SOUTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — A special guest is coming to the debut of Dorney Park’s new roller coaster.
Philadelphia Eagles Safety Reed Blankenship will visit the park as part of its Iron Menace Ride for a Cause event from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday.
The event will act both as the first public opportunity to ride the new dive coaster Iron Menace and as a fundraiser for the Eagles Autism Foundation, which funds care and research programs for people with autism.
“It’s another thing we can do to help families in our community and make a difference."Dorney’s Public Relations and Communications Manager Ryan Eldredge
Aside from Iron Menace, some other rides at the park will open early for the event, which likely will include Possessed and Steel Force, Eldredge said.
Drinks and heavy hors d'oeuvres will be served.
Dorney will donate 100% of ticket proceeds to the foundation, park Public Relations and Communications Manager Ryan Eldredge said.
“It’s another thing we can do to help families in our community and make a difference,” Eldredge said.
Eldredge said the park recently revamped Dorney Park Cares, a committee of park employees who work to make charitable partnerships in the region. The team is aiming to raise $50,000 at this event.
“We’re already halfway there,” Eldredge said.
The event could sell out, Eldredge said — there are about 400 tickets available, and more than 200 were sold before the announcement of Blankenship’s visit.
Dorney Park will also hold Preseason Preview Days April 27-28 and May 4-5. The park will officially open May 10.
Tiered tickets
Tickets are being sold in tiers. Only the highest tier has a chance to meet Blankenship.
The cheapest tickets are $75, which includes a limited-edition poster by local artist Ryan Lynn and a photo opportunity with SWOOP, the Eagles’ mascot, and Eagles cheerleaders.
The next tier costs $150. It adds an Iron Menace Gift Pack, a limited-edition poster that’s autographed by Blankenship and a ticket to Dorney Park that can be used any time in 2024.
The $250 tier adds a photo opportunity with Blankenship, another 2024 ticket to Dorney and two fast lane vouchers.
All attendees will be able to attend a Q&A with Blankenship at 6 p.m.
