A Pittsburgh Tradition Marches Back to Kennywood This August
July 29, 2026
PITTSBURGH, PA: July 29, 2026 – Fall Fantasy Parades, a time-honored tradition, makes its 76th annual debut at Kennywood on Saturday, August 1. For 18 days through Saturday, August 22, families are invited to enjoy all the rides and attractions Kennywood has to offer, along with local marching bands taking over the midways.
In addition to performances from local high schools, colleges and universities nightly at 7:30 p.m., visitors can enjoy a decked out French Quarter block party. The parades will feature six floats designed and created fully in-house by talented Kennywood carpenters and park artists. Select float details include:
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Lead "Celebration Cake" Float featuring Kenny and Parker – The parade opens with a handcrafted celebration cake float featuring Kennywood's beloved characters, Kenny Kangaroo and Parker.
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Bourbon Street Float – Inspired by the vibrant sights and sounds of New Orleans, this float brings the energy of Bourbon Street to life with festive décor and jesters.
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Mardi Gras King Float featuring Jeeters – Jeeters is king on this float featuring a colorful display celebrating the spirit of Mardis Gras.
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Santa Claus Float – A beloved Fall Fantasy Parades tradition for generations, Santa Claus closes every parade, offering a magical finale that has always delighted Kennywood guests.
"One of the things that makes the Fall Fantasy Parades so special is that every float is built right here at Kennywood by our incredibly talented carpenters and artists," said Ricky Spicuzza, Kennywood General Manager. "Months of creativity and craftsmanship go into every detail, and seeing those handmade creations roll through the park alongside local marching bands is what makes this tradition unlike any other."
Fall Fantasy Parades began at Kennywood in 1950 to celebrate local students and their talents right before the school year began. Throughout the past seven decades, the parades have grown into an exciting spectacle and must-do for local marching bands and their fans throughout Greater Pittsburgh and neighboring regions.
In addition to the beloved Fall Fantasy tradition, the park is introducing an all-new show. The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show will take place daily from August 5 through August 17 at the Garden Stage. The thrilling and heartwarming performance features a world-class team of dog trainers and their adopted dogs. Founded in 2012, The Canine Stars have toured North America at fairs, theme parks, sporting events, and in their theater productions.
Those interested in visiting Fall Fantasy Parades and viewing the all-new Canine Stars Stunt Show can get tickets for $39.99 when they purchase online during Kennywood’s Everyone Pays Kids Price Sale. Plus, on Fall Fantasy evenings, guests can purchase after 4 p.m. tickets at the gate for only $32.99.
For more information on Fall Fantasy Parades, to purchase tickets and to view operating hours, visit www.kennywood.com.
About Kennywood Park:
Kennywood is Pittsburgh’s Destination for Family Fun and Entertainment! The Pittsburgh-area park, founded in 1898 offers a unique mix of modern thrills and classic rides, including seven roller coasters, Kiddieland, and several attractions that cannot be found anywhere else.
About Herschend:
Kennywood Park is part of Herschend’s family of brands. Herschend is the world’s largest family-held themed attractions company, with a portfolio of over 40 family entertainment brands across North America, including destinations, resorts, theme parks, water parks, immersive experiences, and content enjoyed by audiences worldwide. For more information, visit www.Herschend.com.
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