When it was announced in August that Carowinds would remain closed for the season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it was assumed that the park’s “long winter’s nap” following WinterFest 2019 would continue into Spring 2021. Fortunately, for those who “need a little Christmas, right this very minute,” we have some exciting news for you.
Following reopening guidelines from both North and South Carolina, the park is reopening in November with a NEW limited-time event; Carowinds Taste of the Season: An Outdoor Holiday Experience. The event will be open on select dates between November 21 and December 20. (Fun fact: There are 12 days on the calendar. No word if there will be drummers drumming or ladies dancing!)
Only at Carowinds will you find a food-tasting extravaganza with a sleigh-full of fun family activities. You’ll be able to purchase a Tasting Card to choose among 30 samples of delicious holiday sweets and savories. Guests will be able to feast their eyes on dazzling holiday décor, enjoy seasonal shows, and wrap up their Christmas shopping. What’s more, select family rides will be open to deliver the ear-to-ear smiles and belly laughs you’ve come to love from Carowinds.
And for coaster enthusiasts who might have missed out on riding any roller coasters in 2020, the park notes that they will have Ricochet, Afterburn, and Copperhead Strike open!
As has been the case for parks around the world in 2020, stringent health, safety and hygiene protocols will be in place to protect guests and associates. Reservations will be required for all guests to manage capacity and maintain social distance standards.
More event details including menu items, entertainment options, activities and rides will be released November 9.
Important Note: Season Passholder reservations open November 9, and single-day tickets (which will automatically be tied to a reservation) will be available beginning November 11.
“The safety of our guests and associates is always our top priority and our guests can be confident they can visit Carowinds and have fun safely,” said Pat Jones, vice president and general manager at Carowinds. “Our health and safety protocols align with CDC guidance and we incorporated information from company and industry health and safety experts, along with our state and local government officials. We couldn’t be more ready and excited to welcome guests back to the park for this wonderful holiday celebration.”
Carowinds will be enforcing multiple protocols to ensure safety for guests and associates.
- To manage park capacity, every guest will need a reservation. Season passholders can reserve dates through our new online system. A reservation will also be tied to every single-day ticket. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
- A requirement to complete a simple online pre-visit health screening declaration 24 hours prior to admission;
- A touchless temperature screening prior to entering the facility for both guests and associates;
- Requirements for all guests, associates and vendors to wear face coverings that cover the nose and mouth. Face coverings may not have exhalation valves or vents.
- Social distancing markers throughout the park, including ride queue lines;
- Limited guest/associate contact;
- Enhanced cleaning procedures, including additional deep cleaning and sanitization of restrooms, dining facilities and other busy areas;
- Additional hand sanitation stations; and
- Capacity management throughout the park.
All guests are asked to download Carowinds’ free mobile app to manage their season passes and tickets, make park reservations, complete the health declaration and get the latest information during park visits.
Haha. It was only after 5 minutes that I realized that in the first photo there were not toys, but real people.