the lights start to come on, guests start buying popcorn and funnel cakes. It really is the most fun time of the day to me. Trying to get that one last ride in for the day. For me, as a child, my strongest memory has always been the last ride of the day.2 comments | leave a comment
Monday August 17, 2009 at 04:38 AM EST
Riding with the lights is the best way to ride!! As much as I didn't want it to get dark, because I knew my day of fun was coming to an end, I couldn't wait for the lights to come on!!
Friday June 12, 2009 at 04:16 PM EST
Riding the rides with the lights on was always magical for me when I was young. I think I'll take my kids over tonight!
Tuesday June 9, 2009
Community Days
Today marked the day of a week of community days for us. Today was the Latrobe community picnic and it was the picnic that I came to as a child growing up in the area. It was a lot of fun to see the community come out and all have fun together.
Tomorrow is the Derry community.
Community Days
Today marked the day of a week of community days for us. Today was the Latrobe community picnic and it was the picnic that I came to as a child growing up in the area. It was a lot of fun to see the community come out and all have fun together.
Tomorrow is the Derry community.
1 comment | leave a comment
Tuesday June 9, 2009 at 09:10 PM EST
Had a great time at idlewild today for the latrobe school picnic!
Monday June 8, 2009
Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-FREE" Day!! - Thursday June 11
Attention Season Pass Holders. . .
. . . Bonus Buddy Day Announced!
Thursday, June 11 will be a Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" day. Don't miss this opportunity to "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" with your Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass.
If you haven't purchased your Season Pass yet don't worry. You can buy your Season Pass right at the gate for just $59.99 and still "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" on June 11.
Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer family fun! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-FREE" Day!! - Thursday June 11
Attention Season Pass Holders. . .
. . . Bonus Buddy Day Announced!
Thursday, June 11 will be a Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" day. Don't miss this opportunity to "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" with your Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass.
If you haven't purchased your Season Pass yet don't worry. You can buy your Season Pass right at the gate for just $59.99 and still "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" on June 11.
Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer family fun! We look forward to seeing you again soon!
2 comments | leave a comment
Monday June 15, 2009 at 11:41 AM EST
We had a little rain, but still had a blast! thanks for the bonus day!
Monday June 8, 2009 at 11:23 AM EST
Thanks for being so great Idlewild!
Sunday June 7, 2009
Guest Bloggers
So the whole purpose of a blog is to interact with our Guests. What better way to do just that is there then letting our Guests write a few blog entries.
I am still going to be doing my regular blog updates from the park but it would be nice to hear from you as well.
Lets first start with trip reports...
~Write a simple trip report about what you did while you were at the park
~send some photos to go with it
It's that easy. Now I can't post everyone's trip reports so I will only be picking a few here and there but feel free to send as many as you like.
Email your trip reports to esaxton@idlewild.com with "Trip Report" in the subject line.
I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Guest Bloggers
So the whole purpose of a blog is to interact with our Guests. What better way to do just that is there then letting our Guests write a few blog entries.
I am still going to be doing my regular blog updates from the park but it would be nice to hear from you as well.
Lets first start with trip reports...
~Write a simple trip report about what you did while you were at the park
~send some photos to go with it
It's that easy. Now I can't post everyone's trip reports so I will only be picking a few here and there but feel free to send as many as you like.
Email your trip reports to esaxton@idlewild.com with "Trip Report" in the subject line.
I look forward to hearing from you soon!
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday June 6, 2009
So easy a even a kid can do it...
I made another trip down to the Tea Party today and caught a great example of why this ride is such a great fit at our park. Kids can control how they want to ride. Whether you want to be adventurous and spin fast or relaxed and spin slow... It's up to you.
It is always a good day at work when you get to see everyone from parents to even the littlest of kids spinning and smiling.
So easy a even a kid can do it...
I made another trip down to the Tea Party today and caught a great example of why this ride is such a great fit at our park. Kids can control how they want to ride. Whether you want to be adventurous and spin fast or relaxed and spin slow... It's up to you.
It is always a good day at work when you get to see everyone from parents to even the littlest of kids spinning and smiling.
2 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday June 9, 2009 at 06:12 AM EST
Nothing better than the eyes of a child just making memories
Sunday June 7, 2009 at 08:29 PM EST
He looks like he is having so much fun!
Friday June 5, 2009
Join the Party
Come to Raccoon Lagoon and join the party. I rode Tea Party for the first time yesterday and I loved it. It is a great ride for a Mom or Dad to enjoy with their children.
Join the Party
Come to Raccoon Lagoon and join the party. I rode Tea Party for the first time yesterday and I loved it. It is a great ride for a Mom or Dad to enjoy with their children.
1 comment | leave a comment
Thursday July 2, 2009 at 04:12 PM EST
This looks like a good fit for the park. I assume the new Safari Hut is just as popular? =)
The kids are loving both of them!
The kids are loving both of them!
Monday May 25, 2009
Happy Memorial Day!
We start each Memorial Day at Idlewild with a bang. Normally it is the bang of a starter pistol but today it was with musket fire. This year's YMCA 5k Run/Walk Tour De Park was started by the musket fire of our Civil War reenactors. The race was fantastic as usual and we would like to thank the YMCA for doing such a great job.
Today is also the last day of our Memorial Day Salute and the kind folks from Carpenter's Battery did one last artillery demonstration for the crowd. Seeing a real life canon be fired is truly an amzing sight.
They were even crazy enough to let me fire a musket. (note: That is not me pictured. I did not get to wear the uniform. it's ok I imagine wool is quite hot in the summer)
Happy Memorial Day!
We start each Memorial Day at Idlewild with a bang. Normally it is the bang of a starter pistol but today it was with musket fire. This year's YMCA 5k Run/Walk Tour De Park was started by the musket fire of our Civil War reenactors. The race was fantastic as usual and we would like to thank the YMCA for doing such a great job.
Today is also the last day of our Memorial Day Salute and the kind folks from Carpenter's Battery did one last artillery demonstration for the crowd. Seeing a real life canon be fired is truly an amzing sight.
They were even crazy enough to let me fire a musket. (note: That is not me pictured. I did not get to wear the uniform. it's ok I imagine wool is quite hot in the summer)
1 comment | leave a comment
Saturday May 30, 2009 at 11:06 PM EST
thanks
Sunday May 24, 2009
Memorial Day Salute
Today is the second day of our Memorial Day Salute and I stopped by our battlefield... I mean Ballfield where artillery demonstrations and a mock skirmish were taking place.
These guys were preparing for battle.
I also got to see a demonstration of how a canon was fired. I hoping tomorrow I'll get a shot at firing that canon. If you haven't been out yet don't wait. There is only one day of our Memorial Day Salute left.
Memorial Day Salute
Today is the second day of our Memorial Day Salute and I stopped by our battlefield... I mean Ballfield where artillery demonstrations and a mock skirmish were taking place.
These guys were preparing for battle.
I also got to see a demonstration of how a canon was fired. I hoping tomorrow I'll get a shot at firing that canon. If you haven't been out yet don't wait. There is only one day of our Memorial Day Salute left.
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday May 23, 2009
CSI at Idlewild
Creek Side Investigation is a new program part of this year's Outdoor Classroom. Students got to enter the stream with the friendly folks from the Loyalhanna Watershed Association (Thank you by the way, you guys are awesome) and examine what is in the water.
Once in the water the students would kick at the creek bed and catch the deposits from the creek in their nets.
The students then take their nets and examine what they've found. Identifying each item with help from the guides from the Watershed.
This really is a great Outdoor Classroom program and it made me wish I were a kid again, so that I could participate.
I would once again like to thank the kind people at the Loyalhanna Watershed Association for all of their help in making this program possible. Also our Sales Director Kathy Sichula for all of her help in making this program a reality.
Wait... You didn't think this was about the TV show, did you?
CSI at Idlewild
Creek Side Investigation is a new program part of this year's Outdoor Classroom. Students got to enter the stream with the friendly folks from the Loyalhanna Watershed Association (Thank you by the way, you guys are awesome) and examine what is in the water.
Once in the water the students would kick at the creek bed and catch the deposits from the creek in their nets.
The students then take their nets and examine what they've found. Identifying each item with help from the guides from the Watershed.
This really is a great Outdoor Classroom program and it made me wish I were a kid again, so that I could participate.
I would once again like to thank the kind people at the Loyalhanna Watershed Association for all of their help in making this program possible. Also our Sales Director Kathy Sichula for all of her help in making this program a reality.
Wait... You didn't think this was about the TV show, did you?
1 comment | leave a comment
Saturday June 6, 2009 at 09:08 AM EST
Excellent idea, incorporating a learning component to any students visit to the park. This is a great way to inspire students to care and understand our environment and a great use of all the natural resources at Idlewild Park.
I couldn't have said it better myself!
I couldn't have said it better myself!
Thursday May 21, 2009
Opening Day!
Opening day has been a soaring success. In the next few days I am hoping to get photos of the cool things we have going on here over the weekend. Including outdoor classroom and our Memorial Day Salute.
Talk to you soon.
Opening Day!
Opening day has been a soaring success. In the next few days I am hoping to get photos of the cool things we have going on here over the weekend. Including outdoor classroom and our Memorial Day Salute.
Talk to you soon.
2 comments | leave a comment
Friday May 29, 2009 at 12:03 PM EST
can't wait to bring my daughter again this year, last year was her first time, I spent many years there as a child, great memories!
See you soon!
See you soon!
Thursday May 21, 2009 at 05:02 PM EST
I can't wait to take my children here... Can't the weekend get here soon?
Wednesday May 20, 2009
Resting up for the big day.
While most of the park is bustling with activity, getting ready for opening day tomorrow, I found this guy resting up for the big day.
Tomorrow is like his Kentucky Derby. He seems well rested and ready, waiting for his first rider.
Resting up for the big day.
While most of the park is bustling with activity, getting ready for opening day tomorrow, I found this guy resting up for the big day.
Tomorrow is like his Kentucky Derby. He seems well rested and ready, waiting for his first rider.
2 comments | leave a comment
Thursday July 2, 2009 at 09:28 AM EST
Ha ha SO FUNNY kentucky derby!
Thursday May 21, 2009 at 07:51 AM EST
I love the "Kentucky Derby" reference! Looking forward to anotehr fun year with the family and working there!
Tuesday May 19, 2009
Only two days until we open.
As you can imagine, with only two days until opening day, things are pretty busy around here. We are doing the little things to make sure the park ready open. We are also doing som big things like opening the Safari Hut. It is starting to look really good.
One of the things we added in the Jungle last year was BigFoot's Mudslide.
Here is a few from the top of the slide. I am looking forward to taking some slides down this again this year on those really hot summer days.
Only two days until we open.
As you can imagine, with only two days until opening day, things are pretty busy around here. We are doing the little things to make sure the park ready open. We are also doing som big things like opening the Safari Hut. It is starting to look really good.
One of the things we added in the Jungle last year was BigFoot's Mudslide.
Here is a few from the top of the slide. I am looking forward to taking some slides down this again this year on those really hot summer days.
1 comment | leave a comment
Thursday May 21, 2009 at 05:02 PM EST
My kids will love this.
I love it. I am sure they will to.
I love it. I am sure they will to.
Saturday May 16, 2009
...not all good things that are wooden have to come in the form of a roller coaster!
The good people at "news plus notes" just posted a very cool blog about the Safari Hut. They really have a good eye as to the reasons we added this attraction.
Click Here to check out the story.
Thanks Sabrina.
...not all good things that are wooden have to come in the form of a roller coaster!
The good people at "news plus notes" just posted a very cool blog about the Safari Hut. They really have a good eye as to the reasons we added this attraction.
Click Here to check out the story.
Thanks Sabrina.
0 comments | leave a comment
Thursday May 14, 2009
Special Delivery
This morning at Idlewild & SoakZone we received a very special delivery. The “Safari Hut” arrived. The most impressive portion would have to be the HUGE eucalyptus tree trunk that the hut will sit on. It is truly awe-inspiring.
Here is also a quick look at the structure that will sit on the other side of the suspension bridge from the hut.
Just to give you an idea of exactly how big the tree is…
That is a full sized tractor-trailer it is on. The tree weighs in at over 3,600 pounds. I can't wait to use the slides.
Special Delivery
This morning at Idlewild & SoakZone we received a very special delivery. The “Safari Hut” arrived. The most impressive portion would have to be the HUGE eucalyptus tree trunk that the hut will sit on. It is truly awe-inspiring.
Here is also a quick look at the structure that will sit on the other side of the suspension bridge from the hut.
Just to give you an idea of exactly how big the tree is…
That is a full sized tractor-trailer it is on. The tree weighs in at over 3,600 pounds. I can't wait to use the slides.
1 comment | leave a comment
Friday May 15, 2009 at 06:16 PM EST
So Cool! That is the biggest tree trunk ever.
Tuesday May 12, 2009
Pittsburgh Today Live.
If you happened to miss Jeff on Pittsburgh Today Live yesterday you can follow the link below to watch today. It was a great appearance highlighting the value on "staycationing" in the region.
Watch Today!
Pittsburgh Today Live.
If you happened to miss Jeff on Pittsburgh Today Live yesterday you can follow the link below to watch today. It was a great appearance highlighting the value on "staycationing" in the region.
Watch Today!
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday May 11, 2009
Positively Pittsburgh Live
If you missed last nights podcast below is a link to download the podcast. You can even put it on your Ipod.
Download Here!
Positively Pittsburgh Live
If you missed last nights podcast below is a link to download the podcast. You can even put it on your Ipod.
Download Here!
1 comment | leave a comment
Tuesday May 12, 2009 at 08:51 PM EST
Is the tree for the Jungle Hut from park property or brought in?
The tree is an over 10 foot wide Eucalyptus tree that has been imported.
The tree is an over 10 foot wide Eucalyptus tree that has been imported.
Saturday May 9, 2009
Pittsburgh Today Live
On Monday morning our very own Jeff Croushore will be appearing on Pittsburgh Today Live. Jeff will be talking about what's new for 2009 and some exciting reasons why "Pittsburghers" should have no problem spending their summer vacation close to home with an Idlewild Season Pass.
On a side note, Jeff's appearance was originally scheduled for Tuesday morning. Kristine Sorensen is going to be off on Tuesday and she loves Idlewild so much that she asked us to move up to Monday so she could be there.
Don't forget to watch KDKA’s Pittsburgh Today Live at 9:00am on Monday.
Pittsburgh Today Live
On Monday morning our very own Jeff Croushore will be appearing on Pittsburgh Today Live. Jeff will be talking about what's new for 2009 and some exciting reasons why "Pittsburghers" should have no problem spending their summer vacation close to home with an Idlewild Season Pass.
On a side note, Jeff's appearance was originally scheduled for Tuesday morning. Kristine Sorensen is going to be off on Tuesday and she loves Idlewild so much that she asked us to move up to Monday so she could be there.
Don't forget to watch KDKA’s Pittsburgh Today Live at 9:00am on Monday.
1 comment | leave a comment
Sunday May 10, 2009 at 05:19 PM EST
Nice ! :).. Thanks buddy..
Friday May 8, 2009
Safari Hut Construction
Here a few behind the scenes construction photos of the Safari Hut for your enjoyment.
Safari Hut Construction
Here a few behind the scenes construction photos of the Safari Hut for your enjoyment.
0 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday May 5, 2009
Family Memories
So this entry is a little different than normal. I was recently contacted by a Guest asking to use a few of the photos from our website in a blog entry she was writing. She was writing about the time she spent here during her childhood and all of the wonderful memories of her family. From school picnics to the Rollo Coaster I can’t believe how much this felt like my story and I am sure it feels like a lot of other people’s stories as well.
Here is a link to Cindy’s story. If you have a favorite memory of the park or would like to tell us your story, please let us know in the comments section below.
Family Memories
So this entry is a little different than normal. I was recently contacted by a Guest asking to use a few of the photos from our website in a blog entry she was writing. She was writing about the time she spent here during her childhood and all of the wonderful memories of her family. From school picnics to the Rollo Coaster I can’t believe how much this felt like my story and I am sure it feels like a lot of other people’s stories as well.
Here is a link to Cindy’s story. If you have a favorite memory of the park or would like to tell us your story, please let us know in the comments section below.
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday May 4, 2009
Tweet Tweet
That’s not the sound of spring you hear. (well it kind of is…) That is the sound of us “tweeting” information about the park via our twitter account. What’s the difference between what’s on twitter and what’s on here you ask? Well, our “tweets” will be much shorter updates or reminders about special events. It will even tell you when this blog has been updated. The best reason to follow us on twitter, especially if you are a Season Pass Holder, is that our tweets will tell you about days with short lines at the park and special events.
You can even have our “tweets” sent to your phone while you are at the Park. ( click here to find out how to turn this feature on and off, standard text rates apply ) The great thing about receiving our “tweets” on your phone while at the park is that I will be regularly “tweeting” about things going on in the park. For example maybe there is a fun event goin on in the park today. Tweet. Now you’re the first to know. Pretty Cool.
Start following us today.
Tweet Tweet
That’s not the sound of spring you hear. (well it kind of is…) That is the sound of us “tweeting” information about the park via our twitter account. What’s the difference between what’s on twitter and what’s on here you ask? Well, our “tweets” will be much shorter updates or reminders about special events. It will even tell you when this blog has been updated. The best reason to follow us on twitter, especially if you are a Season Pass Holder, is that our tweets will tell you about days with short lines at the park and special events.
You can even have our “tweets” sent to your phone while you are at the Park. ( click here to find out how to turn this feature on and off, standard text rates apply ) The great thing about receiving our “tweets” on your phone while at the park is that I will be regularly “tweeting” about things going on in the park. For example maybe there is a fun event goin on in the park today. Tweet. Now you’re the first to know. Pretty Cool.
Start following us today.
0 comments | leave a comment
Friday May 1, 2009
Front Page!
Now I know that the information on Wikipedia is not always correct but today they got it right. That's right we are the feature article on Wikipedia today...
Front Page!
Now I know that the information on Wikipedia is not always correct but today they got it right. That's right we are the feature article on Wikipedia today...
0 comments | leave a comment
Thursday April 30, 2009
Coaster Photos
One of the most exciting things about Idlewild in the spring is that everyday there is something new going on. I walked outside today and there it was...
...The start of the photo building right outside the Rollo Coaster exit. That's right, this year our very own Rollo Coaster will be equipped with a on ride photo. Now the fun doesn't need to stop when you get off the ride. You can have a lifetime of memories aboard this American Coaster Classic.
Coaster Photos
One of the most exciting things about Idlewild in the spring is that everyday there is something new going on. I walked outside today and there it was...
...The start of the photo building right outside the Rollo Coaster exit. That's right, this year our very own Rollo Coaster will be equipped with a on ride photo. Now the fun doesn't need to stop when you get off the ride. You can have a lifetime of memories aboard this American Coaster Classic.
3 comments | leave a comment
Thursday May 14, 2009 at 05:13 PM EST
what a great keepsake for this fun coaster! great job Idlewild!
Thank you!
Thank you!
Thursday May 7, 2009 at 07:29 PM EST
where in the ride will it be at
I don't want to spoil the suprise. But, it will not be on the first drop and it will be on the most thrilling portion of the ride.
I don't want to spoil the suprise. But, it will not be on the first drop and it will be on the most thrilling portion of the ride.
Sunday May 3, 2009 at 01:07 PM EST
This looks really cool and I can't wait to do it this summmer. Your other new rides look cool too! We'll see you this summer!
Monday April 27, 2009
It's starting to look like summer around here!!
With all of this warm weather we have been having a lot of work has been getting done. As you can see above the rides are getting put back up and were are moving right along.
Only 23 days until we open!!!!
It's starting to look like summer around here!!
With all of this warm weather we have been having a lot of work has been getting done. As you can see above the rides are getting put back up and were are moving right along.
Only 23 days until we open!!!!
2 comments | leave a comment
Thursday April 30, 2009 at 01:25 PM EST
This will be our fifth year and sooo looking forward to it. See ya in July.
Monday April 27, 2009 at 06:26 PM EST
I love the Ferris Wheel.
Wednesday April 22, 2009
More New in'09
In addition to “Tea Party” in Raccoon Lagoon, we will be adding “Safari Hut” to Jumpin’ Jungle for 2009.
"Safari Hut" is a Jumpin' Jungle play structure with two spiral slides built atop an 8 foot wide Eucalyptus tree trunk. The tree trunk has a passage cut through so you can explore the inside of this massive jungle treasure. A top the tree trunk sits the observation deck area where you can see all the "wildlife" of Jumpin' Jungle in its natural habitat. Then you can slide down one of the two spiral slides and join in on all of the Jungle fun! The picture above is an artist rendering of the Safari Hut.
I’m excited. Let me know what you think!
More New in'09
In addition to “Tea Party” in Raccoon Lagoon, we will be adding “Safari Hut” to Jumpin’ Jungle for 2009.
"Safari Hut" is a Jumpin' Jungle play structure with two spiral slides built atop an 8 foot wide Eucalyptus tree trunk. The tree trunk has a passage cut through so you can explore the inside of this massive jungle treasure. A top the tree trunk sits the observation deck area where you can see all the "wildlife" of Jumpin' Jungle in its natural habitat. Then you can slide down one of the two spiral slides and join in on all of the Jungle fun! The picture above is an artist rendering of the Safari Hut.
I’m excited. Let me know what you think!
5 comments | leave a comment
Monday June 1, 2009 at 09:28 PM EST
this is amazing. i think it will be fun for the whole family
Sunday April 26, 2009 at 07:54 PM EST
Where in jumpin jungle were the attraction be? and what is the age requiement for it
The Safari Hut will be located where the tube slide was. The Safari Hut will also be able to be enjoyed by the whole family.
The Safari Hut will be located where the tube slide was. The Safari Hut will also be able to be enjoyed by the whole family.
Sunday April 26, 2009 at 02:01 AM EST
this looks pretty wicked! im deff checkin this out sometime this summa!!
Saturday April 25, 2009 at 04:21 AM EST
Easy situation! Add to favorite. Awesome!
Wednesday April 22, 2009 at 12:54 PM EST
Looks great.
Thanks, We are hoping to be able to keep up Jumpin’ Jungle’s tradition of being a great family participatory play area.
Thanks, We are hoping to be able to keep up Jumpin’ Jungle’s tradition of being a great family participatory play area.
Monday April 20, 2009
More New for 2009...
Could there be another new family friendly attraction at Idlewild for 2009?
Maybe we will find out on Wednesday...
More New for 2009...
Could there be another new family friendly attraction at Idlewild for 2009?
Maybe we will find out on Wednesday...
0 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday March 24, 2009
Confusion Hill Honored
Our very own Confusion Hill has been named one of the Top Ten Walkthough Attractions by the "Darkride and Funhouse Enthusiasts"
You can check out the list here.
Confusion Hill Honored
Our very own Confusion Hill has been named one of the Top Ten Walkthough Attractions by the "Darkride and Funhouse Enthusiasts"
You can check out the list here.
5 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday May 5, 2009 at 10:41 AM EST
My eldest son sat on the chair on the wall during our annual visit to Idlewild park when he was four years old. He has been chosen twice since challenging the sense of vertigo. It is now a must and a highlight of our day to visit Confusion Hill. Thanks, and keep up the good work. We will be back again this summer.
Can't wait for you to visit again!
Can't wait for you to visit again!
Tuesday April 14, 2009 at 05:14 PM EST
I read your posts for quite a long time and should tell you that your articles always prove to be of a high value and quality for readers.
Thank you!
Thank you!
Monday April 6, 2009 at 01:40 AM EST
Hello to all ! Great site. I am new here greetings to all from Poland.
Wednesday March 25, 2009 at 05:36 PM EST
Without a doubt, working at Confusion Hill was the best job in the park (and I have worked every ride in the park). It was so much fun!
Tuesday March 24, 2009 at 03:14 PM EST
Awesome
Friday March 20, 2009
New For 2009!
“Tea Party” is the newest addition to our family friendly ride line up. “Tea Party” is a Tea Cup ride that will reside in Raccoon Lagoon and it's already one of Ricky's favorites. I can’t wait until this goes in and I can take a few test spins.
Happy first day of Spring!
New For 2009!
“Tea Party” is the newest addition to our family friendly ride line up. “Tea Party” is a Tea Cup ride that will reside in Raccoon Lagoon and it's already one of Ricky's favorites. I can’t wait until this goes in and I can take a few test spins.
Happy first day of Spring!
10 comments | leave a comment
Friday July 9, 2010 at 04:52 PM EST
hello i have a question we were there in 2009 and the ride was not there did you guys put it in after july because i aways go for my dads picnic we went to disney world few years ago and it is like the same thing they even look the samewe will be coming to idlewild on sunday and i hope i will see it!
Wednesday August 12, 2009 at 12:42 PM EST
Coming tomorrow! My kids are 20, 16, 13, and 7. Been coming for 19 years as a parent, and many years before that as a child! Thanks for the memories!
Thursday April 30, 2009 at 07:13 PM EST
This ride and alm,ost all of the rides and racoon lagoon bring back so many memories of when i was a child. Those rides used to be at Kennywood which then i lived in pgh. I knw live about 20 minutes form Idlewild. Greta freindly family atmosphere
Thursday April 23, 2009 at 01:51 AM EST
Coming up from Florida. Can't wait to take the kids to my favorite park from my childhood!
Thanks we're excited for you to visit again!
Thanks we're excited for you to visit again!
Wednesday April 22, 2009 at 09:59 PM EST
where in racoon lagoon will the ride be located
The Tea Party will replace Flivvers.
The Tea Party will replace Flivvers.
Wednesday April 22, 2009 at 08:02 PM EST
This is great!! It's a ride my little sister and I can ride together! There needs to be more of these because she's too short for the big rides and I'm too tall for the little rides.
We love family rides!!
We love family rides!!
Saturday April 18, 2009 at 01:18 PM EST
What are the height requirements? I am the 2 younger sisters who can ride in raccon lagoon and I am too tall and having to with them is always boring, so I hope I can ride too.
Children will be able to ride with an Adult so you should be able to enjoy the fun as well.
Children will be able to ride with an Adult so you should be able to enjoy the fun as well.
Friday April 17, 2009 at 01:54 PM EST
Great to see new rides each of the last few years, especillay ones for the whole family
We love family rides!! We also love Guests from Cleveland!!!
We love family rides!! We also love Guests from Cleveland!!!
Saturday April 4, 2009 at 07:18 PM EST
Cool, sounds like a nice additiona the entire family can enjoy.
CoasterCrazy.com
Tuesday March 24, 2009 at 03:14 PM EST
This sounds fun. My Son will love this.
It should be a fun ride for the two of you to ride together.
It should be a fun ride for the two of you to ride together.
Thursday March 12, 2009
Less than 70 Days!
Even though there were a few snow flurries this morning. The sun showing through the clouds makes it feel like summer is just around the corner! Less than 70 days!
Less than 70 Days!
Even though there were a few snow flurries this morning. The sun showing through the clouds makes it feel like summer is just around the corner! Less than 70 days!1 comment | leave a comment
Friday March 20, 2009 at 03:30 PM EST
Sweet Treats! My favorite.
Tuesday March 10, 2009
"Staycation"
In a recent Orbitz Travel Blog, Pittsburgh was named one of the top 5 places for families from the Washington, DC area to visit close to home this summer. And why was it ranked up there? A big part of that ranking is all that Western Pennsylvania has to offer to families including Idlewild & SoakZone. We are listed as one of the highlights of the Pittsburgh area for families to visit this summer. So if you are planning a “staycation” this summer, be sure to add Idlewild & SoakZone to your list of things to do.
~Ed
"Staycation"
In a recent Orbitz Travel Blog, Pittsburgh was named one of the top 5 places for families from the Washington, DC area to visit close to home this summer. And why was it ranked up there? A big part of that ranking is all that Western Pennsylvania has to offer to families including Idlewild & SoakZone. We are listed as one of the highlights of the Pittsburgh area for families to visit this summer. So if you are planning a “staycation” this summer, be sure to add Idlewild & SoakZone to your list of things to do.
~Ed
0 comments | leave a comment
Friday March 6, 2009
Future Ride Designers of America
On Wednesday I spent my day at St. Vincent College speaking to high school students from two local school districts about Amusement Park marketing. I took part in a St. Vincent Small Business Development Center program that helps students prepare for jobs in the real world with some really fun activities. The early morning was spent with a presentation from St. Vincent’s Dr. Kline about the field of marketing and then I spoke about marketing involving Kennywood, Idlewild & Sandcastle. The students then spend the rest of the day designing and developing marketing plans for new attractions they would like to see at the parks. There were a ton of fantastic ideas but I have to say my favorites were the “Mild Cat,” a kiddie version of the wild mouse in which the exit was a maze. And also a water raft ride that, through a highly sophisticated system of computers and some “state of the art” engineering, changes the path you take each time you ride (to the right is a “blueprint” of the ride). Overall the day is very fun and I am glad that I am asked to participate. Who knows I may have just spent the day with some future ride designers.
~Ed
Future Ride Designers of America
On Wednesday I spent my day at St. Vincent College speaking to high school students from two local school districts about Amusement Park marketing. I took part in a St. Vincent Small Business Development Center program that helps students prepare for jobs in the real world with some really fun activities. The early morning was spent with a presentation from St. Vincent’s Dr. Kline about the field of marketing and then I spoke about marketing involving Kennywood, Idlewild & Sandcastle. The students then spend the rest of the day designing and developing marketing plans for new attractions they would like to see at the parks. There were a ton of fantastic ideas but I have to say my favorites were the “Mild Cat,” a kiddie version of the wild mouse in which the exit was a maze. And also a water raft ride that, through a highly sophisticated system of computers and some “state of the art” engineering, changes the path you take each time you ride (to the right is a “blueprint” of the ride). Overall the day is very fun and I am glad that I am asked to participate. Who knows I may have just spent the day with some future ride designers.~Ed
4 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday July 28, 2009 at 10:39 PM EST
I love this Idea!!
Monday May 4, 2009 at 06:38 PM EST
i like this layout ride
Saturday April 18, 2009 at 01:22 PM EST
This looks great! I hope it is installed in Soak Zone because I would be able to ride it 'cause we don't go to Sandcastle. It really looks fun!
Monday March 9, 2009 at 03:24 PM EST
That sounds like the best day of school ever!!!
Wednesday February 25, 2009
Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe
One of the perks of the sun shining this morning is that I have been inspired to do some spring-cleaning. In doing so I found this brochure from 1989 and I thought it would be great to share.
I always make at least one trip to the Castle Hug-N-Song a summer!
Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe
One of the perks of the sun shining this morning is that I have been inspired to do some spring-cleaning. In doing so I found this brochure from 1989 and I thought it would be great to share.
I always make at least one trip to the Castle Hug-N-Song a summer!
4 comments | leave a comment
Saturday May 30, 2009 at 10:10 PM EST
I can't believe this ride is over twenty years old! I remember whenever this ride opened! I got to take my daughter on the ride for the first time and she loved it! We're season pass holders so I'm sure we'll be visiting this ride A LOT!
Thank you. Be sure to stop by when the neighbors visit this year. They would love to see you!
Thank you. Be sure to stop by when the neighbors visit this year. They would love to see you!
Friday May 8, 2009 at 01:08 PM EST
Wow! 20 years! I can remember how excited I was when this opened. Can't wait to bring my son this year!
I hope you and your sone have a great time!
I hope you and your sone have a great time!
Tuesday March 3, 2009 at 07:47 AM EST
Awesome.
Does Jeff still do this blog? I've noticed the past few entries signed by Ed.
I will be doing most of the blogging but I am sure you will still see a few surprise posts from Jeff. I hope you enjoy! ~Ed
I will be doing most of the blogging but I am sure you will still see a few surprise posts from Jeff. I hope you enjoy! ~Ed
Wednesday February 25, 2009 at 01:09 PM EST
Incredible that is has been 20 years since Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe opened. I remember taking my little boy on his first ride. (And now he wants to work at Idlewild this summer) Thanks for reminding me of great memories!
You should visit this summer during Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days in July. More details will be posted on our events page in the coming weeks. ~Ed
You should visit this summer during Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days in July. More details will be posted on our events page in the coming weeks. ~Ed
Friday February 13, 2009
Less than 100 days until we open!
That’s right in less than 100 days there will be carousel music playing, popcorn popping and the park will be open. In case you can’t tell we are pretty excited.
In preparation for opening day, interviews for Seasonal Employment will begin at the park on Monday February 16. All interested applicants should report to the personnel office from 3:30pm - 4:30pm, Monday through Thursday. No appointments are necessary.
If you are looking to perform in one of Idlewild’s many great shows, auditions are beginning with American Entertainment Productions as well.
Please visit our Employment page to get a list of Audition dates and times along with a downloadable application.
Thanks, and we can’t wait to see you this summer!
Less than 100 days until we open!
That’s right in less than 100 days there will be carousel music playing, popcorn popping and the park will be open. In case you can’t tell we are pretty excited.
In preparation for opening day, interviews for Seasonal Employment will begin at the park on Monday February 16. All interested applicants should report to the personnel office from 3:30pm - 4:30pm, Monday through Thursday. No appointments are necessary.
If you are looking to perform in one of Idlewild’s many great shows, auditions are beginning with American Entertainment Productions as well.
Please visit our Employment page to get a list of Audition dates and times along with a downloadable application.
Thanks, and we can’t wait to see you this summer!
1 comment | leave a comment
Wednesday February 25, 2009 at 01:13 PM EST
I worked at Idlewild last summer and loved it! I can't wait for the seaon to start.
I am glad to hear you loved it. Hope to see you back this summer! ~Ed
I am glad to hear you loved it. Hope to see you back this summer! ~Ed
Tuesday December 23, 2008
'Twas Two Days before Christmas...
'Twas two days before Christmas
When all through this house
Not a creature was stirring,
Not even the Wild Mouse.
A tree was placed
In the office with care
And look its St. Nicholas
Right over there.
In the region the children were nestled
All snug in their beds,
With visions of summer fun
Bouncing through their heads.
And Mother Goose in her apron **
And I in my cap,
Admired our park
During its long winter nap.
When out on the lawn
There arose such a clatter
I sprang from my desk
To see what was the matter
Away to the window
I flew like a flash
Pulled up the Venetian blinds
Which then fell down on me in a crash
The Loyalhanna Creek **
So pristine in its flow
Gave a luster of beauty
Among the new fallen snow
When what to my nearsighted
Eyes did appear
But a giant Raccoon
With only a shirt to wear **
Your guide for adventure
Family fun, smiles too
Our loveable mascot
It's Ricky Raccoon!
More rapid than you
Can shake your "derriere re ahs"
Let's take a look
At Idlewild's seven themed areas
I'll whistle and shout
And call them by name,
Story Book Forest, Jumpin' Jungle
Hootin' Holler they came
Olde Idlewild, SoakZone
And Raccoon Lagoon,
Mister Roger's Neighborhood
Of Make-Believe too.
To the top of the list
Let's review them in-depth
First Story Book Forest
Then we'll get to the rest
A magical fantasyland **
Comes to life
Featuring the domiciles of your favorites
Including Peter Pumpkin Eater's wife **
Built in 1956
And instantly renowned
There's Little Miss Muffet
And Old King Cole in his crown.
Live characters like Gepetto, **
Snow White and Little Red
Greet children of all ages
Leaving fond memories in their heads.
Jumpin' Jungle's our place **
To climb, slide and play
There's so much to do
It may take you all day
The big net climb is there
Right in the center
The giant ball pit sure is colorful **
To all who enter
Hootin' Holler's our country **
Western Town with great cheer
With a lot of twangy "Howdy"s
And "You'll come back now, Ya hear!"
With a great General Store and
The Potato Patch too
And also Dizzy Lizzy's
Wild Saloon
But one of my favorites
The house on a tilt
An award winning fun house
We call Confusion Hill!
Mister Rogers' Neighborhood **
The land of Make-Believe
A one-of-a-kind attraction
That you all just gotta see
A lifesize trolley
visits the popular characters from our past
A tribute to Fred Rogers
Sure to make his memory last
Idlewild's the park
where Mr. Rogers grew up
He designed this great ride
Especially for us
Once you ride it you'll have a phrase
stuck in your head for so long
Its:"Come along, come along
To the Castle Hug N Song!"
Bring your parents or children
Anyone you can lug
To ride the only ride in the world
To end with a hug.
Raccoon Lagoon is our area
For all the small tykes
It has cars, and boats, **
Airplanes and motorbikes
One of the largest and most
Scenic Kiddielands you'll find **
A beautiful nine-acre paradise
You're tots sure won't mind
It's home to that mascot
I spoke of before
That's five themed area,
But wait there's two more
With Slidefulls of excitement **
And splashing good fun
Be sure to enjoy the SoakZone
Before your visit is done
16 waterslides
along with a huge sparkling pool
and Captain Kidd's Adventure Galley will help you stay cool
Little Squirts
is the kiddie pool **
Built like a palace
then there's the giant tipping bucket dumping 300 gallons
Lastly the area that's been around
For the most while
It's the center of it all
We call it Olde Idlewild
With midways filled
with games and great food ***
and beautiful shady areas
to rest and re-mood
Olde Idlewild's the place
for your entire family of riders
There's the Paratrooper, **The Whip,
Flying Aces **and the Spider
An historic PTC Carousel **
sits in the middle of all
Playing beautiful music
Delighting both the big and the small
Nineteen major rides in total
But there's two you'll like most-er
They're our steel-tracked Wild Mouse
And our classic wooden Rollo Coaster
For youngun's the Rollo's a great **
First time woodie
They're scream with great joy
Oh goodie goodie!
Built along a wooded hillside **
It sure is a smash
It like a miniature version
of the great Boulderdash
Designed by Herb Schmeck
Of PTC Fame
It’s a great out and back
With dips not so lame
My first coaster ride
was with my great dad
On Rollo Coaster's track
And, boy I'm so glad
Now Rollo's done
It's off to the races
There's another coaster to see
Just past our Flying Aces
In 1993,
moved from Alton Towers,
Is the Wild Mouse **
With its great turning power
My first ride on this one
Was my first year
Of working at Idlewild
I was so glad to be there
I stood in the q-line
With friends totaling three
We anxiously waited
As we passed the park's gum tree
I was pondering the issue
Of why people litter
When all of sudden
I saw coming a critter **
He looked like he was dressed in fur
From his head to his tail
Put it was truly beige paint
To make him look real
His eyes – how they twinkled!
No dimples, though merry
His cheeks were like roses
His nose, a little hairy
On the first and only lift
Some curiousity I felt **
How strange! How odd!
A slight leftward tilt
At the top of the lift
I held tight on the bar
I peeked out below
Boy was it far **
Then suddenly a quick
turn of the track
my friend beside me
Whoops! I just smacked
Then another quick turn
and then several more
mixed in with some dips
Reaching toward the ground level floor
All four in the car
Letting out great big "Whees!"
As we rushed so very closely
To some very huge pine trees
Another great coaster
The park's no longer mild
We're lucky to have it
At great Idlewild
Our quick tour's now done
Back to Ricky Raccoon
He's a little chubby and plump
It makes the girls swoon
A wink of his eye
and a twist of his head
an invite to you
to visit all that's been said
My name is Mr. Idlewild
And its been my delight
Merry Christmas to all **
And to all a Good Night!
'Twas Two Days before Christmas...
'Twas two days before Christmas
When all through this house
Not a creature was stirring,
Not even the Wild Mouse.
A tree was placed
In the office with care
And look its St. Nicholas
Right over there.
In the region the children were nestled
All snug in their beds,
With visions of summer fun
Bouncing through their heads.
And Mother Goose in her apron **
And I in my cap,
Admired our park
During its long winter nap.
When out on the lawn
There arose such a clatter
I sprang from my desk
To see what was the matter
Away to the window
I flew like a flash
Pulled up the Venetian blinds
Which then fell down on me in a crash
The Loyalhanna Creek **
So pristine in its flow
Gave a luster of beauty
Among the new fallen snow
When what to my nearsighted
Eyes did appear
But a giant Raccoon
With only a shirt to wear **
Your guide for adventure
Family fun, smiles too
Our loveable mascot
It's Ricky Raccoon!
More rapid than you
Can shake your "derriere re ahs"
Let's take a look
At Idlewild's seven themed areas
I'll whistle and shout
And call them by name,
Story Book Forest, Jumpin' Jungle
Hootin' Holler they came
Olde Idlewild, SoakZone
And Raccoon Lagoon,
Mister Roger's Neighborhood
Of Make-Believe too.
To the top of the list
Let's review them in-depth
First Story Book Forest
Then we'll get to the rest
A magical fantasyland **
Comes to life
Featuring the domiciles of your favorites
Including Peter Pumpkin Eater's wife **
Built in 1956
And instantly renowned
There's Little Miss Muffet
And Old King Cole in his crown.
Live characters like Gepetto, **
Snow White and Little Red
Greet children of all ages
Leaving fond memories in their heads.
Jumpin' Jungle's our place **
To climb, slide and play
There's so much to do
It may take you all day
The big net climb is there
Right in the center
The giant ball pit sure is colorful **
To all who enter
Hootin' Holler's our country **
Western Town with great cheer
With a lot of twangy "Howdy"s
And "You'll come back now, Ya hear!"
With a great General Store and
The Potato Patch too
And also Dizzy Lizzy's
Wild Saloon
But one of my favorites
The house on a tilt
An award winning fun house
We call Confusion Hill!
Mister Rogers' Neighborhood **
The land of Make-Believe
A one-of-a-kind attraction
That you all just gotta see
A lifesize trolley
visits the popular characters from our past
A tribute to Fred Rogers
Sure to make his memory last
Idlewild's the park
where Mr. Rogers grew up
He designed this great ride
Especially for us
Once you ride it you'll have a phrase
stuck in your head for so long
Its:"Come along, come along
To the Castle Hug N Song!"
Bring your parents or children
Anyone you can lug
To ride the only ride in the world
To end with a hug.
Raccoon Lagoon is our area
For all the small tykes
It has cars, and boats, **
Airplanes and motorbikes
One of the largest and most
Scenic Kiddielands you'll find **
A beautiful nine-acre paradise
You're tots sure won't mind
It's home to that mascot
I spoke of before
That's five themed area,
But wait there's two more
With Slidefulls of excitement **
And splashing good fun
Be sure to enjoy the SoakZone
Before your visit is done
16 waterslides
along with a huge sparkling pool
and Captain Kidd's Adventure Galley will help you stay cool
Little Squirts
is the kiddie pool **
Built like a palace
then there's the giant tipping bucket dumping 300 gallons
Lastly the area that's been around
For the most while
It's the center of it all
We call it Olde Idlewild
With midways filled
with games and great food ***
and beautiful shady areas
to rest and re-mood
Olde Idlewild's the place
for your entire family of riders
There's the Paratrooper, **The Whip,
Flying Aces **and the Spider
An historic PTC Carousel **
sits in the middle of all
Playing beautiful music
Delighting both the big and the small
Nineteen major rides in total
But there's two you'll like most-er
They're our steel-tracked Wild Mouse
And our classic wooden Rollo Coaster
For youngun's the Rollo's a great **
First time woodie
They're scream with great joy
Oh goodie goodie!
Built along a wooded hillside **
It sure is a smash
It like a miniature version
of the great Boulderdash
Designed by Herb Schmeck
Of PTC Fame
It’s a great out and back
With dips not so lame
My first coaster ride
was with my great dad
On Rollo Coaster's track
And, boy I'm so glad
Now Rollo's done
It's off to the races
There's another coaster to see
Just past our Flying Aces
In 1993,
moved from Alton Towers,
Is the Wild Mouse **
With its great turning power
My first ride on this one
Was my first year
Of working at Idlewild
I was so glad to be there
I stood in the q-line
With friends totaling three
We anxiously waited
As we passed the park's gum tree
I was pondering the issue
Of why people litter
When all of sudden
I saw coming a critter **
He looked like he was dressed in fur
From his head to his tail
Put it was truly beige paint
To make him look real
His eyes – how they twinkled!
No dimples, though merry
His cheeks were like roses
His nose, a little hairy
On the first and only lift
Some curiousity I felt **
How strange! How odd!
A slight leftward tilt
At the top of the lift
I held tight on the bar
I peeked out below
Boy was it far **
Then suddenly a quick
turn of the track
my friend beside me
Whoops! I just smacked
Then another quick turn
and then several more
mixed in with some dips
Reaching toward the ground level floor
All four in the car
Letting out great big "Whees!"
As we rushed so very closely
To some very huge pine trees
Another great coaster
The park's no longer mild
We're lucky to have it
At great Idlewild
Our quick tour's now done
Back to Ricky Raccoon
He's a little chubby and plump
It makes the girls swoon
A wink of his eye
and a twist of his head
an invite to you
to visit all that's been said
My name is Mr. Idlewild
And its been my delight
Merry Christmas to all **
And to all a Good Night!
3 comments | leave a comment
Sunday January 18, 2009 at 12:17 PM EST
pretty cool story, good job Mr. Idlewild!!
Tuesday January 13, 2009 at 06:26 PM EST
Hello, I know this is later, but thanks again for another great summer (and fall) at Idlewild. My family has made fun family memories. Thank You so much, and we look foward to another great season! Happy Holidays!
Tuesday December 23, 2008 at 02:26 PM EST
Ah. And Merry Christmas to Idlewild. I love the big santa statue you have along Route 30.
Wednesday November 26, 2008
IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST winner & runner-ups announced!!!
Idlewild & SoakZone is pleased to announce the winner of IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST. And the winning video is....
... "IDLEWILD CONTEST 08" submitted by Chicken 711225!
Chicken, You've just won a FREE, fully catered family reunion for 50 people! CONGRATULATIONS! This video ranked the highest among our judges in the three categories of Originality, Overall Appeal and Likelihood to Motivate People to visit.
We had several outstanding entries. The following is our list of runner-ups who will each win (1) 2009 Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass:
RNCJKB for their entry "WHERE FAMILIES MAKE MEMORIES"
3GR8KIDOS for "FUN AT HALLOWBOO!"
JAMESAMORIELLO for "ODE TO IDLEWILD" and,
CDJISH for "IDLEWILD COMMERCIAL"
We would like to thank all of our entrants for participating in the contest and, most of all, for sharing their Idlewild memories and experiences with us and the rest of the YouTube world! All winners will be contacted by our Promotions Department after December 2 for the awarding of prizes.
To view all videos, please visit the following link:
IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF OUR WINNERS, OUR LOYAL GUESTS, FAMILY & FRIENDS!
IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST winner & runner-ups announced!!!
Idlewild & SoakZone is pleased to announce the winner of IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST. And the winning video is....
... "IDLEWILD CONTEST 08" submitted by Chicken 711225!
Chicken, You've just won a FREE, fully catered family reunion for 50 people! CONGRATULATIONS! This video ranked the highest among our judges in the three categories of Originality, Overall Appeal and Likelihood to Motivate People to visit.
We had several outstanding entries. The following is our list of runner-ups who will each win (1) 2009 Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass:
RNCJKB for their entry "WHERE FAMILIES MAKE MEMORIES"
3GR8KIDOS for "FUN AT HALLOWBOO!"
JAMESAMORIELLO for "ODE TO IDLEWILD" and,
CDJISH for "IDLEWILD COMMERCIAL"
We would like to thank all of our entrants for participating in the contest and, most of all, for sharing their Idlewild memories and experiences with us and the rest of the YouTube world! All winners will be contacted by our Promotions Department after December 2 for the awarding of prizes.
To view all videos, please visit the following link:
IDLEWILD'S GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL OF OUR WINNERS, OUR LOYAL GUESTS, FAMILY & FRIENDS!
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday October 18, 2008
Idlewild's GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
Time is running out to enter Idlewild's GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST. You can win a family reunion for up to 50 people next summer! Visit
The Great Family Reunion Contest page for more details.
Idlewild's GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
Time is running out to enter Idlewild's GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST. You can win a family reunion for up to 50 people next summer! Visit
The Great Family Reunion Contest page for more details.
1 comment | leave a comment
Tuesday November 11, 2008 at 10:20 AM EST
We had so much fun creating our commercials!! Thanks for the great contest.
Saturday October 18, 2008
THE BEST FAMILY HALLOWEEN EVENT IS HERE!
For the finest in family fun and halloween entertainment, visit Idlewild's HALLOWBOO, Saturdays and Sundays through October 26. Featuring Trick-or-Treating through Story Book Forest, a Hay Bale Maze, Hedge Maze, Confusing Hilda's Witchy Wacky Walkthrough, The Haunted Hollow Train Ride, two Halloween-themed shows, and other themed rides and attractions, this event has something for every member of the family.
Enjoy Fall in the beautiful Laurel Highlands and treat your family to a day of unforgettable fun and excitement. Ride the rides, meet your favorite costume characters and enjoy the terrific food - including many fall favorites!
Gates open at 11:30 am. Rides and attractions open at Noon. The fun lasts until 6:00 p.m!
(Story Book Forest closes at 5:30 p.m. SoakZone, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe, Loggin' Toboggan, Wild Mouse, and Flivvers do not operate during Hallowboo!) For more information,
Click Here!
THE BEST FAMILY HALLOWEEN EVENT IS HERE!
For the finest in family fun and halloween entertainment, visit Idlewild's HALLOWBOO, Saturdays and Sundays through October 26. Featuring Trick-or-Treating through Story Book Forest, a Hay Bale Maze, Hedge Maze, Confusing Hilda's Witchy Wacky Walkthrough, The Haunted Hollow Train Ride, two Halloween-themed shows, and other themed rides and attractions, this event has something for every member of the family.
Enjoy Fall in the beautiful Laurel Highlands and treat your family to a day of unforgettable fun and excitement. Ride the rides, meet your favorite costume characters and enjoy the terrific food - including many fall favorites!
Gates open at 11:30 am. Rides and attractions open at Noon. The fun lasts until 6:00 p.m!
(Story Book Forest closes at 5:30 p.m. SoakZone, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe, Loggin' Toboggan, Wild Mouse, and Flivvers do not operate during Hallowboo!) For more information,
Click Here!
0 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday August 20, 2008
The Last Buddy Days of the Year!!!
Attention Season Pass Holders. . .
. . . More Bonus Buddy Days Announced!
Saturday, August 30, Sunday, August 31, and Monday, September 1 will all be Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days . Don't miss these opportunities to "Bring-A-Buddy" one last time for the 2008 Season.
Also, don't forget the following:
Idlewild & SoakZone will be closed August 25, 26, 27, 28 & 29 and will re-open for Labor Day weekend.
Thank You for a Great Summer!!!
The Last Buddy Days of the Year!!!
Attention Season Pass Holders. . .
. . . More Bonus Buddy Days Announced!
Saturday, August 30, Sunday, August 31, and Monday, September 1 will all be Bonus "Bring-A-Buddy-Free" days . Don't miss these opportunities to "Bring-A-Buddy" one last time for the 2008 Season.
Also, don't forget the following:
Idlewild & SoakZone will be closed August 25, 26, 27, 28 & 29 and will re-open for Labor Day weekend.
Thank You for a Great Summer!!!
0 comments | leave a comment
Monday August 11, 2008
Even More Bonus Season Pass Holder Perks!
Exclusive Idlewild Season Pass Perk
Visit Sandcastle for just $10.00
Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass Holders are invited to visit Sandcastle on August 13th, 14th, and 15th for only $10.00 each day!
Enjoy the area's wildest Wave Pool, 14 Major Waterslides, Beautiful pools, Giant Hot Tub, Lazy River, and Wet Willie's Children's Area.
To take advantage of this exclusive perk, present your Season Pass at the Sandcastle entrance gate. This offer is only available to Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass Holders.
Even More Bonus Season Pass Holder Perks!
Exclusive Idlewild Season Pass Perk
Visit Sandcastle for just $10.00
Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass Holders are invited to visit Sandcastle on August 13th, 14th, and 15th for only $10.00 each day!
Enjoy the area's wildest Wave Pool, 14 Major Waterslides, Beautiful pools, Giant Hot Tub, Lazy River, and Wet Willie's Children's Area.
To take advantage of this exclusive perk, present your Season Pass at the Sandcastle entrance gate. This offer is only available to Idlewild & SoakZone Season Pass Holders.
1 comment | leave a comment
Sunday August 17, 2008 at 09:45 AM EST
Thanks for all of the great passholder perks! When do the 2009 season passes go on sale?
2009 Season Passes are now available for purchase over the phone and at the park on any operating day.
2009 Season Passes are now available for purchase over the phone and at the park on any operating day.
Saturday August 9, 2008
Bonus Season Pass Holder Perks!
Monday, August 11th was scheduled to be the final BUDDY DAY of the 2008 season, but we are pleased to announce that you can also BRING A BUDDY FREE on any (or all!) of the following dates:
Tuesday, August 12
Wednesday, August 13
Thursday, August 14
Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer, family fun! We look forward to seeing you (and your buddies) very soon!
Bonus Season Pass Holder Perks!
Monday, August 11th was scheduled to be the final BUDDY DAY of the 2008 season, but we are pleased to announce that you can also BRING A BUDDY FREE on any (or all!) of the following dates:
Tuesday, August 12
Wednesday, August 13
Thursday, August 14
Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer, family fun! We look forward to seeing you (and your buddies) very soon!
0 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday June 24, 2008
Gentlemen, AND LADIES, Start your engines.
On Sunday, June 22nd, members of Froggy Radio raced into Idlewild with a few friends from their Froggy Motorsports Teams! Froggy blasted some great country tunes while guests competed in contests, won prizes, and took pictures with some of Froggy race team drivers.
It was a day of big engines and bigger ambitions as race fans were introduced to Mary Catherine Shimko. Mary Catherine is the 15-year-ole driver of one of the two Froggy sponsored race cars that visited the park. She, (yes SHE) showed park guests and racing fans that she has what it takes to compete in a fast paced, male dominated sport.
Her rear bumper says it all as "You've just been passed by a girl" is proudly displayed for her competition to see, that is, if they can catch up to her!
For more information on other fun, upcoming events, visit the EVENTS section of our website.
Gentlemen, AND LADIES, Start your engines.
On Sunday, June 22nd, members of Froggy Radio raced into Idlewild with a few friends from their Froggy Motorsports Teams! Froggy blasted some great country tunes while guests competed in contests, won prizes, and took pictures with some of Froggy race team drivers.
It was a day of big engines and bigger ambitions as race fans were introduced to Mary Catherine Shimko. Mary Catherine is the 15-year-ole driver of one of the two Froggy sponsored race cars that visited the park. She, (yes SHE) showed park guests and racing fans that she has what it takes to compete in a fast paced, male dominated sport.
Her rear bumper says it all as "You've just been passed by a girl" is proudly displayed for her competition to see, that is, if they can catch up to her!
For more information on other fun, upcoming events, visit the EVENTS section of our website.
0 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday May 28, 2008
Nickelodeon's Parents' Picks Award!
Idlewild & SoakZone has been nominated for the 2008 "Parents' Picks Awards" in the category, "Best Place for Family Bonding in Pittsburgh."
You can vote for Idlewild & SoakZone at: www.parentsconnect.com/parentspicks
Be sure to vote for us in the Little Kids, Big Kids, and Teens categiories. You can also enter to win $2K to spend at your pick of the Picks.
Thanks!
Nickelodeon's Parents' Picks Award!
Idlewild & SoakZone has been nominated for the 2008 "Parents' Picks Awards" in the category, "Best Place for Family Bonding in Pittsburgh."
You can vote for Idlewild & SoakZone at: www.parentsconnect.com/parentspicks
Be sure to vote for us in the Little Kids, Big Kids, and Teens categiories. You can also enter to win $2K to spend at your pick of the Picks.
Thanks!
0 comments | leave a comment
Sunday May 18, 2008
GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
We’re celebrating the 250th anniversaries of Ligonier and Pittsburgh by offering you the opportunity to win a Great Family Reunion for 50 of your friends and family members at Idlewild Park & Soak Zone – here’s how!
All you have to do is create a 30-second video commercial about the park and you could win!
Do something completely original!
Once you've created your commercial, upload it to Idlewild Park's YouTube Group by clicking the following link.
Official Contest Page.
We will review and judge each entry and at the end of the campaign we will choose one grand prize winner to receive a free, fully catered reunion for the entire family.
Amusement Today magazine has consistently rated Idlewild Park & Soak Zone as the second best kid's park in the world, but now it's your turn to tell us what Idlewild means to you and your family!
Quiet on the set! Lights...camera..action!
Start filming now because the contest ends July 7, 2008.
Click here for complete rules and regulations:
Official Rules.
GREAT FAMILY REUNION CONTEST
We’re celebrating the 250th anniversaries of Ligonier and Pittsburgh by offering you the opportunity to win a Great Family Reunion for 50 of your friends and family members at Idlewild Park & Soak Zone – here’s how!
All you have to do is create a 30-second video commercial about the park and you could win!
Do something completely original!
Once you've created your commercial, upload it to Idlewild Park's YouTube Group by clicking the following link.
Official Contest Page.
We will review and judge each entry and at the end of the campaign we will choose one grand prize winner to receive a free, fully catered reunion for the entire family.
Amusement Today magazine has consistently rated Idlewild Park & Soak Zone as the second best kid's park in the world, but now it's your turn to tell us what Idlewild means to you and your family!
Quiet on the set! Lights...camera..action!
Start filming now because the contest ends July 7, 2008.
Click here for complete rules and regulations:
Official Rules.
0 comments | leave a comment
Friday May 16, 2008
Bigfoot Sightings at Idlewild!
Here's a fun fact....Did you know that Westmoreland County, where Idlewild is located, has the highest number of alleged Bigfoot sightings in the state of Pennsylvania?
A few months ago, our loveable mascot, Ricky Raccoon informed us that he made a new friend. After the park team members left Idlewild for the day, this odd looking, big-footed creature would come out of the woods and just start playing on all the fun attractions down in Hootin' Holler... The net climb, the ball pit, the tarzan swings, he loved them all! Ricky began to play with him...can you imagine...a giant Raccoon and a hairy bigfoot galavanting around until the wee hours of the morning!
In honor of Ricky's new best friend, we've developed a brand new attraction that he can play on.
BIGFOOT'S MUDSLIDE is a family fun slide based on one of the most popular legends of modern time. Manufactured by Frederiksen Industries, Inc., the new slide will feature three 90 - foot fiberglass chutes and a series of gentle dips and humps.
Riders will slide on mats from an elevation of 20-feet above the Jumpin' Jungle floor. The slide can be enjoyed by both adults and children over 32 inches tall and allows parents of younger children, under 42 inches tall, to slide with their child.
With this fun new ride, I think the Bigfoot sightings are about to get a lot more numerous!
Bigfoot Sightings at Idlewild!
Here's a fun fact....Did you know that Westmoreland County, where Idlewild is located, has the highest number of alleged Bigfoot sightings in the state of Pennsylvania?
A few months ago, our loveable mascot, Ricky Raccoon informed us that he made a new friend. After the park team members left Idlewild for the day, this odd looking, big-footed creature would come out of the woods and just start playing on all the fun attractions down in Hootin' Holler... The net climb, the ball pit, the tarzan swings, he loved them all! Ricky began to play with him...can you imagine...a giant Raccoon and a hairy bigfoot galavanting around until the wee hours of the morning!
In honor of Ricky's new best friend, we've developed a brand new attraction that he can play on.
BIGFOOT'S MUDSLIDE is a family fun slide based on one of the most popular legends of modern time. Manufactured by Frederiksen Industries, Inc., the new slide will feature three 90 - foot fiberglass chutes and a series of gentle dips and humps.
Riders will slide on mats from an elevation of 20-feet above the Jumpin' Jungle floor. The slide can be enjoyed by both adults and children over 32 inches tall and allows parents of younger children, under 42 inches tall, to slide with their child.
With this fun new ride, I think the Bigfoot sightings are about to get a lot more numerous!
2 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday June 17, 2008 at 09:39 PM EST
More fun and great memories! Good job guys.
Friday May 16, 2008 at 02:40 PM EST
Cool! How about a picture?
Monday May 12, 2008
Season Pass Photo ID Processing
If you would like to avoid the lines at Guest Services on opening weekend you can stop by the park and get your Season Pass photo ID processed before the 2008 season begins. Guest Services will be open for Season Pass processing weekdays, 9am to 5pm, Tuesday May 13 through Wednesday May 21.
Please enter the park through the Main Gate and park in parking area A. Guest Services is located just behind the General Store in Hootin' Holler.
See you soon!
Season Pass Photo ID Processing
If you would like to avoid the lines at Guest Services on opening weekend you can stop by the park and get your Season Pass photo ID processed before the 2008 season begins. Guest Services will be open for Season Pass processing weekdays, 9am to 5pm, Tuesday May 13 through Wednesday May 21.
Please enter the park through the Main Gate and park in parking area A. Guest Services is located just behind the General Store in Hootin' Holler.
See you soon!
1 comment | leave a comment
Wednesday May 14, 2008 at 09:32 PM EST
Thanks for the advice. Your Great
Thanks!
Thanks!
Thursday March 20, 2008
Thank You, Neighbor!
80 years ago today, a great man was born...Fred Rogers. Millions of people across the country (and probably the world) are celebrating the life of Mister Rogers today by wearing a sweater in his honor. We, here at Idlewild, are donning ours as well. (I even found one with a zipper, that I didn't even know I had!)
Not everyone knows that Idlewild Park is just a few miles from the real neighborhood where Fred Rogers grew up - Latrobe. As a young boy, he and his family often came to Idlewild and Story Book Forest. Because of his fond memories of visits here and an appreciation for Idlewild's commitment to wholesome family entertainment, he was particularly excited with the suggestion of a ride based on his classic PBS television show - Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.
In designing the ride, Fred Rogers wanted to create an experience using some of the familiar and whimsical elements of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. The Neighborhood of Make-Believe was a natural setting for that, and the Trolley where families could ride together was a perfect "vehicle"! It was especially important to him that this ride created an atmosphere that would bring children and their favorite adults together in warm and caring ways - a true extension of the overall philosophy of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. After developing the storyline, he and his production team at Family Communications, Inc, the non-profit company he founded, worked closely with the team from Idlewild to design the ride, which opened the summer of 1989.
Idlewild is delighted and proud to be able to give our Guests and their families the unique and wonderfully wholesome experience of a trolley ride through Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Those on the Trolley get the chance to meet and converse with many popular characters in animated scenes. I'm sure that those of you who have visited Idlewild will always remember the line "Come along, Come along to the Castle Hug'N Song!"
You may also never forget the ending of the ride where all join in hugging the one that you want to hug and the singing of a song, "It's Such A Good Feeling!"
Definitely a one-of-a-kind amusement park experience, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe has provided so many families over the years with a beautiful day in our very own neighborhood! We hope that this summer, you'll join us for one too!
Thank you, Mister Rogers. We'll never forget you!
Thank You, Neighbor!
80 years ago today, a great man was born...Fred Rogers. Millions of people across the country (and probably the world) are celebrating the life of Mister Rogers today by wearing a sweater in his honor. We, here at Idlewild, are donning ours as well. (I even found one with a zipper, that I didn't even know I had!)
Not everyone knows that Idlewild Park is just a few miles from the real neighborhood where Fred Rogers grew up - Latrobe. As a young boy, he and his family often came to Idlewild and Story Book Forest. Because of his fond memories of visits here and an appreciation for Idlewild's commitment to wholesome family entertainment, he was particularly excited with the suggestion of a ride based on his classic PBS television show - Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.
In designing the ride, Fred Rogers wanted to create an experience using some of the familiar and whimsical elements of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. The Neighborhood of Make-Believe was a natural setting for that, and the Trolley where families could ride together was a perfect "vehicle"! It was especially important to him that this ride created an atmosphere that would bring children and their favorite adults together in warm and caring ways - a true extension of the overall philosophy of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood. After developing the storyline, he and his production team at Family Communications, Inc, the non-profit company he founded, worked closely with the team from Idlewild to design the ride, which opened the summer of 1989.
Idlewild is delighted and proud to be able to give our Guests and their families the unique and wonderfully wholesome experience of a trolley ride through Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe. Those on the Trolley get the chance to meet and converse with many popular characters in animated scenes. I'm sure that those of you who have visited Idlewild will always remember the line "Come along, Come along to the Castle Hug'N Song!"
You may also never forget the ending of the ride where all join in hugging the one that you want to hug and the singing of a song, "It's Such A Good Feeling!"
Definitely a one-of-a-kind amusement park experience, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe has provided so many families over the years with a beautiful day in our very own neighborhood! We hope that this summer, you'll join us for one too!
Thank you, Mister Rogers. We'll never forget you!
4 comments | leave a comment
Friday June 20, 2008 at 09:09 AM EST
I am taking my little boy to Idlewild today BECAUSE of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood attractions. He absolutely loves Fred and the trolley even though he is barely 16 months old!
Saturday April 19, 2008 at 06:10 PM EST
i love this ride, even though i am older i still make sure i ride it. the ride brings back so many good memories.
Friday March 21, 2008 at 12:20 PM EST
I truly love this ride. I make sure I ride it every year! I wore a sweater in honor of Mr. Rogers yesterday too!
Friday March 21, 2008 at 10:50 AM EST
Even as an adult this is one of my favorite attractions at the park. Such a wonderful tribute to such an amazing man. I cannot wait to visit the park with my two sons this summer! I hope that someday they will have the wonderful memories of Idlewild as a child that I have.
Monday March 3, 2008
A Great Day at CoasterBash!
On Saturday, I had the honor of presenting at COASTERBASH XIX, the yearly spring gathering for members of Western Pennsylvania's American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE). This was the fourth year that I've been invited to join in the fun....and do these guys and girls know how to have fun!!!
This year's event was a Hawaiian affair, with great Hawaiian food provided and, of course, a Hawaiian Shirt Contest. (I'm sorry to say that my lowly Palm Tree tie didn't even come close to winning.)
I love listening to all the "goings-on" from other parks, like Steve from Waldameer Park who updated us on the status of Ravine Flyer II, the first new wooden coaster to this region in decades. And Kennywood, (which being our sister park I do get a head's up on some of the new stuff) Kennywood's Mary Lou and Jeff provided a lot of information that I wasn't even aware of.
During my time, I revealed some details of Idlewild's new attraction for 2008, which will be the topic of my next blog. While I must say that although the new attraction is not a million-dollar project, the response from the ACERs was a great one. Their thoughts (and ours) were that this new attraction was a perfect fit for Idlewild. I'm sure you'll agree when you get all the details.
I also enjoyed listening to Jim Futrell and Charles Jacques and their historical presentations on the amusement parks of Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware and Memories and history of Geauga Lake, respectively. These gentlemen are truly great storytellers for amusement parks...past and present!
And my personal thanks to all the Western PA ACERs for inviting me to come along for the ride again this year. (Special Thanks to the BAND!) It is always one of my most fun events. We appreciate your support of our industry!
For those who may have an interest in roller coasters, amusement parks, and just having fun, you can get more information on ACE by visiting www.aceonline.org. or the Western PA site: www.ACEwesternPA.org
A Great Day at CoasterBash!
On Saturday, I had the honor of presenting at COASTERBASH XIX, the yearly spring gathering for members of Western Pennsylvania's American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE). This was the fourth year that I've been invited to join in the fun....and do these guys and girls know how to have fun!!!
This year's event was a Hawaiian affair, with great Hawaiian food provided and, of course, a Hawaiian Shirt Contest. (I'm sorry to say that my lowly Palm Tree tie didn't even come close to winning.)
I love listening to all the "goings-on" from other parks, like Steve from Waldameer Park who updated us on the status of Ravine Flyer II, the first new wooden coaster to this region in decades. And Kennywood, (which being our sister park I do get a head's up on some of the new stuff) Kennywood's Mary Lou and Jeff provided a lot of information that I wasn't even aware of.
During my time, I revealed some details of Idlewild's new attraction for 2008, which will be the topic of my next blog. While I must say that although the new attraction is not a million-dollar project, the response from the ACERs was a great one. Their thoughts (and ours) were that this new attraction was a perfect fit for Idlewild. I'm sure you'll agree when you get all the details.
I also enjoyed listening to Jim Futrell and Charles Jacques and their historical presentations on the amusement parks of Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware and Memories and history of Geauga Lake, respectively. These gentlemen are truly great storytellers for amusement parks...past and present!
And my personal thanks to all the Western PA ACERs for inviting me to come along for the ride again this year. (Special Thanks to the BAND!) It is always one of my most fun events. We appreciate your support of our industry!
For those who may have an interest in roller coasters, amusement parks, and just having fun, you can get more information on ACE by visiting www.aceonline.org. or the Western PA site: www.ACEwesternPA.org
2 comments | leave a comment
Friday March 14, 2008 at 09:11 PM EST
Jeff, we Coasterbash attendees always enjoy your unique presentations! Thanks for entertaining us so musically!
Tuesday March 4, 2008 at 04:48 PM EST
It was great having you at Coasterbash as you always have an excellent presentation. Thank you for putting your Big Foot forward.
HA! I Love It! It was good seeing everyone there!
HA! I Love It! It was good seeing everyone there!
Monday February 4, 2008
I LOVE IDLEWILD BECAUSE....
Greetings all! It's February and LOVE is in the air. I thought it would be fun to just throw this out there and see what comes back.....
Take care my friends and see you soon!
I LOVE IDLEWILD BECAUSE.....
I LOVE IDLEWILD BECAUSE....
Greetings all! It's February and LOVE is in the air. I thought it would be fun to just throw this out there and see what comes back.....
Take care my friends and see you soon!
I LOVE IDLEWILD BECAUSE.....
18 comments | leave a comment
Friday July 9, 2010 at 05:06 PM EST
it is so fun we go to idlewild every year are family aways have a blast soon we will be having to ggo in to kiddyland a lot because we will be welcomeing a new baby to are family
Tuesday June 23, 2009 at 03:54 PM EST
its so fun!I love everything.Its totally awesome!!
Tuesday July 1, 2008 at 09:23 PM EST
of all of the great memories I have! I have been coming there for 30+ years and really enjoy bringing my 3 children there for the last 10! Looking forward to more great memories this year with our passes! Thank you!
Sunday June 29, 2008 at 12:50 PM EST
Idlewild has become one of our family traditions. Every summer since 1983, we have made the trip to Ligoneer to enjoy a day at the park. Today, as my own children are almost grown, they still look forward to our annual trip, now a two day adventure at Idlewild Park. The feeling of excitement, anticipation and a since of loyalty keep us coming back. (Not to mention the fun!) Keep up the good work.
Monday June 2, 2008 at 10:05 AM EST
I loved Idlewild I have not been to a theme park in over 20 years and the attractions were fabulous. Thanks to the people I was their with It was just like being a kid again.
Monday March 24, 2008 at 07:09 PM EST
I love Idlewild because of the coasters and old rides, I also like all the dippin dots and Hot Diggity Dawgs and whatnot
Sunday March 9, 2008 at 10:29 PM EST
I cant wait to come with my crush and family. plus my first kiss might happen there.
Good Luck, Mijah!
Good Luck, Mijah!
Friday March 7, 2008 at 10:46 AM EST
I just have to say that getting the season passes is the best thing for me and my family. We LOVE going to the park and having a great time!
Tuesday February 26, 2008 at 11:53 AM EST
I love that Idlewild now has season passes. I wish you had them when I was a teenager! Now, I take my kids all the time. Mondays are great because they each get to take a friend for free.
Thursday February 21, 2008 at 12:55 AM EST
i love the speed slides
Wednesday February 13, 2008 at 01:34 PM EST
My wife and I are seniors and we buy season passes because we can take our grandchildren on Mondays without any hassle. It is great therapy for us and we all have a ball. Also we love to walk and if we get tired we can always take the train back to the main part of the park. Thanks for such a wonderful park where we can either be away from the crowds or right in the thick of things, depending on our mood for the day. Thanks again.
Keep those cyclones available. My favorite ice cream treat.
Monday February 11, 2008 at 06:49 PM EST
My whole family loves Idlewild park, lots of fun and affordable too!
Friday February 8, 2008 at 03:17 PM EST
the park has natural beauty and has something for everybody...I was able to bring my dad there before he passed away and we had so much fun on the rides and even just sitting on a bench together. Idlewild will always hold a very special place in my heart for those wonderful memories.
Thursday February 7, 2008 at 03:35 PM EST
The Roller Coasters, and the fact that we get a new ride every year!
Wednesday February 6, 2008 at 05:06 PM EST
I love Idlewild because every visit makes me feel like a kid again.
Wednesday February 6, 2008 at 01:12 PM EST
Potato Patch Fries and Cyclone Cones!!!
Tuesday February 5, 2008 at 04:09 PM EST
I love Idlewild for its cool rides and lanscaping that is beautyful!
Tuesday February 5, 2008 at 08:14 AM EST
I love Idlewild because it was the place I took my very first roller coaster ride and now my son had his first roller coaster ride there just last year.
Cool, Jason. Thanks for sharing. FYI - the Rollo Coaster was my very first coaster ride ever too!
Cool, Jason. Thanks for sharing. FYI - the Rollo Coaster was my very first coaster ride ever too!
Friday December 21, 2007
A Christmas Gift For You....
Just today, we began to receive portions of our new attraction for 2008.
More information will follow in the New Year regarding what the new attraction is and where it will be located, but for now here's a sneak peek at the first "mystery piece" as it's unloaded from the delivery truck.
Take a close look....can you figure out what it is?
Here's wishing you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy Holiday Season. We'll see you again in the NEW YEAR!
A Christmas Gift For You....
Just today, we began to receive portions of our new attraction for 2008.
More information will follow in the New Year regarding what the new attraction is and where it will be located, but for now here's a sneak peek at the first "mystery piece" as it's unloaded from the delivery truck.
Take a close look....can you figure out what it is?
Here's wishing you all a very MERRY CHRISTMAS and a Happy Holiday Season. We'll see you again in the NEW YEAR!
13 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday June 11, 2008 at 04:34 PM EST
its the bigfoot mudslide
Thursday April 3, 2008 at 10:18 PM EST
how about another hint on the new ride and the location
Sunday March 30, 2008 at 12:56 PM EST
Its a fun slide not another Tri-Nado, I believe Huss discontinued the Tri-Star (Tri-Nado) recently
Monday March 24, 2008 at 06:45 PM EST
Whew! What a relief, heres a list of rides NOT to mess with to make room for a new attraction, these are my favorites:
1. Rollo Coaster
2. Caterpillar
3. Scrambler
4. Wild Mouse
5. Loggin Toboggan
Friday February 15, 2008 at 07:33 PM EST
We have been to idlewild probly over 200 times. I have been going with my cousins since I was 2 and my grandparents take us 5 grandkids. I cant wait until we go back!
Wednesday January 16, 2008 at 02:46 PM EST
What new shows will be at Idlewild this year? Any other new things to look forward to when visiting this summer?
Keep an eye out....The new show schedules should be announced next month.
Keep an eye out....The new show schedules should be announced next month.
Monday December 31, 2007 at 08:37 PM EST
What is the new attraction? I hope it is a new thrill ride... will it replace another ride?
More information on the new family attraction will be released soon, but I can tell you that no other attractions will be removed to make room for it
More information on the new family attraction will be released soon, but I can tell you that no other attractions will be removed to make room for it
Thursday December 27, 2007 at 11:11 PM EST
i hope Idlewild do not take any rides out because there all awsome
Thursday December 27, 2007 at 11:08 PM EST
I hope that the new attraction is the Trinado. I hope that the new attraction will not replace another ride or attraction.
Tuesday December 25, 2007 at 01:34 PM EST
Looks like it is going to be a fun slide for the 2008 season but I could be wrong.
Monday December 24, 2007 at 07:39 PM EST
looks like a fun slide to me.....
Monday December 24, 2007 at 02:31 PM EST
The new ride is just sliding into place, eh? :)
Saturday December 22, 2007 at 12:44 PM EST
I think it might be some sort of water attraction? Whatever it is, I will be very excited to find out in 2008!
Friday December 7, 2007
'Tis the Season
The snow is falling and the Park looks like a winter wonderland!!! Soon, I hope to show you some photos of what the Park is looking like these days....it really is a beautiful site. I really love the snowfalls that have the big fluffy snowflakes, instead of the heavy wet snows that cause all the tree limbs to hang low.
Season Pass sales for the holidays are in full swing. If you haven't gotten yours yet, you can purchase it on the season pass page of our website.
Everyone stay warm out there and drive safely!
'Tis the Season
The snow is falling and the Park looks like a winter wonderland!!! Soon, I hope to show you some photos of what the Park is looking like these days....it really is a beautiful site. I really love the snowfalls that have the big fluffy snowflakes, instead of the heavy wet snows that cause all the tree limbs to hang low.
Season Pass sales for the holidays are in full swing. If you haven't gotten yours yet, you can purchase it on the season pass page of our website.
Everyone stay warm out there and drive safely!
2 comments | leave a comment
Friday January 18, 2008 at 05:22 PM EST
Great Job on your holiday decorations. The Santa looked great in its new position! My family and I always stop and get pictures taken by it! Thanks for helping us make more fun memories. You do it in the Summer, Fall, and Winter! Thanks Again!
Tuesday December 11, 2007 at 03:22 PM EST
I bet the park is very beautiful this time of year. I always thought it would be great to have a holiday light display. Idlewild can be decorated with Christmas lights and cars can make a donation and drive through the park and enjoy the lights. I believe people will come...I know I would.
Sunday September 30, 2007
Hallowboo! - off to a great start
Wow, what can I say? What a beautiful opening weekend to Idlewild's Hallowboo! The weather couldn't have been more perfect and the thousands of guests visiting the park on Saturday the 28th and Sunday the 29th and had a unBOOlievable time!
Special Events, like the Hallowboo Cruise and Rod Run, a special appearance by Jennifer Antkowiak, (who is TERRIFIC,by the way!) and a costume contest sponsored by Gateway Newspapers all helped to make the weekend even better.
If you haven't visited Idlewild's Hallowboo in the past, you're in for quite a thrill. The whole park is decorated to showcase autumn's splendor and the rethemed attractions have been getting rave reviews...and you just can't beat trick-or-treating through Story Book Forest.
I must admit, I didn't think I'd see a lot of costumes this weekend, being that it is still September, but hundreds of kids showed up wearing them....and they were terrific! You all looked great!!!!! Even Mother Goose said so!...she thinks the costumes are getting better and better each year.
For an list of upcoming Hallowboo events, don't forget to check out our Hallowboo webpage!
Remaining Hallowboo dates are October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28...And don't forget to pick up your $4.00 coupon at participating Giant Eagle locations. See you at the Park!
Hallowboo! - off to a great start
Wow, what can I say? What a beautiful opening weekend to Idlewild's Hallowboo! The weather couldn't have been more perfect and the thousands of guests visiting the park on Saturday the 28th and Sunday the 29th and had a unBOOlievable time!
Special Events, like the Hallowboo Cruise and Rod Run, a special appearance by Jennifer Antkowiak, (who is TERRIFIC,by the way!) and a costume contest sponsored by Gateway Newspapers all helped to make the weekend even better.
If you haven't visited Idlewild's Hallowboo in the past, you're in for quite a thrill. The whole park is decorated to showcase autumn's splendor and the rethemed attractions have been getting rave reviews...and you just can't beat trick-or-treating through Story Book Forest.
I must admit, I didn't think I'd see a lot of costumes this weekend, being that it is still September, but hundreds of kids showed up wearing them....and they were terrific! You all looked great!!!!! Even Mother Goose said so!...she thinks the costumes are getting better and better each year.
For an list of upcoming Hallowboo events, don't forget to check out our Hallowboo webpage!
Remaining Hallowboo dates are October 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, and 28...And don't forget to pick up your $4.00 coupon at participating Giant Eagle locations. See you at the Park!
4 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday August 6, 2008 at 06:46 PM EST
We went to Hallowboo last year. It was a blast. The weather was beautiful. We highly recommend it!!!
Monday October 22, 2007 at 11:13 PM EST
Haha did anyone see the two guys dressed as nuns on Saturday?
They were definately unique! I wonder if they make a HABIT out of dressing that way. HA! There have been SO many outstanding costumes this HALLOWBOO season -- on all the kids and many of the adults too!.
They were definately unique! I wonder if they make a HABIT out of dressing that way. HA! There have been SO many outstanding costumes this HALLOWBOO season -- on all the kids and many of the adults too!.
Monday October 15, 2007 at 07:40 PM EST
Do I get into Halloboo for free if I have a season pass?
Yes, Season Pass Holders get into HallowBoo! for free!
Yes, Season Pass Holders get into HallowBoo! for free!
Wednesday October 3, 2007 at 10:09 AM EST
Hey, went to Hallowboo this past weekend and it was awesome. The park looked great all decorated especially Story Book Forest! The train ride was neat too and I loved the orange fountain!
Monday September 24, 2007
HallowBoo! Screams into Idlewild
Hallowboo! is back and better than ever becoming another wonderful family fun tradition at Idlewild Park. Now in its 3rd year, Hallowboo! has become a huge success and has exceeded our wildest expectations and those of our guests too.
Many of the park’s most popular rides and attractions in Olde Idlewild, Jumpin' Jungle, Hootin' Holler, Raccoon Lagoon and Story Book Forest will be themed for the Halloween. In addition, a wide variety of family friendly entertainment will be provided such as Trick or Treating throughout Story Book Forest sponsored by Boyer Candy, Giant Eagle, McDonald’s, Mike and Ike, and Snyders of Berlin; a walk-through hay bale maze; the Haunted Hollow train ride; and two themed shows performed three times per day. Spookier attractions include “Confusing Hilda’s,” a Witchy Wacky Walkthrough where Guests see strange and unusual things and “Dizzy Lizzy's” - a tour of an abandoned hotel.
Several special fun events are scheduled too. For example, on Saturday, September 29 it’s Jennifer's Family Day! Jennifer Antkowiak, the popular television host of WTAE TV’s "jennifer" will be on hand from Noon to 2:00 p.m. to meet and greet guests.
Click Here for an exclusive "jennifer" coupon
In addition, Idlewild's HallowBoo! Cruise and Rod Run will kickoff the opening weekend September 29-30 with a parade of antique and classic automobiles daily at 1:00 p.m. through the midways of Olde Idlewild.
On October 6, kids can join the Radio Disney AM 540 Team for some great games, music and prizes. On October 21, the Star 100.7 FM crew will be on site from Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Hallowboo! will run for five consecutive weekends September 29-30, October 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 from Noon to 6:00 p.m. Story Book Forest will close at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $18.95 for ages three and over (children two and under get in free). All 2007 season pass holders can experience Hallowboo! for free.
Valuable $4.00 discount coupons are available at participating Giant Eagle locations, and Group Rates are available.
See you at HallowBoo!
HallowBoo! Screams into Idlewild
Hallowboo! is back and better than ever becoming another wonderful family fun tradition at Idlewild Park. Now in its 3rd year, Hallowboo! has become a huge success and has exceeded our wildest expectations and those of our guests too.
Many of the park’s most popular rides and attractions in Olde Idlewild, Jumpin' Jungle, Hootin' Holler, Raccoon Lagoon and Story Book Forest will be themed for the Halloween. In addition, a wide variety of family friendly entertainment will be provided such as Trick or Treating throughout Story Book Forest sponsored by Boyer Candy, Giant Eagle, McDonald’s, Mike and Ike, and Snyders of Berlin; a walk-through hay bale maze; the Haunted Hollow train ride; and two themed shows performed three times per day. Spookier attractions include “Confusing Hilda’s,” a Witchy Wacky Walkthrough where Guests see strange and unusual things and “Dizzy Lizzy's” - a tour of an abandoned hotel.
Several special fun events are scheduled too. For example, on Saturday, September 29 it’s Jennifer's Family Day! Jennifer Antkowiak, the popular television host of WTAE TV’s "jennifer" will be on hand from Noon to 2:00 p.m. to meet and greet guests.
Click Here for an exclusive "jennifer" coupon
In addition, Idlewild's HallowBoo! Cruise and Rod Run will kickoff the opening weekend September 29-30 with a parade of antique and classic automobiles daily at 1:00 p.m. through the midways of Olde Idlewild.
On October 6, kids can join the Radio Disney AM 540 Team for some great games, music and prizes. On October 21, the Star 100.7 FM crew will be on site from Noon to 2:00 p.m.
Hallowboo! will run for five consecutive weekends September 29-30, October 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 from Noon to 6:00 p.m. Story Book Forest will close at 5:30 p.m. Admission is $18.95 for ages three and over (children two and under get in free). All 2007 season pass holders can experience Hallowboo! for free.
Valuable $4.00 discount coupons are available at participating Giant Eagle locations, and Group Rates are available.
See you at HallowBoo!
1 comment | leave a comment
Tuesday September 25, 2007 at 09:52 AM EST
HallowBoo is awesome. I bring my family every year and my kids love it!
Sunday August 12, 2007
All Wet?
Greetings, all! I know, I know, it's been quite some time since my last blog....I'm so embarassed. I didn't forget about you - honest! The last few weeks have just been jammed pack with activity!
Many of you are aware that we had to close on Thursday, August 9th when severe storms swept through the region. Though damage was limited to a few downed tree limbs and a couple lost electrical gadgets (like a few credit card machines) what really hurt was the loss of power covering much of the region. Unfortunately the power was not restored to the Park until late Friday making us lose an operating day.
If you had pre-purchased tickets for Friday, August 10th, don't worry, they will be accepted any other operating day of the 2007 including our Hallowboo dates. If you need further information regarding the power outage dates, or have any questions just give our Guest Service Office a call at 724.238.3666.
We apologize for any inconvenience and Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer family fun!
All Wet?
Greetings, all! I know, I know, it's been quite some time since my last blog....I'm so embarassed. I didn't forget about you - honest! The last few weeks have just been jammed pack with activity!
Many of you are aware that we had to close on Thursday, August 9th when severe storms swept through the region. Though damage was limited to a few downed tree limbs and a couple lost electrical gadgets (like a few credit card machines) what really hurt was the loss of power covering much of the region. Unfortunately the power was not restored to the Park until late Friday making us lose an operating day.
If you had pre-purchased tickets for Friday, August 10th, don't worry, they will be accepted any other operating day of the 2007 including our Hallowboo dates. If you need further information regarding the power outage dates, or have any questions just give our Guest Service Office a call at 724.238.3666.
We apologize for any inconvenience and Thank you for choosing Idlewild & SoakZone as your place for summer family fun!
0 comments | leave a comment
Sunday July 8, 2007
Eat N' Park / Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days!
One of my most favorite weeks of the season has arrived! I always get so excited at the chance to spend some time with the Neighbors from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe - a show that I, and millions of others, grew up watching.
Idlewild is very fortunate to be associated with such a class act of people, and to have the priveledge of having the one of kind life-size trolley ride through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe - a ride specially designed for Idlewild by Fred Rogers' himself!
Mister McFeely, Neighbor Aber, Mayor Maggie, and Purple Panda will all be appearing Monday, July 9 through Friday, July 13 from 1 - 4 p.m. If you're coming, stop by participating Eat N' Park Restaurants and pick up your $6.00 of family coupon to help you save. We hope you'll be "SPEEDY" and join us for some great fun!
Eat N' Park / Mister Rogers' Neighbor Days!
One of my most favorite weeks of the season has arrived! I always get so excited at the chance to spend some time with the Neighbors from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood of Make-Believe - a show that I, and millions of others, grew up watching.
Idlewild is very fortunate to be associated with such a class act of people, and to have the priveledge of having the one of kind life-size trolley ride through the Neighborhood of Make-Believe - a ride specially designed for Idlewild by Fred Rogers' himself!
Mister McFeely, Neighbor Aber, Mayor Maggie, and Purple Panda will all be appearing Monday, July 9 through Friday, July 13 from 1 - 4 p.m. If you're coming, stop by participating Eat N' Park Restaurants and pick up your $6.00 of family coupon to help you save. We hope you'll be "SPEEDY" and join us for some great fun!
0 comments | leave a comment
Saturday June 30, 2007
KDKA Appearance
I had an opportunity to be a guest on KDKA Pittsburgh Live yesterday morning and bring viewers up to date on both what's old and what's new as we celebrate our 130th season. What a great experience....Host Kristine Sorenson is terrific and I was glad to hear that she is a big fan of the Park.
My appearance yesterday brought to mind a piece made last year (by KDKA's Dave Crawley) celebrating the 50th anniversary of Story Book Forest. I'd thought it would be fun to take another look at it. Check it out here:
http://kdka.com/video/?id=17513@kdka.dayport.com
KDKA Appearance
I had an opportunity to be a guest on KDKA Pittsburgh Live yesterday morning and bring viewers up to date on both what's old and what's new as we celebrate our 130th season. What a great experience....Host Kristine Sorenson is terrific and I was glad to hear that she is a big fan of the Park.
My appearance yesterday brought to mind a piece made last year (by KDKA's Dave Crawley) celebrating the 50th anniversary of Story Book Forest. I'd thought it would be fun to take another look at it. Check it out here:
http://kdka.com/video/?id=17513@kdka.dayport.com
4 comments | leave a comment
Monday July 23, 2007 at 11:03 PM EST
Hey Jeff! OMG YEAH Blog!
Saturday July 7, 2007 at 02:27 PM EST
Idlewild is really fun
and soakzone is amazing!
Wednesday July 4, 2007 at 11:16 PM EST
Hey Jeff! I love this blog thing...I was just checking on Italian Day festivities and am hoping to come for that. I miss the park!!! See ya!
Saturday June 30, 2007 at 10:17 PM EST
That video was so nice. I just visited Story Book the other day and I still had so much fun. It was like I was a kid again! Beautiful video for a beautiful park!
Monday June 18, 2007
Instant Fun, Lifelong Memories
Instant Fun, Lifelong Memories
Saturday June 9, 2007
"Take To The Skies"
The newest addition to our list of family friendly rides, Flying Aces, is now open.
Flying Aces gives each rider the ability to shape their own ride experience as they maneuver their vertical wing for high flying excitement.
Flying Aces is already receiving rave reviews so, when you're
at the park don't forget to stop by and "Earn Your Wings" as one of Idlewild's Flying Aces"
"Take To The Skies"
The newest addition to our list of family friendly rides, Flying Aces, is now open.
Flying Aces gives each rider the ability to shape their own ride experience as they maneuver their vertical wing for high flying excitement.
Flying Aces is already receiving rave reviews so, when you're
at the park don't forget to stop by and "Earn Your Wings" as one of Idlewild's Flying Aces"
10 comments | leave a comment
Monday July 23, 2007 at 11:07 PM EST
Yo this ride looks fly
Tuesday July 17, 2007 at 10:00 AM EST
I think it looks cool I am going to ride it tommorrow.
Monday July 2, 2007 at 05:31 PM EST
This ride is really fun! My friend and I rode it and liked it a lot!
Sunday July 1, 2007 at 02:35 PM EST
This is a fantastic ride it used to be at kennywood where the pitfall is now.
~Actually this is a Brand New updated 10 car model from Premier Rides~
~Actually this is a Brand New updated 10 car model from Premier Rides~
Monday June 18, 2007 at 02:32 PM EST
I rode this on my visit last weekend. It seems like such a simple ride, but it is REALLY, REALLY fun.
Thursday June 14, 2007 at 12:09 PM EST
wow that ride sooo looks fun!!!!
~It is VERY Fun!~
~It is VERY Fun!~
Wednesday June 13, 2007 at 06:02 PM EST
It IS like the old Dipsy-Doodle they had at Kennywood!
Monday June 11, 2007 at 03:00 PM EST
Is any part of this ride from the old Flyers that used to be at Kennywood?
-The rides looks very fun
~Flying Aces is a brand new Flying Scooter manufactured by Premier Rides.~
~Flying Aces is a brand new Flying Scooter manufactured by Premier Rides.~
Sunday June 10, 2007 at 10:32 AM EST
looks bigger then trinado
~Flying Aces takes up more space than the Trinado. The midways surrounding the area had to be modified and now have a slightly different look.~
~Flying Aces takes up more space than the Trinado. The midways surrounding the area had to be modified and now have a slightly different look.~
Sunday June 10, 2007 at 07:46 AM EST
This ride looks fun!
Thursday June 7, 2007
"What Our Guests Are Saying"
I wanted to share with you an email we recently received to let everyone know just what are guests are saying about Idlewild & SoakZone.
"Hello!
I just wanted to compliment you on your great family theme park! Idlewild has withstood the test of time, 130 years is a very long time! Still to this day Idlewild gives guest whether its young or old a great day! I love the Rollo Coaster, it is great to see children's faces whenever they ride it for the first time, and feel that they are now one of the big kids! Idlewild is truly one of the best parks out there.
Thanks for all the great times at Idlewild, see you soon!"
~Andrew Charlton
Thanks Andrew! It's always nice to hear from one of our Guests.
"What Our Guests Are Saying"
I wanted to share with you an email we recently received to let everyone know just what are guests are saying about Idlewild & SoakZone.
"Hello!
I just wanted to compliment you on your great family theme park! Idlewild has withstood the test of time, 130 years is a very long time! Still to this day Idlewild gives guest whether its young or old a great day! I love the Rollo Coaster, it is great to see children's faces whenever they ride it for the first time, and feel that they are now one of the big kids! Idlewild is truly one of the best parks out there.
Thanks for all the great times at Idlewild, see you soon!"
~Andrew Charlton
Thanks Andrew! It's always nice to hear from one of our Guests.
10 comments | leave a comment
Thursday August 9, 2007 at 12:28 AM EST
I really enjoy working at Idlewild, my favorite parts of the day are at the shows when I get to see the excitement on the faces of the guests at the shows.
Wednesday August 1, 2007 at 11:35 PM EST
Idlewild is better than kennywood,buti think Idlewild needs at least one more rollar coaster,but not too scary kinda like the racers at kennywood!! See ya this Friday Idlewild!!
Wednesday July 25, 2007 at 01:42 PM EST
Idlewild is awesome for families. The kids (ages 1-6) loved all the rides and the park is VERY family friendly. I know of no other place we felt so comfortable bringing the strollers and wagons.
Friday July 20, 2007 at 01:22 PM EST
Idlewild is the coolest theme park ever. It is better then kennywood.
Monday July 2, 2007 at 05:32 PM EST
Idlewild is great for family! And friends too!
Thursday June 28, 2007 at 02:25 PM EST
Idlewild is the perfect place for a day of fun... I always enjoy spending a day at Idlewild
Tuesday June 19, 2007 at 07:46 PM EST
A lazy river would be the ride to put you over the top
Thursday June 14, 2007 at 10:40 PM EST
Idlewild is the best place to visit and work. Its by far my favorite job and my favorite park!
~Thanks Heather!~
~Thanks Heather!~
Friday June 8, 2007 at 08:52 AM EST
Idlewild is a great place to visit but an even better place to work.
~It is just as nice to hear from our Team Members as it is our Guests. Thanks for being part of the Team, Josh!~
~It is just as nice to hear from our Team Members as it is our Guests. Thanks for being part of the Team, Josh!~
Thursday June 7, 2007 at 01:24 PM EST
Idlewild is the BEST!
Monday June 4, 2007
SPIDER-MAN Swings into Idlewild!
The World’s Most Popular Super-Hero, Spider-Man swings into Idlewild & SoakZone for four consecutive days, June 4-7.
Spider-Man will be appearing live, signing autographs, and posing for photos at the Gazebo near the Ferris Wheel from 3-5pm and 6-8pm daily. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit with Spider-Man!
SPIDER-MAN Swings into Idlewild!
The World’s Most Popular Super-Hero, Spider-Man swings into Idlewild & SoakZone for four consecutive days, June 4-7.
Spider-Man will be appearing live, signing autographs, and posing for photos at the Gazebo near the Ferris Wheel from 3-5pm and 6-8pm daily. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit with Spider-Man!
1 comment | leave a comment
Wednesday June 6, 2007 at 08:30 AM EST
It was so cool that I got to meet Spider-Man yesterday. He is Awesome!
Sunday May 27, 2007
Memorial Day Salute
Our Memorial Day salute features Civil War living history reenactors Carpenter’s Battery. The encampment, complete with tents, mess area, campfire, and other necessities, depicts the daily life of a Civil War soldier.
Stop by this Sunday May 27 and Monday May 28 as you are sure to enjoy the marches, artillery demonstrations and mock battles representing this powerful event from our nation’s history.
Memorial Day Salute
Our Memorial Day salute features Civil War living history reenactors Carpenter’s Battery. The encampment, complete with tents, mess area, campfire, and other necessities, depicts the daily life of a Civil War soldier.
Stop by this Sunday May 27 and Monday May 28 as you are sure to enjoy the marches, artillery demonstrations and mock battles representing this powerful event from our nation’s history.
1 comment | leave a comment
Thursday June 21, 2007 at 05:19 PM EST
That was awesome!!!!
Saturday May 26, 2007
Ricky Visits With Some Friends
On Saturday May 19th Ricky got to visit with some wonderful children and some of his best friends as Forever Broadcasting sponsored Kid’s Day at the Johnstown Galleria Mall.
Ricky spent the day doing his favorite thing in the world. Visiting and playing with kids! Not only did he get to visit with the children but he got to play with some other local are mascots as well. Ricky loves visitors so stop by Raccoon Lagoon and pay him a visit on your next trip to the park.
Ricky Visits With Some Friends
On Saturday May 19th Ricky got to visit with some wonderful children and some of his best friends as Forever Broadcasting sponsored Kid’s Day at the Johnstown Galleria Mall.
Ricky spent the day doing his favorite thing in the world. Visiting and playing with kids! Not only did he get to visit with the children but he got to play with some other local are mascots as well. Ricky loves visitors so stop by Raccoon Lagoon and pay him a visit on your next trip to the park.
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Friday May 11, 2007
Season Pass Photo I.D. Processing
Avoid waiting in line during your first visit to the Park, and have your Season Pass processed weekdays (Monday through Friday) beginning May 14 through May 23 from 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. Season Passes are also availble for purchase at this time. Please enter the Park through the Main Gate and follow the signs to Parking Lot C, then follow arrows to Guest Services.
Season Pass Photo I.D. Processing
Avoid waiting in line during your first visit to the Park, and have your Season Pass processed weekdays (Monday through Friday) beginning May 14 through May 23 from 1:00 - 4:30 p.m. Season Passes are also availble for purchase at this time. Please enter the Park through the Main Gate and follow the signs to Parking Lot C, then follow arrows to Guest Services.
1 comment | leave a comment
Monday June 4, 2007 at 12:43 PM EST
Thanks for the advice. Your Great!
Monday May 7, 2007
Getting Ready for Summer!
While we are very busy getting ready for opening day, we thought we could give you a "sneak peak" into some of the preparations being done for the summer season.
Here is one of our Ride Supervisors hanging a new commemorative in-park banner. These banners have a special edition 130th Season Logo on one side and the Idlewild & SoakZone logo on the other. Both logos are set on top of a vintage picture of the Caterpillar from the 1940’s. These commemorative banners will be available for purchase at the end of the season so make sure you take a good look when you’re here this summer.
Wouldn't one look great on your wall!
Getting Ready for Summer!
While we are very busy getting ready for opening day, we thought we could give you a "sneak peak" into some of the preparations being done for the summer season.
Here is one of our Ride Supervisors hanging a new commemorative in-park banner. These banners have a special edition 130th Season Logo on one side and the Idlewild & SoakZone logo on the other. Both logos are set on top of a vintage picture of the Caterpillar from the 1940’s. These commemorative banners will be available for purchase at the end of the season so make sure you take a good look when you’re here this summer.
Wouldn't one look great on your wall!
3 comments | leave a comment
Monday June 4, 2007 at 12:42 PM EST
Yea. I was very pleased with the banners when i went to the park, Great work!
Sunday May 27, 2007 at 07:59 PM EST
we saw the new banner when we visited, they look really nice. What about the ones in Raccoon Lagoon, will they be available for sale as well?
~The Raccoon Lagoon Banners will not be for sale at the end of the year~
~The Raccoon Lagoon Banners will not be for sale at the end of the year~
Monday May 7, 2007 at 11:32 AM EST
Available for purchase?That sounds fantastic! Any idea on the cost so I know how many pennies to save?
~It looks like they are going to be $50.00. Thats only 5000 pennies!~
~It looks like they are going to be $50.00. Thats only 5000 pennies!~
Tuesday April 17, 2007
A Little Taste of Summer!
If you’re like us then you’re really starting to miss summer. That’s why today when we got a call from the "Westmoreland Columbus 500" Italian Day committee we got pretty excited.
Italian Day is fun for the whole family with Ethnic foods, Entertainment, Dancing, The Colavita Cup Bocci Tournament and Fireworks. The best part is you don’t even need to be Italian. So, if you’re craving for a little taste of Italy this summer come and experience the Italian Day Festa at Idlewild & SoakZone on August 17th.
The Italian Day committee also sent over a little video of the Fireworks from last year’s Italian Festa. Our favorite part is the finale!
Enjoy!
A Little Taste of Summer!
If you’re like us then you’re really starting to miss summer. That’s why today when we got a call from the "Westmoreland Columbus 500" Italian Day committee we got pretty excited.
Italian Day is fun for the whole family with Ethnic foods, Entertainment, Dancing, The Colavita Cup Bocci Tournament and Fireworks. The best part is you don’t even need to be Italian. So, if you’re craving for a little taste of Italy this summer come and experience the Italian Day Festa at Idlewild & SoakZone on August 17th.
The Italian Day committee also sent over a little video of the Fireworks from last year’s Italian Festa. Our favorite part is the finale!
Enjoy!
3 comments | leave a comment
Wednesday June 20, 2007 at 10:03 PM EST
Hi I am Jessica I never Been To the park but i am hopeing that i can go soon i have been on the website every day for the past month. I just read about the ride and dream that one day i can go.My mom and day said that i may be able to go this suummer.
~We look forward to seeing you soon!~
~We look forward to seeing you soon!~
Thursday May 3, 2007 at 08:12 AM EST
i think idlewild is cool because it has fun wet neat rides
~ Thank you!~
~ Thank you!~
Wednesday May 2, 2007 at 03:22 PM EST
When are you going to give an update about the new things in the park for the upcoming season?
~Very Soon!~
~Very Soon!~
Sunday March 11, 2007
COASTERBASH!
On Saturday, March 10, I attended the Western PA Region American Coaster Enthusiasts' COASTERBASH! What a great group of people! These folks travel cross country (and internationally) to ride as many roller coasters as they can ...and they really know how to have FUN.
COASTERBASH features many speakers from various parks detailing what is new and exciting at their park and within the industry. Other speakers detail the history of roller coasters, defunct amusement parks, and other amusement park related matters. Vendors are on site selling memorabilia, books, and more. What always impresses me is the videos they show....highlighting coasters across the globe. These well-produced videos look like they were made by the finest Hollywood producers instead of amusement park afficianados sporting camcorders...but that just goes to show you the love they have for these popular rides - that they showcase them so well.
All of us who work at amusement parks owe the ACERs and other enthusiasts a big THANK YOU. Your genourous support of our industry is greatly appreciated. It is definately our pleasure to serve you!
Also, I want to personally thank all the Western PA ACERs for the fine reception they offered (as always!) at COASTERBASH 2007. Oh, and if anyone just happens to have a picture of the "hats", I'd love to see it. I look forward to seeing you this summer when you visit us at Idlewild & SoakZone! The Rollo Coaster and Wild Mouse will be waiting for you.
For more information on the American Coaster Enthusiasts or details on how you can become a member, visit their website:
www.aceonline.org
COASTERBASH!
On Saturday, March 10, I attended the Western PA Region American Coaster Enthusiasts' COASTERBASH! What a great group of people! These folks travel cross country (and internationally) to ride as many roller coasters as they can ...and they really know how to have FUN.
COASTERBASH features many speakers from various parks detailing what is new and exciting at their park and within the industry. Other speakers detail the history of roller coasters, defunct amusement parks, and other amusement park related matters. Vendors are on site selling memorabilia, books, and more. What always impresses me is the videos they show....highlighting coasters across the globe. These well-produced videos look like they were made by the finest Hollywood producers instead of amusement park afficianados sporting camcorders...but that just goes to show you the love they have for these popular rides - that they showcase them so well.
All of us who work at amusement parks owe the ACERs and other enthusiasts a big THANK YOU. Your genourous support of our industry is greatly appreciated. It is definately our pleasure to serve you!
Also, I want to personally thank all the Western PA ACERs for the fine reception they offered (as always!) at COASTERBASH 2007. Oh, and if anyone just happens to have a picture of the "hats", I'd love to see it. I look forward to seeing you this summer when you visit us at Idlewild & SoakZone! The Rollo Coaster and Wild Mouse will be waiting for you.
For more information on the American Coaster Enthusiasts or details on how you can become a member, visit their website:
www.aceonline.org
5 comments | leave a comment
Saturday April 28, 2007 at 04:52 PM EST
u should really get pictures of the new ride and i cant wait to come back again this season.
Sunday April 15, 2007 at 03:33 PM EST
I love ths park.. sure Kennywood is great but this park it a real family fun place to be! <3
Thursday April 12, 2007 at 06:35 PM EST
Give us an update. Get people excited for the season. :)
~Updates are on the way!~
~Updates are on the way!~
Tuesday April 3, 2007 at 11:50 PM EST
This website looks really great! You did a fantastic job! Cant wait to come back to work.
Monday March 12, 2007 at 03:21 PM EST
Thank you for going the extra mile to show us acers your presentation, it was greatly appreciated. Your love for Idlewild and Soakzone shows in all your presentations.
Monday February 26, 2007
The Wild Bunch Is Hootin' And Hollerin'
Howdy, folks! My name's Cyrus Jo', and I'll be yer guest blogger today. I ain't never tried this bloggin' stuff, ya hear, but I went to see Miss Lizzy, the smartest lady in Hootin' Holler, and she set me up with this here machine so I can do this computin' and all. I was just so excited 'bout what I'm about to tell ya, I had to pass the word.
Well, anyhoo, I just tried this new grub that the newest members of the Wild Bunch in Hootin' Holler are fixin' to serve ya'll this summer. And, Golly! ...it's mighty fine.
Ya see, there were some strangers who came into town this winter and - friendly as we all are in Hootin' Holler' - we welcomed 'em all with open arms. We helped 'em get all set up with their new dinin' establishment and boy oh boy, did they reward us with some down-right finger-lickin' tasty morsels from the Orient. That's right THE ORIENT! Miss Lizzy tells me that's like somewhere 'cross the Ocean.
We call this new establishment, PACIFIC TRADERS, cuz that's the ocean they came across... and the new viddles they're servin' are called Peking Chickin', Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry, Sweet and Sour Chickin', Vegetarian Teriyaki, and General Tso's Chickin'.
I'm not sure who that General Tso fella was, but he liked his chickin' Spi-iii-cy! Well, they have other items like Rice, Veggies and something called an Egg Roll , too.
I asked 'em - "Don't all eggs roll?" and gave a little snicker, but I don't think they thought it too funny and all.
Well, this computin' was kinda fun! Maybe I'll check back again sometime when I have some more stuff to holler' about. In the mean time, be sure to stop and see me and the rest of the Wild Bunch in yer favorite town - Hootin' Holler' - only at Idlewild!
The Wild Bunch Is Hootin' And Hollerin'
Howdy, folks! My name's Cyrus Jo', and I'll be yer guest blogger today. I ain't never tried this bloggin' stuff, ya hear, but I went to see Miss Lizzy, the smartest lady in Hootin' Holler, and she set me up with this here machine so I can do this computin' and all. I was just so excited 'bout what I'm about to tell ya, I had to pass the word.
Well, anyhoo, I just tried this new grub that the newest members of the Wild Bunch in Hootin' Holler are fixin' to serve ya'll this summer. And, Golly! ...it's mighty fine.
Ya see, there were some strangers who came into town this winter and - friendly as we all are in Hootin' Holler' - we welcomed 'em all with open arms. We helped 'em get all set up with their new dinin' establishment and boy oh boy, did they reward us with some down-right finger-lickin' tasty morsels from the Orient. That's right THE ORIENT! Miss Lizzy tells me that's like somewhere 'cross the Ocean.
We call this new establishment, PACIFIC TRADERS, cuz that's the ocean they came across... and the new viddles they're servin' are called Peking Chickin', Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry, Sweet and Sour Chickin', Vegetarian Teriyaki, and General Tso's Chickin'.
I'm not sure who that General Tso fella was, but he liked his chickin' Spi-iii-cy! Well, they have other items like Rice, Veggies and something called an Egg Roll , too.
I asked 'em - "Don't all eggs roll?" and gave a little snicker, but I don't think they thought it too funny and all.
Well, this computin' was kinda fun! Maybe I'll check back again sometime when I have some more stuff to holler' about. In the mean time, be sure to stop and see me and the rest of the Wild Bunch in yer favorite town - Hootin' Holler' - only at Idlewild!
3 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday February 27, 2007 at 03:27 PM EST
Well, that soulds really good! See you there!
Monday February 26, 2007 at 08:21 PM EST
sounds yummy! I can hardly wait for the park to open so I can try the new food!
Monday February 26, 2007 at 06:28 PM EST
Howdy! It sounds powerful delicioso! Adios!
Friday February 9, 2007
The Moment You Have All Been Waiting For...
...has finally arrived – our new ride announcement!
This summer, as we celebrate our 130th season, riders can earn their wings on:
Based on a classic amusement ride from the early half of the 1900’s, Flying Aces is an updated version of the popular Flying Skooters™ ride found in many amusement parks more than 50 years ago.
Idlewild’s version, manufactured by Premier Rides, Inc., consists of ten cable-suspended planes, each holding two people. As the ride begins to rotate and pick up speed, centrifugal force will swing the aircraft outward to a diameter of 100 feet. While racing along at speeds of more than 35 miles per hour, the “pilots” will able to manipulate a vertical wing located in the front of each plane. As the wing is moved the planes swing inward or outward giving our gutsy “aces” a high-flying rush of excitement. Now that’s FUN!!!
Flying Aces will be located near the Rollo Coaster, in the area that has been occupied by the Trinado for the past 9 years. The Trinado has been removed for this season. Because the new ride needs a little more space (for swing out) than it’s predecessor, you will also notice a slight redesign of the Park’s midway in that area
The attraction will be themed to resemble a flight school for America’s earliest “flying aces”.
All of us here at Idlewild are glad to be able to bring the fun and excitement of this timeless classic to brand new generations. We hope you’ll all agree that Flying Aces makes a perfect addition to Idlewild’s list of family-fun rides. Be sure to check back for updates on some of the other changes in store for 2007!
The Moment You Have All Been Waiting For...
...has finally arrived – our new ride announcement!
This summer, as we celebrate our 130th season, riders can earn their wings on:
Based on a classic amusement ride from the early half of the 1900’s, Flying Aces is an updated version of the popular Flying Skooters™ ride found in many amusement parks more than 50 years ago.
Idlewild’s version, manufactured by Premier Rides, Inc., consists of ten cable-suspended planes, each holding two people. As the ride begins to rotate and pick up speed, centrifugal force will swing the aircraft outward to a diameter of 100 feet. While racing along at speeds of more than 35 miles per hour, the “pilots” will able to manipulate a vertical wing located in the front of each plane. As the wing is moved the planes swing inward or outward giving our gutsy “aces” a high-flying rush of excitement. Now that’s FUN!!!
Flying Aces will be located near the Rollo Coaster, in the area that has been occupied by the Trinado for the past 9 years. The Trinado has been removed for this season. Because the new ride needs a little more space (for swing out) than it’s predecessor, you will also notice a slight redesign of the Park’s midway in that area
The attraction will be themed to resemble a flight school for America’s earliest “flying aces”.
All of us here at Idlewild are glad to be able to bring the fun and excitement of this timeless classic to brand new generations. We hope you’ll all agree that Flying Aces makes a perfect addition to Idlewild’s list of family-fun rides. Be sure to check back for updates on some of the other changes in store for 2007!
31 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday March 2, 2010 at 07:56 PM EST
The Flying Aces has been in the park for two seasons and two and a half winters now, and I've been meaning to give some history on the Tri-Nado since its been taken out of the park. See my post above this one.
Monday March 24, 2008 at 06:55 PM EST
I saw the Tri-Nado was closed most of the 05 season, even though that ride was only 9 yrs old when it was removed (one season @ Kennywood it mustve been hard to secure parts n find new ones.
Wednesday August 1, 2007 at 11:40 PM EST
Yes, i am happy that they removed the Trinado because i hatted that ride but i love the flying aces thank you Idlewild!!!
Wednesday June 13, 2007 at 06:10 PM EST
I think the park really needed the Flying Aces, but why in place of the Trinado?
~It was time for a change~
~It was time for a change~
Monday May 21, 2007 at 07:18 PM EST
im just wondering, but are there any roller coasters at the park seem as great as ths one?
~We have two great roller coasters at the park! The Wild Mouse and the Rollo Coaster. Both are very fun!~
~We have two great roller coasters at the park! The Wild Mouse and the Rollo Coaster. Both are very fun!~
Sunday May 20, 2007 at 04:35 PM EST
omg...i cant wait to see the new ride it sounds so fun..to bad they took down the trinado!
Friday May 18, 2007 at 09:28 AM EST
im so excited i cant wait.
~Opening Day is almost here!~
~Opening Day is almost here!~
Thursday May 17, 2007 at 09:03 PM EST
this ride looks pretty cool!
Saturday May 12, 2007 at 04:13 PM EST
i thing im ganna love this ride =]
Saturday May 5, 2007 at 05:03 PM EST
I love the ride and am ecstatic about opening day 2007! When do you open? May 24???
~May 24th is Opening Day! I hope you are as excited as we are.~
~May 24th is Opening Day! I hope you are as excited as we are.~
Saturday April 28, 2007 at 04:58 PM EST
nice pic
Friday April 20, 2007 at 04:07 PM EST
That sounds really fun, please get pictures.
Monday April 16, 2007 at 03:04 PM EST
what is a flying aces
~Flying Aces is our new ride this year at the park. It is a 10 car Flying Scooter sure to please adults and children alike.~
~Flying Aces is our new ride this year at the park. It is a 10 car Flying Scooter sure to please adults and children alike.~
Sunday April 15, 2007 at 02:23 PM EST
This new ride seems like a very fun and thrilling ride to ride.
Sunday April 15, 2007 at 12:41 PM EST
Are we going to be able to see any construction pics of the new ride? Thanks!
Tuesday February 27, 2007 at 11:10 AM EST
At first my heart skipped a beat and I thought you were going to say you were putting in the "silver" airplanes that were located near the tilt a whirl. I do remember the planes that you could guide. Should be alot of FUN..keep up the good work and bring on MORE rides that remember.
Monday February 26, 2007 at 06:33 PM EST
The Flying Aces? Sounds like something that could use some ragtime music. Also, sounds like the old Dipsy-Doodle ride they had at Kennywood, please take photos ASAP. Thank you.
Wednesday February 21, 2007 at 11:56 AM EST
Hi, Wow sounds awesome, something extra for the older kids!
Monday February 19, 2007 at 02:17 AM EST
This ride seems like a lot of fun! I can not wait until next season!
Friday February 16, 2007 at 07:28 PM EST
I loved the Trinado ride I
hope u put a new ride in just like it.
~I can promise you that Flying Aces will be even more thrilling than the Trinado~
~I can promise you that Flying Aces will be even more thrilling than the Trinado~
Wednesday February 14, 2007 at 12:01 PM EST
The new website is great, Jeff. Congrats!
Love it there in the snow.
Tuesday February 13, 2007 at 05:57 PM EST
Sounds like a ride that I enjoyed as a child...wish you showed a picture!
Tuesday February 13, 2007 at 04:53 PM EST
This sounds like the old Dipsy Doodle that Kennywood Park had many years ago.
Monday February 12, 2007 at 06:19 PM EST
this ride will be fun!!! i wish they gave more description of it though.
Monday February 12, 2007 at 01:36 PM EST
I think you found a ride that the park really needed.Looking forward to it!
Sunday February 11, 2007 at 12:08 PM EST
Flying Scooters! What a great choice for a ride for Idlewild. It really is a perfect fit. I look forward to riding them! See you soon!
Saturday February 10, 2007 at 03:45 PM EST
Awesome! Flyers are the best flat ride ever. I wish every park had a set.
Saturday February 10, 2007 at 11:13 AM EST
finally some more information on it. it will really help me out with my virtual business project now.
Friday February 9, 2007 at 05:01 PM EST
This sounds fun. Nice to see another family ride that will also provides some thrills for the older members of the family.
Friday February 9, 2007 at 03:50 PM EST
nice!
Friday February 9, 2007 at 03:46 PM EST
this sounds really fun!
Monday January 29, 2007
Some Idle 'Wild Winter Photos
I must admit that we have been pretty lucky so far this winter. Mild weather has enabled us to get a lot of off-season work done ahead of schedule. This past week, however, we've gone from mild to wild as winter finally arrived.
While it's true that frigid cold temps and a thick blanket of snow make it difficult to finish up some outdoor projects, they really do transform the Park into a eye-pleasing winter wonderland.
Though the park has always been know for its natural beauty which can be witnessed in the Spring, Summer, and Fall, I hope you'll agree that this wonderful "mountain playground" sure looks beautiful in the winter as well. It's my pleasure to give you this peek inside the Park in these idle 'wild winter photos
Some Idle 'Wild Winter Photos
I must admit that we have been pretty lucky so far this winter. Mild weather has enabled us to get a lot of off-season work done ahead of schedule. This past week, however, we've gone from mild to wild as winter finally arrived.
While it's true that frigid cold temps and a thick blanket of snow make it difficult to finish up some outdoor projects, they really do transform the Park into a eye-pleasing winter wonderland.
Though the park has always been know for its natural beauty which can be witnessed in the Spring, Summer, and Fall, I hope you'll agree that this wonderful "mountain playground" sure looks beautiful in the winter as well. It's my pleasure to give you this peek inside the Park in these idle 'wild winter photos
7 comments | leave a comment
Tuesday June 19, 2007 at 06:32 AM EST
Beautiful. Hey, do you guys do anything in the Winter? Looks like a great time to do some historical tours about the park...perhaps some snowshoe tours when it gets all blanketed in snow like this!
Monday June 11, 2007 at 01:09 PM EST
it looks very nice in the winter
Wednesday May 30, 2007 at 06:49 PM EST
what is idle wild like i like idle wild because you can have soo much fun and family time with each other
Saturday May 5, 2007 at 05:05 PM EST
I love the pictures. Especially my favorite ride in the summer, "Paul Bunyans Loggin Tobbagan. It looks great in Summer and Winter too. Keep up the good work. The new site looks good too. How do you do it all?
~ Hard work and lots of help!~
~ Hard work and lots of help!~
Saturday February 24, 2007 at 10:58 PM EST
What BEAUTIFUL photos! I never ever saw an amusement park in Winter
Monday February 12, 2007 at 11:54 AM EST
love the exquisite pictures of the park.
Sunday February 11, 2007 at 05:53 PM EST
What beautiful pictures & a unique way to see the park.
Friday January 12, 2007
Idlewild Cares Program
We hope you and your family are off to a great New Year and wanted to make you aware of a wonderful program and a very important deadline!
January 31 is the deadline for 501C-3 non-profit organizations to submit requests for our Children's Charities Tickets Program which provides free tickets to children with various physical or economic challenges.
Since 1992, our three Kennywood Entertainment parks in western Pennsylvania, Kennywood, Idlewild & SoakZone, and Sandcastle, have donated nearly 200,000 tickets for summer fun to youngsters. The mission of Children's Charities Tickets is to help others make a difference in the children's lives by providing free tickets to disadvantaged children and/or children with disabilities, and for fund-raising purposes for agencies that work directly with them.
A rotating committee of Team Members (employees) from each park administers the program. Non-profit 501C-3 organizations wishing to apply for free tickets for the 2007 season may visit all of our Park's Web sites such as Kennywood Park, Sandcastle Waterpark and Idlewild & SoakZone for an application.
We will award all tickets by March 31. Please spread the good word!
Note: Pictured above is Mother Goose and our good friend Alexis.
Idlewild Cares Program
We hope you and your family are off to a great New Year and wanted to make you aware of a wonderful program and a very important deadline!
January 31 is the deadline for 501C-3 non-profit organizations to submit requests for our Children's Charities Tickets Program which provides free tickets to children with various physical or economic challenges.
Since 1992, our three Kennywood Entertainment parks in western Pennsylvania, Kennywood, Idlewild & SoakZone, and Sandcastle, have donated nearly 200,000 tickets for summer fun to youngsters. The mission of Children's Charities Tickets is to help others make a difference in the children's lives by providing free tickets to disadvantaged children and/or children with disabilities, and for fund-raising purposes for agencies that work directly with them.
A rotating committee of Team Members (employees) from each park administers the program. Non-profit 501C-3 organizations wishing to apply for free tickets for the 2007 season may visit all of our Park's Web sites such as Kennywood Park, Sandcastle Waterpark and Idlewild & SoakZone for an application.
We will award all tickets by March 31. Please spread the good word!
Note: Pictured above is Mother Goose and our good friend Alexis.
1 comment | leave a comment
Monday February 26, 2007 at 06:36 PM EST
I like that program!
Wednesday December 20, 2006
'Tis the Season
I do love Christmas time. It's certainly one of my favorite times of year!
Idlewild, of course, is known as one of the most popular family destinations during the summer months, but I was surprised to find out that one family actually plans a drive to Idlewild each December...and they don't even enter the gate! You see, they drive out to see "Big Santa". Yes, "Big Santa"...the tall figure that stands at the exit gate each year and sends extra large holiday greetings to all travelers along US Route 30.
I haven't been able to determine how many years "Big Santa" has been sending his Holiday greetings from Idlewild, but he certainly has become a holiday tradition! Christmas lights and garland complete the public display at the exit gate, but inside the Main Office we always put up a Christmas tree. Christmas music is played throughout the hallways which are adorned with all of the holiday cards sent in by Team Members, Guests, Suppliers, and other friends.
As we process all the Idlewild Season Pass orders that many lucky people will be receiving this Christmas, know that we are definately in a Christmas atmoshpere and in the Christmas spirit!!
'Tis the Season
I do love Christmas time. It's certainly one of my favorite times of year!
Idlewild, of course, is known as one of the most popular family destinations during the summer months, but I was surprised to find out that one family actually plans a drive to Idlewild each December...and they don't even enter the gate! You see, they drive out to see "Big Santa". Yes, "Big Santa"...the tall figure that stands at the exit gate each year and sends extra large holiday greetings to all travelers along US Route 30.
I haven't been able to determine how many years "Big Santa" has been sending his Holiday greetings from Idlewild, but he certainly has become a holiday tradition! Christmas lights and garland complete the public display at the exit gate, but inside the Main Office we always put up a Christmas tree. Christmas music is played throughout the hallways which are adorned with all of the holiday cards sent in by Team Members, Guests, Suppliers, and other friends.
As we process all the Idlewild Season Pass orders that many lucky people will be receiving this Christmas, know that we are definately in a Christmas atmoshpere and in the Christmas spirit!!7 comments | leave a comment
Friday July 30, 2010 at 05:23 PM EST
what a great park in the mountains clean, green and full of great thingsd to do. you have to go before the snow flys...
Friday February 20, 2009 at 12:02 PM EST
happy holidays
Saturday February 24, 2007 at 11:01 PM EST
I like the giant Santa, Ho, Ho, Ho!
Monday February 19, 2007 at 10:24 PM EST
Love the new site.
Monday February 19, 2007 at 02:15 AM EST
I do the same thing sort of. I always go to the Idlweild area to see the giant santa!
Thursday February 15, 2007 at 09:05 PM EST
Beautiful winter pictures of my favorite park! I have gone to Idlewild for nearly 60 years! Love the strawberry waffle cones!
Saturday February 10, 2007 at 11:36 AM EST
Love the new site. See you soon