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Author: amusementtoday

Universal Studios Hollywood rings in the holidays with “Grinchmas” and “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” beginning Monday, November 24 and running daily through Sunday, January 4

UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood is set to sparkle this holiday season, welcoming guests to a wonder-filled celebration across the theme park where beloved traditions return to create unforgettable memories, including “Grinchmas” and “Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” as well as exciting seasonal enhancements to the Mushroom Kingdom at SUPER NINTENDO WORLD. Holidays at […]

Final 2 weekends of Phantom Fall Fest @ Lake Compounce

Spooky season is in full swing and Phantom Fall Fest at Lake Compounce is offering more horror around every corner Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 26. This year, the scare comes from everywhere as the park’s largest and most horrifying Phantom Fall Fest yet offers its newest haunted attraction, Project Nightmare. The newest haunted house takes the scare […]

JW Winco “Firm Footing”

Sometimes it takes stable foot plates, sometimes slim casters, sometimes hygiene-friendly leveling feet. And JW Winco has them all – because every creation needs a firm basis. Every machine, every test system and every filling station – even high-tech devices like professional 3D printers: none of them floats suspended in the air. They all rest […]

Ride Entertainment promotes industry veteran Amanda Mercado to chief executive officer

STEVENSVILLE, Md. — Ride Entertainment Corp., the attractions-industry leader in sales, service, operations, and financial partnerships, today announced that veteran executive Amanda Mercado has been promoted to Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Ed Hiller, Founder and current CEO, will focus on the continued growth of the company’s financial partnerships, where they are considered to be the […]

IAAPA Give Kids The World Charity Golf Outing — tee-off for a cause that makes a difference!

Tee-off for a cause that makes a difference! Join industry peers for the 21st Annual IAAPA International Charity Golf Tournament, supporting Give Kids The World Village—a nonprofit resort that creates magical weeklong vacations for children with critical illnesses and their families. Enjoy a morning on the green, connect with fellow professionals, and make an impact. Shotgun […]

Ed Connor, NEAAPA Legend, passes away at 85

Ed Connor, who in his decades of working in the attractions industry, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, surrounded by family. Ed worked at Riverside Park, now Six Flags New England, and at the Eastern States Exposition and The Big E. For decades he volunteered for NEAAPA, serving on the board of directors before becoming […]

Hodell-Natco Industries acquires Merit Fasteners

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Hodell-Natco Industries, a leading industrial fastener distributor and solutions provider, announced its acquisition of Merit Fasteners on October 1, 2025. Kevin Reidl, President of Hodell-Natco Industries, collaborated with the owners of Merit Fastener, Linda Anderson, Donna Best, and Laura Napoleon, on a mutually beneficial deal that will expand Hodell-Natco’s nationwide footprint, broaden […]

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines announces new entertainment partnership with RWS Global

LONDON and NEW YORK — Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has today unveiled exciting plans to further elevate its onboard entertainment offering through a new partnership with global entertainment leaders, RWS Global. By actively listening to guests’ verbal and written feedback, Fred. Olsen is evolving its entertainment programme to better reflect what guests want and expect. […]

Loretta Louise (Pfizenmayer) Aldrich — 1940-2025

ORLANDO — Loretta Louise (Pfizenmayer) Aldrich passed away peacefully at her home on October 10, 2025. Born in Glens Falls, New York, on April 12, 1940, to parents Arthur Raymond Pfizenmayer and Margaret Welch Pfizenmayer, Aldrich graduated from Glens Falls High School Class of 1959 with a New York State license in cosmetology. The following […]

NEAAPA to induct two industry legends into Hall of Fame

NEAAPA – The Northeast’s Entertainment Association is proud to announce that two of the organization’s long-time members will be inducted into the NEAAPA Hall of Fame on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Joel Golder, owner of Palace Playland Amusement Park in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, has spent more than 60 years in the amusement industry. Growing […]

Alterface captures the magic at IAAPA Expo Europe

WAVRE, Belgium — Alterface, a leader in interactive attractions, closed a truly magical week at IAAPA Expo Europe. The event was marked by prestigious industry awards, exciting new prospects, and the launch of promising new creative collaborations. The company’s success was highlighted by multiple major industry recognitions, showcasing Alterface’s continuous impact and innovative spirit in themed […]

IAFE announces nominee for 2nd Vice Chair

The IAFE Nominating Committee has completed its interviews, and Chair Jo Reynolds, Warren County Fair, IA, is pleased to announce that Alicia Shoults, Ohio State Fair, has accepted the nomination for IAFE 2nd Vice Chair. The Committee remains committed to maintaining transparency throughout this process and ensuring our members are informed every step of the way. “Congratulations, Alicia, […]

Universal Orlando Resort’s Holidays Celebration returns November 21 through January 4, spreading holiday Cheer across the destination

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort is celebrating all things merry and bright during its destination-wide Holidays celebration – featuring a slate of festivities inspired by beloved characters and seasonal traditions from November 21 through January 4, 2026. Guests can enjoy beautiful holiday décor throughout the entire destination – including select worlds at Universal Epic Universe […]

Mobaro adds Megan Gannon as Solution Sales Manager

Mobaro, a leading provider of safety, maintenance, and operations software, is pleased to announce the appointment of Megan Gannon as its new Solution Sales Manager. In this role, Megan will contribute to growing Mobaro’s presence in the North American market, helping parks and attractions elevate their safety, maintenance, and operations. Prior to joining Mobaro, Megan […]

Sacoa Entertainment celebrates the opening of its new venue at Ronda DOT Baires Shopping

Sacoa Entertainment, the iconic Argentine company with more than 65 years of leadership in the amusement and family entertainment industry, is proud to announce that it celebrated the opening of its newest venue at Ronda DOT Baires Shopping in Buenos Aires, Argentina. This new location marks an exciting milestone in the brand’s expansion, blending Sacoa’s deep legacy of family […]

Har Kupers honored with ASTM’s 2025 Cavanaugh Award

W. CONSHOHOCKEN, Pa. — Har Kupers, corporate executive officer with Sansei Technologies Inc. (and chairman of Vekoma Rides and S&S), was awarded the William T. Cavanaugh Award at ASTM International’s April 2025 Board meeting. Kupers will receive the award in person at the upcoming F24 meeting in Scottsdale, AZ on Friday, October 17th. The Cavanaugh Memorial […]

Adventureland’s 2025 Helping Hands Foundation Friends and Family V.I.P. Night raises $400,000

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Adventureland, Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, recently held its 8th annual Helping Hands Foundation Friends & Family V.I.P. event. This year, nearly 2,000 people attended to support the charity effort. The event raised $400,000 to help Long Islanders. Collectively, the foundation has raised over 2.1 million dollars from all […]

Efteling and Vekoma present ‘seat-on-wheels’ concept for wheelchair-accessible attractions

Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma join forces in social sustainability. Together with experts and representatives of the Dutch association de Zonnebloem, theme park resort Efteling and ride manufacturer Vekoma have developed an innovative concept to increase inclusivity in theme parks, specifically aimed at guests who use wheelchairs. The concept introduces certified seat-on-wheels that can be […]

Seven States Power Corporation and Sevier County Electric System unveil 14 EV charging ports at Dollywood

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Seven States Power Corporation (Seven States), in partnership with Sevier County Electric System (SCES) and Dollywood Parks & Resorts, is proud to announce the ribbon cutting and official unveiling of seven new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations with 14 charging ports and 10 solar-powered umbrella charging units at Dollywood, one of the nation’s leading […]

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival artist spotlight: Dailey & Vincent

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Sunlight shines through the bright orange and red leaves of the Smoky Mountain trees, setting the perfect backdrop for Dollywood’s Harvest Festival Presented by Humana (now–Oct. 27). Dollywood welcomes a number of guest-favorite artists during the Harvest Festival including returning artists, Dailey & Vincent (Oct. 15-19). Formed in 2007 by Jaime […]

Knoebels announces next Park President & President Emeritus

ELYSBURG, Pa. — Knoebels Amusement Resort, America’s largest free-admission amusement park, is proud to announce the next chapter in its nearly century-long legacy. Following a shareholder decision, Brian Knoebel has been named the fourth president in the family-owned park’s history, succeeding his father, Richard ‘Dick’ Knoebel, who has served in the role since 1988. “I […]

Beach Volleyball world champs unveils epic festival and entertainment program in partnership with RWS Global

NEW YORK — Volleyball Australia today announced the appointment of RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sport, to deliver the full event presentation, entertainment, and festival program for the FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships, Adelaide 2025, this November. The appointment also marks the official release of the festival and entertainment […]

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival artist spotlight: Emily Ann Roberts

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — As the nights get cooler and the Smoky Mountain leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red, the joyous sounds of live music fill the air during Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana (now-Oct.27). Dollywood welcomes a number of guest-favorite artists during the Harvest Festival, including East Tennessee singer/songwriter, Emily Ann […]

U.K. firm delivers show integration package for Six Flags Qiddiya City

Scruffy Dog Creative Group has revealed details of its work on an extensive show integration package at Six Flags Qiddiya City in Saudi Arabia. The package included large-scale scenic features, animatronic encounters, and kinetic sculptures, each developed to support the park’s storytelling environments. Elements were fabricated from reinforced composites and engineered frameworks, with finishes specified […]

Magic of Lights is back at Alabama Adventure

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The most wonderful time of the year gets even brighter with the triumphant return of Magic of Lights. Alabama Adventure will once again be transformed into a breathtaking winter wonderland featuring a spectacular drive-through light display . This beloved holiday tradition opens November 21 and continues through January 3. Presented by Family […]

Fall family fun in full swing at Six Flags Darien Lake with Kids Boo Fest and Fright Fest through Oct. 25

Six Flags Darien Lake is the region’s top destination of spooky Halloween fun and nighttime terror. With thrilling rides plus the happy Halloween haunts of Boo Fest by day and spine-chilling Fright Fest by night, the park offers a thrilling opportunity for families to make fall memories together. Additional details are below. For family-friendly fun this fall, daytime BooFest is perfect for […]

Six Flags debuts horror film to promote its Halloween park attractions

Six Flags Entertainment Corp wants to own Halloween, the crown jewel of theme park entertainment. After all, no other destination—and no other holiday—delivers more screams. Last year, Six Flags debuted a long-form ad (“Tick.Tick.Tick.”) starring a clown who terrorized a group of housemates before luring them to Six Flags with Gold Passes. The rallying cry: […]

New Embed Ecosystem innovations to debut at IAAPA Expo Orlando 2025

DALLAS, Texas — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, is set to unveil the latest upgrades to its Embed Ecosystem at IAAPA Expo in Orlando, FL next month. With the Embed Ecosystem’s successful launch at the Amusement Expo International (AEI) and being named AAMA’s Supplier of […]

Dollywood’s Harvest Festival artist spotlight: Rhonda Vincent & The Rage

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Crisp-mountain breezes drift through the Smoky Mountains, bringing Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana (now – Oct. 27) to life. Dollywood welcomes many guest-favorite artists during the Harvest Festival, including Rhonda Vincent & The Rage (Oct. 5-7, 13-14). In 2008, Vincent joined forces with The Rage, whose current members include Mickey […]

Dutch Wonderland unveils plans for all-new Dutch Wonderland Inn

LANCASTER, Pa. — Dutch Wonderland, The World’s Best Family Park, is inviting families to make it a night fit for a knight beginning next spring as the park unveils plans for the new Dutch Wonderland Inn. Located just steps away from Dutch Wonderland theme park, the Inn will offer a place where families can sit back, relax, […]

DAFE celebrates 25 years

VIENNA, Ohio —The Dark Attraction & Funhouse Enthusiast (DAFE) celebrates 25 years in the dark in October. DAFE (pronounced “daffy”) Was founded in 2000 by Rick and Sue Davis, and Joel Styer. All were members of the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) and the National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA) who enjoyed visiting amusement parks around […]

International Ride Training becomes an IACET accredited provider

The International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET) has awarded International Ride Training the prestigious Accredited Provider accreditation. IACET Accredited Providers are the only organizations approved to offer IACET Continuing Education Units (CEUs). The accreditation period extends for five years, and includes all programs offered or created during that time. “International Ride Training is […]

Disney Resort UFCW members win back pay in historic settlement

ANAHEIM, Calif. — Last week, a judge in Orange County, Calif., approved a $233 million settlement of a class action lawsuit against Disney for underpaying its workers in violation of Anaheim County Measure L. This is the largest settlement of its kind in California history and marks the end of a lengthy legal battle to hold […]

Fort Wayne Zoo and Blue Jacket proudly present Fort Wayne Light Fest

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Holiday season is now twice as bright as the Fort Wayne Zoo and Blue Jacket present Fort Wayne Light Fest! Within Fort Wayne Light Fest, guests can drive through an awe-inspiring route of more than 200 animated light displays and brand new this year, enjoy Wild Lights at the Fort […]

CommandCentr and Six Flags Qiddiya City partner to build the future of theme park operations

CommandCentr, the purpose-built operational software solution for the attractions industry, is proud to announce its strategic partnership with Six Flags Qiddiya City, a landmark theme park at the heart of Qiddiya City, the world’s first city built for Play. This collaboration represents a bold step forward in theme park innovation, integrating CommandCentr’s platform from the […]

SeaWorld Orlando launches 2026 annual pass with best benefits ever

ORLANDO — Today, SeaWorld Orlando announced the launch of its 2026 Annual Pass program, offering the most compelling and exciting benefits in theme park history. Starting at just $14.25/month with no downpayment, the new Annual Pass gives guests unlimited visits with no blockout dates, as well as enhanced perks like free parking, free guest tickets, […]

Six Flags Over Texas unveils record-breaking roller coaster ‘Tormenta Rampaging Run’

ARLINGTON, Texas — Six Flags Over Texas is taking history by the horns with the unveiling of Tormenta Rampaging Run—a record-breaking, adrenaline-pumping roller coaster that will redefine the thrill-seeker experience while changing the city’s skyline in 2026. As the tallest, fastest, longest and first-ever giga (300+-foot-tall) dive coaster in the world, this one-of-a-kind thrill ride will trample six monumental […]

AAMA and AAMCF announce 2025–2026 slate of officers

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) and the American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF) are proud to announce their respective Boards of Directors have officially approved the slate of officers for the upcoming 2025–2026 term. The leadership of both organizations plays a vital role in advancing the mission of supporting and strengthening […]

Give Kids The World: A Refreshing way to get back

Give Kids The World is excited to announce a partnership with PATH Water, a sustainable bottled water company, to offer a way to support wish families at Give Kids The World Village. You can help make that partnership a success AND score the first refillable and 100% recyclable bottled water, packaged in a sleek and sturdy […]

Prepare to be frightened and amazed — Halloween at the Europa-Park Resort

Germany’s largest theme park is celebrating the spookiest time of the year again: from 27 September to 2 November 2025, all kinds of witches and ghosts will immerse visitors in a unique experience. Europa-Park is celebrating Germany’s biggest Halloween event. Visitors are transported into a world of horror and magic with extraordinary decorations, autumnal culinary […]

Rogue Rides announces first trackless dark ride system at Hunderfossen

BARCELONA — Rogue Rides proudly announces at IAAPA Expo the first installation of its trackless vehicles at Hunderfossen in Norway. The BoldMove engineering and design team selected the innovative trackless vehicles for this exciting new media dark ride, slated for Spring 2026. Meanwhile the new Kamino show control is on its way, with a sleek design […]