From thrill rides to zombie invasions to food festivals and exclusive kids activities,  Carowinds 2016 line up has something for everyone! The park kicks off the new season with a special Season Pass Preview Night on Thursday, March 24, opening to the general public on Friday, March 25. The park will be open March 25 through April 3 for spring breakers.

Besides bringing the world’s first intra-active 3-D digital experience, Plants vs. Zombies™ Garden Warfare: 3Z Arena, in spring 2016, Carowinds announces a variety of events, including the all new KidsFest and BrewFest. And for the second year in a row, the spring food festival Taste of the Carolinas – which runs Saturdays and Sundays April 9 through May 1 – will have foodies begging for more. We’re also bringing back Bands, Brews and BBQs— three favorites that define a true Carolina experience. It will run Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, July 29 through August 14.

Here’s a look at Carowinds’ 2016 events:

Season Passholder Preview Night – March 24

Experience Carowinds before the general public during our exclusive Season Pass Preview Night on Thursday, March 24 from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. As a passholder, you’ll be one of the first to experience the all-new Plants vs. Zombies Garden Warfare: 3Z Arena, the world’s first intra-active 3-D digital experience. You’ll also enjoy a wide variety of local bands, DJs and tons of awesome giveaways! Plus, you’ll receive a $9.99 Bring-A-Friend coupon valid for one guest that can be used any day before May 8!

 Opening Weekend – March 25-27

Let’s get this party started! Our 2016 season kicks off March 25 – 27 and will be the BIGGEST WEEKEND EVER at Carowinds. We’ll have tons of fantastic prize giveaways, live music and much, much more.

Spring Break & Easter Eggstravaganza – March 25-April 3

Carowinds will be open daily for one week when local schools have spring break. Our own Eggward the Easter Bunny and Snoopy the Easter Beagle will stop by Carowinds during our Easter Eggstravaganza March 25 – April 3. Guests can get photos taken with Eggward and Snoopy, and take part in our eggstra-special activities, crafts and entertainment.

Taste of the Carolinas – Saturdays and Sundays from April 9-May 1

It’s home grown, y’all! Guests can eat, drink and experience the best of what the Carolinas have to offer during our Taste of the Carolinas food festival. Sample culinary foods from Carolina regions, along with recommended pairings of local craft beer and wine.

Military Days –May 29-30; July 2-4

Join us as we say thank you to our brave military service men and women. We’re offering FREE park admission to any active, inactive or retired United States service men and women with a valid military I.D.

Harmony Hall Concert Series, Friday nights from June 17-July 22

After a hard week at work, wind down at the summer’s social hot spot, Carowinds’ own Harmony Hall. On Friday evenings from June 17 through July 22, relax with us on the patio and enjoy fantastic concerts and sensational food and beverage specials.

NEW! BrewFest – June 4-5

The Carolinas are becoming quite popular for our specialty craft beers, and Carowinds is showcasing the best of the best at its first-ever BrewFest. Purchase sample suds from a variety of breweries and micro brews from all around the Carolinas. We’ll also have mighty fine eats to go along with the brew during a backyard cookout.

 Dine-In Movies, Saturdays from June 18-August 20

Treat your family to the ultimate movie night at Harmony Hall. On Saturdays from June 18 through August 20, we’ll be showing family-favorite flicks on our big screen! Movies start at 8:30 p.m.

 NEW! KidsFest – July 16-17

Calling all kids! Come to Carowinds on July 16-17 for an extra-special event that’s all about YOU! KidsFest will feature super-fun interactive games and activities designed just for kids and their families.

 Bands, Brews and BBQs – Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays July 29-August 14

Barbecue is a revered institution in the Carolinas. Folks come from far and wide to experience it, and friendly rivalries exist about which sauce – tomato, vinegar or mustard – reigns supreme. Combine our beloved BBQ with local music and craft beer, and you’re in for a mighty fine time. You’ll sample BBQs and craft beers from all over and enjoy tunes on the porch of Harmony Hall.

Let’s not forget, guests can also conquer the 325-foot tall world-class thrill ride, Fury 325 – voted the world’s “Best New Ride” by the readers of Amusement Today. Thrills, relaxation and splashtastic fun await as we celebrate the culture of the Carolina coast at the all-new Carolina Harbor Waterpark which debuts in May.

Whether its rollercoasters, good eats, catching a wave or enjoying a good movie with family and friends, Carowinds is the place to be! And a 2016 gold season pass provides unlimited visits to the park, as well as free parking, free SCarowinds, early ride times and more.