Cedar Point kicks off its 143rd season this Saturday!

SANDUSKY, Ohio, May 9, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time in Earth's history, dinosaurs extinct for millions of years will resurface alongside record-breaking roller coasters that plummet 420 feet and reach speeds of more than 120 mph. Both will leave hearts pounding as Cedar Point opens for the season on Saturday, May 12, and debuts its newest attraction, Dinosaurs Alive!

Fifty lifelike, animatronic dinosaurs inhabit the wooded areas of Adventure Island, just beyond the tower of the Top Thrill Dragster. The prehistoric creatures are scaled to historically accurate sizes, with some stretching above the trees at nearly 50 feet. Showing a progression through history, the dinosaurs interact with each other and struggle to adapt to a rapidly evolving climate. Walking among them is like taking steps back in time amid enormous footprints.

It's an educational experience for families and a fascination for any curious observer who has ever wondered what it might have been like to live among these spiked, razor-toothed monstrosities. Guests of all ages can explore the island to their heart's content for a small entrance fee. As they make their way through the exhibit, children can also scavenge for fossils at a dinosaur dig site with the chance to win a K'NEXosaurus Rex building set by uncovering a hidden K'NEX piece. Learn more about the dinosaurs featured on Adventure Island and how to get the chance to win a K'NEXosaurus Rex!

As they venture back to the mainland, visitors will notice a more modern landscape, complete with vivid new lighting packages and advanced sound systems along the midway. The upgraded area and a newly-constructed stage will become the backdrop to Cedar Point's live nighttime show, Luminosity, powered by Pepsi.

The new show and accompanying improvements to the Main Midway are part of approximately $15 million Cedar Point has invested this year in attractions and live family entertainment to surprise and delight its guests.

This year, that excitement continues even after the sun sets on the peninsula.

Debuting with a grand opening June 8, Luminosity, powered by Pepsi, features contemporary choreography, hit music, pyrotechnics and plenty of special effects. After the show, the midway will transform into a dance party for Cedar Point's guests, complete with DJs taking requests.

It's the perfect opportunity for families and friends to reconnect and reflect on all the fun they've had throughout the day.

"Families today are so busy that these shared experiences have become fewer and farther between," Cedar Point Vice President and General Manager John Hildebrandt said. "There's a certain magic that happens when they take time to laugh together, create lasting memories and think about what matters most. There's nothing quite like a day of plunging, twisting and turning, then celebrating with music and dancing to strengthen those bonds between family and friends."

Guests who want to maximize their time on the rides while minimizing their wait can take advantage of two premium perks available this year: Fast Lane access and preferred parking.

Fast Lane allows guests to skip to the front of the line on 20 of Cedar Point's most popular rides, including its award-winning roller coasters. With preferred parking, they'll get as close as they can to the main gate so they can be among the first guests in and easily exit at the end of the night. Both of these perks are available for an additional charge. Get these premium perks online today!

Looking for another way to save time this summer so you can spend more of it connecting with your family? Cedar Point and John Deere have a special offer for guests. One lucky person will win a new John Deere X310 riding mower this summer in the Cedar Point and John Deere Win a Mower contest.  With power steering, a power deck lift and a 42-inch deck, is it fair to call it yard work?  Guests can sign up for the Win a Mower contest at the park this summer or online today!

Cedar Point's opening day festivities begin at 8:30 a.m. this Saturday with performances by The Ohio State University Spring Athletic Band. After a ribbon-cutting ceremony accompanied by the National Anthem, the park will open at 9 a.m. for season passholders and resort guests. All other guests will be invited in at 10 a.m., and the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit will open with a ceremony beginning at 11 a.m.

The festivities will continue Sunday with special Mother's Day deals, including half off the price of the park's Midway Market buffet and discounts on sundaes at Toft's Dairy, both available exclusively for moms.

All are invited to share in the fun as Cedar Point celebrates the start of another memorable season!

Cedar Point will open for its 143rd summer on Saturday, May 12 and will be open daily through Labor Day, Sept. 3, plus Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays, Sept. 7 through Oct. 28.  For a complete operating calendar and more information about the 2012 operating season, guests can log on to Cedar Point or call the park's general information line at (419) 627-2350.

SOURCE Cedar Point