Kennywood, Idlewild, Sandcastle delay 2020 season openings

Kennywood Park, Sandcastle and Idlewild Park all announced Wednesday the start of their 2020 seasons will be delayed.

In a statement posted Wednesday on the West Mifflin park’s website, Kennywood’s management said while they look forward to welcoming guests this year, “there is a great deal of uncertainty for us all surrounding the current covid-19 situation.

“Because of the shutdown of preseason preparations, we know we won’t be ready to start our season as normally planned on Saturday, May 2.”

A similar message was posted on websites for West Homestead’s Sandcastle and Ligonier Township’s Idlewild Park and SoakZone. Sandcastle’s season was set to begin May 23, while Idlewild’s season was to begin May 16.

None of the parks provided a new opening date, saying they remain committed to opening as “soon as safely possible.”

The three parks are operated by Palace Entertainment, which is owned by the Spanish company Parques Reunidos.

Because of the delay, all three parks said they would automatically extend Season Passholders’ contracts through June 2021, and will make available at some point this year the opportunity for them to extend their passes through December 2021 at a reduced rate. “We appreciate your understanding and value your support during these challenging times,” the park management said in closing. “Thank you, and stay safe.”

At Kennywood, Good Any Day tickets that have already been purchased will be valid through the end of the 2020 season, the park’s website says. Guests with additional questions about their tickets can email info@kennywood.com to connect with Guest Services.

Kennywood said it is trying reschedule dates for its annual Season Passholder Appreciation Weekend and other early season events.

Anyone with questions can check the park’s website, kennywood.com, and a Frequently Asked Questions section.