GCII: Breaking news on a seismic upgrade
ATHOL, Idaho — The anticipation has been growing as word and images of a trackless wooden coaster at Silverwood Theme Park spread across the Inland Northwest. On Thursday, the park officially announced the details behind the construction. Summer 2025 will officially be the season to rediscover the legend of Tremors. Since Tremor’s opening in 1999, […]
Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort raise their mugs to celebrate the return of Butterbeer Season in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif., and ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort celebrate the return of the popular Butterbeer Season, a dedicated, annual tradition that invites guests and fans to enjoy all things Butterbeer within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Butterbeer Season begins on Saturday, March 1 and continues daily through Saturday, May 31, 2025. Reminiscent of […]
Legoland California unveils world’s first Duplo rooms and tons of family-friendly fun!
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Hold onto your bricks, folks! LEGOLAND California Resort has unveiled the world’s first LEGO DUPLO themed hotel rooms at LEGOLAND Hotel and they’re bursting with toddler cuteness! Just in time for spring break, these vibrant rooms offer a playful escape where young children can immerse themselves in a world built just for them and their adult adventurers. Designed […]
Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to unlock more magic in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
ORLANDO — This March, Universal Orlando Resort is bringing even more magic to its popular interactive wand experiences in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Guests can enjoy an all-new collection of Second Generation Interactive Wands that feature light and haptic effects for the first time ever, a personalized experience available within the Universal Orlando […]
Today’s trends and tomorrow’s are celebrated during TEA’s State of the Industry
BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) proudly announces the dynamic panel of industry experts who will take part in the TEA State of the Industry discussion during the annual TEA INSPIRE conference. Taking place on Friday 14 March at 11 a.m. PST in Universal City, California, TEA’s State of the Industry is one of the […]
Dollywood prepares for 40th anniversary season with multiple construction projects to enhance guest experience
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — On Tuesday, members of the media were able to get a firsthand look at several of the more than 100 off-season construction projects currently taking place at Dollywood theme park. When Dollywood opens to season passholders on Friday, March 14, they’ll be able to experience for themselves how these projects continue to advance Dollywood’s well-known […]
Indonesia’s famed Taman Safari Theme Park and Safari Resorts owner engages Legacy Entertainment to help master plan and design its next generation of visitor experiences
HOLLYWOOD, Calif. and JAKARTA, Indonesia — Taman Safari, Indonesia’s respected owner and operator of nine major parks and four safari resorts, has paired up with US-based Legacy Entertainment, to master plan and design its next-generation of experiences and attractions. Legacy will focus on Taman Safari Bogor – the chain’s original park, which debuted in April 1986. That park is […]
Semnox Wins Innovation Award at Rimini Amusement Show
RIMINI, Italy — Semnox Solutions has been honored with the ENADA Primavera Innovation District Award for Best Innovative Product at the Rimini Amusement Show. The award recognizes Semnox’s Radian Smart Wristband, an innovative RFID-based solution designed to enhance time-based access management in entertainment venues. This marks the second major accolade for the Radian wristband, following […]
Baynum Solutions announces leadership transition, names Walt Bowser President and CEO, welcomes Kevin Gessner as SVP, Administration
NEWPORT, Ky. — Baynum Solutions, the premier amusement park, water park, commercial and industrial painting and construction provider to leading companies worldwide since 1983, today announced the upcoming retirement of Managing Director Daniel Adams and promotion of Walt Bowser to President and Chief Executive Officer. John Andrews, longtime leader of the successful commercial and industrial […]
International Women’s Day 2025: Embed inspires to #AccelerateAction for inclusivity
SINGAPORE — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, inspires to #AccelerateAction by forging gender equality in the tech sector for International Women’s Day 2025. According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, women held only 35% of tech jobs at the end of 2023 […]
March 2025
The MARCH 2025 issue includes:
SeaWorld Orlando expands park accessibility with launch of American Sign Language (ASL) Saturdays
As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and accessibility for all, SeaWorld Orlando is proud to introduce American Sign Language (ASL) Saturdays. Partnering with American Sign Language Services (ASLS), SeaWorld Orlando will be providing seamless access to SeaWorld’s popular shows and attractions with live ASL interpreters. Beginning on March 1 and recurring on the […]
Experience Intercard’s award-winning IQ System created for unattended arcades
ST. LOUIS — At the 2025 Amusement Expo International March 19-20, Intercard will feature its award-winning iQ system of readers and kiosks that leverages QR codes, setting the new standard for unattended amusement center payment technology. iQ devices use built-in scanners to read customer presented QR codes for payment and redemption point collection. This enables customers […]
Betson Imperial Parts & Service to showcase Javelin displays at Amusement Expo 2025
Betson Imperial Parts & Service will showcase Javelin Displays, a leading OEM manufacturer of high-performance monitors, touchscreen solutions, and components, at Amusement Expo 2025 on March 19th & 20th in Las Vegas, NV. The company will showcase its latest display technologies designed specifically for the arcade and amusement industry, offering manufacturers and operators enhanced visuals, durability, and interactive […]
AAMA members advocate for industry concerns on Capitol Hill
CARY, Ill. — On Thursday, February 13, a dedicated group of eleven members from the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA), led by AAMA Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson, spent the day on Capitol Hill advocating for issues crucial to the amusement industry. The delegation, supported by John Russell IV, a Partner with the Government Relations […]
Fast & Furious—Supercharged” at Universal Studios Hollywood prepares for its last ride on March 10
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood invites guests and fans of the Fast & Furious franchise to experience “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” one last time before the world-famous Studio Tour attraction closes on March 10, 2025. A thrilling new experience will arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood when “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” launches as the destination’s first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster […]
Fritz’s Adventure names Bobby Davis as Director of Operations
DALLAS, Texas — Fritz’s Adventure announces the appointment of Bobby Davis as Director of Operations, bringing his extensive leadership and operational expertise to the company’s second location in The Colony, Texas. As a key member of the senior leadership team, Davis will play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the new adventure park, serving […]
Innovative Attraction Management announces key employee promotions & new hires at multiple park locations
WINDERMERE, Fla. — Innovative Attraction Management (IAM) is excited to announce the promotion and hire of several outstanding team members who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and growth. These team members reflect IAM’s commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the organization, ensuring delivery of unparalleled experiences and services to IAM’s clients and partners. “We […]
Family Entertainment Group unveils new arcade experience at Knott’s Berry Farm
BUENA PARK, Calif. — Family Entertainment Group (FEG) is thrilled to announce the grand re-opening of a newly reimagined arcade at Knott’s Berry Farm. The revitalized 5,200-square-foot entertainment space, named The Factory Floor Arcade, will officially open its doors on Friday, May 21st, offering guests an upgraded gaming experience with exciting new attractions and a fresh […]
Arcade operations expert Chris Barker joins Intercard’s account team
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added amusement industry veteran and arcade operations expert Chris Barker to its team as an account executive. Chris has been in the amusement industry for 25 years and has experience in installing, operating and maintaining arcades for amusement and water parks, FECs and route operations. […]
Viva Las Vegas! Legoland California unveils its new Miniland Las Vegas!
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Feeling lucky and ready to roll the LEGO dice? Grab your chips and head to LEGOLAND California Resort for a kid-friendly Vegas adventure! Built from more than 1.5 mil LEGO bricks, MINILAND Las Vegas has officially re-opened at the Carlsbad theme park, offering the perfect family-friendly Vegas experience. MINILAND Las Vegas has been a beloved landmark […]
Carnival returns to PortAventura World for its most special year
For the third consecutive year, PortAventura World is kicking off its new season with Carnival celebrations. Every weekend in March, visitors to the resort will be able to enjoy the rhythms, colours, and festivities inspired by this iconic festival known around the world and also by those in the resort’s immediate surroundings. Along these lines, […]
Sea Life Florida announces grand opening date at Merlin Entertainments’ Legoland Florida Resort
WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — Ride the wave with LEGOLAND Florida Resort as it officially announces SEA LIFE Florida will open to the public on May 23, 2025! The brand-new attraction will feature 25 interactive exhibits, including the main ocean display, which will showcase a unique “Theme Park Under the Sea” design. This one-of-a-kind theme, not […]
Beat The Bomb brings immersive gaming to Houston
HOUSTON, Texas — Beat The Bomb (2103 Lyons Ave., #300), the world’s first immersive social video game company, has opened its sixth U.S. location and the first in Texas. Centrally located in Houston’s historic Fifth Ward, the venue joins existing locations in Atlanta, Brooklyn, Charlotte, Philadelphia and Washington, D.C. Beat The Bomb offers a unique gaming experience […]
Here’s why In The Game Fremont Street Arcade chose Sacoa
LAS VEGAS — Sacoa Cashless System, the global leader in revenue management and cashless solutions for the entertainment industry, proudly announces the successful installation of its cutting-edge products at the newly opened In The Game Fremont Street arcade, operated by Family Entertainment Group (FEG), on the iconic Las Vegas Fremont Street. The modern venue chose […]
Tickets are now available for Universal Volcano Bay Nights
ORLANDO — For the first time ever, guests can slide into an exclusive nighttime adventure at Universal Volcano Bay Nights on select Saturday nights including April 12, 26 and May 3, 10 and 17. This all-new, limited-capacity event allows guests to enjoy their favorite water attractions, live entertainment, DreamWorks character meet and greets, complimentary island treats and more at the lush, tropical […]
Roadhouse Cinemas’ huge new arcade in Tucson uses Intercard technology
ST. LOUIS — Growing movie chain RoadHouse Cinemas has chosen Intercard cashless technology for the new arcade at their Tucson, Arizona location. It is Intercard’s second installation for RoadHouse, which already uses the company’s system at its location in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The huge new arcade boasts more than 86 games managed by 126 card […]
Stolen Quassy carousel figurine recovered after 40 years
MIDDLEBURY, Conn. — The elusive Lake Quassapaug sea monster has resurfaced after disappearing nearly 40 years ago. The sea monster, also known as a hippocampus among carousel enthusiasts, was stolen from Quassy Amusement Park here on Nov. 16, 1985, and its whereabouts unknown until late December of last year. Now the rare hand-carved figurine is […]
Sacoa strengthens international reach with key exhibitions in February 2025
Sacoa Cashless System, the global leader in revenue management solutions, is gearing up to start the second month of 2025 with notable appearances at two prominent global industry events. Team members from Sacoa’s regional offices will be present to offer their knowledge and expertise at the following shows: Sacoa’s participation highlights its dedication to providing […]
Forbes names Dollywood among America’s best employers
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — With hiring events in full swing for Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season, another national publication has recognized Dollywood as one of America’s best. Announced today, Forbes has placed Dollywood on its 10th annual list of America’s Best Midsize Employers.The Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, park is the only theme park to rank on Forbes’ midsize company list. With […]
Gardaland unveils a sneak peek at world exclusive Animal Treasure Island
Animal Treasure Island will not be a simple attraction, but an entire ‘island’ of adventure, designed to offer a unique experience that creates a deep bond between visitors and the characters that inhabit it. Each character (through its original characteristics, values and personal behaviour) will allow visitors to connect emotionally, identify with and become attached […]
Kennywood Park unveils all-new themed area: Kennywood Junction
PITTSBURGH, Pa. — There are even more thrills in store for the 2025 season as Kennywood, Pittsburgh’s Thrill and Entertainment Destination, introduces its newest themed area, Kennywood Junction. Inspired by the park’s rich history and connection to the Steel City, Kennywood Junction offers fun for the entire family to experience together. Gearing up for a historic season, Kennywood […]
Universal Orlando Resort serves up a first look at some of the delectable menu items coming to Universal Epic Universe
ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort is serving up tasty new details about some of the incredible food and beverage offerings guests and clients can savor during their visit to Universal Epic Universe – officially opening on May 22, 2025 at Universal Orlando Resort. Known for consistently raising the bar, Universal Orlando’s award-winning culinary team has reached epic […]
Dippin’ Dots brings the fun home for the first time
PADUCAH, Ky. — Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream beloved by families for nearly four decades, is coming home with its customers for the first time, thanks to the launch of Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream Sundaes. Loyal Dippin’ Dots fans and fanatics had long hoped for a home freezer variety, but the iconic special occasion treat had been […]
International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) launches economic impact study
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025 Economic Impact Study. This comprehensive study aims to provide valuable insights into the economic and fiscal contributions of fairs to their host communities. Data Collection Now OpenAll fairs in the United States are now strongly […]
Will Morey reappointed to U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board for third term
WILDWOOD, N.J. — Morey’s Piers, an iconic family-owned amusement park in Wildwood, New Jersey is proud to announce that it’s President and CEO, Will Morey, has been reappointed to the U.S. Department of Commerce Travel and Tourism Advisory Board (TTAB) for a third term. This prestigious appointment spans two administrations, highlighting Mr. Morey’s longstanding commitment […]
OABA secures discounted rate for Ridebooks online database
OABA has secured a discounted rate for the RIDEBOOKS online database as a member benefit. This equips larger groups and shows with an interactive database of critical safety information, including NDTs, Manuals, and Bulletins. Dozens of carnival operators, state inspection agencies, and third-party inspectors already utilize RIDEBOOKS to make our industry as safe as possible. […]
Surf on the horizon for London — The Wave Partners with Endless Surf to develop London site
The Wave has taken a big step forward in its plans to bring a slice of the ocean to London, with the appointment of Endless Surf as its technology partner. The £50m+ project for the state-of-the-art inland surfing destination in north London, would transform around 100 acres of land in Lee Valley Regional Park. This […]
SimEx-Iwerks unveils new brand identity to mark new chapter in innovation and growth
BALTIMORE, Md. — SimEx-Iwerks, a leader in innovative cinematic attractions, is proud to announce the release of its new brand identity today. This marks the first time the company’s logo and visual identity have been updated since its founding in 1981 by Michael Needham and Shiori Sudo. The rebranding is part of a larger restructuring […]
Discovery Meadow unveiled: Here’s everything coming to Kentucky Kingdom’s new land
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — This Valentine’s season, Kentucky Kingdom is sharing the love with guests by unveiling the full lineup of attractions and renderings of Discovery Meadow— a new $11 million family-friendly land. As part of the $25 million investment over the next two seasons, Discovery Meadow will open to the public on May 10, 2025. […]
Adventureland announces price freeze on tickets for 2025 season
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Adventureland announced it will be freezing its prices— without freezing the fun! Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. The park is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, […]
GOSA celebrates 75 years of amusement industry leadership
Fairs and festivals industry advocate and advisor, Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association (GOSA) is celebrating 75 years of impactful leadership in 2025. The non-profit organization, 455 members strong, represents the enterprises of modern midways at fairs and festivals across the State of Ohio. The Ohio Concessionaires Association was established in 1950, changing its name to GOSA in 1953 […]
Six Flags New England begins hiring for 2025 season with more than 2,000 available positions
AGAWAM, Mass. — Six Flags New England, the region’s largest theme park, is hiring more than 2,000 part-time and seasonal employees for the 2025 season. The company’s “Rapid Hiring Program” provides an expedited online option for interested applicants. Job seekers are encouraged to visit sixflagsjobs.com to apply and complete interview questions remotely. The Rapid Hiring Program offers […]
You’ve got to see this: Universal Orlando Resort to air all-new Universal Epic Universe ad during the Super Bowl
Universal Epic Universe portals will emerge upon Super Bowl LIX viewers screens this Sunday night. As part of the highly anticipated commercials that will air, Universal Orlando Resort is debuting a new ad featuring the worlds of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe and The Wizarding World […]
Wavegarden, the world leader in the creation of surf parks, thanks to the efficiency and profitability of its technology
SAN SEBASTIAN — For over ten years, the Spanish company has been dedicated to researching and developing advanced wave-generation technologies, creating sustainable and profitable surf lagoons to deliver perfect waves and beach experiences anywhere. Its patented technology and robust business model have become one of the main attractions for new real estate and leisure developments. […]
Toddlers build Legoland history!
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Hold onto your hard hats! The cutest construction crew EVER has arrived at LEGOLAND California Resort! A team of LEGO sized builders, equipped with boundless energy and LEGO DUPLO bricks, was hard at work placing the final bricks in the world’s first-ever LEGO DUPLO themed hotel rooms at LEGOLAND Hotel, officially opening for stays Feb. 15. The little helpers didn’t […]
Maurer Rides becomes the world’s first B Corp-certified roller coaster manufacturer
MUNICH, Germany — Maurer Rides has become the first roller coaster manufacturer worldwide to receive the prestigious B Corp certification. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to social responsibility, environmental consciousness, and sustainable business practices. Maurer Rides CEO Jörg Beutler stated: “We pursued B Corp certification to better structure our diverse sustainability efforts and identify […]
Siren’s Curse construction reaches new heights with installation of tilt track
SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Point’s record-breaking Siren’s Curse tilt roller coaster is one step closer to bringing even more happy screams to the famed amusement park destination. Crews today lifted the ride’s signature element – the tilt track – to the highest point on the roller coaster. This 45-ton, 61-foot-long section of track is the ride’s signature terrifying element, […]
It’s official! Orange County mayor names February 1st Falcon’s Beyond Day in honor of Falcon’s Creative Group’s 25th anniversary
ORLANDO — Falcon’s Creative Group, a division of Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. (Nasdaq: FBYD) (“Falcon’s” or the “Company”), a visionary leader in innovative and immersive storytelling, kicked off its year-along 25th anniversary celebration with high honors and a special proclamation from Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. In recognition of Falcon’s Creative Group’s pioneering […]
Action-packed events lineup slated for Six Flags New England in 2025
AGAWAM, Mass. — Today, Six Flags New England announced its impressive lineup of special events for the 2025 season. Spectacular fireworks displays, delicious food festivals and Halloween fun for the whole family will await guests in a jam-packed lineup of family entertainment, all included with a Six Flags Gold Season Pass. “At Six Flags New England, we’re all […]