A Warm Welcome to Our Heroes: Honoring the servicemen and women from the USS Gerald R. Ford Deployment
The nine squadrons of Carrier Air Wing (CVW-8) have returned to Naval Station Norfolk, Naval Air Station Oceana, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and Naval Air Station Jacksonville.
After a more than eight-month deployment with the USS Gerald R. Ford — extended twice due to the war in Israel — the Hampton Roads squadrons began returning home last week.
As the brave men and women from the USS Gerald R. Ford return home, our partners at Busch Gardens Williamsburg would like to extend their deepest gratitude and a warm welcome.
We are in awe of your courage, resilience, and dedication to serving our country. You embody the true spirit of heroism, and for that, we salute you.
We understand the sacrifices you've made and the time spent away from your loved ones. Now that you're back, it's time to reconnect, relax, and create beautiful memories. And what better place to do that than at Busch Gardens?
Busch Gardens Williamsburg offers several opportunities for local military members and their families to enjoy special savings and events at the park. The festivities are kicking off January 26th with the return of Mardi Gras.
Upcoming Events--Mardi Gras
January 26-March 3, 2024
Event dates: Fridays 3pm-8pm
Saturdays & Sundays + Presidents' Day: 12pm-6pm (Included with park admission)
Calling all military members and their families! Join Busch Gardens Williamsburg for their first event of the New Year, Mardi Gras.
Experience the vibrant energy and excitement of New Orleans right here in Williamsburg. Indulge in delectable Cajun cuisine, immerse yourself in lively music, and returning favorites like Carnaval Imaginique, an electrifying cirque show in the Globe Theatre.
Enjoy vibrant entertainment throughout all nine of Busch Gardens’ villages with an exciting New Orleans-style event for the whole family. The Big Easy meets big thrills with world-class roller coasters, rides and kid-friendly play areas. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind party every Friday through Sunday, plus President’s Day, from January 26 through March 3.
Waves of Honor
In effort to express their appreciation, Busch Gardens Williamsburg invites you to take advantage of their Waves of Honor program. This initiative provides military personnel and up to three direct dependents one complimentary admission per year to one of the participating SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment parks.
• Service Members and their direct dependents must have a valid Active-Military ID in order to participate.
• Spouses must log in under the Active-Duty Member's account in order to take advantage of the dependent tickets.
• Military guests must register online, print tickets and visit Jan. 26 - Nov. 3, 2024.
It's their small way of saying, "Thank you for your service."
Discounted 1-Day Tickets
Active-Duty Military can get up to six discounted tickets to Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA.
- Offers extend to any United States Active-Duty Military (Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and Space Force), Activated or Drilling Reservist, or National Guardsman currently serving
- 1-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within one year from date of purchase
- Multi-Day Tickets must be obtained online and redeemed at the park within 6 months from date of purchase
Busch Gardens & Water Country USA 2024 Military Pass
But the appreciation doesn't stop there. Busch Gardens Williamsburg is excited to offer Active-Duty Military and their families this great product----With their Military Pass, active duty military, reservists, and National Guard can enjoy unlimited visits to Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Water Country USA, and Christmas Town, all at a discounted rate through Jan. 1, 2025.----Giving you the freedom to enjoy our park whenever you wish.
Learn more about Busch Gardens Williamsburg military discount admission opportunities below for Active Duty plus special offers for Veterans.
Preschool Pass for Families
Busch Gardens hasn't forgotten about our little heroes either. The Busch Gardens Williamsburg/Water Country USA Preschool Pass allows kids ages 3-5 to explore and enjoy Busch Gardens and Water Country USA absolutely free thru November 3, 2024! It’s the perfect opportunity for your young ones to let loose and have some fun.
In order to receive this offer you must register online and visit the park by May 31, 2024 to activate. Once activated, the Preschool Pass is valid for admission through November 3, 2024 at both Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA.
Welcome Home
Returning from deployment is not the end of your journey, but the beginning of a new chapter. As you transition back, we hope you'll make Busch Gardens a part of your homecoming story.
The folks at Busch Gardens are ready to welcome you with open arms, thrilling rides, unforgettable experiences, and a community that values and supports you.
Thank you once again for your service. We look forward to seeing you soon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.
Welcome home!
.png)
