

The MAY 2025 issue includes:
- Amusement Today‘s 2025 “What’s New” Guide!
- Chickasaw Nation opens unique Okana Resort in Oklahoma City
- Knott’s Berry Farm reimagines arcade, adds new midway games
- Six Flags Over Georgia debuts Intamin’s first Ultra Surf coaster
- SeaWorld San Antonio reimagines children’s area with Rescue Jr.
- BoldMove’s Rogue Rides provides new trackless vehicle option
- Dollywood celebrates 40th season with new restaurant, parking lot
- Zamperla supplies Morgan’s Wonderland’s accessible Happy Swing
- Legoland announces new indoor coasters for Florida, California
- Texas Pinball Festival 2025 scores high with global attendance
- AAMA’s FEC of the Year Alley Cats pilots Embed’s Ecosystem
- Slick City slides into its first location in the Dallas-FortWorth area
- Do The Beach is the next generation of adventure park ownership
- TouchTunes revamps music app, promotes more social activity
- Miami-Dade County Fair goes well, nearly a half million visitors
- Showmen’s Museum preserves the history of fascinating industry
- Bavarian Inn Lodge unveils impressive Bavarian Blast Waterpark
- Both Walt Disney World Resort water parks to open in 2025
- Spekboom Lodge is latest revenue stream at San Antonio Zoo
- Life Floor offers safety aspect of heat dissipation for hot surfaces
- VLocker recycles used lockers for missions, shelters to aid homeless
- After turning for 125 years, things continue to look up at Eli Bridge
- Focus On The Horizon: Matt Robbins of Martin & Vleminckx
- Six Flags Great America enhances original B&M inverted coaster
- Pennsylvania ride safety advisory board holds quarterly meeting
- Call for AIMS International Safety Seminar ambassadors
- Six Flags adds FLX Shade
- StarGuard Elite holds successful conference aboard cruise ship … and much more!
Amusement Today will be publishing its annual amusement industry preview in the May 2025 issue. To make certain your new-for-2025 installs are included, send a list of your 2025 projects to [email protected].

The deadline for inclusion is April 15, 2025.
AT is looking for any new ride or attraction at parks, water parks, family entertainment centers, traveling carnivals shows, cruise ships, even stand-alone attractions such as giant wheels, tower rides and alpine coasters.
GILROY, Calif. — The Gilroy Gardens Board of Directors has given final approval and entered into an agreement with the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association to utilize the South County Grove to host the return of the Gilroy Garlic Festival in July 2025.

The Gilroy Garlic Festival has long been a beloved event for the Gilroy community. Since it was founded in 1979, the Festival has promoted the local community and supported countless schools, service groups, and non-profit organizations through fundraising and volunteerism.
“Gilroy Gardens is pleased to be able to assist the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association and support their efforts to bring back this iconic food festival,” states Dan Harney, Gilroy Gardens Chairman of the Board. “The Gilroy Garlic Festival Association and Gilroy Gardens share similar goals of working collaboratively with local businesses, nonprofits, and other organizations to strengthen and showcase the Gilroy community.”
The Gilroy Garlic Festival will take place July 25, 26 and 27, 2025 at South County Grove, a separately gated special event space at Gilroy Gardens that features a large, shaded patio and ample lawn space ideal for hosting special events. The 2025 Gilroy Garlic Festival will be a separately ticketed event, independently managed by the Festival team, with attendees entering directly through the South County Grove entrance. Guests visiting Gilroy Gardens will not have access to the Festival, and Festival attendees will not have access to Gilroy Gardens, without purchasing separate tickets.
Happening this Saturday – Strikz Entertainment celebrates 20 years with family fun, retro deals and big prizes
By News Release | May 16, 2025
Strikz Entertainment is turning 20 and inviting the community to celebrate this Saturday, May 17 with a full day of throwback fun, contests and community spirit. Locally owned and community-driven, Strikz has been a Frisco favorite for two decades.
That celebration includes:
- Throwback Pricing: Bowl for $20/lane/hour and grab arcade cards at half price
- Grand Prize Raffle: Win Free Bowling for a Year
- Social Media Contest: Post with #20YearsofStrikz to win a $50 gift card
- Community Fundraiser Days: Coming June 1, 8 and 15 to benefit local nonprofits
This local milestone is a great weekend mention for community calendars, digital roundups or morning show segments—perfect for showcasing affordable family fun and supporting a business that’s given back to Frisco for 20 years.
WaveGarden has done it again: Unprecedented Waves arrive at Beyond The Club in São Paulo, with Gabriel Medina stoked on his first sessions
By News Release | May 15, 2025
SAN SEBASTIAN — The world’s leading company, Wavegarden, redefines once again the limits of innovation in artificial waves for surfing. Its latest project at Beyond the Club, São Paulo, marks a turning point in the development of surf lagoons. With a powerful combination of cutting-edge engineering and a revolutionary technological approach, it has exceeded all expectations.
The key lies in the new bathymetry design and the 62-module Wavegarden Cove wave generator, the largest and most powerful of its kind ever built. This synergy results in a reef that generates the highest-quality waves to date: more powerful, longer rides (up to 30 seconds), bigger (up to 2 meters), new wave types, and greater versatility.
Now, let’s dive into the details of what we really like. What surprising things do these new waves bring?
Most notably, the new reef has proven beneficial for all types of waves. The new high-performance waves are powerful and characterized by a broad, natural face that offers a wide variety of lines. They maintain constant speed and shape until the end, finishing in a gentle bowl.
The barrel section is about nine seconds, potentially eleven for experienced tube riders. The barrels are wide and easy to ride for their size. They stay open, even in onshore conditions and sessions with over 200 waves per hour. While the accessible takeoff version will likely be a public favorite, pros clearly prefer the slab version with a somewhat challenging, direct drop into the barrel.
Aerial waves have also greatly benefited from the new reef with different ramps for boosting major airs with soft landings. There are different difficulty levels to suit various surfing abilities. New features include the double-section wave and the alley-oop section. Not to mention the new combinations: turns + aerial, turns + barrel, or barrel + aerial.
Similarly, the Malibu waves have improved. They are notable for their length and offer mellow rides of approximately 34 seconds at a consistent speed.
Another remarkable aspect of the new bathymetry is the spectacular behavior of the body of water when our most powerful waves are generated. It delivers between 200 and 250 premium-quality waves per hour with virtually no chop or currents.
This reef has taken a long time to develop (more than a year), and this installation marks its initial implementation. Moving forward, every Wavegarden facility will have this capability, and the existing facilities can be upgraded.
Beyond The Club: a game-changing private social, sports, and leisure club
Gabriel Medina, three-time world champion, Olympic medalist, and Beyond The Club business partner – tested the first waves at Beyond the Club, an unprecedented sports lifestyle club, spanning over 70,000 m2 and located adjacent to the iconic Transamerica Bridge and in close proximity to São Paulo’s city center.
“It just doesn’t get better than this,” said Medina after wrapping up his session. “I’m so proud to be part of this project and to be working with these people. Together, we can achieve so much.”
The central element of the club is the 28,000 m² surf lagoon surrounded by a sandy beach, offering a Wave Menu with more than 25 different wave types – from soft, rolling waves ideal for beginners to steep, barreling waves perfect for expert surfers to perform turns, aerials, and deep barrels with the lowest energy and water consumption in the market.
Members and guests can also enjoy indoor and outdoor pools, soccer fields, and high-tech simulators for skiing, snowboarding, golf, and motorsports, offering entertainment options that go far beyond surfing. The facility includes a 78-room hotel, nine restaurants offering diverse cuisines, a surf academy, a retail surf shop, a multi-sport club, courts for beach tennis, tennis, padel, and squash, a 2,000 m² gym, skate park designed by professional skater Bob Burnquist, spa, physiotherapy center, beauty salon, wine cellar, jazz bar, and a nightclub.
Although the full opening is scheduled for October, KSM Realty and Founder Oscar Segall is pleased with the results: “I envisioned Beyond The Club as a place with waves and a beach, sports, and leisure – designed for families who value well-being, connection, and the joy of creating unforgettable moments every day. It’s a space built on purpose, innovation, and the dream of transforming São Paulo into a lighter, more soulful, and more connected city.”
Project ambassador and two-time world champion Filipe Toledo summed it up: “I love the vision and feel projects like this are changing the sport for the better. While I see myself involved in events, coaching clinics, and other promotions, I think the waves and the technology we now have are shaping the future like never before.”
The Wavegarden technical team, along with engineers and specialists, continues to fine-tune the full menu of waves. Beyond Medina, other top Brazilian surfers have been equally impressed with the wave quality and diversity, including Krystian Kymerson, Alex Ribeiro, Jadson André, Matheus Navarro, Rodrigo Saldanha and Mateus Sena. Now, thanks to Beyond The Club, São Paulo boasts a beach with perfect waves in the heart of the metropolis, accessible every day.
Summer is here! Aquatica announces all-new AquaGlow – the ultimate neon nighttime swim party experience – debuting this summer
By News Release | May 15, 2025
SAN ANTONIO — Aquatica San Antonio, Texas’s best waterpark, is the ideal summertime destination, offering both fun and relaxation. From exhilarating daytime fan-favorite attractions to the nighttime excitement of the ALL-NEW AquaGlow, an electrifying nighttime swim party that transforms the entire park into a vibrant neon escape, there’s something for everyone to enjoy from sunup to sundown. Starting Friday, May 23, Aquatica kicks off daily operations, welcoming families and thrill-seekers to enjoy their favorite slides, lazy rivers and splash zones just in time for Memorial Day Weekend. 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!
New for 2025 – AquaGlow
Introducing AquaGlow – an all-new after-dark event debuting June 6 and running throughout the summer on Friday and Saturday nights. Under the starlit sky, guests will be immersed in an ocean of vibrant colors and pulsating rhythms during this high-energy nighttime celebration that transforms the park into a vibrant, glowing oasis of lights, music and non-stop fun. From serene strolls to energetic dance parties, AquaGlow delivers a full-sensory adventure for guests of all ages. Party-goers will experience the park in a whole new light with enhanced glowing and illuminated elements:
- Dazzling Light Tunnel – Guests can float down Loggerhead Lane beneath a canopy of sparkling lights that dazzle the senses and make every moment photo-worthy.
- Glowing Tree Trail – Wander through an illuminated forest of neon trees that guide guests through a colorful wonderland of pathways.
- Foam Party Frenzy – Dance the night away in a sea of suds! This epic foam party features pulsing beats, kaleidoscopic lighting and foam-filled fun that will have everyone on their feet.
- Adrenaline levels will be taken to new heights as guests take nighttime rides on Tonga Twister, Stingray Falls, Riptide Racer and more while being immersed in a prism of colorful lights and surrounded by heart-pumping music around the park.
“We’re excited to unveil AquaGlow—an all-new, high-energy nighttime experience that’s truly one-of-a-kind,” said David Skelton, Vice President of Aquatica San Antonio. “When the sun goes down, Aquatica takes on a whole new illuminated party vibe, and AquaGlow is a unique way to enjoy summer fun in a never-before-seen way in San Antonio.”
Tickets are now on sale for this separately ticketed event, designed to offer an enhanced experience with limited capacity to reduce wait times and ensure an unforgettable evening for all guests. Tickets are $29.99 for general admission, and Pass Members get a special admission price of only $24.99. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.AquaticaSanAntonio.com
Summer Fun in the Sun at Aquatica
No summer is complete without visiting Aquatica. Known for its resort-like atmosphere, Aquatica has relaxing pools scattered throughout the park and plenty of shaded cabanas and loungers for guests to decompress and unwind. Thrill seekers can enjoy intense waterslides including Riptide Race, a dueling racer where guests can compete against each other to the finish line; Ihu’s Breakaway Falls, the tallest drop slide in Texas; and Tonga Twister, a colorful 400-foot exciting water slide in which guests can experience a light show and music. Kids and kids at heart can cool down at Tikitapu Splash, a towering rain fortress with over 100 kid-friendly water elements including three giant dumping buckets, four exciting water slides and an array of geysers, water cannons and waterspouts.
Those looking for animal encounters can take a ride on the park’s signature attraction, Stingray Falls, a family raft ride that sends riders through an underwater grotto where thrill seekers go face-to-fin with stingrays and tropical fish. Then guests can dive even deeper into these fascinating animals at KeRe Reef where they can get in the water and swim with stingrays and tropical fish during the one-of-a-kind Stingray Encounter. With its diverse array of attractions, Aquatica San Antonio promises an unforgettable waterpark experience for friends and family all summer long.
Ultimate Summer Savings During the Memorial Day Sale
Heading into summer, SeaWorld and Aquatica San Antonio are giving guests more reasons than ever to become a Pass Member during the Memorial Day Sale. Starting as low as $99, guests can get a Season or Annual Pass to SeaWorld and get Aquatica for FREE. Pass members get unbeatable benefits including free parking, invitations to exclusive special events, giveaways and discounts on merchandise and food. This is a limited-time offer, so guests should take advantage of these amazing deals before regular prices return. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit SeaWorldSanAntonio.com
Sesame Place Philadelphia splashes into summer with 45th Birthday Beach Bash, water attractions, and fireworks
By News Release | May 15, 2025
PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — Sesame Place Philadelphia is celebrating its 45th birthday this spring and summer! The park is kicking off the un-official start to summer with sunny, splashy fun beginning Saturday, May 24! Select water attractions will open for the 2025 season, and weekend festivities include:
- The ALL-NEW 45th Birthday Beach Bash is full of sun-sational birthday fun with the Furry Friends Beach Bash Dance Party, a new seashell-themed scavenger hunt, and photos with everybody’s favorite furry friends in their summertime outfits! This limited-time event takes place only on May 24 and 25.
- The Memorial Day Weekend Celebration on May 24 and 25features a Patriotic Dine with Elmo & Friends dressed in their star-spangled best! To close out the weekend, guests can watch as the “C…is for Celebrate!” Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks light up the sky exclusively on Sunday, May 25, at 9pm. Prior to the fireworks display, guests can enjoy the ultimate dessert experience with the option of Sweet Treats packages. Dine and Sweet Treats packages require park admission, reservations, and additional fees.
- An exclusive Season Pass Member giveaway of birthday-themed drawstring backpacks, only on Saturday, May 24 from 10am to 1pm.
Highlights of Sesame Summer Splash, beginning on June 20 – the first official day of summer, include:
Sesame Place Summer Nights: Fridays & Saturdays, beginning June 20
Extended hours return Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer! Guests can enjoy their evenings with extra time to splash in Big Bird’s Beach, a DJ Dance Party, and an encore of the Sesame Street Birthday Parade.
Blippi Meet & Greets: Saturday, June 21 & Sunday, June 22
Popular children’s performer Blippi returns for a weekend of fun Meet & Greets!
Elmo’s Pirate Weekend: Saturday, June 28 & Sunday, June 29
A swashbuckling pirate adventure awaits with fan-favorite show “Elmo and the Bookaneers,” a treasure hunt, and photos with everyone’s Sesame Street friends in their pirate garb!
July 4th Fest: Friday, July 4 – Sunday, July 6
To celebrate America’s birthday, Elmo will be available for photos in his patriotic attire, and only on Friday, July 4, the spectacular “C is for Celebrate” Fireworks will light up the sky!
Tango’s Gotcha Day Celebration: Friday, July 11 – Sunday, July 13
Guests can celebrate all things Tango with a fun-filled scavenger hunt, Meet & Greets, and more!
45th Birthday Bash: Wednesday, July 30
Sesame Place is celebrating its 45th Birthday all spring and summer, with an extra special birthday bash on the anniversary of its opening in 1980, including dazzling fireworks! Even more furry birthday fun throughout July will be announced soon – and in the meantime, guests can enjoy energetic entertainment, specialty snacks, and more birthday fun!
Snuffy’s Birthday Celebration: Monday, August 18 – Thursday, August 21
Guests are invited to celebrate Aloysius Snuffleupagus on his big day! Guests can take photos during exclusive Meet & Greets with Snuffy and more!
Back to School Bash: Monday, August 25 – Friday, August 29
Before the summer ends, the park will host a week of back-to-school fun, featuring Honker’s Super Fun Science Show and the Back to School Bash Dine with Elmo & Friends! Dine require park admission, reservation, and additional fee.
Labor Day Celebration: Saturday, August 30 & Sunday, August 31
Elmo will be available for photos in his patriotic attire! Exclusively on Sunday, August 31, the “C…is for Celebrate!” Labor Day Fireworks display will close out Sesame Summer Splash.
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — The Resorts Companies, Inc., owner of Massanutten Resort and Bluestone Peak in Rockingham County, Virginia near Harrisonburg, and Wilderness Presidential Resort in Spotsylvania County, Virginia near Fredericksburg, today announced the appointment of John Alvarez as general counsel. In this key leadership role, Alvarez will oversee all legal matters for The Resorts Companies and support ongoing strategic expansion initiatives at Massanutten Resort and Wilderness Presidential Resort.
“John’s appointment is a reflection of our commitment to thoughtful growth and the long-term strength of our organization,” said Steve Krohn, president and chief operating officer of The Resorts Companies. “As we continue to grow and diversify, John’s expertise in managing acquisitions, development, and complex transactions will be essential in helping us execute on our strategic vision.”
A seasoned real estate and development legal executive, Alvarez has more than 25 years of experience specializing in timeshare, mixed-use, and residential projects. Prior to joining The Resorts Companies, Alvarez served as vice president of acquisitions and development for Holiday Inn Club Vacations, working closely with executive leadership to execute the company’s growth plan and lead significant expansion across domestic and international markets. His career also includes leadership positions at Land Resource, where he served as executive vice president and general counsel, and at Fairfield Resorts (now Wyndham Vacation Ownership), where he led the Acquisitions and Development group, helping grow the company’s footprint across the U.S. and Caribbean. Earlier in his career, Alvarez also served as land acquisition manager at Centex Homes, where he spearheaded a $150 million portfolio of residential land acquisitions, secured key entitlements, and forged municipal partnerships to drive market expansion.
In addition to his real estate acquisition and development background, Alvarez has extensive experience negotiating and structuring complex transactions, including raw land purchases, turn-key developments, and capital-light deal structures. His expertise extends to real estate financing and securitization, with a proven ability to collaborate across executive teams to optimize financial outcomes and position companies for large-scale, sustainable growth.
Alvarez earned his Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from Duke University and his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the University of Florida College of Law. He is an active member of The Florida Bar and the American Resort Development Association (ARDA), where he will serve as Resort’s representative on the Legislative Committee and General Counsel Council.
“I am honored to join The Resorts Companies at such an exciting time, with growth underway and on the horizon,” said Alvarez. “The company’s forward-thinking approach to expansion, commitment to excellence, and 100% employee-owned structure strongly resonate with me, and I look forward to helping the leadership team shape the next chapter of success.”
RWS Global expands leadership team with addition of Hans Vollrath as Executive Vice President of Land Production and Ashley Hong as Vice President of Licensing
By News Release | May 15, 2025
NEW YORK — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, has announced two strategic leadership appointments as part of its continued global expansion. Hans Vollrath joins as Executive Vice President of Land Production, while Ashley Hong steps into the newly created role of Vice President of Licensing. These additions emphasize the company’s commitment to delivering world-class experiences and setting the standard in live entertainment globally.
Hans Vollrath, Executive Vice President, Land Production
With more than 30 years of experience delivering world-class productions and guest experiences, Vollrath will lead and expand RWS Global’s land-based entertainment portfolio, including theatrical productions, theme park shows, immersive experiences, seasonal activations, branded attractions and events. Before joining RWS Global, Vollrath served as General Manager at Meow Wolf, overseeing daily operations and full P&L responsibilities.
Vollrath worked for over two decades at The Walt Disney Company, where he played key roles in cruise operations, themed entertainment, international expansion and new business development. After his time at Disney, he joined as Senior Director at Vail Resorts in Broomfield, CO, leading operational strategy for the company’s summer business.
“Bringing Hans on as our EVP, Land Production is a game-changer,” says Jake McCoy, Chief Operating Officer at RWS Global. “His vision, drive and influential background in themed entertainment are exactly what we need as we scale upwards. Our team is excited about the powerful leadership and fresh perspective he will bring to elevate everything we produce.”
Known for his approachable leadership style and passion for guest experience, Vollrath has built a career around operational excellence, team empowerment and delivering large-scale projects on time and budget. His specialties include executive-level business strategy, operations, guest experience development, multi-departmental budgeting, business process optimization and customer service management.
Ashley Hong, Vice President, Licensing
Hong brings over 20 years of global licensing experience, having driven profitability across multiple product categories for major consumer brands. Most recently, she pioneered the establishment of Icon Licensing, a full-service licensing agency specializing in creating strategic brand partnerships and innovative licensing deals across entertainment, lifestyle and fashion.
Hong previously served as Global Merchandising Group Manager for Asia Pacific at the National Basketball Association (NBA), where she spearheaded the strategic retail expansion of the brand, notably identifying and negotiating with strategic partners to develop NBA Lifestyle stores throughout the APAC region, which significantly enhanced brand visibility and fan engagement. She then served as Head of International Licensing at Elegance GmbH, managing 17 licensed categories globally to ensure a focus on product and retail strategy before serving as Vice President, International Business Development at Authentic Brands Group, where she led the company’s fast-growing international expansion and licensing strategy.
In her new role, Hong will oversee licensing strategy and business development across IP-driven experiences and retail offerings.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ashley to our team,” says Veronica Hart, Chief Growth Officer at RWS Global. “Her passion for fandom, her expertise in global brand strategy and her deep knowledge of the licensing industry will be invaluable assets as we expand our offerings globally and strengthen our position in the market.”
Hong’s exceptional background in working with licensees and forging IP partnerships enables RWS Global to enhance its position as a leader in IP-based experiences, helping expand the company’s footprint in global partnerships, experiential marketing activations and “retailtainment.” Hong will be attending the forthcoming Licensing Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada, May 20-22.
Fritz’s Adventure to host grand opening weekend at Grandscape May 30 – June 1
By News Release | May 15, 2025
DALLAS, Texas — Fritz’s Adventure, the action-packed family adventure destination at Grandscape in The Colony, will officially celebrate its Grand Opening Weekend on Friday, May 30 through Sunday, June 1, 2025.
While the attraction has been welcoming guests since early April, the multi-day celebration marks a milestone moment for the brand’s Texas debut — and an exciting start to summer for families across North Texas.
Located at 5651 Nebraska Furniture Mart Drive, the 100,000+ square foot venue features ropes courses, treehouses, underground tunnels, ziplines, and more, offering something for every age and adventurer.
Weekend Highlights: Adventure with a Mission
The celebration kicks off Friday morning with a ceremonial ribbon cutting in partnership with local Chamber of Commerce organizations. Throughout the weekend, Fritz’s will spotlight organizations making a difference in the foster and adoption space — a cause that aligns closely with the company and its goal of creating meaningful experiences.
Local nonprofits will host pop-ups or interactive booths within the venue, offering guests an opportunity to connect with their work. Fritz’s Adventure will run a “change roundup” campaign through its point-of-sale system all weekend, inviting guests to round up their purchases to support this cause. Select foster and adoption families will be welcomed for complimentary play experiences as part of the weekend festivities.
“Our mission is to create WOW moments, and we love how that comes with connection, challenge, and making a difference,” said Matt Engram, Owner and Chief Executive Officer of Fritz’s Adventure.
Guests will also enjoy raffle prize drawings throughout the weekend. Additional details and prizes will be announced soon – check social media for updates.
GLEN, N.H. — The countdown is on. Story Land, New Hampshire’s Best Theme Park for Kids, will officially kick off its 2025 season on Saturday, May 24 at 9:30 a.m. The beloved New Hampshire theme park is gearing up to welcome families back with giveaways and all the park’s iconic rides, attractions, and timeless fairy tale fun.
This year, Story Land’s newest addition, Moo Lagoon, will celebrate its longest operating season yet. The new water play area will reopen on Saturday, May 24 and remain open to guests through Sunday, September 14. Moo Lagoon features fun for the whole herd including more than 50 interactive spray elements, a dump bucket, five pint-sized water slides, three large body slides extending from a 25-foot-high slide tower, and playful decorative elements like cows wearing sunglasses. This off-season, the Story Land team added even more seating for families in the area by 50%, added even more shade, and updated the concrete surrounding Moo Lagoon to provide a more comfortable guest experience.
Story Land keeps the momentum going during its most eventful season ever. This June, the park will debut its first-ever Neighbor Days, through its expanded partnership with Fred Rogers Productions. The brand-new event offers families unique opportunities to meet characters from the beloved PBS KIDS shows Donkey Hodie, Alma’s Way and Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood weekends June 14 through June 29. Details include:
- Donkey Hodie Weekend (June 14-15): The whole family is invited to take a trip to Someplace Else with a scavenger hunt throughout the park, meet and greets and dance parties with the lovable and spirited Donkey Hodie all whimsical weekend long;
- Alma’s Way Weekend (June 21-22): It’s Alma’s Way all weekend long as guests can meet and greet with Alma and enjoy immersive arts and crafts activities; and
- Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Weekend (June 28-29): Everyone’s invited to be a part of the fun with Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, including the chance to meet and greet Danieland friends.
In addition to the all-new Neighbor Days, the 2025 season at Story Land will be jam packed with events and new reasons for families to visit. July and August are all about Nostalgia, with four 21-plus Nostalgia Nights, plus an additional new night in October, where guests can be a kid again. This September, families can enjoy Sensory Friendly Weekend, September 6 and 7 and First Responder Weekend September 13 and 14. To close out the season, New Hampshire’s Best New Way to Halloween, Happy Hauntings, returns for its longest season ever, running select days September 20 through October 26, and offering trick-or-treating, fall-themed food, shows and more.
“Each year, we look for new ways to make Story Land even more magical for the families who visit us,” said Chris Kearsing, General Manager of Story Land. “This season, we’re thrilled to add more days to splash away in Moo Lagoon, add new events like Neighbor Days, and continue expanding accessibility to ensure every guest can make lasting memories here.”
In line with its commitment to inclusive experiences, Story Land is expanding its accessibility offerings in 2025. New this year, the park has joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, helping guests with non-visible disabilities feel seen and supported. This complements Story Land’s existing accreditation as a Certified Autism Center by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
Ongoing accessibility enhancements include a fully remodeled Quiet Room, offering a calming, temperature-controlled space with soft seating and interactive games, and newly added Adult Changing Room, featuring a full-size changing table and private facilities for guests with mobility needs.
Families looking to enjoy Moo Lagoon, the full lineup of events this season and more can purchase a 2025 Season Pass now for as low as $99.99 or four payments of $25 each. Season Passes include perks such as free parking, discounts on food and retail items, free friend tickets and more.
The countdown is over: Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe welcomes guests back May 24
By News Release | May 15, 2025
GREENSBORO, N.C. — The Carolinas’ Favorite Water Park, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe, will officially open its gates for the 2025 season on Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. As the park readies its more than 40 rides and attractions for Opening Weekend, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is also adding even more newness throughout the park from events and entertainment to new food, and park enhancements.
This season begins with a celebration of the brand-new Greensboro Monopoly board all Opening Weekend long. The fun includes themed games, giveaways, special food and drinks, and a chance to roll the dice for prizes—including official Monopoly games available in the gift shop.
Beginning on Opening Day, guests will be delighted by even more upgrades debuting at Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe. Details include:
- Happy Harbor Slides Get a Refreshed Look – the beloved Happy Harbor slides have been updated with vibrant new colors and refreshed theming, bringing new energy to a fan-favorite attraction.
- New Food & Beverage Locations – Sharkey’s Bar, is a brand-new adults-only retreat offering refreshing margaritas, cold beer, and a signature cocktail. The new Snack Shack offers a convenient stop for classic summer snacks and quick bites.
- New H2Go Passes: Now families can enjoy more slides and less wait times with the introduction of new H2GO Passes. The new skip the line pass allows riders to skip the tube wait as much as they would like and maximize their time on the slides.
- Park-Wide Technology Upgrades: Digital Season Pass and contactless ticket kiosks at the Main Gate will now make it even easier for visitors to get into the park and get their day of thrills started sooner.
- Tasty New Eats & Treats – Guests can enjoy new menu items at their favorite Wet ‘n Wild food locations including Captain Eli’s and Rocco’s Tacos. New food options offered include Piggy Mac, Pickles on a Stick, upgraded taco offerings, and expanded adult beverage selections.
In addition to the exciting upgrades throughout the park, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is also turning up the energy with a full lineup of events planned for the 2025 season. June brings back the fan-favorite Father’s Day Flop and the return of Slide Through the Decades, celebrating the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and today with DJs, performers, foam parties, games, and more. July debuts The Great Glizzy Grub, the park’s first-ever hot dog eating contest, while August wraps up the summer with Kids Fest, offering themed weekends packed with family-friendly entertainment and interactive activities for younger visitors.
“We’re bringing the fun in a big way this summer,” said Adam Good, General Manager. “From bold new upgrades and fresh eats to can’t-miss events all season long, Wet ‘n Wild Emerald Pointe is the place to be. There’s something exciting around every corner, and we can’t wait for guests to experience it all.”
To make a summer of fun even sweeter, tickets and Season Passes are on sale now for up to 45% off. Tickets start at just $34.99, and Season Passes are as low as $89.99 for a limited time. Select Season Passes offer unique perks including free parking, discounts on food and beverage, free friend tickets and more.