Kings Dominion debuts new drone show, water parade, and live summer entertainment
Kings Dominion announced an expanded live entertainment lineup for Summer 2026, including a new drone-and-fireworks show, an outdoor percussion show, a water parade, and more live music.
Courtesy of Kings Dominion
Plenty of fan-favorites will also return, including “Cirque Imagine” (formerly Pandemonium: A Cirque Extravaganza), now elevated into a fully realized theatrical experience. The lineup is a response to guest feedback and leadership conversations, with the goal of delivering more of what guests love and elevating every visit with unforgettable moments.
“This summer, entertainment isn’t an add-on — it’s embedded in the heartbeat of the park,” Kings Dominion Park Manager Jennifer Schofield said. “This expanded lineup reflects our commitment to delivering the exceptional park experience our guests want and deserve.”
Courtesty of Kings Dominion
What’s new for Summer 2026
- “Drone & Fireworks Spectacular: Ignite the Night” A drone and fireworks show combining coordinated drone formations, pyrotechnics, and music-driven storytelling. Friday through Sunday nights, July 10 – Aug. 9.
- “Jungle X Percussion Show: Rhythm of the Wild” A new outdoor percussion show in the park’s Jungle X-pedition area. June 27 – Aug. 9.
- “Splash! Water Parade” A rolling water-play parade in Candy Apple Grove with floats, performers, and crowd participation. June 27 – Aug. 9.
- “Bands in Residence” Local and regional bands performing live sets in Candy Apple Grove. June 13 – Aug. 16.
- “Star-Spangled Nights” with a new theme. The park’s annual fireworks show returns July 4-5 with patriotic décor in the Old Virginia area paying homage to America’s 250th Celebration. The Old Virginia décor is in place from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Courtesy of Kings Dominion
Returning fan favorites
- “Cirque Imagine” A mainstage acrobatic and theatrical production at the Kings Dominion Theater. The show was originally announced as “Pandemonium: A Cirque Extravaganza.” June 20 – Aug. 16.
- Bandstand Stage shows: Two live-music shows on International Street: “Strike Up the Bandstand” during the day with a five-piece band, and “Rock the Night” in the evening with more than 20 performers. June 27 – Aug. 9.
- “Team Charlie Brown” A live musical adventure featuring Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang. Currently running through Sept. 7.
Courtesy of Six Flags
Daily and legacy entertainment
- The Kings Dominion Clown Band: A roaming ensemble that has performed at the park for more than four decades, appearing on International Street, Candy Apple Grove, and the midways. May 23 – Sept. 7.
- Family Magic with Peanuts: Daily meet-and-greets and live character appearances with Snoopy and the Peanuts gang.
- Singing Mushrooms and the Frog Pianist: The park’s signature animatronic ensemble in Candy Apple Grove, including Mr. A. M. Phibian (also known as Fib the Frog), has run since the park’s 1975 opening with updated playlists and modernized technology.
Kelly Daugherty, entertainment director for Six Flags, said the new programming is intended to span the day and reach all ages.
“The result is an experience that moves seamlessly from day to night, appeals to all ages—and paired with world-class rides for the whole family—clearly sets a visit to Kings Dominion apart from any other family fun in the region,” Daugherty said.
Part of a live entertainment push across Six Flags
Kings Dominion’s expanded lineup follows live-entertainment additions at other Six Flags parks. Earlier this month, Six Flags Great Adventure announced the return of “Dead Man’s Party” for Fright Fest 2026 after a one-year absence.
Courtesy of Six Flags
The New Jersey park is also expanding Holiday in the Park with new immersive lands for the 2026 holiday season, while Six Flags Over Georgia is transforming its Holiday in the Park with a seasonal overhaul.
The pattern reflects Six Flags’ stated focus on live entertainment, festivals, and special activations under Reilly, who took the role of president and CEO in December 2025. Reilly has been reinstating park presidents at several properties, with stated plans to raise operational quality and tailor entertainment more closely to local markets. Six Flags became the largest regional amusement park operator in North America after its 2024 merger with Cedar Fair.
Kings Dominion has 13 roller coasters, including Rapterra. For tickets and more information about Summer 2026 entertainment at the park, visit sixflags.com/kingsdominion.
Address: 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047
Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday – Sunday, then daily starting May 29, 2026
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