Kings Dominion is making live entertainment the centerpiece of the guest experience this summer with a dramatically expanded and reimagined lineup for Summer 2026.
The Doswell, Va., park announced the refreshed programming May 4 after incorporating direct guest feedback, leadership input and fan focus groups. The changes build on the initial March 11 announcement and aim to deliver more of what visitors love.
“This summer, entertainment isn’t an add-on — it’s embedded in the heartbeat of the park,” said Kings Dominion Park Manager Jennifer Schofield. “This expanded lineup reflects our commitment to delivering the exceptional park experience our guests want and deserve.”
The Kings Dominion entertainment-first approach weaves live music, roaming performers, immersive environments, daytime fun and nighttime finales throughout the 400-acre park. Entertainment Director Kelly Daugherty said the result is an experience that flows seamlessly from day to night and appeals to all ages while pairing with the park’s world-class rides.
NEW! Drone & Fireworks Spectacular: Ignite the Night runs July 10 through Aug. 9 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. The show blends classic pyrotechnics with next-generation drone technology for coordinated formations, music-driven storytelling and a cinematic finale.
BACK BY DEMAND! Cirque Imagine takes the stage in the Kings Dominion Theater from June 20 through Aug. 16. The elevated production — formerly announced as Pandemonium: A Cirque Extravaganza — features gravity-defying acrobatics, powerful dance and immersive theatrical storytelling.
NEW! Jungle X Percussion Show: Rhythm of the Wild brings high-energy tribal beats to the Jungle X-pedition area from June 27 through Aug. 9. The outdoor percussion performance immerses guests in raw energy and connects sound, movement and the environment.
The Bandstand Stage on International Street returns with two daily shows. Daytime sets of Strike Up the Bandstand (June 27-Aug. 9) feature a five-piece band playing pop, rock, country and party anthems. Nighttime Rock the Night transforms the stage into a larger spectacle with more than 20 performers, singers, dancers and acrobatics.
Previously announced highlights remain part of the lineup. The NEW! Splash! Water Parade (June 27-Aug. 9) turns Candy Apple Grove into an interactive water-play party with floats and the Wacky Water Works Company. Star-Spangled Nights on July 4 and 5 celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with patriotic fireworks and décor in Old Virginia. Bands in Residence (June 13-Aug. 16) brings rotating local and regional acts to Candy Apple Grove.
Fan favorites continue daily. The Kings Dominion Clown Band roams the park from May 23 through Sept. 7. Families can enjoy Peanuts character meet-and-greets. The park’s 50-year icons — the Singing Mushrooms and Frog Pianist Mr. A. M. Phibian — perform in Candy Apple Grove with updated playlists. Team Charlie Brown returns through Sept. 7 with its high-energy musical show.
Kings Dominion, located about 90 miles south of Southern Maryland, offers 13 roller coasters — more than any other Virginia park — including the record-breaking Rapterra. The expanded entertainment lineup gives families from the region extra reasons to visit throughout the season.
