FORT WAYNE, Ind. — Get ready for an unforgettable experience as the Fort Wayne Zoo proudly announces the grand opening of the eagerly anticipated Coastal Cove on Friday, May 23! This exciting event will kick off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m., featuring the Zoo’s Executive Director & CEO Rick Schuiteman and dedicated members of the Aquatic Animal Care team. Following the ceremony, Rick Schuiteman will be available for interviews, offering insights into this remarkable new habitat.

“A great deal of planning and perseverance went into the reimagination of Coastal Cove, and we are thrilled that the space is open!” exclaimed Rick Schuiteman. “For the first time in Fort Wayne Zoo history, we have a shared habitat space between California sea lions and harbor seals, which offers a fantastic opportunity to educate our community about the similarities and differences between these species and conservation efforts of these energetic pinnipeds.”

Prepare to be captivated by familiar faces as California sea lions Cassandra and Valkyrie make their triumphant return, joined by Ronan, the charming harbor seal. While these incredible pinnipeds explore their new guest- facing space, they may occasionally retreat to their behind-the-scenes area as they acclimate to the newly renovated habitat and the excitement of interacting with visitors.

Originally built in 2002, the reimagined Coastal Cove now boasts a larger beach, new shade structures, and an upgraded life support system, including advanced water filtration and enhanced habitat monitoring for the impressive 88,000-gallon water space. These renovations will also allow for the habitat to accommodate more pinnipeds and there are currently plans underway for two additional harbor seals to join the pod later over the next year.

The new Coastal Cove habitat transports guests to the picturesque rocky shores of California with stunning aesthetic touches, including a new iconic lighthouse, painted barnacles, and driftwood, bringing a bit of the West Coast to Indiana. The space also features upgrades Zoo fans will enjoy, including shaded seating and upgraded pathways, ensuring easier guest accessibility to the habitat and behind-the-scenes areas. In the future, the Zoo plans to offer Wild Encounters, allowing guests to connect with the pinnipeds and learn about their rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation efforts in an entirely new way.

“As one of only a handful of self-supporting zoos in the country, this reimagined space wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community, our members, and especially our generous donors,” said Schuiteman.

CARLSBAD, Calif. — The engines are revving at LEGOLAND California Resort today, as the new Driving Schools officially reopened to young drivers! Streamers flew, horns honked, and kids cheered as the family theme park celebrated the reopening of two of the Park’s most popular attractions with a giant LEGO gear built from more than 2,500 LEGO bricks, which put the LEGO vehicles in drive, setting the first group of mini motorists on their way!

Located in Fun Town, across from the recently announced indoor coaster opening in 2026, the new Driving School tracks feature realistic road scenarios, intersections, roundabouts, and even a car wash equipped with interactive bubbles that activate as kids drive through. To celebrate the opening, children ages 3-13 will have the opportunity to get a commemorative LEGOLAND driver’s license upon completion of the new course at both Driving School (6–13) and Jr. Driving School (3-5). These commemorative licenses are even adorned with a REAL ID star (LEGOLAND style, of course) and will be available for kids during the month-long celebration of the all-new journey. Plus families can meet and greet the new LEGO^® Race Car Driver and enjoy delicious roadside bites and treats!

“We are absolutely thrilled to officially launch the new Driving Schools at LEGOLAND California Resort,” said President of LEGOLAND California Kurt Stocks. “These have been beloved attractions for generations, and these updates bring a fresh, engaging experience for our next generation of drivers. There is no other driving experience like this for young children, and seeing them take the wheel for the first time is truly what a LEGOLAND experience is all about.”

LEGOLAND California Resort is offering BIG summer savings for families with a new Summer Play Pass deal to experience the new Driving Schools, the world’s first LEGO Festival, and the upcoming Summer Block Party featuring the return of the LEGO^® World Parade!

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Here we go!The highly anticipated Steel Curtain Roller Coaster will make its grand return to Kennywood Park. Beginning this Saturday, May 24, triple record-setting coaster will officially reopen to the public during a grand opening ceremony. Attendees are invited to join park officials, representatives from the Steelers including current and former players, Miss Pennsylvania, and elected officials at the entrance to the coaster at 11:30 a.m.  Riders looking to get in on the action early can purchase a Gold or Platinum Season Pass and join the park for exclusive Passholder ride time on Friday, May 23 from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m.

Standing at 220 feet, The Steel Curtain is Pennsylvania’s tallest roller coaster complete with nine inversions, the most of any coaster in the United States and the highest in North America. The 4,000-foot-long coaster is the park’s top attraction and offers more than two minutes of thrills to riders. The record setting coaster will officially reopen after a yearlong modification project to increase the reliability and longevity of the ride. During the project, Kennywood worked directly with the ride’s manufacturer, S&S Worldwide, and third-party experts to decrease the structural movement of the ride, ultimately allowing the coaster to make more cycles throughout its lifespan.

“This is a comeback worthy of the black and gold at one of the best theme parks in the United States,” said Ricky Spicuzza, General Manager of Kennywood. “The Steel Curtain is now ready to deliver nonstop thrills all summer long. We’re excited to welcome fans back to experience our most iconic coaster, now better than ever.”

The opening of The Steel Curtain is just the kick-off to all that’s to come this summer season at Kennywood. Beginning on Friday, May 23, Pittsburgh’s Most Thrilling Food Festival, Bites and Pints begins with chef-inspired tastings of international cuisine. Featuring eight unique booths inspired by Cuban, Greek, Irish, Italian, Mexican, Polish, Spanish, and South Korean cuisine, guests are encouraged to bring their stretchy pants and get ready to chow down as they make their way around the Kennywood Lagoon. Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival runs every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from May 23 through June 29, plus Monday, May 26.

Those looking for dinner and a show can head over to the Garden Stage after enjoying a lap of Bites and Pints to take in the amazing new show, The Original Dare Devil Circus. This heart-pounding spectacle of classic thrill acts will take place at select times every single day through June 29. Featuring world-renowned daredevils performing breathtaking acrobatics and motorcycle stunts, this show delivers edge-of-your-seat excitement.

SAINT-PIERRE-DU-PERRAY, France — Universal Rocks, a recognized leader in themed decoration and architectural sculpture, is contributing to several major projects for the 2025 season in leisure parks across France and Europe. Leveraging its expertise in shotcrete, sculpting, and painting, the company is enhancing immersive environments that elevate visitor experiences.

Parc Astérix (France)
Expansion of the Egyptian Zone with “Le Souk” and the “Les Fastes du Nil” Restaurant Universal Rocks has crafted the interior and exterior facades with shotcrete, thematic columns, and painted murals inside the restaurant, supporting the expansion of the park’s Egyptian zone.

New Family Roller Coaster “Cétautomatix” (Upcoming)
Universal Rocks is currently working on this new spinning attraction dedicated to the famous Gaulish blacksmith. The team is designing shotcrete facades, wood-effect beams, and their painted finishes, immersing visitors in a vibrant Gaulish village. Scheduled to open in early summer 2025.

Nigloland (France)
New Restaurant “Erizo” within the Resort
As part of the expansion of the hotel offering with the opening of the new Cabaïana Hotel, Universal Rocks has transformed the Pirates Hotel restaurant, now called Erizo. Our teams have completed all interior and exterior facades, as well as the ceilings of the extension, from shotcrete to painting.

Other Interventions

• Hotel facade and canopy: replacement of the existing canopy and complete creation of new columns in shotcrete and paint.
• “La Ronde des Canards” Attraction: fully repainted for the 2025 season.

Fantasiana (Austria)
New “Helios” Roller Coaster
Universal Rocks has designed the facades, sculptures, and painted finishes of the thematic building of “Helios,” the world’s second Stryker Coaster by Mack Rides. An immersive solar and golden journey into the mythological universe.

Suntago – Park of Poland (Poland)
New Indoor Family Zone “Crocodile Island”
In this 1,200 m² extension designed in collaboration with Creative Studio Berlin, Universal Rocks has created:

• Themed facades,
• Sculpted walls of Mayan ruins, tree trunks, and artificial rocks,
• The central circular plaque, sculpted and painted, for the interactive game “Race Through the Ruins,” a centerpiece of the pre-zone.

Rulantica – Europa-Park (Germany)
New Aquatic Areas “Nørd Havn” & “Svømmepøl”
Universal Rocks has created sculpted artificial rocks for these two new areas:

• Nørd Havn, a family zone inspired by a Nordic port.
• Svømmepøl, a large outdoor pool with an integrated bar.

Camp Resort – Europa-Park (Germany)
New Rock Structure
As part of the thematic enhancement of the Camp Resort at Europa-Park, a western-themed hotel offering, Universal Rocks has created a shotcrete, sculpted, and painted structure representing an impressive artificial rock at the center of the Camp Resort roundabout. This project aims to further strengthen the thematic immersion within the resort.

Phantasialand (Germany)
New Thematic Separation Between the Mexico and Mystery Zones
Universal Rocks designed facades and paintings that ensure an immersive transition between the worlds of Mexico and Klugheim (Mystery), while maintaining the park’s distinctive narrative and visual coherence.

Freizeitpark Plohn (Germany)
New Attraction “Aqualuna & die Wunschschaukel”
Universal Rocks created the sculpted and painted rocks for this new Wild Swing attraction, combining aquatic immersion with family-friendly thrills.

Les Ducs de Savoie Hotel – Courchevel (France)
Creation of a Thematic Cave for the Spa (Ongoing)
Universal Rocks is currently designing an immersive cave at the heart of the wellness area of Hôtel Les Ducs de Savoie, providing an exceptional relaxation experience in a mineral and enveloping setting.

Emerald Park (Ireland)
Completion of Tir Na Nog
Universal Rocks has recently completed the creation of artificial rock elements for the Tir Na Nog area, an immersive zone inspired by Irish mythology. These unique sculptures, crafted from sculpted and hand-painted concrete, recreate the mystical atmosphere of this legendary realm, providing visitors with an unforgettable visual experience.

Quote from Fabio Maiuri, CEO of Universal Rocks
“We are proud to be part of such diverse and ambitious projects that push the boundaries of thematic immersion. Each location has its own identity, and our mission is to reveal it through unique, durable, and spectacular creations.”

Universal Rocks continues to bring its expertise to large-scale projects in the world of theme parks, hotels, and water complexes, further strengthening its position as a reference in immersive decoration across Europe.

ST. LOUIS — Hall U Need, the award-winning French urban entertainment chain, has chosen Intercard cashless technology for its latest location near Paris. The new FEC opened in April at the Westfield Carré Sénart mall in Lieusaint southeast of the French capital. It is Intercard’s second installation for Hall U Need, which already uses the company’s system at its flagship location in the northern French city of Lille.

Hall U Need offers a myriad of attractions in a stylishly designed setting, including a 100 game arcade that includes some appearing in France for the first time. Other amenities include an upscale restaurant, bar, bowling, karaoke, interactive VR games and a children’s play area. The center can also host business and special events in its meeting rooms.

Both Hall U Need locations make extensive use of cashless technology from Intercard. Guests can purchase a card or wristband in varying amounts and use it to play games, buy food and beverages and participate in all the center’s activities.  

In a few short years Hall U Need has raised the bar for FECs in France and across Europe. The company has received broad recognition for its innovative concept and design, including listing among the world’s most incredible bowling centers as determined by the magazines Bowling Center Management and Architecture and Design. It was also among the three finalists for IAAPA’s 2025 award for Top FEC in the World.

Scruffy Dog Creative Group is proud to announce the successful completion of its work on the fabrication of a major themed entertainment package for Six Flags Qiddiya City – a flagship theme park within Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative. Delivered in early 2025, the project marks a significant milestone for the group’s international production portfolio and reinforces its reputation as a trusted partner for large-scale themed developments worldwide.

Working as a lead creative fabrication partner across the park’s many lands, Scruffy Dog Creative Group delivered a full suite of static and animated props, engineered scenic features, and integrated mechanical elements – all designed, fabricated, and installed to meet the highest technical and creative requirements. The package includes complex animatronics, interactive set pieces, and scenic centrepieces delivered on a monumental scale.

The project encompassed every phase of delivery, from concept development and technical design to prototyping, fabrication, scenic finishing, shipping logistics, and on-site installation. This included the development of complex animatronic sequences and the engineering of the park’s centrepiece, the Astrolabe – a feature-grade, animated structure integrating motion, lighting, screens, and projection to dramatic effect. Working with advanced engineering, metal fabrication, CNC machining, FRP moulding, silicone detailing, and precision paintwork, the team ensured every element met stringent safety, aesthetic, and operational requirements.

Installation was carried out on site by Scruffy Dog Creative Group’s specialist delivery team via their recently established local entity, with each piece precisely positioned and coordinated with surrounding show sets and infrastructure. Elements were assembled, aligned, and tested in close collaboration with the client and key delivery partners – including Qiddiya Investment Company, the lead design consultant at AtkinsRéalis, and BBIAGCJV – whose expertise and support were integral to the success of this package.

“Delivering this project has been a major milestone for our group in the Kingdom,” said Joe Bright, CEO of Scruffy Dog Creative Group. ” 2025 has been a big year for major park openings, with our involvement spanning from the US to the Middle East. This project is a testament to the talent, commitment, and cross-disciplinary skill across our global team. We’re proud to have contributed to such a high-profile destination and look forward to building on this momentum in future projects.”

As one of the most ambitious entertainment developments in the world, Six Flags Qiddiya City reflects Saudi Arabia’s investment in next-generation cultural infrastructure. Scruffy Dog Creative Group is proud to have delivered a major component of this landmark destination. The project will be among those discussed by Scruffy Dog Creative Group’s senior leadership at the upcoming SEA Expo, 20th–22nd May in Riyadh, where representatives will be available for meetings and further insight.

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Summer is officially back at SeaWorld San Antonio! Guests are invited to dive into a season filled with unforgettable experiences, thrilling performances and brand-new summer fun during the highly anticipated Summer Spectacular beginning on May 31. The best way to experience all the summer fun is by taking advantage of the Memorial Day Sale that starts today – buy a SeaWorld Pass for as low as $99 and get Aquatica for FREE!

This year, the celebration reaches new heights with RhythMotion Ocean Parade, an ALL-NEW high-energy, music-filled extravaganza that brings SeaWorld’s pathways to life. Featuring creative new floats, flamboyant dancers and whimsical aquatic characters, this lively parade captures the spirit of the ocean in motion and is sure to become a guest favorite.

The excitement continues with “Splash: A Sandsational Cirque Celebration” – an exhilarating cirque-style show that nods to the carefree days of 1960s beach movies. Set on a picturesque fictional boardwalk beach inside the Nautilus Amphitheater, audiences will be mesmerized by incredible acrobatic feats, balancing acts, magic, and the breathtaking Wheel of Destiny. With energetic dance and the chance to “catch a wave,” this is one performance guests won’t want to miss!

Plus, returning by popular demand is the award-winning waterski stunt show, Hydropower: Xtreme FX. Recently honored with the IAAPA Brass Ring Award for Most Creative Sports/Stunt Show, this action-packed spectacle blends live music, high-flying water stunts, pyrotechnics, lasers and edge-of-your-seat excitement for a high-adrenaline experience like no other.

As an added benefit, beginning June 1st, Season and Annual Pass Members 21 and over are eligible for brew samples “on the house” until June 30th. The ice-cold assortment of beers can be enjoyed daily at Lone Star Lakeside Bar. The full-service bar also serves up amazing signature cocktails, frozen specialties and a large selection of beers and whiskeys. Additionally, non-pass members can purchase beer for just $0.75.

Guests also won’t want to miss the park’s newest attraction, Rescue Jr., an immersive, kid-friendly adventure zone designed to inspire and entertain guests of all ages. Learn about animal rescue and rehabilitation in the coolest way possible – through hands-on, active and engaging experiences, including:

• Beach Rescue Racer, the new 1,300-foot roller coaster with cars in the shape of a beach jeep will give guests the feeling of rushing to the rescue of animals in need. Young heroes 38 inches and up get to jump in the driver’s seat and zoom to the rescue!
• Guests can embark on an exhilarating train ride adventure themed around a sea rescue on the Ocean Quest Express. Explorers as little as 36 inches can ride while playing a game of “I Spy” looking for hidden sea life along the way.
• Tide Pool Tumble lets little adventurers 42 inches and taller ebb and flow as they glide in and out with the tide on a seaside joy ride.
• Rescuers will take to the skies and soar on Seabird Swing, virtually parasailing high above the ground to observe seabirds. Guests 36 inches and taller can take flight in this thrilling giant swing.
• Ocean Rescue Carousel is perfect for young and old and will keep guests thrilled as they go round and round taking in the sights of the new play area. Everyone can enjoy the ride, but those at least 42 inches can ride it on their own!

“This year’s Summer Spectacular is a celebration of imagination, energy and entertainment,” said Roland Garcia, Vice President of Entertainment at SeaWorld San Antonio. “From the colorful energy of our brand-new RhythMotion Ocean Parade to the breathtaking acrobatics of our cirque-style show and the return of the award-winning Hydropower: Xtreme FX water stunt show, we’re delivering unforgettable summer experiences that only SeaWorld can provide.”

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is gearing up for a summer of fun as Wildwater Kingdom opens its gates on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Now entering its 40th season, Wildwater Kingdom continues to evolve while remaining a beloved destination for families and thrill seekers alike.

As part of an ongoing waterpark enhancement project, two of the park’s most iconic attractions — Cascade and Lightning Falls — have been reimagined to offer guests a fresh new look and even more excitement this season.

The enhancements reflect Dorney Park’s continued investment in delivering unforgettable, high-thrill experiences. With updated slide designs and a refreshed atmosphere throughout the water park, Wildwater Kingdom is setting the stage for a vibrant and memorable 2025.

Beyond the slides, guests can also look forward to:

• 21° and Colder – a brand new bar experience serving cool refreshments in a stylish setting for guests 21 and older.
• Tradewinds – an upgraded retail space offering a convenient, modern shopping experience with a beach-inspired vibe.

MABLETON, Ga. — Six Flags Over Georgia officially kicks off the summer season this Friday, May 23. The park will operate daily through July 29 with a bold lineup of live entertainment, immersive experiences and meaningful community celebrations.

Headlining the summer season is Summerbration, happening daily from May 31 through July 29. This ultimate celebration of all things summer transforms the park into a kaleidoscope of color with five immersive zones, bold décor and the return of Surfin’ USA, a Broadway-caliber show, now located inside the historic Crystal Pistol Music Hall.

Summerbration features the all-new SPLASH! Water Parade, performing daily June 21 to July 6. The parade brings high-energy entertainment with a refreshing twist, featuring five colorful floats and a quirky crew of performers. This one-of-a-kind parade delivers everything from a light mist to a full splash, providing the ultimate way for families to beat the heat.

Military Appreciation Days, May 23 – 26
Six Flags Over Georgia is hosting Military Appreciation Days during Memorial Day Weekend, May 23 to 26. During these select dates, all active military personnel and veterans receive free park admission. Additionally, up to six discounted admission tickets can be purchased in advance online.

Free admission for active or retired military personnel can only be redeemed day of and in person at the front entrance of the park. Discounted admission tickets for friends and family must be purchased in advance online at sixflags.com/overgeorgia. Valid military ID is required.

Hurricane Harbor Atlanta, May 24 – August 3
Hurricane Harbor Atlanta, Six Flags Over Georgia’s in-park water park, opens for the season on Saturday, May 24. Families can cool down all summer long with thrilling water slides, a 2,000-square-foot water playground and the Calypso Bay Wave Pool. Access to Hurricane Harbor Atlanta is included with general admission to Six Flags Over Georgia.

Pride Month Celebration, June 1 – 30
Six Flags Over Georgia is proud to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community during Pride month. Throughout the park, guests can enjoy Pride-themed photo ops and a rainbow LED light show, Splash of Color, displayed inside a walkthrough tunnel.

Additionally, the park is partnering with Lost-n-Found Youth, an Atlanta-based nonprofit that exists to end homelessness for LGBTQ+ youth. A portion of Pride merchandise proceeds collected in June will be donated to the organization. Pride merchandise is available to purchase at various retail locations in-park.

Juneteenth, June 19
Six Flags Over Georgia is celebrating Juneteenth with R&B Bingo located at JB’s Sports Bar & Grille from 2 to 4 p.m. Guests are invited to join Melanin Coaster Network, a coaster enthusiast group dedicated to bringing people together, for an afternoon of games, good vibes and smooth R&B sounds.

Star-Spangled Nights, July 4 – 5
The park is celebrating the 4th of July with a breathtaking fireworks display synchronized to patriotic music. Returning this year is the VIP Fireworks Party. VIP admission includes after-hours access to Hurricane Harbor Atlanta, an all-you-can-eat buffet and premium fireworks viewing.

For more information on park events, visit sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

The Best Way to Play: 2025 Season Pass
Guests can keep the fun going all summer long with a 2025 Season Pass, offering unlimited visits and exclusive perks like free parking and in-park discounts. During Six Flags Over Georgia’s Memorial Day Sale, a 2025 Season Pass can be purchased for as low as $55. This limited time offer ends May 26 and is available online only at sixflags.com/overgeorgia.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Carowinds’ Carolina Harbor Waterpark will open for the 2025 season on Saturday, May 24. Guests can enjoy the lore of the Carolina coast with resort-style amenities, downhome cuisine and over 25 rides and attractions sprawling across 27 acres starting Memorial Day Weekend through September.

New this year, Carowinds introduces Carolina Harbor Shore Club, an adults-only section of the water park that features Charlotte’s first swim-up bar, called Paul Metto’s Boathouse Bar. The 27,280 square-foot area offers a sophisticated retreat away from the park’s main attraction and includes:

• A 3,577-square-foot pool
• 58 shaded chaise lounge chairs
• Six luxury cabanas with a TV, min-fridge and dedicated concierge service
• A lawn area with poolside games

“There’s a lot of excitement for Carolina Harbor Shore Club,” said Brian Oerding, Carowinds park manager. “It’s the first time we’ve provided an elevated, adults-only experience. We expect it will become a new guest favorite, adding value to our Season Pass and providing an oasis for our adult guests looking to enjoy summer in style.” 

Entry to Carolina Harbor Waterpark is included with general admission to Carowinds.

For families and younger guests, Carowinds is providing 2025 Season Passholders with an early sneak peek for one of its major new attractions in Camp Snoopy. On May 24, 25, 31 and June 1, current Passholders will be treated to exclusive early ride time on Snoopy’s Racing Railway from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. This new family roller coaster launches guests from zero to 27 mph on a course filled with thrilling dips and exciting turns.

Memorial Day Discounts & Military Appreciation Days
Now through May 26, guests can keep the fun going all summer with a discounted 2025 Silver Season Pass, which includes unlimited visits and free parking through Labor Day for only $99. Only available online at carowinds.com, this limited-time offer provides a 20% discount and pays for itself in less than two visits.

Carowinds will also provide free park admission to all active military personnel and veterans during Memorial Day Weekend, May 23 to 26. Additionally, up to six discounted admission tickets can be purchased for accompanying friends and families in advanced at carowinds.com. Free admission for active or retired military personnel can be redeemed at the front entrance during Military Appreciation Days. A valid military ID is required.