The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Matchbox 20 concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Monday:
Getchen L. Demeo, 52, of Coachmans Lane, Hamburg, is charged with trespass after allegedly opening an emergency exit and entering the Seagrams viewing deck where she had no right to be.
Press release:
As summer comes to an end, Darien Lake is preparing for its third annual Harvest Festival by bringing in local performers, food trucks, crafters and more throughout the park amidst the fall foliage.
Harvest Festival will run the last three weekends in September including these dates 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and Oct. 1, when the park will close for the season.
Harvest Festival activities that are included with park admission:
Vacations guests will have access to special harvest themed activities on Friday evenings before the Festival including: Magical Pumpkin Forest, in which guests will plant seeds at night and then “harvest” their pumpkins in the morning. There will be fall-themed crafts in the hotel, and the movie “Little Rascals” will play on the lawn at 9 p.m.
For more information about participating artists and vendors and to find the lowest rates on Fall Getaway Packages, visithttp://www.darienlake.com/harvest-festival.
WHEN: Sept. 16, 17, 23, 24, 30 and Oct. 1
Saturdays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sundays: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
About Darien Lake
Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment has made it “destination fun” since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including six world-class roller coasters; dozens of family-friendly rides and entertainment; the region’s largest water park complete with wave pool; and a 20,000-seat, world-class performing arts center, operated by Live Nation.
The park is open until Oct. 1st, and welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations – from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs and campsites. For more information or to order season passes, visit www.DarienLake.com
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Green Day Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Saturday:
Dustin R. Waldmiller, 23 of Harding Road, Williamsville, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
Thomas J. Pilarz, 27, of Appletree Courts, Cheektowaga, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly causing a disturbance in the venue parking lot.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Goo Goo Dolls concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Sunday:
A 17-year-old of Lincoln Avenue, Dunkirk, is charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance, 7th, and unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a controlled substance and marijuana.
Kevin R. Dawidowicz, 41, of Maywood Place, Buffalo, is charged with reckless endangerment, 2nd, after allegedly striking a Darien Lake security officer with his vehicle.
Kevin M. Buisman, 32, of Elmwood Avenue, Tonawanda, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering the venue without a ticket.
Colleen K. O’Donnell, 26, of Warsaw Street, Cheektowaga, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering the venue without a ticket.
Cody Z. Woodhouse, 28, of Robinson Street, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering the venue without a ticket.
Samuel P. McCaslin, 27, of Vahn Street, East Concord, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Dierks Bentley concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Friday:
Johnathan D. Haw, 18, of Domenic Crescent, Niagara Falls, Ontario, Canada, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return. Haw was arraigned in Darien Court and jailed in lieu of $150 bail.
Michael T. Smith, 20, of Lake Glenn Drive, Livonia, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly re-entering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
Nicholas D. Pszczolkowski, 21, of French Lea, West Seneca, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
Evan M. Dunham, 23, of Glendale Road, Brockport, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly striking a Live Nation security officer in the face and chest.
Kimberly A. Stanton, 24, of Seneca Street, Baldwinsville, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
Taylor E. Grenier, 18, of Cabrie Circle, Pittsford, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
A 17-year-old of Wildberry Lane, Pittsford, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
Robert J. Moore, 20, of Greenway Blvd., Churchville, is charged with trespass after allegedly re-entering the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Chicago concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Tuesday:
Jaqueline M. Walker, 48, of Wallace Drive, Grand Island, is charged with resisting arrest and two counts of harassment, 2nd, after allegedly kicking and striking several Live Nation security officers and then resisting arrest by kicking deputies while being taken into custody.
Mark P. Walker, 49, of Wallace Drive, Grand Island, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly punching a Live Nation security officer in the face.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Chris Stapleton Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Sunday:
Jeremy A. Wicks, 34, of Beebe Road, Afton, is charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle after allegedly taking a Darien Lake golf cart without permission. Wicks was arraigned in Darien Court and put in jail in lieu of $500 bail.
Russell P. Vincent Jr., 18, of Chestnut Road, Newfane, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Brandon M. Welsh, 29, of Main Street North, Jarvis, Ontario, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly having unwanted contact with a Live Nation employee.
Amanda M. Ott, 30, of East Avenue, Lockport, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly pushing a Live Nation employee in the chest.
Kaitlyn M. Hornburg, 20, of Seger Road, Sinclairville, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly spitting in a Live Nation employee's face.
Photo submitted by Chad Hilchey.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Vans Warped Tour Concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Thursday:
A 16-year-old, of Lake Avenue Lancaster, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
Thomas A. Soares, 31, of Smoral Road, Camillus, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
Zackery K. Johnston, 21, of Kingsley Road, Rochester, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering the fenced in pit area of the venue without permission.
Brittany L. Dumsar, 24, of Anytrell Drive, Webster, is charged with criminal trespass, 3r,d and harassment, 2nd, after allegedly reentering the concert venue after being ejected and then spitting in a Live Nation employee's face.
Joseph N. McCarthy, 23 of North Road, Freedom, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to reenter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Nickelback concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Wednesday:
Kortney R. Howell, 19, of Church Street, Victor, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
A 17-year-old of North Davis Road, Elma, is charged with criminal impersonation, 2nd, after allegedly identifying himself as another person and using their identification.
Nicholas S. Zabmester, 21, of Fernwood Drive, Lockport, is charged with trespass after allegedly jumping a fence to enter the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return.
Andrew C. Denslow, 42, of Pocono Drive, Austin, Texas, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly pushing a Live Nation employee while attempting to gain entry to the concert venue.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Third Eye Blind concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Thursday:
Robin S. Bascus, 26, of Townsend Avenue, Bronx, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly entering Darien Lake property after having been ejected from the property on June 25 and told not to return. Bascus was arraigned in Darien Court and put in jail in lieu of $250 bail.
Kaitlyn M. Rector, 19, of Boyd Road, Pavilion, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
Riley J. Guenther, 19, of Dye Road, Akron, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of marijuana.
Jason R. Morley, 25, of Pole Bridge Road, Geneseo, is charged with assault, 3rd, after allegedly punching a Live Nation security officer in the mouth, causing injury.
The folks at Darien Lake are celebrating the 35th anniversary of The Viper, a roller coaster that was not only revolutionary for the theme park industry but led to other changes, including a name change from Darien Lake Fun Country to Darien Lake Theme Park.
The Viper was the first roller coaster in the world with five inversions.
General Manager Chris Thorpe said the addition of the Viper really put Darien Lake on the map in the amusement park industry and allowed the park to expand its marketing reach beyond the immediate Western New York area.
Riders and staff were invited to a ribbon cutting and ice cream social this morning to celebrate the anniversary of the historic ride.
Here's a 1982 promo video from WHEC featuring the ride:
A midweek show brought music lovers of all ages to Darien Lake Performing Arts Center to hear platinum album artist Train played in front of a lighter crowd of more than 6,000 fans. The band made a few stops of their Northeast tour, including this past Sunday in Saratoga Springs, last night in Darien Center and Toronto, Ontario, Canada tomorrow evening. The roadshow kicks off their “Play that Song Tour 2017.”
The two-time Grammy award-winners won the crowds over on a cooler night in Darien Center.
Some of Train’s top hits included "Drops of Jupiter," "50 Ways to say Goodbye," "Hey Soul Sister," "Drink up," "Marry Me" and "Play that Song." Lead singer (pictured above) Patrick Monahan kept the crowd singing, dancing and also even borrowing cell phones to take selfies with the owners from the stage to pit distance, which many enjoyed.
O.A.R. and Natasha Bedingfield opened for the platinum recording artist. Train has sold more than 10 million albums and 30 million tracks worldwide since their debut in the music industry in 1998.
Some members of O.A.R. pictured below:
Darien Lake Theme Park hosted the Color Me Rad 5K for this year today. The event is a fundraiser for Special Olympics.
More than 1,000 people participated in the 5K.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Jason Aldean concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Saturday.
Brandon Guevara, 27, of Montana Lane, Clifton Springs, is charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after allegedly causing a disturbance at the concert venue, striking a Live Nation security officer and then resisting arrest. Guevara was arraigned in Darien Court and put in jail in lieu of $1,000 bail.
James M Craft II, 42, of Baxter Avenue, Alden, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly grabbing and shoving a Darien Lake security officer in the venue parking lot.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Chance the Rapper concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Wednesday:
Brandon T. Sanzo, 20, of Favara Circle, East Rochester, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly climbing on top of a concert venue building.
(Name redacted), 16, of Harwood Avenue, Hamburg, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
(Name redacted), 16, of Chatham Woods, Pittsford, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Adam N. Dudek, 18, of Helmsford Way, Penfield, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Daniel V. Avetisyan, 19, of Simone Terrace, Webster, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Sophia I. Ricco, 20, of Westminster Circle, New Hartford, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
David M. Koeppel, 21, of Flohr Avenue, West Seneca, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Drake A. Franciosa, 19, of Cooper Street, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Johnathan R. Kyte, 19, of Spencer Road, Hilton, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Joseph R. P. Aronson, 32, of Starboard Lane, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
(Name redacted), 18, of East Park Road, Pittsford, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly jumping a fence into the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return, and being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
(Name redacted), 17, of Hollingson Road, Clarence, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and criminal impersonation, 2nd, after allegedly being found inside the backstage area of the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return and then provided another person’s identity.
(Name redacted), 17, of Heise Road, Clarence, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and criminal Impersonation, 2nd, after allegedly being found inside the backstage area of the concert venue after being ejected and told not to return and then provided another person’s identity.
Kevin M. OBrien, 20, of Valais Court, Fairport, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly jumping over a fence to enter the concert venue.
Anthony T. Sanzo, 22, of Lauren Court, Webster, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, and harassment, 2nd (two counts), after allegedly being found inside the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return, and he also allegedly punched and kicked two Live Nation employees.
(Name redacted), 19, of Pinegrove Avenue, Irondequoit, is charged with grand larceny, 4th, criminal mischief, 4th, and harassment, 2nd, after allegedly stealing a wallet and damaging another person’s property after elbowing them in the face.
Robert M. Helbringer, 18, of Clarence Center Road, Clarence, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Maria M. Mankowski, 19, of Sunset Drive, Grand Island, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Press release:
Darien Lake will turn into a wave of color beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 10, as more than a thousand runners participate in the Color Me Rad 5K, a colorful, family fun run. Returning to Darien Lake for its fifth year, the race benefits Special Olympics of New York.
The nationally recognized event is loosely based on the Hindu Festival of Colors, otherwise known as Holi; colors used are a sign of winter’s end and spring’s new beginnings. During the race through Darien Lake’s campgrounds, runners dressed in all white are showered with a rainbow of colored cornstarch, transforming their clothing, faces and hair into a colorful work of art.
Partial proceeds from the event will benefit Special Olympics of New York.
“Color Me Rad is a great family fun run that really brightens up our campground,” said Chris Thorpe, Darien Lake general manager. “More importantly, it gives us an opportunity to give back to such an important organization in our community, Special Olympics of New York.”
In addition to Color Me Rad-themed swag, participants also receive free admission and coupons to the theme park and spectators receive discount tickets.
“Special Olympics New York is very excited to be teaming up with Color Me Rad and Darien Lake again,” said Erica Raepple, Director of Development for Special Olympics – Western Region. “We have partnered for the past 5 years and through the generosity of Color Me Rad and the local community coming out to volunteer, this event has been able to help sponsor nearly 30 Special Olympic Athletes.”
Registration for Color Me Rad is $55 and free for children under 7.
To register for the event or for more information about season passes or accommodations, visit www.DarienLake.com.
About Darien Lake
Darien Lake’s wide variety of entertainment has made it “destination fun” since 1964. Located 45 minutes from Niagara Falls between Buffalo and Rochester, today the park boasts more than 50 rides, including six world-class roller coasters; dozens of family friendly rides and entertainment; the region’s largest water park complete with wave pool; and a 20,000-seat state-of-the-art performing arts center, operated by Live Nation. The park is open May 6 to Oct. 1 and welcomes overnight guests in a wide range of accommodations – from a full-service hotel and modern cabins to rental RVs and campsites. For more information or to order season passes, visit www.DarienLake.com.
The following people were arrested by the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office during the Future concert at Darien Lake Performing Arts Center on Wednesday:
Jessica Ross, 31, of Jasper Parrish Road, Buffalo, is charged with two counts of trespass, second-degree harassment and resisting arrest after allegedly attempting to entering the concert venue after being ejected twice and told not to return. Ross allegedly punched and kicked deputies while being taken into custody. Ross was arraigned in Darien Court and put in jail in lieu of $500 bail.
Alex M. Gonzalez, 20, of Premption Road, Geneva, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Joshua R. Dauer, 19, of Steven Drive, Cheektowaga, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
(name redacted because of age), 16, of Marvin Hill Road, Springwater, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Noah J. Klumpp, 19, of Buffalo Street, Hamburg, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Jonothan S. Daley, 19, of Miles Allen Boulevard, Elkland, Pa., is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Rae M. Warner, 19, of Calm Lake Circle, Rochester, is charged with unlawful possession of marijuana after allegedly being found in possession of a quantity of marijuana.
Roberto J. Echevarria, 19, of Laurel Wood Drive, Rochester, is charged with third-degree assault after allegedly throwing a bottle, striking another subject in the face, causing a laceration.
Alexander Labor, 21, of Peach Street, Buffalo, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly pushing a Live Nation security officer.
Dewayne E. Johnson, 55, of Westside Drive, Chili, is charged with harassment, 2nd, after allegedly pushing a Live Nation security officer.
Nathaniel T. Welnhofer, 18, of Colvin Boulevard, Tonawanda, is charged with disorderly conduct after allegedly urinating in public while in the crowd at the concert venue entrance.
Zachary P. Liberatore, 20, of Stonehedge Drive, Orchard Park, is charged with trespass and criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly refusing to leave the concert venue and then being found inside the concert venue.
(name redacted because of age), 17, of East Ravenside Lane, Webster, is charged with criminal trespass, 3rd, after allegedly crawling under a fence to enter the concert venue.
Nadia M Jones, 20, of Magee Avenue, Rochester, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Andrew JW Delles, 20, of Black Creek Drive, Niagara Falls, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Jake R Viza, 20, of Webster Road, Webster, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Olivia I. Flink, 19, of Marlbank Drive, Rochester, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Jennifer M. Abbott, 20, of Bostwick Road, Phelps, is charged with trespass after allegedly attempting to re-enter the concert venue after having been ejected and told not to return.
Press release:
Since 1993, Darien Lake Amphitheater has been bringing the biggest stars to Western New York. Over its history, well over 400 concerts have played its stage and in its 25th season, the lineup is proving to be one of its best yet. The ceremonial season kicks off next Wednesday, May 24th, with Future and special guests Migos, Torey Lanez, ASAP Ferg and Zoey Dollaz.
Not only does the venue have a great lineup to celebrate its 25th season but LiveNation is also rolling out some upgrades and special offers to make this concert season one to remember.
Great new things to enhance the concert experience at Darien Lake Amphitheater for its 25th season include:
Updated Aesthetics: Darien Lake Amphitheater’s concession stands and plazas are getting a new, updated look in 2017! The updates include displays for photo opportunities & selfies, plus additional seating within the main plazas. Our concession buildings will receive a façade renovation and new TV displays.
Fans will even be treated to a beautiful starlight display projected under our amphitheater tent.
Free Theme Park Access: As previously announced, in celebration of Darien Lake Amphitheater’s 25th concert season, Live Nation is partnering with Darien Lake Theme Park to offer an amazing deal to concert ticket buyers for this season. Each ticket purchased for a concert at the amphitheater will include complementary same day admission into Darien Lake Theme Park! The offer will be valid for all tickets purchased for any concert at the amphitheater that occurs during the theme park’s operating schedule.
The offer is not valid in conjunction with any other Darien Lake Theme Park offer and is non-transferrable. Free Theme Park access is only valid the same day as the concert ticket and is only valid on purchased tickets and not valid on complimentary concert tickets. Go to darienlake.com/concerts for full details.
More Concession Locations: Darien Lake Amphitheater will have a wide range of new food and beverage offerings this year. New selections include humanely raised food offerings and handcrafted show specialty cocktails, plus a savory selection of local food trucks including House of Munch, Center Street Smoke House and Buffalo’s Best. We will also feature craft beers on tap! Additionally, we will have more points of sale in our concession plazas and at our lawn points of sale to better serve our guests.
Public WiFi: New during the 2017 season, public WiFi will be available for guests within the venue grounds. WiFi accessibility at the Darien lake Amphitheater has never been available to concertgoers before now. During the 2017 season, guests will be able surf the Internet, access their mobile concert tickets and enjoy their favorite apps like theLive Nation app, all from the comfort of their seat or while exploring the venue grounds. This will become available later this summer.
Preferred Lawn: The Preferred Lawn is back for 2017! Each preferred lawn ticket includes a complimentary lawn chair rental, beverage cart access, as well as Early Entry with a hassle-free quick access into a separate, secured area.
This summer’s spectacular 25th Season at Darien Lake Amphitheater lineup includes:
- Future – Wednesday, May 24th
- Chance The Rapper – Wednesday, May 31st
- Jason Aldean - Saturday, June 3rd
- Florida Georgia Line – Friday, June 16th
- Train with O.A.R. – Tuesday, June 20th
- Zac Brown Band – Sunday, June 25th
- Third Eye Blind – Thursday, June 29th
- Nickelback with Daughtry – Wednesday, July 12th
- Vans Warped Tour – Thursday, July 13th
- Chris Stapleton – Sunday, July 16th
- Chicago & The Doobie Brothers – Tuesday, July 18th
- Foreigner with Cheap Trick – Friday, July 21st
- Kidz Bop Kids – Saturday, July 22nd
- OneRepublic – Tuesday, July 25th
- Brantley Gilbert – Sunday, July 30th
- Kings of Leon – Wednesday, Aug. 2nd
- Dierks Bentley with Cole Swindell -- Friday, Aug. 4th
- Goo Goo Dolls with Phillip Phillips – Saturday, Aug. 12th
- Luke Bryan with Brett Eldredge – Friday, Aug. 25th
- Green Day – Saturday, Aug. 26th
- John Mayer – Sunday, Aug. 27th
- Matchbox Twenty / Counting Crows – Monday, Sept. 11th
If you took a game like "whack-a-mole" and merged it with a ride that goes up to 20 feet in the air, mixed in some friendly competition, the concoction would be a game known as "Strike-U-Up," which will be one of the new fun options at Darien Lake Theme Park this year.
Western New York's largest family fun zone opens for its 54th season tomorrow, May 6.
Located next to the Rolling Thunder roller coaster, Strike-U-Up straps two riders in special seats as two other people hammer away on large switches at the game's base, propelling the riders in the air. The person to make their partner reach the top first, wins.
Here's a YouTube video of the game at park in Florida:
Slapshot, the other new game, is based on ice hockey, and it's a spinoff of the National Hockey League's Accuracy Challenge.
You don't need ice skates or special clothes. Participants have a set amount of time to shoot a hockey puck at four targets within a regulation-size net. The company All Black Hockey Sticks donated Darien Lakes' supply of hockey sticks. Players can win some neat prizes, including team jerseys.
The new indoor hockey game is located where the shooting gallery used to be next to the world-renowned Viper, the park's signature steel coaster featuring five inversions, a blackout tunnel and a 70-foot drop that is decidedly not for the squeamish. (A special 35th anniversary party is planned next month for the wicked and beloved Viper.)
Well before, or well after, an engagement on the Viper, or Rolling Thunder -- and its 73-foot high, 20-foot wide steel loop that spins riders clockwise and counterclockwise -- you might want to try one of the new noshes at the park. For example, the big salty pretzels filled with warm, gooey caramel, or a hot juicy beef sandwich from the new Beef 'n' Beer stands, which also serve craft brews.
Loganberry soda is available at some locations in the park thanks to its new beverage partner, PepsiCo., which also sells the ever-popular Mountain Dew in its product line. Loganberry is popular in Western New York, parts of Southern Ontario, Canada, and in merry olde England where it is used to flavor English trifles and the fortified dessert wine, sherry. (But it was created in California by Judge J. H. Logan, of Santa Cruz, who cleverly combined the Aughinbaugh blackberry and red Antwerp raspberry.)
Of course, there are Anchor Bar wings, pizza, and that curiously toothsome ice cream treat, Dippin' Dots.
And let's not forget about all the great music that's in store at Darien Lakes this year, its 25th concert season. To commenorate the anniversary, Darien Lake and Live Nation have teamed up to offer concertgoers at the Darien Lake Amphitheater a free admission ticket to the theme park on the day of the show.
As General Manager Chris Thorpe says "Where else can you ride coasters all day and rock out all night with the greatest stars in the music industry?”
A total of 23 shows are scheduled, including Lady Antebellum, Goo Goo Dolls, Train, Zac Brown Band, Third Eye Blind, Nickleback, One Republic, Kings of Leon, and John Mayer.
Saturday is designated as Season Pass Holder Appreciation Day, and each season pass holder will get an additional free bring-a-friend ticket good for any day this season, as well as a Buy One, Get One Free discount on the two newest games, four free fun tickets, and a souvenir mug.
The Darien Lake Theme Park complex sits on more than 1,850 acres and features more than a hundred rides; included in the entrance fee is the Barracuda Bay water park with more than 20 water attractions and a huge wave pool. A hotel is next to it and a camp site with 2,000 camping lots and some cabins.
For more information on season passes, concerts or accommodations, visit www.DarienLake.com.
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