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Digital Issue

Category: Business

Monster Mini Golf levels up guest experience

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Monster Mini Golf has recently developed and launched a new custom brandmobile app and a connected digital experience platform designed to deliver more interactive gameplay, personalized engagement, and streamlined guest experiences at locations nationwide.   The glow-in-the-dark entertainment brand recently introduced gamified features that allow guests to track scores, reserve birthday parties, […]

Wavegarden Surf Lagoons drive premium real estate value across the United States and worldwide

SAN SEBASTIAN, Spain — Surf lagoons are delivering up to 9x equity multiples, project IRRs as high as 178%, and land-value gains of up to 10x, according to a new analysis published today by Wavegarden, the pioneering surf-technology company behind the world’s most advanced wave-generation systems. Across the United States and five continents, Wavegarden-powered projects […]

ProFun Academy announces strategic training partnership with Ellis & Associates and Safety Skills Training DMCC

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — The ProFun Academy, headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Safety Skills Training DMCC (SST), the international training division of Ellis & Associates (E&A) — the world’s most respected name in aquatic safety, lifeguard training and attractions operations. This partnership marks a significant milestone for […]

Star Factory Lantern highlights day-to-night dinosaur attraction strategy for parks and attractions

ZIGONG, China — Star Factory Lantern, a design-build manufacturer of custom outdoor lantern attractions, animatronic dinosaurs and themed night-time experiences, is highlighting a day-to-night dinosaur event strategy designed to help parks and attractions extend guest dwell time, increase secondary spending and create stronger family engagement. The concept combines daytime animatronic dinosaur exploration with nighttime illuminated […]

AAMA announces leadership transition as Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson resigns

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) today announced that Executive Vice President Pete Gustafson has voluntarily resigned his position, effective June 28, 2026, in collaboration with the AAMA Board of Directors, which has formally accepted his resignation. Gustafson has served as AAMA’s Executive Vice President for 10 years, following many years of […]

Kings Dominion celebrates Independence Day with Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, July 3-5

DOSWELL, Va. — Kings Dominion will celebrate Independence Day with Star-Spangled Nights presented by M&M’S, a three-day patriotic event July 3 through July 5 featuring fireworks, immersive entertainment and all-American experiences for guests of all ages. Recognized as one of Virginia’s premier Fourth of July celebrations, Star-Spangled Nights will illuminate the sky with vibrant fireworks set to patriotic music, […]

RWS Global secures three-year extension with Premiership-winning Brisbane Broncos

BRISBANE, Australia — RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sports, has announced the extension of its successful partnership with the Brisbane Broncos, the Australian National Rugby League (NRL) club, continuing as their official sport presentation provider through the end of 2028. The three-year renewal solidifies RWS Global’s position as […]

Dollywood named to two Newsweek Top Workplaces 2026 lists

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood adds to its recent run of awards with Newsweek naming the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, theme park to its Greatest Workplaces 2026 lists for America and for the state of Tennessee. The lists were compiled following the results of a recent survey. The Greatest Workplace awards are based on a nationwide, large-scale independent […]

Interstellar Arc wins “Best Location-Based Entertainment” at prestigious Auggie Awards

LAS VEGAS — Interstellar Arc at AREA15, the awe-inspiring, visionary experience from the Emmy®-winning creators at Felix & Paul Studios, announces it has been awarded “Best Location-Based Entertainment” at the 17th annual Auggie Awards. Taking place at this year’s Augmented World Expo USA – the longest-running and largest event dedicated to augmented reality, extended reality, virtual reality, robotics and AI – Interstellar Arc now ranks among 20 of […]

Chris Maier, Land of Make Believe recognized for incredible success 

HOPE TWP., N.J. — When Christopher Maier assumed the reins of running the Land of Make Believe in the early 70’s, he brought a new vision of Family Entertainment to the park and with his business leadership in the ensuing years took it to another level. At the start, he immediately operationalized what would become […]

More than 630 enthusiasts from around the world gather for Coaster Con 48

AGAWAM, Mass. — More than 630 members of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE), the world’s original and largest ride enthusiast organization, are gathering this week for Coaster Con 48, the annual convention that celebrates roller coasters, friendship and amusement park history. Attendees from across the United States and around the world will celebrate World Roller Coaster […]

Get set for Legen-Dairy flavors at Wisconsin State Fair

WEST ALLIS, Wis. — While not an official holiday (yet), today marks 50 days until the celebration 175 years in the making kicks off. That’s right, Wisconsin State Fair, presented by T-Mobile, is just around the corner. For this milestone announcement day, Fairgoers can learn what flavor Cream Puffs will accompany those ear-to-ear grins coming to Wisconsin Aug. […]

Lake Compounce receives official Connecticut General Assembly citation for 180th Anniversary

Lake Compounce was recently presented with an Official Citation from the Connecticut General Assembly in recognition of its 180th Anniversary as America’s First Amusement Park and the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States. The citation, presented by Senator Henry Martin and members of the Connecticut General Assembly, recognizes Lake Compounce’s enduring role […]

Six Flags parks in 12 states from coast-to-coast celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with spectacular fireworks, festive eats, historic thrills and patriotic summer fun

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today announced a summertime celebration honoring 250 years of American history, culture and community with stunning fireworks, immersive décor, limited-time food and beverages, guest participation experiences, a vast collection of historic thrill rides, and exclusive perks in 17 U.S. amusement parks. Stretching from the Atlantic […]

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment expands Branson footprint with Adventure Seekers acquisition

ORLANDO — Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment is excited to announce the acquisition of the Adventure Seekers and FlyRide® attraction in Branson, Missouri. The popular local attraction is now officially part of Ripley’s Believe It or Not! World Entertainment, bringing even more family-centered fun to the entertainment capital oftheOzarks. Adventure Seekers is a favorite […]

Six Flags Great America’s 50th Anniversary celebration kicks off June 20

GURNEE, Ill. — Six Flags Great America is set to launch its highly anticipated 50th Anniversary Celebration beginning June 20 through Aug. 9, bringing guests a summer filled with new entertainment, limited‑time flavors, and immersive experiences honoring five decades of thrills. “Celebrating 50 years is an incredible milestone for Six Flags Great America,” said John Krajnak, Park President of […]

Family Entertainment Group, LLC appoints industry veteran Nick DiMatteo, ICAE as senior vice president, equipment operations & strategy

ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group, LLC FEG, one of the nation’s premier operators of family entertainment centers, today announced the appointment of Nick DiMatteo, ICAE as Senior Vice President, Equipment Operations & Strategy. DiMatteo brings more than 25 years of amusement and entertainment industry experience and will join the company on June 8, 2026. […]

Family Entertainment Group, LLC welcomes Jason Clark as Chief Financial Officer

ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group, LLC FEG, one of the nation’s premier operators of family entertainment centers, today announced the appointment of Jason Clark as Chief Financial Officer, effective May 26, 2026. Clark brings deep financial leadership experience across the restaurant, hospitality, and entertainment industries, and joins FEG at a moment of significant organizational […]

Legendary Wisconsin-grown Chef Sandra Lee to visit Wisconsin State Fair

WEST ALLIS, Wis. — In conjunction with the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America and the 261st Anniversary of the First American Fair in Pennsylvania in 1765, Sandra Lee and the International Association of Fairs & Expositions (IAFE) will embark on a “Best in Fair” Tour of America’s beloved Fairs, highlighting the economic influence and cultural relevance […]

A star-spangled summer awaits during Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City (June 15- Aug. 2) returns this summer with high-energy entertainment, family fun and a patriotic flair as America prepares to celebrate its 250th birthday. From a dazzling drone and fireworks spectacular to mouthwatering culinary items and festive Americana-themed décor and merchandise, Dollywood once […]

Brogent unveils ‘R-Ride’ at IAAPA Asia, announcing powerful Japanese IP alliances and 5 Southeast Asian projects

Brogent Technologies Inc. presented its latest portfolio of innovations at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026, showcasing next-generation ride systems, expanded content experiences, and a strategic collaboration with one of Japan’s most iconic intellectual properties. At the forefront of the presentation, Brogent debuted its latest innovation, R-Ride, a motion theater equipped with a 360-degree panoramic screen, advanced […]

FACE Amusement Group opens “Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown” in Myrtle Beach, SC

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — FACE Amusement Group today announced the official opening of Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown at the Myrtle Beach Mall, bringing a 50,000-square-foot dining and entertainment destination to the country’s most popular coastal markets. Developed in partnership with Emmy Award-winning chef and television personality Guy Fieri, the Myrtle Beach location expands on the success of the brand’s flagship in Pigeon Forge. The venue transforms […]

Play Playground Nashville unveils new patriotic sips, beverage specials for June, July in “Playmaker’s Pour” cocktail program

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Play Playground Nashville, the most playful social game experience and bar located just off downtown’s Broadway, announces new patriotic cocktails and beverage specials available in June and July. As part of its brand-new “Playmaker’s Pour” monthly cocktail program, players are invited to find their flavor, raise a glass and play their way. Designed to complement […]

Brogent’s new facility powers theme park innovation and production capacity

Brogent Technologies has officially inaugurated the new Ciaotou Science Park Branch in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, marking a major milestone in the company’s global expansion strategy for immersive entertainment and amusement ride systems. The facility serves as an advanced hub for research, development, manufacturing, system integration, and testing, strengthening Brogent’s end-to-end capabilities for the global attractions industry.  “The Ciaotou Science Park facility is far more than a conventional manufacturing plant,” said Chih-Hung Ouyang, Chairman of Brogent Technologies. “It is […]

Attraktion! celebrates the sold-out opening of Querion Hypermedia Entertainment Park in Piechowice, Poland

VIENNA, Austria — Attraktion! celebrates the sold-out opening weekend of Querion Hypermedia Entertainment Park in Piechowice, Poland. Located between Szklarska Poręba and Jelenia Góra in the heart of the Karkonosze region, Querion introduces a year-round, all-weather entertainment destination for families, tourists, groups and event audiences. Developed by hotel operator Górskie Resorty together with Attraktion!, Querion […]

Europa-Park is the fastest growing independent theme park in the Western hemisphere, according to Forbes Magazine

A study by the Themed Entertainment Association, highlighted in a recent article in Forbes Magazine, names Europa-Park as “the fastest-growing non-Disney/non-Universal park in the Western hemisphere.” The study aanalysedvisitor growth between 2005 and 2024 in the world’s 25 most visited theme parks.   A surprising name on that list is Europa-Park Resort in Germany. In fact, […]

FractaVisual appoints Phil Wilson as director of global partnerships and marketing

ORLANDO — FractaVisual  has announced the hiring of Phil Wilson as Director of Global Partnerships and Marketing. In this role, Wilson will lead the firm’s partnership development and growth as well as the creation and execution of its global marketing strategy. Wilson comes to FractaVisual with more than 30 years of experience in marketing, development and sales […]

Six Flags introduces Flexible Membership Program at six additional parks, redefining how guests experience multi-park fun year round

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN), North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, today announced the expansion of its Membership program at six additional parks beginning June 8, offering guests a more flexible, value-driven way to enjoy their favorite destinations throughout the year. Additionally, all Gold Memberships include access to a designated group of parks […]

Slick City Action Park names Josh Cole chief marketing officer

CHESTERFIELD, Mo. — Slick City Action Park, the world’s first indoor slide and action park featuring proprietary dry-slide technology, today announced the appointment of Josh Cole as its first Chief Marketing Officer. Cole joins the company’s executive leadership team as Slick City continues its rapid expansion across North America and internationally, with 40 parks now open and […]

H. Betti Industries, Inc. announces appointment of Michael Arnone as senior marketing director

CARLSTADT, N.J. — H. Betti Industries, Inc. today announced the appointment of Michael Arnone as Senior Director of Marketing. Arnone brings more than 20 years of experience building brands, strengthening customer engagement, and aligning marketing to business performance across global and multi-division organizations. His background spans brand strategy, digital transformation, lead generation, and sales enablement, […]

Intercard brings award-winning iQ reader to IAAPA Expo Asia June 10-12, 2026

ST. LOUIS — Intercard will present its innovations in cashless technology at the IAAPA Expo Asia 2026, which will be held from June 10-12 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.  Intercard’s Asia-Pacific sales manager Jerry Heinz will be in booth #1006. He will be showing the company’s award-winning iQ reader that reads QR codes. […]

Play Playground Nashville to host rooftop fireworks viewing party this Independence Day

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Play Playground Nashville, the most playful social game experience and bar located just off downtown’s Broadway, announces it will host a high-energy Fourth of July rooftop fireworks viewing party. Guests searching for lively places to go in Nashville this Independence Day can look forward to a patriotic celebration with river and skyline views, more than 20 larger-than-life […]

Periscope Equity makes strategic investment in Amusement Connect, a specialty payments platform for the amusement industry

CHICAGO — Periscope Equity, a Chicago-based private equity firm, announced today it has invested in Amusement Connect, a leading cashless specialty payment solutions provider, purpose-built for the amusement industry. This investment represents the first platform in Periscope Equity’s third fund, which closed last year. Amusement Connect was co-founded by industry veteran Frank Licausi and automotive executive […]

OpenAire announces development of retractable roof enclosures for Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks with American Resort Management

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario — OpenAire, the worldwide leader of all-aluminum large span structures with retractable roofs today announced collaboration with American Resort Management to provide retractable roof enclosures for the Mattel Wonder Indoor Waterparks™. As previously announced, these waterparks will be a series of aquatic destinations to create a new form of entertainment featuring Mattel’s beloved […]

Alterface powers next-generation interactivity in Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare at Kings Island

WAVRE, Belgium — Alterface announces its contribution to Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare, designed and manufactured by Sally Dark Rides and opened at Kings Island. The attraction features Alterface’s new generation interactive pointing system, delivering ultra-low latency performance and high-precision tracking to support a fully immersive flashlight-based gameplay experience. With response times as low as 30 […]

Intercard IT Director praises IAAPA LATAM Caribbean Summit

ST. LOUIS — Kelly Blanchard, Intercard’s director of IT and customer service, attended the IAAPA Latin America Caribbean Summit that took place April 20-24 on a cruise to the Bahamas. The event was held aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, one of the largest and most modern cruise ships in the world. Royal Caribbean is […]

Royal Oak becomes official charcoal partner of Dollywood

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — With grilling season on the horizon, Dollywood Parks & Resorts today introduced a new partner that will help the award-winning theme park turn up the heat on summer fun. Royal Oak is now the official charcoal partner of Dollywood, working with the park on cooking demonstrations with Royal Oak ambassadors, special themed […]

Enjoy Memorial Day weekend from Amusement Today

The Amusement Today staff hope you and your families will enjoy Memorial Day Weekend together! Our offices will be closed on Monday, May 25, as our staff spends the holiday with their families. EXTRA! EXTRA! Your Desktop Edition will not publish that morning as a result. Desktop Edition will resume normal publication on Tuesday, May 26. Thank you!

Dorney Park helps deliver smiles through donation of approximately 5,000 Squishmallows

ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom recently partnered with Emily’s Hug Mee Drive and HeroBuds Lehigh Valley to donate approximately 5,000 Squishmallows that will help support local children throughout the region. Following the donation, the team from SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem and Whitehall assisted with the large-scale pickup and transportation effort and will securely store the donated items until the organizations […]

RWS Global accelerates UK presence with major Milton Keynes Investment

LONDON, U.K. — RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sports, today announces a landmark acceleration of its UK operations with the opening of a state-of-the-art global production hub in Milton Keynes. Set to launch in January 2027, this move reinforces the company’s long-term commitment to the UK, where live […]

Intercard celebrates fifteen years powering The Sky Games FEC chain in Latin America

ST. LOUIS — Intercard recently celebrated fifteen years of its winning relationship with Sky Games. The Latin American chain has nine FECs in Paraguay and twelve in Bolivia with plans to expand into Chile and Brazil. The popular FECs offer a diverse array of active attractions for children including trampolines, soft play, educational play and […]