Chaos unfolded at Busch Gardens Williamsburg over the weekend, with law enforcement ultimately called to the scene.
First opened in 1975, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is distinctly different from its Florida counterpart. Originally conceived as an expansion of Anheuser-Busch’s brewery tours, the Virginia theme park set itself apart with its focus on immersive theming, dividing the park into European-themed “villages” that reflect countries like England, Italy, and France.
Over the years, Busch Gardens Williamsburg evolved into more than just a beautiful park. Its ride offerings expanded to include a handful of renowned roller coasters and thrill rides, such as the multi-launch coaster Verbolten and the iconic Apollo’s Chariot. The park also introduced seasonal events like Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town, diversifying its appeal and attracting visitors year-round.
Despite generating lower attendance than the likes of Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, or even its sister park, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Busch Gardens Williamsburg still draws in guests of all ages and interests. But like Disney and Universal, these guests aren’t always the best-behaved parkgoers in the world.
Earlier this year, a fight broke out at the theme park between guests waiting in line for Pantheon. The altercation was caught on camera, with some claiming that it was six guests versus one.
The man at the center of the attack was allegedly standing in front of the exit, blocking those who had paid extra to wait in a shorter line. A woman who wanted to get off the ride after it shut down asked the man to move so she could pass, but he refused.
In June, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also made headlines after a hotel near the entrance, Rodeway Inn, was the site of a deadly shooting. Just days later, rumors spread on Facebook of a planned “takeover” of the park. A fight later broke out at the park, starting with two guests and gradually including more people until it devolved into a full-on brawl.
Fight yesterday at @BuschGardens during the so called “takeover”
Fight yesterday at @BuschGardens during the so called "takeover" pic.twitter.com/UvU93iy6Yv
— Jake Coasters (@jake_coasters) June 29, 2024