It’s officially time to get back to The Point.
Cedar Point just announced its 157th season, kicking off May 9, 2026—and this summer is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in years.
From brand-new events to major celebrations and classic coaster milestones, here’s everything you need to know before planning your trip.
🎢 Opening Day is May 9, 2026
Cedar Point returns for another season packed with thrills, family attractions, and big-time energy along the shores of Lake Erie.
Park President Colleen Brady summed it up best—there’s a ton of excitement heading into the season, especially with newer attractions like:
- Siren’s Curse
- Top Thrill 2
If you’re planning your first visit of the year, expect strong crowds early—especially opening weekend.
👉 Kerney-cation tip: Get there 20–30 minutes before park open (or early entry) to beat the rush.
🍺 NEW: Barrels & Bites Event (June 5–28)
Cedar Point is adding an all-new food festival-style experience this summer.
Barrels & Bites will take place along Frontier Trail and feature:
- Craft beer, bourbon, and wine
- Specialty food pairings
- Live entertainment
- Unique culinary creations from the park
This feels like Cedar Point’s answer to a more adult-friendly food festival, while still keeping it family accessible.
👉 If you’ve enjoyed events like food festivals at other parks, this could be a sleeper hit for 2026.
🇺🇸 Star-Spangled Celebration (June 29 – July 4)
To celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Cedar Point is going BIG.
The Star-Spangled Celebration presented by M&M’S® includes:
- Skydiving demonstrations
- Live music (including the Ohio National Guard’s 122nd Army Band)
- WWII aircraft flyovers (Flight of the Flags)
- Specialty food & drinks
- Interactive contests and entertainment
And of course…
🎆 One of the largest fireworks displays on the Great Lakes on July 4
👉 This will likely be one of the most crowded weeks of the year, but also one of the most memorable.
🎖️ New Veterans VIP Parking
A really nice addition for 2026:
Cedar Point is introducing Veterans VIP Parking, located right near the front gate.
This is in addition to:
- Discounted admission for military and first responders
It’s a simple upgrade—but one that shows real appreciation.
🎉 Corkscrew Turns 50
Corkscrew is celebrating 50 years in 2026.
Originally introduced in 1976:
- First coaster with three inversions
- First to go over a midway
Even today, it’s still:
- A rite of passage for new coaster riders
- A nostalgic favorite for longtime fans
👉 If you’re bringing kids, this is still one of the best “first big coaster” experiences.
🎢 The Ride Lineup is Still Elite
Cedar Point continues to deliver one of the best ride collections anywhere:
- 18 roller coasters
- 66 total rides
- Multiple kids’ areas
- Classic attractions like:
- Cedar Downs Racing Derby
- Giant Wheel
- Cedar Point & Lake Erie Railroad
And of course…
🔥 Siren’s Curse (New for 2026 focus)
- 160 ft lift hill
- 90° tilt drop
- 58 mph top speed
- 13 airtime moments
- Onboard audio
This is going to be one of the most talked-about coasters this season.
🎟️ Regional Gold Pass (Huge Value Play)
The Regional Gold Pass continues to be one of the best deals in the industry.
It includes:
- Cedar Point + Cedar Point Shores
- Access to:
- Kings Island
- Canada’s Wonderland
- Six Flags Great America
- Darien Lake and more
- Free parking
- Discounts & bring-a-friend perks
It also gives you access to Kings Island’s new 2026 ride:
- Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare
👉 Payment plan: ~$35 down + ~$23/month
For Ohio families, this is still one of the best theme park values you can get.
🧠 Kerney-cation Takeaways
Here’s what matters most for your 2026 planning:
- Opening Day (May 9) = exciting but crowded
- Early arrival is STILL your biggest advantage
- Barrels & Bites could be a hidden gem event
- July 4 week = incredible… but very busy
- Siren’s Curse + Top Thrill 2 = must-do rides
- Gold Pass = best bang for your buck
🎥 What We’re Covering Next
We’ll be at Cedar Point this season covering:
- Opening Day crowds & strategy
- Special Events(especially Barrels & Bites 👀)
- Family tips with kids
- Full day strategy guides
👉 Make sure to follow Kerney-cation on YouTube and Instagram for full coverage.