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Author: amusementtoday

Kennywood serves up global flavors at Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival

PITTSBURGH, Pa. — Kennywood visitors can now thrill their taste buds as Bites and Pints Food & Drink Festival takes over the Lagoon beginning Memorial Day Weekend. This year, guests will be delighted by two new countries, France and Germany, while also having the chance to enjoy returning fan favorites from Mexico, Poland, Italy, and more. In […]

Meow Wolf Houston to host its first-ever multi-stage EDM Festival Experience inside Radio Tave

HOUSTON, Texas — On June 20, Radio Tave becomes the site of a full-building electronic music takeover as Meow Wolf Houston debuts Monstercat Danceportation, an immersive late-night music festival bringing together internationally recognized electronic artists and Houston’s rising local scene for one unforgettable night inside the city’s cultural phenomenon. Doors open at 10 p.m. Born […]

American Coaster Enthusiasts kick off 2026 flagship events at Six Flags Over Texas

ARLINGTON, Texas — On May 15 and 16, a huge turnout of 439 members of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) will travel from around the globe to descend upon Arlington for the 2026 ACE Spring Conference. The collective of aficionados will have members from 40 states, the District of Columbia and three international countries. “This year […]

Kissel Entertainment makes industry-wide history becoming first carnival to be iROC-Certified

Kissel Entertainment, one of the nation’s most trusted traveling entertainment providers, has once again made industry-wide history becoming the first carnival to be International Ride Operator Certified (iROC) by International Ride Training (IRT), the gold standard in operational safety for the amusement industry.  IRT’s iROC program is the world’s only third-party ride operator certification and […]

Gilroy Gardens shares 2025 impact report and welcomes June Mallory Aiello as new chief advancement officer

Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park recently released its 2025 Impact Report. This annual report includes an overview of the nonprofit organization’s community involvement, impact on the local economy, financial performance, educational outreach, and fundraising goals. The document is available to the public at GilroyGardens.org/support. 2025 marked the beloved horticultural theme park’s 25th anniversary with an annual attendance of […]

Jay Gee’s Ice Cream & Fun Center upgrades arcade game room with Betson Enterprises

CARLSTADT, N.J. — Jay Gee’s Ice Cream & Fun Center, a family entertainment center in Methuen, Massachusetts, has upgraded its arcade game room with the support of Betson Enterprises. Jay Gee’s Ice Cream & Fun Center has long been a destination for families seeking classic entertainment and memorable experiences. The venue features a homemade ice […]

New coaster taking shape at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk

POINT PLEASANT BEACH, N.J. — Patriot’s Run, the new roller coaster at Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, is taking shape in anticipation of opening this summer season. The ride stands more than 35 feet tall and features a patriotic red, white and blue theme in honor of America’s 250th birthday. Patriot’s Run is replacing the Tidal Wave spinning […]

Wild Adventures proclaims Wild Adventures Day honoring 30th Anniversary Season

VALDOSTA, Ga. — The Lowndes County Board of Commissioners has officially proclaimed May 9, 2026, as Wild Adventures Day in recognition of Wild Adventures Theme Park providing 30 years of entertainment, tourism and community impact in South Georgia. “Milestones like this don’t just happen, they’re built over time with the support of a really good team and the people of the community,” said Donald Spiller, vice president & general manager. “For […]

Wilderness Resort to renovate its Wild WaterDome

WISCONSIN DELLS, Wis. — Get ready for some new thrills at the Wilderness Resort! Resort officials announced today that starting August 24 Wild WaterDome Waterpark will undergo a massive renovation.  The 70,000-square-foot waterpark, which is home to the largest indoor wave pool in the country, is going to be getting a replacement of its state-of-the-art see-through […]

A note from Ralph S. Alberts Co., Inc.

We want to proactively communicate emerging cost pressures within our supply chain that may impact pricing soon. Over the past several weeks, we have experienced significant increases from our suppliers, particularly in raw materials tied to petroleum-based resins. As you may be aware, ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz—a […]

Endless Surf opens at Aquarabia Qiddiya City, one of Saudi Arabia’s flagship giga-project

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Endless Surf, next-generation wave technology company, today announced the official opening of its newest surf lagoon at Aquarabia, Qiddiya City’s flagship water theme park, set for its grand opening on April 23, 2026. Positioned at the heart of Aquarabia’s Surftopia zone, the Endless Surf lagoon introduces customizable, ocean-quality waves into one of […]

Dollywood’s Splash Country opens for 26th season

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — With plenty of sun-soaked days and glowing nights ahead, Dollywood’s Splash Country opens for its 26th season on Saturday, May 16.  The Smokies’ friendliest water park is welcoming guests back this summer with a brand-new nighttime event, fresh food items and 35-acres of summertime fun. New this season, Neon Nights extends summer […]

Six Flags Darien Lake kicks off 2026 season May 15

DARIEN CENTER, N.Y. — Six Flags Darien Lake, Western New York’s premier destination for thrills and family fun, officially opens for the 2026 season May 15, welcoming guests back for weekends and select operating days in May before transitioning to daily operations beginning June 24. Guests can expect a season packed with unforgettable entertainment, refreshed park […]

Lego Festival is back and it’s better than ever!

CARLSBAD, Calif. — The ultimate celebration of play is returning to LEGOLAND Resorts for a second year in 2026. Running daily from July 20 through August 30 at LEGOLAND California Resort, LEGO Festival is inviting families to step into a festival experience designed for kids to spark creativity, self-expression and the simple joy of playing together.  In this […]

P2:3 Consulting welcomes Aqua Tile as a surfacing partner for aquatic facilities

P2:3 Consulting is partnering with Aqua Tile to help waterpark operators address one of the most common challenges in aquatic facilities: keeping wet guest areas safer, more comfortable, and easier to maintain. As waterpark operators continue to look for ways to enhance the guest experience while managing aging infrastructure, safety concerns, and long-term maintenance costs, […]

Story Land Theme park unveils full lineup of new experiences for 2026 season

GLEN, N.H. — Story Land, New Hampshire’s Best Amusement Park for Kids, is introducing an all-new lineup of experiences for 2026, bringing fresh energy and new ways to play to the Place Where Fantasy Lives. This season highlights brand-new shows, reimagined offerings, and the return of fan-favorite attractions. Park goers of all ages will be delighted with […]

Ellis & Associates, powered by Ellis Learning, launches groundbreaking, AI-supported eLearning course revealing what drowning really looks like

ORLANDO — Ellis & Associates (E&A), the world leader in aquatic safety since 1983, announces the release of its newest online training course, Scanning and Drowning Detection: Improving Recognition. Now publicly available at jellis.com this highly interactive eLearning experience provides an unprecedented look at the real behaviors exhibited by a swimmer in distress. Developed using real-time video footage […]

Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure kicks off the 2026 season with opening day celebration

BESSEMER, Ala. — Summer fun officially returns to Alabama as Alabama Adventure & Splash Adventure opens its gates for the 2026 season on May 9th, welcoming families back for another year of thrills, slides, waves, and unforgettable memories. Guests can experience fan-favorite attractions throughout both the amusement park and water park, including exciting roller coasters, […]

WhiteWater unveils breakthrough attractions across 60+ project openings worldwide

VANCOUVER, Canada — In a year full of record-breakers and new product debuts, WhiteWater, the world’s largest designer and manufacturer of water attractions, shares highlights from over 60 project openings across the globe. Encompassing all of its brands—Water Parks, Water Rides, FlowRider, Endless Surf, and Vantage—these projects demonstrate innovation and creativity that are steering the […]

It’s Electric! SeaWorld shines this summer with new bigger than ever fun

ORLANDO — This summer, SeaWorld Orlando shines with their biggest and best line-up of attractions, events and animal encounters.  Taking center stage is Electric Ocean, a premier summer nighttime event beginning June 12. As the sun sets, guests can dive into the long-awaited return of nighttime animal shows, incredible environments of light and music with friendly […]

Universal Orlando Resort prepares for exciting new experiences across the destination

Universal Orlando Resort is continuing its unprecedented momentum as it prepares for a slate of compelling new guest offerings across the destination – ranging from new themed areas to delicious eateries. While additional details will be shared in the months ahead, work will soon be underway and impact the following existing experiences: This exciting list […]

Renewable Lubricants celebrates 35 years manufacturing environmentally friendly and food grade lubricants

HARTVILLE, Ohio — Renewable Lubricants celebrated their 35th anniversary of manufacturing environmentally friendly and food grade lubricants with visits and proclamations from local dignitaries. Heidi Workman, State Representative, and representatives from Congressman David Joyce (R-OH-14) toured the facilities, and learned how bio-based lubricants are formulated and blended to meet the needs of various industries, all on […]

Raw Thrills unleashes the all-new Stranger Things Arcade

SKOKIE, Ill. — Raw Thrills is excited to announce the global launch of STRANGER THINGS ARCADE — a family-friendly redemption masterpiece that allows up to 4 players to fight the demogorgons and save the kids at the top-secret Hawkins Lab, Starcourt Mall, and the mysterious Upside Down. Stranger Things is the most watched series in […]

Intercard brings latest cashless technology to AAA Expo in China May 10-12

ST. LOUIS — Intercard will present its latest innovations in cashless technology at the Asia Amusement & Attractions Expo (AAA) 2026, which will be held from May 10-12 at the China Import & Export Fair Complex, Guangzhou.  Intercard’s Asia-Pacific sales manager Jerry Heinz will be in booth # 3.1A38d. He will be featuring Intercard’s new Impulse […]

Ellis & Associates announces new 2026 associate honorees

Professional Lifeguard Instructor Trainers recognized for achievement and dedication as elite aquatic safety professionals ORLANDO — Ellis & Associates, the world leader in aquatic safety and risk management since 1983, is proud to announce newly recognized Associate and Senior Associate honorees for 2026. These honorees are part of a dedicated group of more than 100 […]

JR Huyck is new Intercard North American Sales Manager

Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology, has added bowling industry veteran JR Huyck to its team as North American Sales Manager. A Missouri native, JR Huyck has been around bowling since his early teens working at Walnut Bowl in Springfield. There he became friends with Andy Bartholomy, who went on to create the popular […]

Naruto Adventures — Parc Spirou opens family thrill launch & Nebulaz

Kyûbi Unchained has been unleashed at Parc Spirou. Zamperla’s first Family Launch Coaster is the anchor of an entirely new area. Paired with a Nebulaz, the two rides were themed to characters from the Naruto manga series by Masashi Kishimoto. “Our goal was to provide an experience that set a new benchmark in the European […]

Intercard congratulates five of their operators who won BCM Awards

ST. LOUIS — Five Intercard customers are among the U.S. and international bowling and family entertainment centers that earned top honors in the 41st annual Bowling Center Architecture and Design Awards competition conducted by Bowling Center Management magazine. “Intercard congratulates our customers who have been recognized by BCM magazine for the excellent architecture and design […]

Six Flags announces triumphant return of Holiday in the Park in New Jersey and Georgia

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The most wonderful time of the year will make a triumphant return as Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) announces the reimagined Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Over Georgia. Launching in 2026, this beloved seasonal tradition has been completely redesigned from the ground up—ushering in a dazzling new era of immersive holiday […]

Lee Cowie appointed CEO of Accesso as company accelerates AI strategy

TWYFORD, U.K. — Accesso Technology Group (AIM: ACSO), the leading global technology partner to leisure, entertainment and cultural markets, today announced that Lee Cowie has been appointed Chief Executive Officer. The appointment follows a planned leadership transition. Cowie joined accesso as Chief Operating Officer eighteen months ago, bringing with him more than 15 years of […]

Opening of Family Kingdom’s new Raptor coaster delayed until next year

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — Construction of the highly-anticipated Raptor, single-rail steel roller coaster at Family Kingdom Amusement Park has been delayed until later this year, according to Les (Corky) Powers, an owner of the seaside attraction. Powers said the park is currently working through some permitting and other challenges before the ride will be installed […]

Fort Wayne Zoo introduces Sensory-Friendly Sundays at part of “Zoo for All” initiative

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is proud to introduce “Sensory-Friendly Sundays” on the first Sunday of each month starting May 3, 2026. These days are designed to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment while supporting guests who may benefit from a less stimulating environment. Sensory-Friendly Sundays will run through October 4 […]

Kings Dominion unveils dramatically expanded and reimagined summer entertainment program

DOSWELL, Va. — Kings Dominion is redefining summer fun with a dramatically expanded and reimagined entertainment lineup for Summer 2026, turning live entertainment into a true centerpiece of the guest experience. From playful moments to awe‑inspiring spectacles, the park’s refreshed programming delivers something for every guest — from the first turnstile click until the final encore of […]

Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to step into the silver screen like never before with limited-time summer experiences inspired by blockbuster films

ORLANDO — This summer, Universal Orlando Resort will premiere a blockbuster lineup of limited-time experiences designed to celebrate iconic films at the place where beloved movies and stories come to life. From May 23 through August 10, guests can enjoy a variety of cinematic-inspired experiences that include character meet-and-greets, can’t-miss photo ops, interactive activations, an assortment of […]

Legoland Resorts launch families to the edge of space for National Space Day

CARLSBAD, Calif. and WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — In celebration of National Space Day on May 1, LEGOLAND California Resort and LEGOLAND Florida Resort are taking family fun to new heights – literally. To mark the debut of Galacticoaster, the Parks’ first indoor, space-themed family coaster, the Resorts sent real guest reactions from the ride soaring more than […]

Six Flags today launches new hotel partner program offering guests the ultimate ‘Stay & Play’ Experience

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today announced the launch of its new Hotel Partner Program, designed to make planning the perfect Six Flags getaway easier, faster and more seamless than ever before. Guests visiting participating Six Flags parks can book their park admission and overnight accommodations all in […]

Dollywood Parks & Resorts earns numerous honors in 2026 Top Workplaces Annual Awards

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood Parks & Resorts has earned a number of accolades following the recently announced 2026 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence & Industry Awards. The company received an impressive seven awards for the employee culture at the Smoky Mountain vacation destination. Dollywood Parks & Resorts were honored with awards in the following categories: […]

Valleyfair will debut major waterpark expansion in May

SHAKOPEE, Minn. — Valleyfair, the Twin Cities’ biggest amusement park, today announced a major new waterpark expansion will open on Saturday, May 23. The Superior Shores Waterpark has added 13 new slides and attractions, bringing the park’s total number of water experiences to 24, solidifying Valleyfair as Minnesota’s premier summer destination.   Lakeside vibes reign at Superior Shores and the new expansion blends high‑energy thrills with family-friendly […]

Six Flags White Water opens May 9 for 42nd season

MARIETTA, Ga. — Six Flags White Water, metro Atlanta’s premier water park, opens for its 42nd season Saturday, May 9, kicking off a summer defined by meaningful guest experience investments. The 2026 season features a major renovation of the iconic Little Hooch Lazy River, along with a new premium experience center, expanded food and beverage offerings, and […]