Ah, to spend a hot summer day at the theme park. Roller coasters, funnel cakes and… face masks? For Cedar Point, an Ohio amusement park long beloved by Michiganders, that’s a hard yes—starting this weekend.
Cedar Point, which is marking its 150th anniversary this year, reopens to the public with new pandemic health and safety measures on July 11. And it’s not alone—Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida will reopen the same day, a decision that’s received both support and criticism, especially as COVID-19 cases in Florida continue to climb. More than 19,000 people have signed a petition started by Disney employees requesting that the park’s reopening be delayed, citing health and safety concerns.
Cedar Point will only admit 20% of its usual guest capacity, so visitors need to make reservations in advance. The park says it will also implement mandatory health screenings and temperature checks, and guests will need to bring face coverings. Hand sanitizer will be available at stations throughout the park.
“We’re ready to have some fun again, and we hope you are too,” said Cedar Fair Entertainment Company spokesperson Tony Clark in an informational video posted on Cedar Point’s website.
If you do decide to go, be sure to wear your face mask, sanitize your hands, and stay six feet apart—even in those lengthy ride queues. And when you’re heading up that first big roller coaster incline? Take a note from Japan’s Fuji-Q Highland park’s new guidelines, keep your respiratory droplets to yourself, and just scream inside your heart.
