AGAWAM, Mass. - Six Flags New England is officially open for the season after being closed for 13 months. While there are protocols in place, such as requiring masks to be worn at all times, people at the park said they are just happy to be back.

"At Six Flags you might not see our smiles underneath the masks, [but] they are there. We've missed our guests so much and all we ask is everyone to have safe fun at the park," said Jennifer McGrath, communications/marketing manager for Six Flags New England.

A Hartford resident came to the park with his family and enjoyed riding the rides after not being able to do so for so long.  

"It's tremendous, absolutely exciting, just getting back out now that it opened up, it was definitely worth the ride," said Fitz G. Heslop.

"It's really fun, it hasn't been open for a while, so it's nice to be back to normal,” Westfield friends Laura Talbot and Lauren Rokosz said.

On Friday, the theme park opened up for season pass holders. Some rollercoaster lovers said they are happy to be back riding in New England. 

"This was our home park and it closed down," said Tracie Daviau from Rhode Island. "We had to find other places, but we are glad it's open back up. Hopefully we can start coming back down this way."

Six Flags is operating under guidelines put in place by the state. There were some changes to the park, such as no cash use.

"They will also be experiencing contactless temperature screening and security check and everyone ages three and up must have a mask to cover their nose and mouth," said McGrath. 

Frequent visitors said it is all worth it to be able to come back for their favorite rides and they can even expect to see a new one this season.

"We have a brand new Supergirl Sky Flyer,” said McGrath. “She is a powerful ride, and we cannot wait for our guests to ride it. It is a thrilling ride, going head over heels, while experiencing maximum speeds all while seated by yourself.”

The park is operating at 50% capacity. Anyone who wants to come to the park must register online at sixflags.com/reserve.

For a full list of COVID-19 safety guidelines at the park, click here.