Subscribe
Digital Issue

Author: amusementtoday

IB Parks & Entertainment to operate Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park beginning with the 2026 Season

ROSSVILLE, Ga. — IB Parks & Entertainment, a leading operator of family-oriented theme parks and attractions, announced today that it has acquired the rights to operate Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park under a long-term commitment, beginning with the 2026 season. The agreement reflects a shared focus on preserving the park’s heritage while ensuring its continued success for generations to […]

Play Playground Nashville offers mocktails, large-scale games for Dry January

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Play Playground, Nashville’s most playful social game experience and rooftop lounge located just off Broadway, invites guests to embrace Dry January with a focus on movement and connection. As a spirited alternative to traditional bars and nightlife, the destination features more than 20 larger-than-life physical games and a curated lineup of zero-proof […]

TEA and IAAPA announce collaborative partnership to bring themed entertainment and attractions industry professionals together in the Middle East

BURBANK, Calif. — Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), the association for the global community of creators, innovators, and fabricators of themed experiences, and IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry today announced a collaborative partnership uniting two incredible industry experiences in the Middle East. For the first time, TEA’s signature global program SATE (Storytelling + Architecture + Technology = […]

Six Flags dominates USA TODAY 10Best Awards with Five of 10 Best New Theme Park Attractions of 2026

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, is starting the new year with a major win: five of its new rides have been named among the Top 10 Best New Theme Park Attractions of 2026 in the USA TODAY 10Best Reader’s Choice Awards. The winners include: Four additional Six Flags attractions earned nominations, […]

Blue Man Group returns to Orlando with new home at ICON Park May 1, 2026

ORLANDO — Blue Man Group is bringing back their multi-sensory theatrical experience to Orlando with a new resident production at ICON Park. Audiences will rock, laugh and party as the bald and blue trio explore the world through music, movement and cutting-edge technology, delivering a high-energy celebration of creativity and connection that engages guests of all […]

Bricks and Giggles

CARLSBAD, Calif. — Just in time for spring break and summer vacation planning, LEGOLAND California Resort announces its lineup of NEW and returning attractions, events and experiences for 2026.   From the landmark opening of LEGO Galaxy, to the return of iconic experiences like LEGO Festival and Brick-or-Treat, there has never been a better year to visit LEGOLAND California […]

Martin Shapiro 1936-2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Martin Shapiro. Marty passed away peacefully on January 4th, 2026. Marty has touched the lives of thousands of people during his years in the amusement business. Dr. Martin Shapiro was a chiropractor who, when he graduated, was voted most likely to succeed. However, he […]

TEA announces new International Board President-elect

BURBANK, Calif. — TEA’s, the Themed Entertainment Association, membership has elected Stephen Thomas Cavit as president-elect of the TEA International Board of Directors. Cavit will assume the role of presidency beginning 1 January 2027 and will lead the global association’s Board and strategic focus of supporting the themed entertainment industry through education, community, and connection. Cavit began to […]

“From Cold Waters To Warm Care” — a SeaWorld turtle rescue story 

We’ve taken in 14 critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. The turtles were flown (by volunteer pilots) from Cape Cod (New England area) to Orlando after being “cold-stunned.” SeaWorld Orlando is providing medical care and rehabilitation before we can release them back to warmer waters. Multiple partners were involved in this rescue.

SeaWorld Orlando rings in tradition with the return of the Three Kings Celebration

Join SeaWorld Orlando in this joyous celebration, where the park becomes a festive haven for families to create lasting memories and embrace the magic of Three Kings’ Day. Dive into the vibrant tapestry of Latin cultures as SeaWorld Orlando proudly honors the age-old tradition of the Three Wise Men, offering an extraordinary celebration complete with […]

Electrocoin brings Intercard’s latest cashless technology to UK’s EAG Show 2026

ST. LOUIS — Electrocoin, Intercard’s UK distributor, will be at the 2026 EAG show at stand D46 in London January 13-15, 2026. They will showcase the Impulse Tap, the iTeller PlusXL kiosk and other great Intercard products. Visitors can learn why trend-setting UK amusement venues like Lane 7 rely on Intercard for innovative and dependable […]

Six Flags Qiddiya City, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation’s first destination outside North America, is now officially open

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s first-of-its-kind theme park and entertainment destination, celebrated its grand opening Dec. 31 by welcoming guests from across the Kingdom and globe. The debut marks Six Flags Entertainment’s first theme park designed and built outside North America. The trailblazing new park blends immersive entertainment with innovative technology […]

Final weekend of Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce

It’s the final season, and the final week, of Holiday Lights at Lake Compounce. After 13 years of holiday magic, this beloved family tradition is coming to an end. Now is the last chance for guests to experience more than 500,000 lights, Connecticut’s Tallest Christmas Tree, festive rides, and classic holiday moments before Holiday Lights […]

360 Parks acquires Wonderland Amusement Park in Amarillo, Texas

AMARILLO, Texas — 360 Parks has acquired Wonderland Amusement Park, a beloved Amarillo institution featuring 30 rides and attractions, from longtime owners Paula and Paul Borchardt. The acquisition ensures the continued operation and preservation of one of West Texas’ most cherished family entertainment destinations as it prepares to celebrate 75 years of fun in 2026. […]

The Big E named fourth largest fair in North America for a second year

The Big E, America’s only multi-state fair, has retained its standing as the fourth largest event of its kind in North America by Carnival Warehouse, the leading trade publication for the North American outdoor amusement and fair industry. “Annually we wait for the reporting of the fair industry to see where we stand,” said ESE […]

Launch Family Entertainment closes out 2025 with record growth, six new openings, and accelerated multi-unit development

WARWICK, R.I. – Launch Family Entertainment (Launch), a leading indoor family entertainment franchise, is ending 2025 with major development milestones, including six new park openings, 13 secured franchise agreements, and a record number of secured leases that will further expand the brand’s national footprint.  Launch celebrated six new park openings in 2025, bringing its full-family […]

Intercard powers Cinergy’s ninth luxury Cinema Entertainment Center

ST. LOUIS —Intercard, the leader in cashless technology for the attractions and amusement industries, recently completed an installation at the newest Cinergy Entertainment Center in Midland, Texas. It is the ninth Cinergy location to use Intercard technology and the second in Midland. Intercard’s Shannon Sullivan and Tyler Henson handled the installation. The Tall City Cinergy […]

Roller Coaster Museum announces 2026 events calendar

PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA), the world’s largest collection of historic amusement artifacts, today announces its 2026 event schedule, which includes three public events: “Our goal has always been to make this collection available to the public,” said Pete Owens, Chairman of the NRCMA Board of Directors. “While we […]

Legoland California Resort Galacticoaster design team inspires & advises future engineers at San Marcos Elementary

SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Legoland California Resort brought key project leads from Galacticoaster, its newest indoor family space-themed rollercoaster, to inspire and advise 4th & 5th grade students today at Discovery Elementary School who are tasked this semester to build their own rollercoaster. Tom Storer, Director of Merlin Magic Making in North America and PJ Catalano, LEGOLAND […]

A new giant rises at Dreamworld: King Claw officially opens today

Dreamworld has today unleashed one of the most extreme, high-octane thrill rides ever to hit Australian shores, officially opening King Claw – the only brand-new thrill ride launching on the Gold Coast this summer and a towering new force in Southern Hemisphere thrills. Engineered for serious intensity, King Claw slams riders with up to 4.6Gs […]

Gardaland Magic Winter 2025: an ‘Outside The Box’ edition

Mini go-karts and festive sleighs will turn gaming into a real-life adventure, with tracks spanning over 280 square metres surrounded by breathtaking scenery. To top off the atmosphere, a 7-metre-high Crystal Globe with over 200 floating balloons and live shows, so you can experience the festivities in a truly engaging and unforgettable way. Spin, leap […]

2026 NWSC Safety Seminar moves to new location

Funtastic Shows is no longer hosting the Northwest Showmen’s Club Safety Seminar but the seminar will go on as normal at a new location! It will be held at the Embassy Suites at the Portland airport. The event will feature a room rate of $159.00 (no overnight parking fee) plus taxes/fees.  The hotel offers a […]

Dollywood announces hiring events for 2026 season

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. —With the excitement of a new season and a new groundbreaking ride to be unveiled in the spring, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has scheduled several hiring events in January and February to prepare for the exciting year ahead. With the celebration of Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season throughout 2025, The Dollywood Company continues to […]

Mini Golf and Game Courts open at Michigan’s First “Outdoor Hotel”

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — An 18-hole Modular Advantage® Mini Golf course along with a putting green, shuffleboard and lawn game court (for croquet, bean-bag toss, and lawn bowling), all designed and installed by Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS), were recently opened at the Alpen Bluffs Outdoor Resort in Gaylord, Michigan. Rob Platt, co-owner of the resort says, “Alpen Bluffs is […]

Looney Tunes Land to debut at Six Flags Magic Mountain by summer 2026

LOS ANGELES — Six Flags Magic Mountain is excited to announce major changes to its kids area, which will be reimagined as Looney Tunes Land, a brand-new park with travel at the heart of it and with loveable Looney Tunes characters to be found throughout, debuting summer 2026. This family-friendly area will be refreshed to evoke the warm, […]

Lake Compounce announces 2026 opening day & seasonal event lineup

BRISTOL, Conn. — Lake Compounce, The Official Park of Family Fun,is gearing up for a milestone season as it announces its official Opening Day, Saturday, May 9. The park will celebrate 180 years of family fun and entertainment with a full lineup of seasonal events, immersive experiences, and thrills all year long. Opening Day festivities begin at […]

Master your moves! Lego Ninjago weekends return to Legoland California Resort in honor of Lego Ninjago’s 15th anniversary

CARLSBAD, Calif. — Ninjas, it’s time to UNITE! LEGOLAND California Resort brings back one of its most action-packed seasonal celebrations as LEGO NINJAGO Weekends return in honor of LEGO NINJAGO’s 15th Anniversary, running weekendsfrom January 17th through February 15th, with added days on Monday, January 19thand Monday, February 16th.  “We’re turning the action of our celebrated NINJAGO Weekends up a notch for LEGO NINJAGO’s 15th anniversary,” says Kurt Stocks, President at LEGOLAND California Resort.“This winter, […]

Holland Fiberglass welcomes Chris Cosme as Director of Operations

TAMPA, Fla. — Holland Fiberglass, an affiliate of the Ralph S. Alberts Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Cosme as the company’s new Director of Operations. Chris joins the team with a strong background in operations and technical leadership across some of the most well-known names in the amusement and entertainment industry. […]

New Mega Ozone Bowling is Intercard’s 31st with the company

ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology is part of the fun at the newest Ozone Bowling FEC in Seville, Spain. The 129,000 square foot center is the largest in Europe and the 31st Ozone Bowling venue to use Intercard technology. The €7m location is in the Aleste Plaza shopping centre in the eastern part […]

Play Playground Las Vegas announces all-day New Year’s Eve kickoff

LAS VEGAS — Play Playground, Las Vegas’ most playful social game experience, announces its high-energy New Year’s Eve kickoff featuring unlimited access to all large-scale games, a specialty open bar package and more. Taking place on Wednesday, Dec. 31, Play Playground is the ultimate kickoff before the midnight countdown. Designed as the perfect starting point […]

IRT welcomes Six Flags Qiddiya City to the International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) Program

QIDDIYA CITY, Saudi Arabia — International Ride Training is proud to announce the induction of Six Flags Qiddiya City to the International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) Program, a globally recognized third-party certification program designed to elevate operational safety, performance, and consistency within the attractions industry. Developed and administered by International Ride Training (IRT), the iROC […]

Kings Dominion releases 2026 operating calendar

DOSWELL, Va. — Kings Dominion & Soak City Waterpark has released its 2026 operating calendar, now available at sixflags.com/kingsdominion. The park will open for the 2026 season on Saturday, March 28. Details on 2026 events will be announced in early 2026. For more information and to view the calendar, visit sixflags.com/kingsdominion. As the park looks ahead to an exciting 2026 […]

Universal Orlando Resort to ring in the New Year with dazzling New Year’s Eve celebrations across the entire destination

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to close out the year in spectacular style with a range of New Year’s Eve festivities including live DJ sets, midnight countdown celebrations and special character appearances. The excitement will span the entire destination, with extended park hours and unforgettable festivities across Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of […]

Lake Compounce hosts toy drive this weekend at Holiday Lights

‘Tis the season to be merry and bright at Lake Compounce Holiday Lights. In partnership with Pepsi, Lake Compounce will be hosting a Stuff-the-Pepsi Truck event on December 12, 13 and 14. Park-goers are encouraged to bring one unwrapped toy to help stuff the truck benefiting Southington Community Services.    Holiday Lights will run Fridays from 4 p.m. […]

A blockbuster bite! Raising Cane’s debuts in LA’s Universal CityWalk Hollywood December 11

LOS ANGELES — Universal cravings meet Universal CityWalk! Raising Cane’s—the Chicken Finger craze taking LA by storm—celebrates its star-worthy opening at 1000 Universal City Plaza inside Universal CityWalk on Thursday, Dec. 11. This can’t-miss, first-of-its-kind Raising Cane’s Restaurant is designed to be as craveable as the Chicken Finger meals it serves. The new Restaurant features […]

Meow Wolf Grapevine announces the Cosmic Cabaret, a New Year’s Eve experience

GRAPEVINE, Texas — Meow Wolf Grapevine will kickoff 2026 with the Cosmic Cabaret, a New Year’s Eve celebration that brings performance, music, and late-night energy into The Real Unreal. On December 31 from 8:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., the exhibition shifts into an after-hours environment shaped by Dallas–Fort Worth performers, roaming characters, and a countdown moment […]

AAMCF brings the Kids to the Arcade

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF) welcomed over 60 young athletes and their families from our charity partner, KEEN Chicago, along with local supporters, for an unforgettable morning of fun at Lucky Strike Chicago, in downtown Chicago. The lively event featured bowling, arcade play, and plenty of smiles as KEEN (Kids […]

Tim Carson of Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies elected as IAFE State & Provincial Associations Representative

DENVER, Colo. — Tim Carson, IFMG, of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies in Edmonton, Alberta, has been elected State & Provincial Associations Representative of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention & Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “It […]

RWS Global elevates holiday cheer for more than 7,500,000 guests around the world this winter

NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, is celebrating a fun-filled holiday season, delighting more than 7.5 million visitors at attractions around the globe, on land and at sea. With more than 150 custom-created experiences, RWS Global is raising holiday cheer with unparalleled theatrical and experiential […]

Anna Whelchel of Indiana State Fair elected as IAFE Zone 3 Director

DENVER, Colo. — Anna Whelchel, CFE, of the Indiana State Fair, has been elected Zone 3 Director of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention & Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. Whelchel serves as the Chief Revenue & Marketing […]