Kennywood Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday with All-American Summer

PITTSBURGH, PA [June 29, 2026] – Kennywood is gearing up for a patriotic July as the park’s next event, All-American Summer begins this Wednesday, July 1. The American celebration will honor the country’s 250th birthday and feature free admission for military members, a July Fourth Fireworks Show, Drone Shows, and more. Plus, Kennywood is now open until 9 p.m. every single weekday and until 10 p.m. on select evenings through Monday, August 17.  

To kick off the festivities, Kennywood will offer free admission to all active or retired military, veterans, and military reservists from Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5, with a valid military ID. Military members can also purchase up to four discounted tickets for family and friends for only $34.99 each at the gate.  

On Saturday, July 4, visitors will be delighted by a spectacular fireworks show presented by Zambelli beginning at 9:45 p.m. over the lagoon. Then, beginning on July 11, more than 300 drones will take to the night sky. Every Saturday and Sunday night through July 26, guests should prepare to be dazzled by a display featuring more than a dozen unique designs beginning at 9:30 p.m.  

"Kennywood has been part of Pittsburgh family traditions for more than 125 years, and there’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday," said Kennywood General Manager, Ricky Spicuzza. "From fireworks and drone shows to honoring the men and women who have served our country, All-American Summer is packed with the classic summer experiences families look forward to making memories together at Kennywood." 

The 2026 Season continues at Kennywood in August with the 76th annual Fall Fantasy Parades. From August 1 through August 17, plus Saturday, August 22, more than 130 local marching bands will take to the midways to perform. Complete with a Mardi Gras theme that extends beyond the parade floats, guests can expect live music, and a decked out French Quarter block party. 

Sandcastle, Pittsburgh’s Hometown Water Park, is also celebrating the July Fourth Weekend with free admission to military members. From Wednesday, July 1 through Sunday, July 5, active or retired military, veterans, and military reservists receive free admission and $24.99 tickets at the main gate for up to four friends or family members with a valid military ID. Sandcastle will be open all weekend long from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.  

Right now, guests can save up to 45% on Kennywood tickets during the park’s July Fourth Sale. To get the most out of the summer, visitors can purchase a Platinum Season Pass and visit Kennywood and Sandcastle for the rest of 2026.   

To learn more the All-American Summer, military offers, and to purchase Tickets and Season Passes, visit, Kennywood.com and Sandcastlewaterpark.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.