Idlewild and Soak Zone is extending park operating hours on remaining Fridays and Saturdays in July while welcoming the return of live shows for kids and families.
The family-oriented park in Ligonier Township announced Thursday it will remain open an extra hour, until 8 p.m., on Fridays and Saturdays for the rest of the month.
The new hours apply to the main park area, known as Olde Idlewild. Other areas will close at 7 p.m., which is the regular weekday closing time throughout the park.
“We are seeing increased demand from our guests to visit our beautiful park and enjoy our family-friendly thrills,” said Idlewild and SoakZone General Manager Brandon Leonatti.
The park will evaluate its staffing levels before deciding if the extended hours can continue past July.
Attractions for kids include “Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific Day,” a stage show that is returning to the Raccoon Lagoon section of the park. Featuring characters from the popular PBS children’s program, “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood,” the Idlewild show will be presented hourly from noon to 4 p.m.
The show hasn’t been available in the park since 2019 and is back by popular demand.
“The show has special appeal to families with preschoolers, generally 5 and under, but anyone familiar with the characters from ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood’ or the original ‘Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood’ will enjoy the show themes,” said Jeff Croushore, the park’s director of marketing.
Beginning Aug. 1, the park will debut “Dance! Dance! Dance!” a show designed to get family members of all ages moving to popular tunes.
In neighboring Story Book Forest, Princess Lilly has returned to greet visitors at her castle, hourly from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Two Appreciation Days have also been added for season pass holders. On July 27 and Aug. 10, they’ll enjoy early access to SoakZone’s Wowabunga Family Wave Pool, Lazy River and Little Squirts. Special activities and giveaways also will be featured.
The park is looking to fill seasonal positions and is offering hourly rates up to $18.25.
For tickets and more information, visit idlewild.com.
