Chance Rides announces the launch of new, all-electric eTrams

WICHITA, Kan. — Chance Rides, LLC recently announced the launch of its all-electric eTrams — a next-generation transportation solution designed to meet today’s evolving mobility demands. Partnering with Swedish-based EVX Mobility, Chance Rides brings Swedish-engineered innovation and solutions to the market with a vehicle that upholds the same quality and durability the company’s larger trams […]
Aardman at IAAPA Expo Asia 2025

The successful global release of Aardman’s latest feature film, Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl was followed by a fantastic awards campaign which kickstarted the year, including a double BAFTA win and an Academy Award® nomination. The halo effect of this release has resulted in a huge demand for the brand across attractions, live experiences and consumer […]
Alterface appoints three new leaders in the U.S., China, and Korea, affirming the company’s strategic global expansion

WAVRE, Belgium — Interactive technology solutions provider Alterface is significantly boosting its international presence with three key business development appointments across the United States, Greater China, and Korea. The expansion reinforces Alterface’s leadership in interactivity, seamlessly blending creative design and technology to craft meaningful experiences for global audiences. The initiative strengthens the company’s presence in […]
Tee it up for the cause: The 2025 Golden Ticket Golf Tournament returns to Charlotte

Get ready to hit the greens — plans are in full swing for the 2025 Golden Ticket Golf Tournament, taking place Friday, September 5, in Charlotte, North Carolina, ahead of this year’s Golden Ticket Awards at Carowinds. The annual event brings together industry friends for a fun, friendly (and highly competitive) day of golf — […]
Hippie Fish now open for more fun along the Gulf Coast

GULFPORT, Miss. — Hippie Fish, a dynamic family entertainment center is now open in Gulfport’s historic Centennial Plaza Resort. Designed to entertain both locals and visitors, Hippie Fish boasts two 18-hole putting courses, world-class arcades and a full-service restaurant, providing an essential experience on the Mississippi Gulf Coast that feels easy and enjoyable. “The golf courses […]
Sink your teeth into summer at Merlin Entertainments’ Sea Life Orlando Aquarium

ORLANDO — It’s a shark takeover this summer at SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium! From July 7 through Aug. 3 guests can dive into Super Shark Summer, a daily, shark-tastic experience featuring various exploration points. Included with admission, this immersive event is perfect for shark lovers of all ages looking to learn, explore and dive deep […]
Movement in all directions

They are classics in the world of conveyor systems: ball transfer units. They are the first choice whenever it is necessary to turn, move or transport workpieces with minimal effort. That’s why JW Winco is now introducing new versions. Like many standard parts, ball transfer units are rarely noticed in everyday life – but their […]
Six Flags Great Adventure celebrates successful participation in World’s Largest Swimming Lesson

JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure joined hundreds of waterparks, aquatic centers, and swim schools across the country today for the 16th annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson, hosted at Blue Lagoon in Hurricane Harbor New Jersey. The event welcomed approximately 150 participants, including children and mentors from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal & Northern New Jersey (BBBSCNNJ), as […]
OC Waterpark hosts World’s Largest Swimming Lesson

OCEAN CITY, N.J. — OC Waterpark, Ocean City, NJ’s premier family water park, today, participated in the 16th annual World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™. With over 90 participants, OC Waterpark staff worked with aquatic facilities across the globe to build awareness for the vital importance of teaching kids to swim to prevent drowning and improve quality of […]
Merlin Entertainments’ Legoland Florida Resort lights up the sky with Red, White & Boom!

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — The most bricktastic Fourth of July celebration in Central Florida is back! Red, White & BOOM! returns to LEGOLAND Florida Resort for two explosive nights, July 4–5, packed with patriotic fun, all-new summer treats, and fireworks bursting into LEGO bricks. The best part? It’s all included with regular park admission! For […]
Splish Splash hosts Autism Society

June 30, New York’s Largest Water Park, Splish Splash will host the Nassau/Suffolk Chapter of the Autism Society of America. The park will open at 8 a.m. and offer members and their families two hours of time within the park before guests arrive for the day to enjoy several rides and attractions line and stress free. The park donated […]
Ellis & Associates expands fulltime staff, welcomes aquatics professional Adrianne Newman as client manager

MAITLAND, Fla. — Ellis & Associates, Inc. (E&A), the world leader in aquatic safety since 1983, continues to grow, expanding the fulltime client services team for the third time in less than two years with the addition of aquatics, safety and operations professional, Adrianne Newman. Adrianne began her aquatics career in 2000 as a 15-year-old […]
Pleasure Beach Resort reveals Vengeance Most Fowl additions to Wallace & Gromit ride

A Lancashire attraction has announced exciting updates to one of its most popular rides following the success of the most recent Wallace & Gromit film. Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Resort is introducing five new additions to its Wallace & Gromit’s Thrill-O-Matic ride to coincide with the release of Vengeance Most Fowl, which is available on Netflix […]
RWS Global, world leader in summer entertainment, prepares 100+ shows and activations at over 20 family destinations in the United States and Europe

NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, has embarked on an unprecedented season of summer fun at nearly two dozen theme parks and other family attractions around the world. RWS Global is collaborating with its partners in the United States and Europe to deliver over 100 […]
ProSlide: Limited-edition socks & big ideas at IAAPA Asia

It’s not every day you receive socks at a trade show—especially from a company known for building some of the most well-renowned water parks. At ProSlide, we’ve created a limited-edition run of socks inspired by some of our most exciting projects around the world. This year’s pair celebrates Chimelong, home to the world’s first Launched […]
The summer program at Movie Park Germany steps into the spotlight!

BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN — Movie Park Germany kicks off production for a movie-like summer! When the high season begins on the Hollywood set and the vacation period is already lurking in the next scene, Germany’s largest movie and amusement park expands its entertainment offerings. Illusionist Christian Farla comes back in July for his new show “Magic Impossible” […]
Pennsylvania’s classic Our Town Alley Switches to Intercard

ST. LOUIS — When veteran bowling proprietor Anthony Taormina needed more from his cashless system, he switched to Intercard from another vendor. Taormina, who has operated the popular Our Town Alley in East Norriton, Pennsylvania for more than forty years, wanted to upgrade his arcade and integrate it with his 40 bowling lanes, restaurant and […]
EXTRA! EXTRA! The July 2025 issue is now available!

In this issue:
Intercard adds Amanda Walker to sales team

ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added Amanda Sue Walker to its team as sales assistant and trade show coordinator. She reports to Rob Geiger, Intercard North American sales manager. Amanda has worked with leading organizations in cybersecurity including Apex Service Partners, Data Connectors, Darktrace, Crowdstrike, Check Point and Okta. Her […]
Florida Panthers get brick-by-brick support at Legoland Florida Resort

As Florida watches history in the making, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is scoring big with a brick-built tribute fit for the Stanley Cup Finals… With just one win away from icing out the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup, the Florida Panthers have some true LEGO fans at LEGOLAND Florida cheering them on! Using more […]
Canada’s Marineland announces sale of iconic amusement rides

NIAGARA FALLS, Ontario — Marineland, one of Canada’s most well-known family entertainment destinations, announces that it will begin the process of selling the rides located at the park. For decades, Marineland has been home to a collection of beloved rides that have brought joy to millions of guests. As the park evolves, it is now […]
Dads make a splash at Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe’s Father’s Day Belly Flop Contest

GREENSBORO, N.C. — Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe made waves this Father’s Day by hosting its annual Father’s Day Belly Flop Contest, drawing families from across North Carolina for an unforgettable celebration. Fourteen daring dads headed to Shipwreck Cove to compete for the title of Ultimate Belly Flop Champion, all cheered on by their families and a lively […]
The Nerveless Nocks Stunt Show now running daily at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

SANTA CLAUS, IND. — One of the most daring and legendary stunt families in the world has arrived at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari. The Nerveless Nocks, an internationally renowned stunt team, is now performing daily at the Aqua Action Arena in the Halloween section of the park — delivering heart-stopping excitement and entertainment. Featured acts […]
PortAventura World celebrates its 30th anniversary with an event that consolidates its leadership in tourism and leisure in Europe

PortAventura World celebrated its 30th anniversary with an institutional event that brought together prominent representatives from both the public and private sectors for an evening full of emotion, tributes, and future vision. The gathering honoured a project that, since 1995, has transformed the tourism and leisure landscape in Spain and Europe, with over 100 million visits and a steadfast commitment to innovation, sustainability, and […]
Fort Wayne Zoo honors service members with Military Appreciation Day this Saturday

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is proud to host Military Appreciation Day this Saturday, June 14, offering free admission to all active duty and retired military personnel in honor of their service and sacrifice. Guests accompanying military members will receive a special admission rate of $10. All visitors to the Zoo will […]
World’s Largest Coaster Ride to dispatch at amusement parks across North America

GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Coaster enthusiasts across North America will take a ride at 2 p.m. EDT on June 16 on 16 roller coasters at amusement and theme parks to celebrate the anniversary of the opening of the first modern roller coaster. The ride celebrates the engineering, architecture, history and thrills of these marvels that […]
Coaster Con rolls in with high-speed excitement

GURNEE, Ill. — More than 650 members of the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) — the world’s largest amusement park fan organization — are gathering this week for the adrenaline-charged 47th annual Coaster Con. This high-energy celebration immerses attendees in the heart-pounding world of roller coasters, offering nonstop rides, behind-the-scenes tours and exclusive events at some […]
The dinosaurs conquer Movie Park Germany: “World of Dinos” exhibition will be the place to go for the whole family and school groups from mid-June

BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN, Germany — Prehistoric times are knocking on the Hollywood gates! Movie Park Germany is adding an interactive experience to its portfolio this summer. The “World of Dinos” exhibition brings a popular movie theme to life. From June 18 to August 24, a variety of 25 lifelike dinosaurs will be making their way into Germany’s […]
World’s first Festival Of Play ends on a high note with thousands of Legoland tickets to be donated to celebrate World Play Day

CALRSBAD, Calif., WINTER HAVEN, Fla. and GOSHEN, N.Y. — The LEGO Group and LEGOLAND Resorts are teaming up with Merlin’s Magic Wand to gift thousands of LEGOLAND tickets to children and their families facing serious illness, disability, or adversity. This donation follows the huge success of the first-ever global LEGO Festival, the world’s biggest celebration of play, where […]
Sacoa Cashless System announces upcoming trade show appearances in Europe and North America

Sacoa, the global leader in cashless management solutions for the entertainment and leisure industries, is proud to announce its participation in two major upcoming events: INTERAZAR 2025, taking place from June 16 to 18 at IFEMA Madrid, Spain (Booth #E21), and the International Bowl Expo 2025, happening from June 29 to July 3 at the Gaylord National […]
Playdium teams with Intercard for Sri Lanka’s biggest and newest FEC

ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology plays a crucial role at Playdium, the newest and biggest indoor FEC in Sri Lanka. Recently opened in the capital city of Colombo, the 16,000 square foot center features Brunswick bowling, a 34-game arcade, VR attractions, bumper cars, soft play and a full service restaurant. Playdium is revolutionizing out-of-home […]
Splish Splash Water Park opens all-new Stingray Bay water play area

CALVERTON, N.Y. — Seas the day, this Saturday, June 14 as the brand-new Stingray Bay officially opens to guests at Splish Splash Water Park. The thrilling water play area will offer families with smaller children a new way to beat the heat just in time for the temperatures on Long Island to rise for the summer 2025 […]
ETF: Benefits of trackless dark ride systems in theme parks

Dark rides have become an increasingly popular way to engage a wider audience. These indoor attractions offer experiences for all ages and operate reliably regardless of weather and with high uptime. A trackless ride system expands creative potential even more and brings extra tangible benefits in cost, flexibility, maintenance and safety. Creative freedom and storytelling […]
Meet Baby Evie! New character arrives at Peppa Pig Theme Park Florida

WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — PEPPA PIG fans have a new reason to celebrate as Baby Evie makes her official debut at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida, PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth, and PEPPA PIG World of Play locations in Michigan, Chicago and Dallas. Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, George, Evie and Peppa posed for a […]
‘A Kid Again Adventure’ to bring smiles to over 1,000 kids with life-threatening conditions on Saturday

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is excited to welcome A Kid Again families back to the park on Saturday, June 14, for a special Rides & Slides Adventure. This annual event brings together nearly 1,000 children with life-threatening conditions, along with their siblings, parents, and caregivers, for a free day of fun and memory-making. During the […]
Intercard Bowl Expo test drive and win big

ST. LOUIS — Intercard will be at Bowl Expo in Washington D.C. July 1-2 with an opportunity for one lucky showgoer to win big. Visitors to the Intercard show booth #929 who test drive the iTeller PlusXL kiosk will be entered in a drawing to win a $500 Visa gift card and a customized Intercard […]
Ghost Boat — when multimedia innovation meets an iconic fright attraction

Moment Factory is stepping into the world of scare attractions with an innovative collaboration on Ghost Boat in Wisconsin. The after-dark experience undergoes a major multimedia transformation, intensifying the journey for both new and returning guests. Drawing on its expertise in creating outdoor multimedia environments, the studio joined forces with Dells Boat Tours to reinvent the almost 20-year-old fright attraction, featuring […]
Meet the Emperors: SeaWorld Orlando introduces Western Hemisphere’s only Emperor Penguins

ORLANDO — SeaWorld Orlando is making history this summer as the only place in the Western Hemisphere where guests can see Emperor penguins—the world’s largest and most iconic penguin species – up close. Beginning June 14, guests will be able to witness these iconic Antarctic animals up close in the park’s Antarctica Realm. SeaWorld Orlando […]
Legacy Entertainment to create Loco Waterpark at Perfect Day Mexico

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Royal Caribbean has pulled back the curtain on the game-changing Perfect Day Mexico, revealing the first details about what vacationers can expect upon its debut in Fall 2027. Spanning over 200 acres on Mexico’s Caribbean Coast, the destination will feature seven distinct neighborhoods, complete with 12 dining options, 24 bars, and […]
Wavegarden Cove technology to anchor HTX Surf, a Beach Street Development surf destination in Houston, Texas

SAN DEBASTIAN, Spain — HTX Surf will become a key destination for surfing and the lifestyle it embodies, featuring a 52-module Wavegarden Cove. The system delivers over 20 different wave types, varying in size, power, and shape to suit surfers of all skill levels. Following a detailed review with investors and an in-depth analysis of […]
Prime Video’s hit series “Fallout” blasts its way into Halloween Horror Nights with all-new haunted houses at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. and ORLANDO — For the first time ever, horror fans will step into the post-apocalyptic wasteland of Prime Video’s “Fallout,” in an all-new terrifying haunted house at Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights. The unimaginable terror becomes a reality starting Friday, August 29 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 4 at Universal Studios Hollywood. Based on […]
Dollywood named to Newsweek America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025 List

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood’s recent run of awards continued this week with Newsweek adding the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, theme park to its America’s Greatest Workplaces 2025 list following the results of a recent survey. Dollywood is part of the “Entertainment Providers” grouping of companies and is one of only three theme park companies to be featured […]
SeaWorld Orlando’s all-new drone show begins June 7, lighting up the night sky with the park’s signature Ignite Fireworks

RLANDO — As part of its signature Summer Spectacular event, SeaWorld Orlando is excited to unveil a groundbreaking new dimension to its nighttime entertainment: the debut of an all-new, first-of-its-kind at SeaWorld drone show. Seamlessly integrated with the park’s iconic Ignite Fireworks Spectacular, this new drone show transforms the nighttime celebration into more than just a finale—it is a sky-dancing […]
Themed Entertainment Association announces Entertainment + Culture Advisors (ECA) and The Park Database (Park DB) join Storyland Studios as strategic research partner for the 2024 TEA Global Experience Index

BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) is pleased to announce Entertainment + Culture Advisors, LLC (ECA) and The Park Database (Park DB) as its research partner for the 2024 TEA Global Experience Index™, formerly the Theme Index and Museum Index Report. The annual report has served as the definitive study of attendance at the world’s top theme parks, water parks, and museums […]
Dorney Park Cares Team volunteers support at Camelot for Children

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — In a heartwarming show of community spirit, the Dorney Park Cares Team recently volunteered their time and talents at Camelot for Children, a nonprofit in Allentown, Pennsylvania, that provides social and educational opportunities for children with disabilities and those facing chronic or terminal illnesses. The team tackled a range of facility improvement projects, including landscaping, painting, minor […]
The reopening of Legoland Water Park Gardaland launched Gardaland Resort’s summer season

LEGOLAND Water Park Gardaland, the first LEGO-themed water park in Europe, officially reopened its gates on the 31st of May, launching the Gardaland Resort’s summer season and is ready to welcome families and young visitors for a new summer season packed with play, creativity and fun. Just a few kilometres from the shores of the lake, LEGOLAND Water Park […]
RES Rides launches world’s tallest Roller Ball at Conny-Land Switzerland

ALTENDORF, Switzerland — RES RIDES AG, the Swiss ride manufacturer known for its unique rider thrilling attractions, has set another record with the opening of the world’s tallest Roller Ball at Conny-Land, Switzerland’s largest theme park. The Roller Ball, named Antares rises to 34 meters and is perched on top of the new building that houses the bumper cars, creating a unique combination of rides […]
Carowinds debuts new family launch coaster

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A new family launch coaster is now open at Carowinds’ Camp Snoopy. Snoopy’s Racing Railway takes riders through giggle-inducing twists and turns while launching them from zero to 31 mph in a matter of seconds. Riders complete two laps on its 804 feet of steel track. With a heigh requirement of just 36 inches, it is the […]
Nike and the Lego Group unveil play arena at Legoland California Resort: a basketball-themed experience for children and families

BEAVERTON, Oregon and CARLSBAD, Calif. and BILLUND, Denmark — Get ready to play! From June 7 to 11, 2025, the Nike and LEGO Play Arena will open its doors at LEGOLAND California Resort, the family theme park operated by Merlin Entertainments. This limited-time experience is part of Nike and the LEGO Group’s exciting global multi-year partnership, dedicated to […]