To many people in the Greater Cincinnati area spring doesn't start until they walk into Kings Island. The clanking of the chain lifts, bright colors, and the smell of freshly baking Cinnabon treats signifies that the dark and cold days of winter have officially passed.

This Friday, Kings Island officially kicks off its 2014 operating season with some much-anticipated new attractions!

The highlight of the 2014 lineup is the brand new Banshee roller coaster in the Action Zone section of the park. Situated partially on the land which was once occupied by the infamous Son of Beast, this 4,124' inverted roller coaster is the longest in the world of this type.

Keeping with the tradition of taking the food options in the park to a whole new level, the Chicken Shack will also make its debut in 2014. This new restaurant will featured hand-breaded chicken tenders, salads, wraps, and wings. If you want the best deal in the house, check out Kings Island's new All Day Dining Plan which allows you to save a bundle and never go hungry!

Something old becomes new again at Kings Island as the ride formerly known as Flight Deck is rechristened as The Bat. Paying homage to the short-lived 1982 roller coaster of the same name, The Bat will debut in 2014 with a brand new paint scheme and logo.

If you love the live shows and entertainment then you're in for a real treat this year! Kings Island will debut the new Cirque Imagine show in the Kings Island Theater on May 24th. This 30 minute show will display feats of strength, athleticism, and balance in this Cirque du Soleui-style showcase.

For more information, park hours, and to purchase tickets, check out Kings Island's official web site www.VisitKingsIsland.com

Don't forget the free Banshee tees to the first 5000 on Friday and the Easter Beagle on Sunday!

Also about the rides that have gotten paint jobs over the summer, and the Action Zone target is now gone for a nice shaded area.

There is also a plaque near Banshee remembering Son of Beast.

The Chick Shack?

I thought it was the Chicken Shack!

^Club Blood workers have to do something during their off season.

^Club Blood workers have to do something during their off season.

Who will work during haunt?

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The Chick Shack?

I thought it was the Chicken Shack!

That was weird. I had to edit it 3 times before it didn't revert back to "Chick Shack." Must be an encoding thing.

It's where BoddaH is planning in picking up women. The Chick Shack.

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Ryan..Women..

This will be fun to watch

Why are all those women running out the door?

Terp, who just HAD to (and who was tempted to mention Big Droppy Thing....so much for being good!)

Ryan..Women..

This will be fun to watch

You'd be banned if the picture didn't include a man drinking bourbon... because that's accurate...

Looks like Sweet Tea to me...

Terp, not a Southerner.

Can you tell me what drink that is though, and how it's made

Beautiful drink if you enjoy that kind of palate.

First you start with Karo Syrup (yuck), wave a Lipton American tea bag over it (yuck again)...add lemon "juice" (ReaLemon reconstituted)...

Nope..Beautiful Rye Old Fashioned..Fantastic drink if you're into that stuff. I'm more a Manhattan guy, I like a good bit of vermouth and a muddled cherry, but still.