MASON, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Kings Island officially begins its 2026 season this Saturday, April 18, headlined by the debut of its highly-anticipated family dark ride, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare.
The new attraction serves as a spiritual successor to the original Phantom Theater, which operated at the park from 1992 to 2002. Guests board “enchanted opera boxes” to assist head usher No Legs Larry in a mission to capture mischievous “ghost notes” unleashed by a lightning strike during a performance by Maestro, the resident organist.
The interactive experience features dimensional scenes—including dressing rooms and a fiery boiler room—and the return of beloved animatronic characters like Houdelini, The Great Garbonzo, and Hilda Bovine. The ride incorporates multi-sensory effects and a musical finale featuring the entire cast.
While the general public can ride starting Saturday, Season Passholders will receive an exclusive preview on Friday, April 17, from noon to 9 p.m. as part of the new Perks & Play rewards program.
The 2026 season also marks a historic milestone for the park’s Grand Carousel, which turns 100 years old this year. Built in 1926 by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the carousel remains the oldest ride in the park, featuring 48 hand-carved horses and its original Wurlitzer band organ.
Other upcoming highlights for the 2026 season include:
- Food & Wine Festival: Featuring local Cincinnati bands and international cuisine (Weekends, May 29 – June 21).
- Brad Ross Illusionist Show: Live at the Kings Island Theater (May 30 – June 21).
- Star-Spangled Night: A July 4 fireworks celebration presented by M&M’S®.
- Grand Carnivale: An international cultural festival featuring the Spectacle of Color Parade (July 18 – Aug. 2).
- Soak City Water Park: Opening May 23, featuring the RiverRacers water coaster and Splash River Junction.
For ticket information and park hours, visitors can visit the official website at visitkingsisland.com.