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Kings Island has announced the replacement for Boo Blasters on Boo Hill, "Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare," to open in 2026! https://www.visitkingsisland.com/blog/2025/august/phantom-theater-opening-nightmare-coming-in-2026 The stage is set for guests to be ushered into a new but familiar chapter in Kings Island’s history as Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare will make its debut next spring. Located at the site of the park’s original Phantom Theater dark ride, the quirky characters and chaos from the original return, along with modern technology, enhanced scenic elements and expanded storytelling. The comedic and fast-paced family adventure begins with a dark and stormy night, setting the tone for the grand (and ghostly) re-opening of the haunted Phantom Theater. Inside, a long-awaited performance by Maestro, the theater’s resident organist, is set to begin. During the storm, a lightning strike unleashes the ghost notes – mischievous musical spirits that wreak havoc across the theater – from Maestro’s mighty pipe organ. With the help of head usher No Legs Larry, guests will take the role as a member of his team and ride in “enchanted opera boxes,” utilizing special spellbound flashlights to capture and return the ghost notes to the organ so the performance can begin on time. Along the way, the enchanted opera boxes travel through fully built dimensional scenes, including backstage areas, haunted hallways, dressing rooms and a fiery boiler room as they meet other performers who are ready to take the stage. From animatronic forms of Houdelini and The Great Garbanzo to Hilda Bovine and Lionel Burymore, the Phantom Theater’s beloved crew returns, getting caught in the chaos while guests simultaneously search for the ghost notes. New surprises await guests around every corner, including the introduction of Arpeggio, Maestro’s furry feline friend. In total, 26 interactive scenes feature added multi-sensory effects like wind and sound, hidden Easter eggs throughout and a grand on-stage musical finale with all cast members. Manufactured by Sally Dark Rides, the leader in indoor family dark ride experiences, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare is a true nod to the original that made its home at Kings Island from 1992 – 2002. “Families who have visited Kings Island will remember how special the original Phantom Theater was, and they’ve always wanted it to return,” said Tony Carovillano, park manager of Kings Island. “While paying homage to the original ride, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare’s modern and advanced features will help create new memories and stories for all who take their seat inside this amazing experience.”

Sawdust & Sand On my Day 4 of The Fair There were only two things I wanted to see on this visit to the PNE. The Farm Country Barns, which are really original buildings from very first PNEs. And the sand sculpture exhibit, behind the barns. And of course, another corn dog to enjoy. Near the main gate. A reminder of who was here first. Before colonization happened. Information about The Sanctuary, and where there used to be more PNE buildings. But, no more. Today's corn dog is from Coco's, which was in a new spot at The Fair. Along with a refreshing lemonade to enjoy as well. Dal Richards loved the PNE, and loved conducting Big Band music at the fair. He is missed. The PNE Express Train (trackless?) starting it's journey around The Sanctuary. We're riding it on Thursday. These buildings/barns haven't changed for decades. Not very busy today. Speaking of sawdust. A 'dusted' lama. Pony rides available for the young'uns. $!2 a ride. Um....? Where everybody was. For the noon running of the PIG RACES! I passed. Seen it all before. Early days. Every pigeon has it's own coop. C'mon, who doesn't love farm tractors? I was tempted, but chickened out. Maybe on Thursday, with David. Not exactly a "horse of a different colour," but still. It was something to look at. Kids Discovery Farm. Has some neat stuff for children to do, and enjoy. "Fresh Hot Chicks" under the heat lamp! Honey display. There was also a display of bees exiting the display via a tube, taking them outside to flowers to get pollinated, etc. Then they come back inside. The outside Warning Sign about the tube. Bunnies! Nice to get a different angled shot of the new Amphitheatre. Opening during next year's PNE. Self-explanatory. Who's organized it all. A-maze-ing! I get interrupted by the group from KC Bear's Party show passing by. They looked like they were enjoying the day. There is an upside down body in there. Truth! Bear love. Didn't see the little house in back, till now. This display is about as "Canadian" as you can get, eh? "Seals of Approval." I love it (not) that he's looking at his cellphone. A bit dark, but KC Bear says G'Bye! Also, Waste Not. Finally, a look at where the Prize Home used to be. Touring the actual house was great, then after the fair and the main draw, it was then moved to it's new location. Not any more. <sad> And that's it for this Tuesday visit, till tomorrow's visit with David.

While I get Six Flags doesn't own the park directly, isn't it still part of the Six Flags chain since they manage the park? I think it could be a good opportunity for them to relocate something like Joker's Jink to the park since they still manage it at least.

I didn't see anyone post, but Kumba was spotted cycling! I am absolutely thrilled about this news! My number 1 is coming back! A lot of track work and concrete/footer replacing has been completed. This reel was posted a few days ago. Likely around Friday.