Subscribe
Digital Issue

Year: 2026

Fun Spot America announces closure of Atlanta park

FAYETTEVILLE, Ga. — Fun Spot America announced today that its Atlanta location will permanently close following its final day of operation on August 2, 2026. Since opening, the park has welcomed millions of guests and created lasting memories for families throughout the region. “This was an extremely difficult decision,” said John Arie Jr., Chief Executive […]

Celebrate the legendary Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster’s 99th birthday

On Friday, June 26, the legendary Coney Island Cyclone turns 99 years old, marking one year until one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks celebrates its 100th birthday. Since opening in 1927, the Cyclone has become one of the most recognizable attractions in the world and a true symbol of Coney Island. From first rides […]

AAMA announces leadership transition as Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson resigns

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) today announced that Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson has voluntarily resigned his position, effective June 28, 2026, in collaboration with the AAMA Board of Directors, which has formally accepted his resignation. Gustafson has served as AAMA’s Executive Vice President for 10 years, following many years of […]

Six Flags Over Georgia acelebrates America’s 250th anniversary with Star-Spangled Nights, July 3 -5

MABLETON, Ga. — Six Flags Over Georgia today announced the return of Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, happening July 3 – 5. The event launches a summertime celebration honoring America’s 250th anniversary with dazzling fireworks, festive entertainment, limited-time treats and classic all-American thrills. “Six Flags Over Georgia has always been a place where families come together to celebrate […]

Kings Dominion celebrates Independence Day with Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, July 3-5

DOSWELL, Va. — Kings Dominion will celebrate Independence Day with Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, a three-day patriotic event July 3 through July 5 featuring fireworks, immersive entertainment and all-American experiences for guests of all ages. Recognized as one of Virginia’s premier Fourth of July celebrations, Star-Spangled Nights will illuminate the sky with vibrant fireworks set to patriotic music, […]

RWS Global secures three-year extension with Premiership-winning Brisbane Broncos

BRISBANE, Australia — RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sports, has announced the extension of its successful partnership with the Brisbane Broncos, the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) club, continuing as their official sport presentation provider through the end of 2028. The three-year renewal solidifies RWS Global’s position as […]

Now open: Reef Runners makes a splash at Seabreeze

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Seabreeze Amusement Park is making waves this summer with the opening of Reef Runners, the largest single investment in the park’s 146-year history and the first attraction of its kind in the Northeast. Standing 50 feet tall with more than 1,000 feet of slide, Reef Runners combines high-speed racing, unique slide elements, […]

Intercard continues winning run with 23rd location for France’s Speedpark

ST. LOUIS — Intercard recently installed its cashless technology in the arcade at the new SpeedPark FEC in Rennes, France. It is Intercard’s 23rd installation for the French amusement company. The racing-themed 54,000 square foot family entertainment center features nine different attractions including an indoor go-kart track, 20 bowling lanes, laser tag and arcade games. The […]

Gröna Lund unveils SCORE! – a one-of-a-kind interactive dark ride for 2027

After months of speculation about what is beginning to take shape behind the construction walls at the heart of Gröna Lund, we are finally ready to reveal the secret. In 2027, Gröna Lund will open SCORE! – a one-of-a-kind interactive dark ride where guests don’t just go on a ride, they step directly into an […]

Dollywood named to two Newsweek Top Workplaces 2026 lists

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood adds to its recent run of awards with Newsweek naming the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, theme park to its Greatest Workplaces 2026 lists for America and for the state of Tennessee. The lists were compiled following the results of a recent survey. The Greatest Workplace awards are based on a nationwide, large-scale independent […]

Interstellar Arc wins “Best Location-Based Entertainment” at prestigious Auggie Awards

LAS VEGAS — Interstellar Arc at AREA15, the awe-inspiring, visionary experience from the Emmy®-winning creators at Felix & Paul Studios, announces it has been awarded “Best Location-Based Entertainment” at the 17th annual Auggie Awards. Taking place at this year’s Augmented World Expo USA – the longest-running and largest event dedicated to augmented reality, extended reality, virtual reality, robotics and AI – Interstellar Arc now ranks among 20 of […]

Fun Spot America celebrates 250 years of independence with huge fireworks

ORLANDO — Fun Spot America is celebrating America’s 250th Independence Day at the Orlando and Kissimmee parks with a patriotic fireworks spectacular, colorful confectionary treats, and family-friendly fun throughout the parks. As always, guests can pick their park as Fun Spot will launch a HUGE fireworks display at both Fun Spot Orlando and Fun Spot Kissimmee on […]

Area15 debuts Eye Dropper, 200-foot-tall psychedelic thrill ride

LAS VEGAS — AREA15 announces Eye Dropper, the towering 200-foot-tall psychedelic thrill ride, is now open inside Zone 2. Transforming the classic drop tower into a cinematic, story-driven experience inspired by trippy art and altered states of perception, Eye Dropper delivers multiple high-intensity sensations. The opening arrives as AREA15 sees its visitation increasing by double-digit percentages compared […]

Chris Maier, Land of Make Believe recognized for incredible success 

HOPE TWP., N.J. — When Christopher Maier assumed the reins of running the Land of Make Believe in the early 70’s, he brought a new vision of Family Entertainment to the park and with his business leadership in the ensuing years took it to another level. At the start, he immediately operationalized what would become […]

Project Purple becomes tallest structure at Six Flags Great Adventure, reaching 315 feet

JACKSON, N.J. — A new giant is rising over Six Flags Great Adventure. Project Purple has officially reached 315 feet, making it the tallest structure currently standing at the park and marking another major milestone in the construction of the highly anticipated 2027 roller coaster. Visible from miles away, the massive attraction now dominates the skyline as crews […]

More than 630 enthusiasts from around the world gather for Coaster Con 48

AGAWAM, Mass. — More than 630 members of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE), the world’s original and largest ride enthusiast organization, are gathering this week for Coaster Con 48, the annual convention that celebrates roller coasters, friendship and amusement park history. Attendees from across the United States and around the world will celebrate World Roller Coaster […]

After nearly 200 years: Tivoli Gardens unveils the largest themed area in its history

In the heart of Copenhagen, a major new development is taking shape in Tivoli Gardens. Over the past two years, the area formerly known as the Asian-inspired district has undergone a complete transformation. This August, it will reopen as Hikari – meaning light in Japanese – an immersive new themed area inspired by the atmosphere of a […]

Get set for Legen-Dairy flavors at Wisconsin State Fair

WEST ALLIS, Wis. — While not an official holiday (yet), today marks 50 days until the celebration 175 years in the making kicks off. That’s right, Wisconsin State Fair, presented by T-Mobile, is just around the corner. For this milestone announcement day, Fairgoers can learn what flavor Cream Puffs will accompany those ear-to-ear grins coming to Wisconsin Aug. […]

Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights transports guests into the final season of Netflix’s iconic series, Stranger Things

ORLANDO, Fla. and UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — The Upside Down returns to Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights as the fifth and final season of the global phenomenon, Netflix’s Stranger Things, comes to life in all-new haunted houses. The premier Halloween event commences on Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood. Developed in partnership with […]

Six Flags Great Adventure launches Boardwalk Nights at Shoreline Pier

JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure is turning up the energy as the sun sets with the debut of Boardwalk Nights, a brand-new summer entertainment event taking place select nights from June 19 through August 2 at Shoreline Pier on The Boardwalk. When the sun goes down, The Boardwalk transforms into a vibrant nighttime destination filled with live […]

Canada’s Wonderland’s biggest summer yet features an expanded fireworks lineup, exciting events and a new flexible membership program

VAUGHAN, Ontario –– Canada’s Wonderland, the country’s premier amusement park, is kicking off summer with a bang by announcing an expanded fireworks lineup featuring five spectacular nights in July – including four newly added Saturday evening shows – plus dazzling displays on the Civic Holiday and Labour Day long weekends. The park also today launched a new subscription-style Membership […]

PortAventura World opens a new chapter focused on regenerating the environment

PORTAVENTURA WORLD — After a year marked by its 30th anniversary, PortAventura World sets out in its 2025 Sustainability Report how sustainability has been integrated across the company. Over the past year, the Costa Daurada resort has consolidated its energy transition and decarbonisation strategy. Even with the addition of new businesses, the Hotel Ponient Marinada and the industrial laundry, the theme […]

Dance, dine and ride: Viva La Fiesta ignites summer nights at Dorney Park

SOUTH WHITEHALL TWP., Pa. — Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom will bring vibrant music, dance and flavor to summer evenings with the return of Viva La Fiesta, a lively celebration of Caribbean and Latin American culture on select weekends from June 20 through July 26. The event takes place Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 5 p.m. through park close, […]

Six Flags Fiesta Texas debuts La Cocina de Cobre, blending bold flavor, storytelling and innovation

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Six Flags Fiesta Texas continues its culinary transformation with the opening of La Cocina de Cobre on Saturday, June 20. Located in the park’s Crackaxle Canyon Steampunk District, the new restaurant replaces Bubba’s Burgers and represents one of the most significant food and beverage investments in the park’s history. The addition builds on the park’s expanded […]

Lake Compounce receives official Connecticut General Assembly citation for 180th Anniversary

Lake Compounce was recently presented with an Official Citation from the Connecticut General Assembly in recognition of its 180th Anniversary as America’s First Amusement Park and the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States. The citation, presented by Senator Henry Martin and members of the Connecticut General Assembly, recognizes Lake Compounce’s enduring role […]

Storm topples historic Eli wheel in Ohio

GENEVA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ohio — The historic Eli Bridge Co. Ferris wheel at Old Firehouse Winery was toppled Sunday afternoon (June 14) when a violent storm swept in from Lake Erie. No injuries were reported at the lakefront property. Located on the winery’s Sunset Patio, the #5 Big Eli wheel was originally purchased in 1956 as a […]

Fort Wayne Zoo to welcome Bald Eagle in patriotic summer debut

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is proud to announce the upcoming arrival of two North American bald eagles, offering guests a rare opportunity to see one of the nation’s most iconic species up close. In the coming weeks, the Zoo plans to unveil “a living example of one the nation’s most majestic […]

Six Flags parks in 12 states from coast-to-coast celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with spectacular fireworks, festive eats, historic thrills and patriotic summer fun

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today announced a summertime celebration honoring 250 years of American history, culture and community with stunning fireworks, immersive décor, limited-time food and beverages, guest participation experiences, a vast collection of historic thrill rides, and exclusive perks in 17 U.S. amusement parks. Stretching from the Atlantic […]

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment expands Branson footprint with Adventure Seekers acquisition

ORLANDO — Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment is excited to announce the acquisition of the Adventure Seekers and FlyRide® attraction in Branson, Missouri. The popular local attraction is now officially part of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment, bringing even more family-centered fun to the entertainment capital oftheOzarks. Adventure Seekers is a favorite […]

Six Flags Great America’s 50th Anniversary celebration kicks off June 20

GURNEE, Ill. — Six Flags Great America is set to launch its highly anticipated 50th Anniversary Celebration beginning June 20 through Aug. 9, bringing guests a summer filled with new entertainment, limited‑time flavors, and immersive experiences honoring five decades of thrills. “Celebrating 50 years is an incredible milestone for Six Flags Great America,” said John Krajnak, Park President of […]

Mammoth-sized summer kicks off at Fun-Plex!

OMAHA, Neb. — Summer is in full swing as Nebraska’s largest waterpark and rides swoops into Mid-June 2026! This year, Fun-Plex is invites guests to rediscover everything the park has become with a simple challenge: Fun-Plex & Find Out! Whether you were here last summer or haven’t visited in years, 2026 brings fresh reasons to […]

Northern Lights Recreation FEC schedules grand opening of Adventure Golf & Sports-designed Mini Golf Course July 5 – 12

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — During July 5 – 12, the Northern Lights Recreation Family Entertainment Center (FEC) in Harbor Springs, Michigan, will conduct the grand opening of their first mini golf course which was designed and built by Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS). It will be the feature outdoor attraction at “Rocky’s Beer Garden,” which is among several other attractions […]

Universal Orlando Resort to debut new nighttime spectacular, “Universal Celestial Goodnight” at Universal Epic Universe Starting July 7

ORLANDO — This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will invite guests to cap off their day of world-class thrills at the groundbreaking Universal Epic Universe theme park with a new nighttime spectacular,Universal Celestial Goodnight. Running nightly beginning Tuesday, July 7, the must-see show will envelop all of Celestial Park into a captivating display of dancing fountains, breathtaking lighting […]

Dollywood extends public employee appreciation days offer to celebrate America’s Veterans, first responders and teachers

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — One of Dollywood’s long-standing promotions has been extended into the summer to thank those who work tirelessly each day to serve our country and communities. Dollywood’s Public Employee Appreciation Days has been a popular promotion this season, with qualifying guests from across the country taking advantage of this special offer. In honor of […]

Family Entertainment Group, LLC appoints industry veteran Nick DiMatteo, ICAE as senior vice president, equipment operations & strategy

ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group, LLC FEG, one of the nation’s premier operators of family entertainment centers, today announced the appointment of Nick DiMatteo, ICAE as Senior Vice President, Equipment Operations & Strategy. DiMatteo brings more than 25 years of amusement and entertainment industry experience and will join the company on June 8, 2026. […]

Family Entertainment Group, LLC welcomes Jason Clark as Chief Financial Officer

ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group, LLC FEG, one of the nation’s premier operators of family entertainment centers, today announced the appointment of Jason Clark as Chief Financial Officer, effective May 26, 2026. Clark brings deep financial leadership experience across the restaurant, hospitality, and entertainment industries, and joins FEG at a moment of significant organizational […]

Legendary Wisconsin-grown Chef Sandra Lee to visit Wisconsin State Fair

WEST ALLIS, Wis. — In conjunction with the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America and the 261st Anniversary of the First American Fair in Pennsylvania in 1765, Sandra Lee and the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE) will embark on a “Best in Fair” Tour of America’s beloved Fairs, highlighting the economic influence and cultural relevance […]

A star-spangled summer awaits during Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City (June 15- Aug. 2) returns this summer with high-energy entertainment, family fun and a patriotic flair as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. From a dazzling drone and fireworks spectacular to mouthwatering culinary items and festive Americana-themed décor and merchandise, Dollywood once […]

Brogent unveils ‘R-Ride’ at IAAPA Asia, announcing powerful Japanese IP alliances and 5 Southeast Asian projects

Brogent Technologies Inc. presented its latest portfolio of innovations at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026, showcasing next-generation ride systems, expanded content experiences, and a strategic collaboration with one of Japan’s most iconic intellectual properties. At the forefront of the presentation, Brogent debuted its latest innovation, R-Ride, a motion theater equipped with a 360-degree panoramic screen, advanced […]

Gardaland Resort kicks off the summer with the opening of Legoland Water Park Gardaland

LEGOLAND Water Park Gardaland reopens until 13 September, launching the summer season at Gardaland Resort. The LEGO-themed water park has no parallel in Italy, a place where LEGO bricks take centre stage in an immersive experience for all generations. Covering an area of 15,000 m2, LEGOLAND Water Park is an unforgettable day out for everyone, […]

Fort Wayne Zoo honors service members with Military Appreciation Weekend

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — In honor of Flag Day, the Fort Wayne Zoo is proud to host Military Appreciation Weekend this Saturday, June 13, through Sunday, June 14, offering free admission to all active duty and retired military personnel in honor of their service and sacrifice. Military personnel can also bring up to three guests […]

World’s Largest Rubber Duck lands at Holiday World

SANTA CLAUS, Ind. — Mama Duck, a 60-foot-tall Rubber Duck, has landed at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari and is already making waves. Flanked by her smaller rubber duck friends, the World’s Largest Rubber Duck will be nested on the beach of Bahari Wave Pool daily through June 21, weather permitting. “She’s a sight to behold,” […]

FACE Amusement Group opens “Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown” in Myrtle Beach, SC

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — FACE Amusement Group today announced the official opening of Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown at the Myrtle Beach Mall, bringing a 50,000-square-foot dining and entertainment destination to the country’s most popular coastal markets. Developed in partnership with Emmy Award-winning chef and television personality Guy Fieri, the Myrtle Beach location expands on the success of the brand’s flagship in Pigeon Forge. The venue transforms […]

Play Playground Nashville unveils new patriotic sips, beverage specials for June, July in “Playmaker’s Pour” cocktail program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Play Playground Nashville, the most playful social game experience and bar located just off downtown’s Broadway, announces new patriotic cocktails and beverage specials available in June and July. As part of its brand-new “Playmaker’s Pour” monthly cocktail program, players are invited to find their flavor, raise a glass and play their way. Designed to complement […]