ALLENTOWN, Pa. — There’s no doubt anticipation for Dorney Park’s 2024 season is building because of its new Iron Menace roller coaster — the first “dive” coaster in the Northeast, with a 95-degree drop and four inversions.
But there will be other new features when the park opens for the season, Dorney announced this week.
Summer Nights, to be held select nights July 12-Aug. 18, will “celebrate the best of summer at Dorney Park,” according to a news release.
“Our live entertainment will transport you to tropical shores with its energetic beats,” the release said. “Feel the rush of exhilarating night rides on our top-rated coasters, indulge in Caribbean and Latin American inspired cuisine, and sip exotic beverages.”
Dorney called it “the region's most thrilling summertime party, a perfect blend of rides, food and live entertainment.”
Also new for the season will be Tricks and Treats, a “family-friendly Halloween event” on Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 14-Oct. 27, Dorney said.
“Celebrate the season with mischievous tricks, tasty treats, our popular family rides and so much more,” the release said.
Iron Menace track is complete
But before those new offerings, Dorney officially will open May 10.
That’s when the public will get its first look at the all-new Iron Menace roller coaster and the park’s new Steel Yard area, as well as longtime favorites such as Planet Snoopy, more than 60 rides and live entertainment.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom announced this week that the track circuit for Iron Menace is complete.
"We are so excited to celebrate the addition of the Iron Menace with an exciting lineup of events that are sure to dazzle and delight. This promises to be a historic year for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom and when you're making history, events have to be a part of that."Dorney Vice President and General Manager Jessica Naderman
Crews on Wednesday “put the last orange piece in place, moving the project one giant step closer to overall completion,” Dorney said in a release.
“With the final track piece in position, crews can now focus on the station work as they prepare for the next phase of the project, testing and commissioning.”
Iron Menace is the first new coaster built at Dorney in 19 years, according to the park.
"This is an exciting day for Dorney Park, our guests and our community,' Dorney Communications and Public Relations Manager Ryan Eldredge said.
"We started by announcing two new events for our 2024 season and we end with the news that our track is connected. It’s such a special time to be at Dorney Park.”
Dorney Vice President and General Manager Jessica Naderman said, "We are so excited to celebrate the addition of the Iron Menace with an exciting lineup of events that are sure to dazzle and delight."
"This promises to be a historic year for Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom and when you're making history, events have to be a part of that."
Water park, food trucks and haunts
Wildwater Kingdom also will open May 25 and operate its slides and splashes, water attractions, food locations, premium cabanas and shaded lounge areas through Sept. 2.
The season for Wildwater Kingdom actually will start six days early for season pass holders with a preview day.
"With 19 unique water attractions, three bars, unique restaurants and more, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family."Dorney Park release about Wildwater Kingdom
"With 19 unique water attractions, three bars, unique restaurants and more, there’s plenty of fun for the whole family," Dorney said.
Returning this year will be the popular Halloween Haunt on select nights, Sept. 13-Oct. 26, with haunted mazes, scare zones and live entertainment. Thrill rides also will be open during the Halloween event.
Also returning will be the Food Truck Rally on Oct. 19-20, with food trucks from across the region.
Silver passes now are available online for unlimited access to the park, Wildwater Kingdom, live shows and events. For more ticket information or to see the full event and entertainment schedule, go to the park website.