Summer Nights at Busch Gardens Williamsburg 2019

Busch Gardens 2019 Season

Summer Nights with Spark June 28-August 11. Bier Fest August 16-September 2

Every year Busch Gardens in Williamsburg, lights up the night with special entertainment and literal lights for the summer season. For 2019 the Globe Theater is having extra entertainment acts, Spark is back at the Royal Palace in France, Summer shows and of course special summertime foods. Select nights will also have fireworks. (Friday, Saturday and Sundays from June 28-September 1)

One of the most popular acts returns from America’s got talent Light Balance.  Plus 5 new acts!

Summer Nights special shows will all be at the Globe this year and include the following.

• ·         LIGHT BALANCE: JUNE 28 - JULY 7 (DAILY PERFORMANCES):
• ·         BOOGIE STORM: JULY 8 - 14 (DAILY PERFORMANCES):  6 person Dance troupe dressed head to toe in white outfits
• ·         THE PASSING ZONE: JULY 15 - 21 (DAILY PERFORMANCES): Juggling act
• ·         WILLIAM CLOSE & THE EARTH HARP COLLECTIVE: JULY 22 – 28 (DAILY PERFORMANCES): Ensemble act using the worlds largest instrument!
• ·         FIGHTING GRAVITY: JULY 29 - AUGUST 4 (DAILY PERFORMANCES): Originated at Virginia Tech, Fighting Gravity’s play on light and levitation
• ·         FRECKLED SKY: AUG. 5 - 11 (DAILY PERFORMANCES): These multimedia artists tell stories and bring immersive experiences to the viewer by blending projection, lightning, interactive solutions and special effects.

As far as specialty food, we all have been teased about some delicious double cheeseburger donut concoction. As well as Chicken in a Waffle cone!! (both shown below). Last year there were the freak shakes shown above,and they are BACK this year! Served at Josephine's in France by Griffon.

Personally I am waiting for the weather to improve so we can go enjoy all this! It’s been so hot and humid. For those without health concerns, there are water rides and misters in some spots in the park. Stores and theaters are air-conditioned, as well as Fest Haus.

Free beer is back from June 28-August 11 for members, served in Fest Haus. You can get a free 10 ounce drink of beer every visit to the park.

This year Bier Fest begins a little earlier and takes over Oktoberfest section of Germany as usual.  Dates are August 16-September 2nd. Bier Fest has been occurring for a few years now and its s mini celebration in the park that encompasses 200 years of Oktoberfest traditions, food, and music. The traditions come to life and you may even find yourself dancing with this guy. Plus there is a lot of craft beer.

Beautiful Lights throughout the park add to the fun and ambiance.

Also a special limited time event for First-Responders (Police, Fire, EMT's, 911 Dispatchers) can receive up to 4 half-off admissions (themselves plus 3) and $10 off all day dine from July 12-31 through ID me and can be used until August 18th.

On warm pleasant summer nights, this is one of the best places to be. In 9 years I have never been bitten by a mosquito here, must be some kind of magic. The park is open until 9pm Mon-Thursday and  10pm the other days. Fireworks on the weekends (Including Friday) begin at 9:30

Busch Gardens Williamsburg Food & Wine Festival 2019

If you have been to Busch Gardens in Williamsburg then you know the park is themed in the style of Europe, so you are already in a virtual paradise. During Food & Wine it is now with more food.

This will be the 7th annual Food & Wine Festival and it runs from May 17th through June 30th which means it is starting a full week earlier. Which we personally think is a great idea since it can be so warm at times in June and when its too warm it means less food and drink you can consume.

This year there will be 19 kiosks, 4 are brand new themes. There is also a lot of new drinks this year (both alcoholic and non alcoholic) giving a total of 43 entrees/desserts, 35 wines, 33 craft beers, 30 cocktails and 11 specialty drinks.

The food served at Busch Gardens in Williamsburg is a much higher caliber than you will find at the majority of theme parks, so the idea of a Food & Wine event gives the creative team a chance to go all out. The event has grown over the years and celebrates food, drink and culture. All year long the majority of food is made on premise. This includes all desserts, sauces and they smoke all of their own meats. Fruits and much of the vegetables are locally sourced, fish is all sustainable.

I would consider the event a walking tour of Europe and the tastes of culinary dishes from around the world without the high price tag. It’s a beautiful escape for those who want to travel, but really can’t go too far. We have attended 5 of the past 6 years and it’s consistent.

What’s New for 2019

New Kiosk-  Mexico : Fried Shrimp Tacos, Carne Asada tacos, Chorizo Empanadas (previously in Spain) I sampled both tacos on opening day when they had a sampler offered and they are delicious (sampler also had the lavender lemonade you will read about later and the Chicken Adobo mentioned below) Kiosk will also have beer, wine and a margarita and Horchata

New kiosk- Philippines: Chicken Adobo, Siopao a steamed pork bun with sweet soy glaze, Mamon (sponge cake with glaze and cheese) Wine, Boracray, Melon Juice. The chicken adobo has been popular for years and was part of the South West kiosk (that is no longer). Glad they moved it here. Tried the Siopao, it was pretty cake like, without the sweetness...didn't really care for it as wasn't expecting it to be so caky. Plus it didn't have very much meat. Well they can't all be winners.

Revamped Caribbean Kiosk- Jamaica : Most the same food from previous years. Gamba Fritters, Pineapple upside down cake,  Jerk chicken sliders (this is renovated from previous chicken on the bone)

New Kiosk- Italy: (replaced Spain and completely redone)

Mushroom Risotto, Caprese. Cocktails and Wine, Italian Cream Soda, Tried the Mushroom Risotto, it was creamy and divine with shaved prosciutto.

Drinks!

Drinks beverage bar- Herbal Infusion: Watermelon Mojito (yes please!) Mint Julep (definitely) Rosemary Moscato (probably getting a little drunk here) Lavender Lemonade. I loved the Mint Julep, it came in a souvenir glass so this wasn't part of the sampler program (cost $11.50) but was worth it.

New Beverage Bar- Craft Bar: large selection of craft beer on tap

New Beverage Bar-Garden Glass: Bloody Mary, Summer Winds (cucumber, gin and lime), Specialty Smoothie (strawberry, Orange, beets and ginger) Joe tried the smoothie, it was fresh and tasty, but not recommended for kids as its not sweet at all.

New Beverage Bar-Sangria Garden: Traditional, Strawberry Rose, Citrus Moscato

You can get a flight of 4 5oz drinks

Tequila tastings by the Fest Haus (New in 2018 replaced Argentina Wine from 2017) this is also returning for the 2019 F&W festival.

In Fest Haus you will find a Beer flight, plus the famous Pork Schnitzel slider (schnitzelwich) which has a lemon caper sauce.

As far as the Wine part goes there are 5 Wine tastings - French Wine tastings (in France), Niagara Region (New France), German, Italian, Ireland (Argentina/South America in Castle O Sullivan) all in their respective villages.

Scotch tasting in Scotland next to Tweedside gifts, you can sample 3 authentic 12 year old scotches from the region.

Wine on the Rhine is a specialty cruise down “the Rhine” which is an upgrade to the regular boat cruise ride in (back of Scotland and Germany). Guests get to enjoy the sounds of jazz band and nibble on cheese, fruit and chocolate (wine or beer also) without alcohol $15, with $30. This requires reservations. There is also an upgrade to the fireworks cruise which is longer and gives a premium view of the fireworks. ($30-$40) It should be noted the fireworks cruise doesn’t return to the dock until 30-60 minutes after the fireworks because of safety reasons. Pass Members get a discounted rate.

QUICK FACTS

• ·        No additional Ticket, part of your admission. Buy what you want
• ·        all normal attractions are running
• ·        Food kiosks open at 11am and serve all day, or until they run out of food. In the case of lightening they do temporarily close
• ·        Tastings range from $2-$3 for desserts and about $4-$6 for entrées, a few are more.
• ·        Sample options available get 10 for $49 or $15 for $69 these include all food items, specialty non-alcoholic drinks, wine and beer. Does not include frozen drinks or cocktails. Liquor Tastings are also a separate fee
• ·        To make your day a bit easier, you can purchase cashless wristbands.
• ·        Wristbands are available in several areas of the park, 2 different spots before you even get to food (Booth before the turnstiles and guest relations after you enter), plus several other locations in the park.
• ·        You can prepay with cash or link to a credit card. Then you just scan at the locations. This is a great choice when your hands are full and you need your stomach to be. If you don’t spend all of your cash, stop at Guest Relations in England when exiting and they will refund you any money not spent.
• ·        You can eat and drink your way around the park, and even take a short cruise down the Rhine River, while delighting in some jazz music and savoring some fancy cheese and chocolate. 
• ·        The park goes all out for this event with additional decorations, country flags, lights and informational boards giving interesting tid bits from the countries represented. Truly a feast for the eyes as well. (No calories for that).

We visited on May 17, opening day and again on June 9

Here are Kiosks of the Countries & regions represented 

walking from center to right all the way around.

Virginia (Scotland) Bacon Hushpuppies, She Crab Soup, Chocolate Pecan bars (no more ham sampler) Wine, Apple Pie Moonshine, Strawberry Lemonade

Ireland: Cheese Sampler, Bangers and Colcannon, Guinness mousse, Wine and beer. Kiosk is across from where it was before as the new ride Finnegans Flyer has opened.

Hawaii (entrance of Wildlife Reserve) All the same all delicious one of the most popular kiosks since it debuted, Tuna Poke,  Huli Chicken, beer, wine, Frozen Blue Hawaiian, hibiscus Lemonade. Sadly no Spam Slider this year, may it rest in piece. It was Noah's favorite thing. I admit we are a little bummed and perplexed.

French Quarter (France) Same as previous but in a different spot, its across from what is pictured above. (In this spot there is a grab and go of various snacks)Food choices include the delicious Muffaletta, Shrimp Cajun stew, Bananas Foster cheesecake, Beignets, wine, beer and Hurricane.

Cuba (France near Griffon) Cuban Sandwich and Ropa Viejo (shredded beef over rice and beans- A Favorite!) Wine, beer and Cuba Libre.

Brazil (New France near Trappers/Show grill) all the same from last year and we are so glad: Grilled beef with chimichurri sauce, grilled pineapple with caramel sauce, Sausage with portabellas and peppers, drinks include wine, Rum with cane sugar and lime, Brazilian lemonade (lemonade with sweetened condensed milk). All delicious!!

Jamaica Revamped formerly Caribbean (Germany) Jerk chicken slider, combining the chicken and the mango slaw on a bun, Gamba Fritters, Pineapple Upside Down cake, wine, beer and Ginger Limeade

Japan (walkway between Italy and Fiesta Italy) Same as last few years, lettuce wrap, sushi, Bubble tea, Matcha Ice Cream, Sake

South Korea (Fiesta Italy) Beef Skewers, and Beef Korean Ribs, Korean Soju cocktail. They really should call it Rib as you only get one (at least that's what we got) they are super delicious. But frankly for the price of buying 2 you can get a whole meal at Trappers.

Greece/ Mediterranean (Italy near Pompeii) All the same, Lamb Burger, Dolamades, Spankonoptia, new this year Loukoumades-Honey donuts puffs with cinnamon, Wine and Ouzo. Noah enjoyed the donut puffs, ate them up in mere minutes.

Link to menu's for even more information

Our Favorites

She-crab soup from Virginia Kiosk, very delicious, plenty of crab.

Best Value Dish : CUBA - Ropa Vieja - Shredded beef in a sauce over rice and black beans. Filling, good value, we shared. Lots of meat. I am making it this week for dinner.

Easiest to Eat while walking in the Park: Virginia.  Hush puppies, with bacon inside, and honey butter.  Gamba Fritters in Jamaica also, but we just all like these Hush Puppies a little more.

Best Dessert (Italy Desserts) mini cannoli trio, individually these are available in full size year round and you can customize those (sold at Marco Polo Marketplace in Italy). For F&W they served Nutella with chocolate jimmies, Strawberry, and Traditional ricotta with pistachio nuts. They are delicious and its a decent value.

Best Drink TBA (currently the Pear Cider from Cuba is in the lead)

Best New item ; TBD- Either the Fried Shrimp Taco from Mexico or the Risotto from Italy. ( I will post the wining picture after trying them again!)

Carnivore’s Delight : Brazil . Sausage with grilled peppers and mushrooms. This is one tasty sausage. BGW does a great job on all their sausages, this is the second year this has been on the menu and we hope its around for a long time.

Vegetarian Delight & Favorite : Tuna Poke with seaweed salad. This has been my favorite for the past few years since its been introduced. Its fresh sashimi tuna on a hand made crispy wonton with wasbi mayo. The seaweed salad is also delicious. I could eat nothing but this (Well and probably the sausage above)

COMING SOON!! For Summer Nights (late June through August)...a double bacon cheese DONUT burger.

Finnegan’s Flyer Soars into the hearts of thrill seekers.

Finnegan’s Flyer Soars into the hearts of thrill seekers.

BGW had a soft opening for the new super swing ride in late April, and then fully opened on May 3 around Noon. Many who were involved in the planning and creation of the ride attended the ribbon cutting ceremony which also included song and dance from an Irish Band, our favorite Leprechaun and of course confetti. It was media day so we were also treated to a nice breakfast. I must say Busch Gardens should consider selling the Breakfast sandwiches they provided and they were easily in the top 5 I have ever had. 

Finnegan’s flyer can be seen once exiting Scotland into Ireland as you cross the Killarney Bridge. The swing works its way up to a 90 degree angle at about 80 feet up.  It is operated with 2 pendulum swinging arms and seats about 32 people. The ride itself swings back in forth about 11 times and quickly reaches speeds of 45 MPH, which is pretty fast for a swing. 

 Guests who braved the ride (not I as probably not best idea for someone with a heart condition, and I am AOK with that.) stated you feel weightless and it takes you back to your childhood.  This used to be the type of ride Noah loved, I am not sure if he is going to try it or not as things have changed with what he enjoys now at the park. I can say for certain my Dad will use his Astral Projection method for this one. The ride itself looks very smooth.

The ride is double sided so sometimes you are facing down as shown here, and the other side is facing straight up into the sky! 

 The queue for Finnegan’s Flyer is located next to the first set of shops. There is a cubby on hand for you to place your loose items. 

Over at Water Country Cut Back Coaster is launching its Rockblast Water Coaster at the end of May (date is set as 24th). Stay tuned as we will be reviewing this one on opening day. (it goes about 24MPH I think I can handle it). Water Country opens Saturday May 18th. They will be open that Saturday and Sunday, then reopen the following weekend when they are open daily. Check website for hours as they change closing times (opens at 10am). 

Water Country is offering pay for one day, come back and play all season (May 18th-September 8th) Fun cards. You can also add it to any membership for $2 a month.

The search for the Golden Egg

The search for the Golden Egg

Busch Gardens Williamsburg set forth a fun scavenger hunt of sorts with a search for 3 mysterious Golden Eggs in their park over the 2 weeks they are open in April for Spring Break. (April 12-April 28) It was so popular they decided to add a few more eggs to find. I believe there will be a total of 5 now. The Facebook and Instagram pages share when the eggs are hidden.

Each egg is filled with Busch Gardens Merchandise, coupons, vouchers.  The sister park Sesame Place is also participating. One egg is hidden at a time somewhere in the park where guests may go, but not in flower beds. And first one to find it wins. You are supposed to take a picture of yourself with the egg then hash tag it # on social media with the tags #BGWGoldenEggContest or #SharemyBGWstory.

Simple enough, the park is full of hiding places and each egg is hidden before guests arrive. So far, each time (2 have been found as of today) the egg was hidden and found the following morning.

The first egg was hidden on Fiesta Bridge in one of the planters, the second one was found outside the Pottery shop in New France in the Red Truck.  

"I expected nothing and still I was disappointed" - Noah

Noah and I went to the park on Thursday April 18 in search of the egg. We did not get there as early as I would have liked, so we arrived with far too many other guests. It in fact was one of the busier days I have seen there.  There were lines, for the line at all the restaurants. We literally walked the loop of the park in search of lunch and unfortunately could not get any! I imagine they didn't expect all those people, I know we didn't. So certain things weren't open which normally would be. I imagine the restaurants themselves weren't staffed enough, but don't know as I couldn't get anywhere inside them. So alas, we did not find the egg. Too crowded, I was too overheated and hungry. But we hope to return on another occasion. Most days are wonderful spent here, so a random not so great day, is still not that bad. even if we were disappointed. 

Noah has not been the best at finding things in competing backgrounds. Easter egg hunts have never gone too well. In fact, Spring break 2012 we were down here on vacation and our resort held an Easter egg hunt. Noah and many other kids scattered through the playground area and gathered up as many eggs as they could. All the kids had dozens, Noah had 3. But suddenly it turned, because they announced none found the special egg! There was a purple egg placed out there which won you the big basket. Which was a better idea then just he who had the most eggs, as that person is already a winner right? So now he could focus on just purple, and he found that egg!!! Somehow, 3 eggs plus this huge basket. He said, “it was the greatest day of my life”.

So naturally when Busch Gardens wanted to have a search for a golden egg, I figured how perfect. We love just walking around and looking at everything. That’s generally what we do as most of us don’t ride any rides. (since most of them make us sick, but not my husband poor fella).  We do enjoy the train and the skyride though. I also love all the water rides, and damn we miss Dark Castle.

I am hoping whatever day they hide it this week, I can just drop everything and go search! I really hope they do stuff like this in the future, how fun!! So we will continue on with the next few eggs.  I will update here! Finding it of course would be awesome as we love free stuff especially from BGW. But the thrill of the hunt is exciting. I love just wandering and enjoying the park but having a mission is cool too sometimes. 

Currently BGW is running a 35% off spring sale on Memberships.