Busch Gardens Williamsburg unveils new Birds of Prey Up-Close tour, new shopping experiences, an expanded line-up of live shows, plus a new-look entrance area.

Park guests will notice some not-so-subtle changes at the park this year including the newly renovated and expanded entrance that highlights the park’s inherent beauty. Vibrant colors, a decorative water feature and beautiful landscapes will let guests know their fun is about to begin.

“We wanted to make a lasting first impression on our guests when they arrive and we believe these changes will kick off a memorable and fun day for everyone,” said Busch Gardens’ Park President Carl Lum.

At the close of the 2012 season, Verbolten left nearly one million guests breathless with its multiple launches and exciting journey through the forbidden Black Forest.

In addition to the thrilling rides, the European-themed park will offer a unique encounter with the ancient art of falconry on the park’s new Birds of Prey Up-Close tour. Guests will don a leather glove and command raptors using the same techniques used by European royalty for centuries. Experts trained in falconry will tell the fascinating history between humans and birds of prey.

New shopping experiences throughout the park include England’s newly remodeled Emporium, which will feature roller coaster apparel and park souvenirs, and Union Jax, a store that carries contemporary, youthful fashions reflective of British pop culture.

Food lovers are in for a special treat later this spring when the park explores culinary traditions from around the world at the Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Guests will eat their way across 11 European countries every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from May 31 – June 23. This all-new event will feature superb foods, wines and other refreshments not usually found at Busch Gardens. Stroll through France and enjoy coq au vin with rosemary roasted fingerling potatoes, linger in Spain for venera con jamón with saffron rice and romesco sauce, and then stop in Germany for pork schnitzel and fine-crafted brews. It’s all in a day’s stroll for anyone with a taste for adventure.

The park’s popular Glory at the Gardens and Busch Gardens Live concert series are back with an expanded line-up of spring and summer shows. Glory at the Gardens will feature contemporary Christian artists including Casting Crowns, Third Day and Mary Mary. Busch Gardens Live showcases top talent from pop, country and classic rock, with Styx, Bridgit Mendler and KC and the Sunshine Band among the announced acts. These popular concerts are free with park admission.

Das Festhaus, the park’s popular German dining hall will feature two show productions in 2013.  An all-new designed Entwined: Tales of Good and Grimm will reach new heights with acrobatic silk artists, and a park classic, This is Oktoberfest, returns to stage featuring traditional Bavarian songs and dances.