WILLIAMSBURG, Va., August 8, 2000 -- Busch Gardens Williamsburg today announced the addition of Ireland, the European-themed park's sixth country. Ireland is scheduled to open Spring 2001.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg visitors will experience the charm of the past with the pulse of the present. From adventure and enchantment to food and folklore, guests can expect an authentic journey through the Emerald Isle.
Guests venture across the Brittany Bridge to an Irish festival marketplace, where spirited Irish musicians set the tone. Guests become Irish villagers, travel on a white-knuckle 3-D adventure experience through a land of giants, experience traditional Irish dance, shop for Irish goods and enjoy a pint in an authentic pub.
"Ireland will deliver an unparalleled journey for our guests in 2001. There's nothing like it anywhere," said Daniel Brown, executive vice president and general manager for Busch Gardens Williamsburg. "The combination of European charm and mythical folklore, along with Ireland's reputation for hospitality made it a natural choice for Busch Gardens Williamsburg."
Guests will discover Ireland residents love to entertain. The Abbey Stone Theater will be home to a world-class, professional dance show, featuring energetic Irish dance originals along with the fast and furious footwork of Irish step dancing. Strolling musicians and singers in the village square will captivate guests with song, dance and a wee bit o' storytelling. The Killarney Sound Machine and its resident leprechaun will guarantee a laugh or two as he engages guests in witty conversation and entertains with his magical music machine.
Corkscrew Hill, a thrilling 3-D adventure experience, takes guests on a magical and mystical Celtic journey through a land of giants. The larger-than-life adventure invites guests to experience life as miniatures in a world ruled by roaming giants. Riders encounter a hungry witch, a magical stallion and soar on the talons of a huge beast.
Just a few steps away from Corkscrew Hill awaits "The Enchanted Castle of Duneen." Visitors to this enchanting castle meet a young heir and join him for an awesome music and special effects show including rain, thunder, ghostly banshees and a brilliant fiber optic rainbow that appears magically over the audience. This show will make guests believe that wishes really do come true.
Ireland will be enhanced by Irish artisans working throughout the hamlet. Visitors can stroll into the Emerald Isle Shop for fine gifts of Waterford crystal, Beleek china, Irish textiles and many other Irish hand-crafted products selected especially for Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Toys of the Leprechaun Shop and Pot o' Gold Magic Shop are where guests of all ages will find enchanting gifts.
Traditional Irish food can be found at Grogan's Grille and Grogan's Pub, where genuine Irish hospitality is served up daily. A strolling balladeer and musicians create a cheerful dining experience while encouraging a rousing sing-a-long. Guests can savor traditional favorites like corned beef sandwiches, Irish stew, smashed potatoes, soda bread plus a variety of Anheuser-Busch beers.
Construction will begin in September 2000. Ireland, Busch Gardens Williamsburg's sixth country, is scheduled to open in Spring 2001.
2001 Fact Sheet
The Village:
Ireland becomes the newest country in 20 years to debut at
Busch Gardens Williamsburg bringing the total number of European countries to six. The hamlet offers visitors adventure that blends the charm of the past with the pulse of the present. From adventure and enchantment to food and folklore, guests can expect an authentic journey through the Emerald Isle.
The Theme:
Ireland is a charming re-creation of a village teeming with activity. The village, with old-world appeal, is every bit a part of the 21st century. The colorful buildings highlight unique Irish architectural styles and provide the perfect setting for the village festival.
Special Features:
Irish tradition and heritage are beautifully depicted throughout this festive marketplace. The warm environment blends genuine hospitality with attention to detail.
Shows and Attractions
- The world's hottest dance troupe will perform an energetic Irish dance and musical production in the new Abbey Stone Theatre.
- Corkscrew Hill, a white-knuckle, 3-D action adventure journey through the Emerald Isle.
- "The Enchanted Castle of Duneen" a musical and special effects show.
Irish Fare
- Grogan's Irish Pub
- Grogan's Grille serving corned beef sandwiches, smashed potatoes, Irish stew, Irish soda bread and a variety of Anheuser-Busch beers, stouts, ales and porters.
- Anheuser-Busch Beer School (offering sampling and comparisons of a variety of quality Anheuser-Busch beers. Certified Beermasters teach the course throughout the day.)
Festival Entertainment
- The Killarney Sound Machine and its resident leprechaun will guarantee a laugh or two as he engages guests in witty banter and entertains with his magical music machine.
- Strolling musicians, singers and stilt walkers
Shopping
- Emerald Isle Shop features fine giftware including Waterford crystal and Beleek china.
- Toys of the Leprechaun, toy shop for the wee ones.
- Pot o' Gold, specializing in magic and mystery.
The Architect: Peckham, Guyton, Albers and Viets, Inc., St. Louis, MO
Theming Design: Sue Sessions, Inc., St. Louis, MO
Opening Date: May 2001
