A new screen-worthy scene is making its way into the park’s history: Movie Park Germany welcomes its 40-millionth guest
BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN — The cameras are rolling for a special moment: Movie Park Germany has reached a new milestone with the arrival of its 40-millionth guest. With a special surprise—the park mascots S.A.M. and S.I.A., Hollywood icon Marilyn Monroe, and plenty of confetti—a family from Fahrdorf near Schleswig was given a festive welcome at Movie Park, […]
Launch Family Entertainment signs lease for Missoula location
MISSOULA, Mont. — Launch Family Entertainment (Launch), a leading family entertainment franchise, has announced a signed lease for its first location in the state of Montana. The park will be situated at 1900 Brooks Street in Missoula. “Bringing a family entertainment space to Missoula is a great next step in our professional careers,” said the Launch IFI Corp team, which […]
Dollywood, Smokies Life, Discover Life In America announce school contest
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — As students head back to the classroom and anticipation builds for the Aug. 19 public opening of Dollywood’s NightFlight Expedition, a new educational contest gives teachers a fun way to engage their students and help them learn about one of nature’s most fascinating wonders—bioluminescence and biofluorescence. Dollywood, Smokies Life and Discover Life […]
Six Flags and Brand Ambassador Travis Kelce kick off 2027 season pass sales Aug. 7 at lowest price of this year and next
JACKSON, N.J. & ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation(NYSE: FUN), North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today launched sales of its 2027 Season Passes at the lowest price guests will see this season or next. To mark the occasion, Six Flags teamed up with brand ambassador Travis Kelce to celebrate the biggest pass offer of the […]
RWS Global partners with Silversea to elevate onboard entertainment on Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper
NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sports, today announced a new partnership with Silversea, the leading experiential luxury and expedition travel brand, to provide onboard entertainment operations onboard Silver Shadow and Silver Whisper. The collaboration marks the beginning of a strategic relationship between the two companies, reflecting a […]
F1 Arcade Las Vegas launches three new summer experience packages for every type of racer
LAS VEGAS — F1 Arcade Las Vegas introduces three new summer experience packages for every type of racer. Available daily, the new offers start at just $59 per person and pair the thrill of Formula 1® racing on full-motion simulators with chef-driven plates and drinks in a vibrant, high-energy setting. Guests can choose from the […]
ICEE introduces first-ever national ICEE Day on Aug. 18 with free ICEEs at more than 1,800 locations nationwide
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — After nearly six decades of helping people make cool memories, ICEE is introducing a new annual tradition. On Tuesday, Aug. 18, the brand will debut its first National ICEE Day, dedicated to America’s Original Frozen Beverage and the generations of fans who have made it part of their favorite memories. Timed to celebrate the final days […]
Six Flags Great Adventure kicks off DC Heroes and Villains Fest this Friday
JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure will kick off DC Heroes and Villains Fest this Friday, August 7, inviting guests to experience a limited-time celebration inspired by some of DC’s most iconic Super Heroes and Super-Villains. Held on select nights through August 30, the event transforms a dedicated area of the park into an interactive DC Universe featuring live […]
Silver Dollar City resort moves toward 2027 opening, names general manager, begins building hospitality team, opens group bookings
OZARK MOUNTAINS, Mo. —Progress is taking shape across Silver Dollar City Resort as pools are poured, craftsmen add handcrafted Ozarks touches, and the destination begins building the operating team to welcome its first guests in 2027. Veteran hospitality leader Erling Acosta has been named General Manager of Silver Dollar City Resort, where he will oversee […]
Terror Vault returns to the San Francisco Mint with “Slashed”
SAN FRANCISCO — Following multiple sold-out seasons and national recognition, the award-winning Terror Vault returns to the historic San Francisco Mint this October with its most ambitious chapter yet: SLASHED, a brutal new immersive horror experience and a blood-soaked love letter to the outrageous slasher films of the 1980s, taking over the San Francisco Mint (88 5th St.) beginning Thursday, October […]
Belantis opens Idefix’ Abenteuerland with three new Zamperla family attractions
Belantis has opened Idefix’Abenteuerland, a new immersive themed area inspired by the world of Asterix&Obelix. Designed with families in mind, the new area features three attractions supplied by Zamperla: Magic Bikes 6, Speedway 6 and Gogo Bounze 6.4. With its vibrant theming and engaging attractions, Idefix’ Abenteuerland offers young guests and their families a new […]
EXTRA! EXTRA! The AUGUST 2026 issue is now available!
In this issue:
Time Mission announces major global expansion with 15 to 20 new locations planned for 2027
PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Time Mission, the rapidly growing international leader in location-based entertainment (LBE), announced plans for its most ambitious expansion to date, with 15 to 20 new locations planned for 2027 and six venues currently under construction across the United States and Europe. Founded in 2019 from a single hand-built concept, Time Mission has quickly evolved into one of […]
RWS Global appoints Disney veteran Matt Conover divisional president, global production
NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, announced today that Matt Conover has joined the company as Divisional President, Global Production. Conover brings more than 37 years of experience from The Walt Disney Company and a proven track record of producing large-scale live entertainment experiences worldwide […]
Celebrate National Water Park Day all week at Aquatica Orlando with a limited-time kids eat free offer
ORLANDO — Aquatica Orlando, voted a Top 10 Best Outdoor Water Park in America is celebrating National Water Park Day with a limited-time Kids Eat Free offer, available July 27–31. Guests can receive one complimentary Kids Meal with the purchase of an Adult Meal, making it the perfect time for families to experience everything the […]
Wisconsin State Fair celebrates John Yingling and his years of service
After 16 years of dedicated service as chairman of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors, John Yingling will be stepping down from the Board and his role as Chairman in October 2026. Since becoming chairman in 2010, Yingling has helped guide one of the most transformative periods in Wisconsin State Fair history. During […]
Paladin Midway creates better guest experience with Intercard’s Impulse Plus readers
ST. LOUIS — Paladin Amusements, a leading midway skill games operator in New Jersey, has installed 100 of Intercard’s new Impulse Plus readers on its mobile game trucks. The kiosk-free readers accept credit cards as well as game cards, allowing customers to pay and play right at the game. The Impulse Plus connects to Intercard’s […]
The Beach Boys Wisconsin State Fair concert canceled
Wisconsin State Fair officials regret to inform Fairgoers that The Beach Boys concert scheduled to take place Sunday, Aug. 16 at the Bank Five Nine Main Stage has been canceled. Earlier today, The Beach Boys released the following statement: “Playing for you is the highlight of our summer every year—especially as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United […]
Dollywood named among America’s Greatest Workplaces For Parents & Families
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood Parks & Resorts’ reputation as an exceptional workplace continues to earn national recognition, with its latest honor further reinforcing the company’s commitment to creating an environment where hosts thrive. Newsweek has included Dollywood on its list of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Parents & Families for 2026. To compile the list, a […]
Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park launches Hecker Pass Outdoor Events Center
GILROY, Calif. — Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park, Inc., the nonprofit organization that operates Gilroy Gardens under lease with the City of Gilroy, is proud to announce the launch of Hecker Pass Outdoor Events Center, a newly-branded outdoor event destination with a new dedicated website, www.HeckerPassEvents.com. This represents a significant strategic milestone for the organization, expanding the […]
First rescued belugas from Marineland of Canada arrive safely to new homes in the United States
NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. — Six beluga whales from Canada have safely arrived in the United States – the first in a coordinated, international rescue effort. The whales are part of a large pod of 30 belugas living at Marineland of Canada, a closed marine park that can no longer support their ongoing care. Several aquariums, […]
Holland America Line, RWS Global and Rolling Stone debut new rock show; one of four new productions created for Holland America Line by RWS Global
NEW YORK, N.Y. — Four new shows are taking center stage on Holland America Line’s Oosterdam, expanding the cruise line’s award-winning entertainment lineup with fresh productions and iconic collaborations. The four original shows were created exclusively for Holland America Line in partnership with RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports. The most anticipated debut is a new rock show […]
Legoland California Resort reveals all-new Brick Or Treat Street for an expanded Halloween celebration
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Fun and festive laughs await! LEGOLAND California Resort is expanding its family-friendly Halloween event, Brick or Treat, with the debut of Brick or Treat Street – an all-new immersive walkthrough experience featuring six Halloween houses filled with mischief, treats, tricks, and LEGO® build inspired seasonal fun for the whole family. Returning on select […]
Fort Wayne Zoo mourns the loss of harbor seal, Ronan
FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is mourning the loss of a beloved member of its animal family. Ronan, one of the Zoo’s harbor seals, and the first of his species to call the Fort Wayne Zoo home, passed away on the morning of July 20. “This morning, Ronan’s care team observed that […]
Largest Tag 4 A Cause event raises more than $2,500 for the Alzheimer’s Association
Laser tag players raised well over $2500 during a Tag 4 A Cause fundraiser to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association, Central New York Chapter. This has become the largest Tag 4 A Cause ever held according to coordinator Laurie Jean Britton, who hosted the fundraiser during the player-organized Laserforce Internationals tournament at The Fun Warehouse in […]
SeaWorld Orlando: nine rehabilitated sea turtles are Back in the wild
Sharing some uplifting news to kick off your Friday! This week, the SeaWorld Orlando Rescue Team successfully returned nine rehabilitated green sea turtles to the Atlantic Ocean at River to Sea Preserve in Marineland (Flagler County). Following an unusually cold Florida winter, most of these turtles were rescued suffering from cold stress and severe malnutrition. […]
Intercard teams up with Legends Entertainment at Scheels Sports Park in Illinois
ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology has been chosen to manage the state-of-the-art arcade at Legends Entertainment in Springfield, Illinois. Legends will cater to kids and families participating in sports tournaments at Scheels Sports Park in the Legacy Pointe mixed-use development. The 46,000 square foot facility will provide entertainment for visiting sports teams as […]
Knoebels mourns the passing of Richard “Dick” Knoebel
ELYSBURG, Pa. — Knoebels Amusement Resort announced with deep sadness the passing of Richard “Dick” Knoebel, President Emeritus and longtime leader of the family-owned amusement resort. He was 87. Dick Knoebel served as president of Knoebels from 1988 until transitioning into the role of President Emeritus in 2025, guiding the park through nearly four decades […]
Dippin’ Dots celebrates National Ice Cream Day with free ice cream nationwide and chance to win Free Dippin’ Dots for a year
PADUCAH, Ky. — Dippin’ Dots, the original beaded ice cream, is celebrating National Ice Cream Day with free ice cream giveaways and special offers across the country. On Sunday, July 19, fans can enjoy a free mini cup of Dippin’ Dots at participating locations nationwide, including all 128 Dippin’ Dots franchise locations. For the first time […]
Sally Dark Rides set to debut Kong x Godzilla: The Ride on July 24!
Legendary Entertainment will open it’s first-ever theme park attraction, KONG X GODZILLA: THE RIDE, debuting at Lotte World Adventure on Friday, July 24, 2026. KONG X GODZILLA: THE RIDE is a multimedia dark ride developed in collaboration with Legendary Entertainment, Toho Co., Ltd., and Sally Dark Rides. For the first time ever, Legendary’s Monsterverse—the epic cinematic universe where massive Titans […]
Cut the Cutlery — part of the DEP’s Get Past Plastic initiative
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announces the launch of its Cut the Cutlery outreach campaign to reduce single-use utensils, condiment packets, and plastic straws. The Cut the Cutlery campaign is part of the DEP’s Get Past Plastic initiative, which aims to reduce plastic consumption and waste throughout the state. The campaign supports […]
JW Winco premieres new brand video celebrating the people, innovation, and partnerships driving American manufacturing
NEW BERLIN, Wis. — JW Winco, a leading supplier of standard machine components, industrial hardware, and engineered customer solutions for manufacturers across North America, is proud to announce the premiere of its newest brand video, “Built to Last: An Ode to American Manufacturing.” Now available on YouTube, the cinematic film highlights the company’s enduring commitment […]
Jenni “JWoww” Farley headlines Six Flags Great Adventure’s annual Day Of Giving today
JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure welcomed thousands of children and their families to the park on Sunday, July 12, for its annual Day of Giving, a signature community event dedicated to celebrating local nonprofit organizations and providing families with a day filled with fun, connection and lasting memories. As part of the event, Six Flags […]
Universal Orlando Resort launches new Florida Resident Ticket offering unlimited theme park access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure now through December 16
ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort invites Florida residents to visit its award-winning theme parks – Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure – and come back again…and again…and again…with the awesome, new “2-Park Unlimited Days Florida Resident Ticket.” On sale beginning today, this exclusive ticket is available for $199 plus tax and gives Florida […]
European Showmen’s industry to gather in Paris in 2027
On January 18 and 19, 2027, the European Showmen’s Industry will gather in Paris, the capital of France, for the 44th Congress of the European Showmen’s Union (ESU). The Pavillons de Bercy, an extraordinary venue steeped in tradition, has been chosen as the conference location. This is also the home of the world-famous Musée des […]
Launch Family Entertainment advances strategic growth in first half of 2026
EAST GREENWICH, R.I. — Launch Family Entertainment (Launch), a leading indoor family entertainment franchise, continued to build momentum throughout the first half of 2026 through strategic development and innovation. A key milestone during the first half of the year was the introduction of Launch’s smaller-format park model. Designed to provide franchisees with greater flexibility when evaluating real estate opportunities, […]
Dollywood earns place on Time’s inaugural list of America’s best private companies
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood Parks & Resorts continues to earn remarkable accolades this summer with another announced this morning. TIME has named the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, destination to its inaugural list of the top 500 privately held companies in the United States. Dollywood was the only theme park on the list. According to TIME, “The […]
DC Heroes and Villains Fest transforms Six Flags Over Georgia into a Gotham City experience this summer
MABLETON, Ga. — Six Flags Over Georgia welcomes guests to the ultimate battle between good and evil as DC Heroes and Villains Fest brings the world of Gotham City to life in an all-out theatrical adventure. From Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences and Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), the event is a large-scale experience that brings the […]
Teachers get free admission to Dallas’ only indoor Lego playground: Legoland Discovery Center
GRAPEVINE, Texas — LEGOLAND Discovery Center is celebrating the professionals responsible for molding the next generation of ‘model’ citizens with free entry during Teacher Appreciation Days! The special event ends this July 31, 2026. In addition to free entry, teachers will also be able to bring up to six guests at a discounted rate of 30% […]
RLI launches a new insurance solution for entertainment & amusement venue operators
PEORIA, Ill. — RLI today announced the launch of its Entertainment & Amusement insurance product, a specialized property and casualty solution designed to meet the unique needs of entertainment and amusement venue operators. The product serves a broad range of businesses, including amusement parks, family entertainment centers, fairs, festivals, mobile amusements, concessionaires and similar attractions. […]
Dollywood hosts second art auction to benefit Share It Forward Program
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Guests visiting Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival earlier this season had the unique opportunity to watch artist Jaimie Houser bring the beauty and charm of the award-winning theme park to life through a series of stunning, lifelike paintings. Now, those one-of-a-kind works of art are available for purchase through a limited-time […]
American Coaster Enthusiasts recognizes two historic roller coasters at Seabreeze Amusement Park
ROCHESTER, N.Y. — American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE), the world’s largest amusement ride enthusiast organization, honored two of Seabreeze Amusement Park’s iconic roller coasters during a special plaque presentation recognizing their enduring contributions to roller coaster history and preservation. On June 27, Seabreeze’s The Bobsleds was officially designated an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark, joining an elite collection of roller […]
Alterface and Fantawild announce strategic partnership at IAAPA Expo Asia
WAVRE, Belgium — Alterface and Fantawild have officially entered into a strategic partnership to jointly develop next-generation interactive attractions. The agreement was formalised during IAAPA Expo Asia on 11 June. The collaboration combines Fantawild’s position as one of China’s leading integrated themed entertainment developers with Alterface’s expertise in interactive technologies and gameplay design. Fantawild offers […]
Ritron Quick Assist wireless customer call button leverages 2-way radios and speeds customer response times
CARMEL, Ind. — The battery powered, wireless Quick Assist call button can be located anywhere needed in the store i.e. at gaming kiosks, service desks, or anywhere customers may need to call for assistance. When the button is pressed, Associates hear the custom-recordable message instantly, right on their store 2-way radio, no annoying PA paging. […]
Hersheypark to host fireworks and patriotic offerings July 4th weekend
Hersheypark is the place to be over the July 4th holiday weekend. The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania is open Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Visitors can enjoy special fireworks displays onFriday and Saturday for the first time and other activations in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary […]
Happy Independence Day weekend from Amusement Today
The Amusement Today staff want to wish you and your families a Happy Independence Day weekend! EXTRA! EXTRA! Your Desktop Edition will not publish on the morning of July 3, 2026, as our staff enjoys the holiday with their families. Desktop Edition will resume normal publication on Monday, July 6. Thank you! Happy 250th, America!
Seder Group and ProFun launch SPOC
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Seder Group, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading operations, maintenance, and facilities management companies, and ProFun, the global leader in attractions operations advisory and management, today announced the formation of SPOC (The Seder ProFun Operating Company), a new Saudi-born operating platform established to support the Kingdom’s rapidly expanding entertainment, tourism, cultural, and […]
Angel Studios debuts official trailer for “Hershey”
Angel Studios today unveiled the trailer for its new original film HERSHEY which follows the story of how one couple’s vision started a chocolate empire – and through it, changed the world. Starring Finn Wittrock (The Big Short, Don’t Move, American Horror Story) and Alexandra Daddario (The White Lotus, True Detective, San Andreas), the upcoming […]
Eastern States Exposition welcomes Mary Lee Walsh as executive assistant to the president and chief executive officer
Mary Lee Walsh of Springfield, Mass., has started a full-time venture as Executive Assistant to the President and Chief Executive Officer of Eastern States Exposition (ESE). In this role, she will provide high-level administrative, operational and strategic support to the CEO and Executive Office. She will be a trusted partner and ensure seamless daily operations, […]
Summer takes shape across Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels with a slate of exciting, limited-time experiences exclusive for hotel guests
ORLANDO, Fla. — Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels are joining the summer fun with a lineup of limited-time offerings across its 11 resort hotels, now through August 10. From can’t-miss themed displays and menu items to special perks, these hotel experiences complement the seasonal entertainment across the theme parks – making Universal Orlando the place to visit this […]