DonHelbig

They tried German fare in the Festhaus when it opened. It didn’t work. They also tried it in the building that’s now Enrique’s. It didn’t work.

Turkey Ball in Grain & Grill > then the Meatloaf Burger outside Juke Box Diner in the cold.

https://news.bloomberglaw.com/class-action/six-flags-fails-to-avoid-website-data-tracker-lawsuit

Means nothing the WinterFest dates for 2026 are on the calendar. Ask those who bought Kings Dominion passes for 2025 after seeing the event advertised.

Back in the 80s, there weren’t as many rides open, or outdoor entertainment. People went to watch the indoor shows in the Festhaus and KI Theater, shop, and see the model train display. That made it easier to stay open on the inclement weather days.

Today (Dec. 13, 2025), entertainment icon Dick Van Dyke celebrates his 100th birthday. He’s a memorable part of Kings Island’s history. In 1977, Van Dyke became a key face of the park’s marketing, starring in TV commercials for Kings Island (and sister park Kings Dominion). That same year, he officially dedicated Kings Island’s outdoor International Showplace.

I love CP! They’ve done a terrific job over the years of adding new hardware without destroying the charm.

When you give away the gate, did you have a good year?

It didn’t sell out quick this year.

That costs money they don’t have right now.

KIC members were guests for a Tower Topics Roundtable show about this year’s WinterFest hits, misses, and must-dos.

Fox 19 did a fantastic story on Gary Wachs, who was recently inducted into the IAAPA Hall of Fame. https://www.fox19.com/2025/12/03/how-kings-island-was-born-founder-receives-hall-fame-honor/

I’d like to see a Big Bear Mountain type coaster in the spot once occupied by The Vortex. While some wouldn’t be excited about it, the majority of Kings Island visitors would be since it would have broader appeal.

Holiday Lights at Kennywood has better lights than Kings Island or Carowinds. Synchronized to the music throughout the park. If you enjoy lights and holiday music, you’d love Kennywood’s event.

I’m cautiously optimistic with John Reilly coming in as the new CEO, but there are a lot of challenges ahead he and the company are going to face before anyone can break out the party streamers.