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Digital Issue

Category: Business

Accesso and Adyen expand strategic partnership to enhance platform payments capabilities at global scale

ORLANDO — accesso Technology Group, the premier technology solutions provider to leisure, entertainment, and cultural markets, today announced the expansion of its long-standing strategic partnership with Adyen, the global financial technology platform of choice for leading businesses. This collaboration integrates embedded payments as a core platform capability across the accesso ecosystem. accesso currently supports more than […]

Winners of the 2026 NEAAPA Awards announced

NEAAPA is proud to announce the recipient’s of this year’s NEAAPA Awards, which will be handed out on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The Paragon Award is presented to a member that has created marketing outreach or advertising pieces that demonstrate unequaled excellence in the promotion of a product or service. This can include brochures, flyers, […]

FACE Amusement Group wins 2025 IAAPA Brass Ring Award

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — FACE Amusement Group has just won the IAAPA Brass Ring Excellence Awards for the Best Talent Acquisition Program. This award celebrates FACE Amusement Group’s exceptional submission, Human Resources Excellence Award – Best Talent Acquisition.  “This award is a powerful affirmation of our people-first philosophy,” said Bucky Mabe, CEO of FACE Amusement Group. “We’ve been intentional about creating recruiting strategies […]

Former Altitude Trampoline Park and Sky Zone Operations Director Jamie Turnbow joins VenueSumo as Vice President, Americas

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — VenueSumo, a fast-growing, all-in-one venue management software platform for the attractions and leisure industry, today announced the appointment of Jamie Turnbow as Vice President, Americas. Turnbow joins VenueSumo following senior operational leadership roles at Altitude Trampoline Park and Sky Zone, where she led large, multi-site portfolios across the United States. Her appointment […]

Monster Mini Golf scares up record growth in 2025

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Monster Mini Golf, the leader in glow-in-the-dark family entertainment, closed out 2025 with a monstrous roar. The brand has officially opened nine new locations and secured 16 franchise agreements, marking the most successful years in its 21-year history.  Throughout 2025, Monster Mini Golf, through its franchisor, Monster Entertainment, brought its signature brand […]

Efteling wins international award for Best Sustainability Program

KAATSHEUVEL — Today, IAAPA announced that Efteling has been awarded a Brass Ring Excellence Award for Best Sustainability Program. The jury — made up of experienced professionals from the global attractions industry— praised the way sustainability is fully embedded across all Efteling’s activities: “Selected for a comprehensive, culturally rooted sustainability program fully integrated into the […]

McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance announces sales territory realignment to enhance services

FAIRVIEW PARK, Ohio — McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance announced today a strategic realignment of sales territories within its in-house team. This realignment is designed to enhance services, improve regional coverage, and ensure a more personalized experience for clients nationwide. By reallocating territories among its sales producers, McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance is strengthening its ability to […]

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show in Pigeon Forge ready to set sail for eighth season

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — When visiting the Smokies in 2026, the first step in charting a course for adventure and fun begins at Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. This swashbuckling show brings guests close to the exciting exploits of pirate legends and lore as its eighth season sets sail on Friday, February 6. The always […]

Universal Orlando Resort takes the field in NBC & Peacock’s Super Bowl LX with new brand campaign, “This Changes Everything”

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort has entered its next era – transforming into a theme park destination that combines a week’s worth of thrills and excitement to create one incredible vacation. To celebrate this pivotal next chapter, Universal Orlando has launched an inspiring new brand platform and supporting campaign, “This Changes Everything,” part of which […]

Island H2O is now hiring: Hiring Fair to take place on Sunday, Feb. 8

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Island H2O Water Park is hosting a hiring fair on Sunday February 8 to fill over 250 roles at the award-winning water park. Island H2O is hiring positions in every area of the park including Lifeguards, Food and Beverage, Guest Services, Retail, Park Services, Security, First Aid and more. The hiring event will take […]

RWS Global strengthens global operations with key leadership appointments as company expands across critical markets

NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in groundbreaking live moments across entertainment and sports, today announced two strategic leadership appointments to support the company as it scales end‑to‑end entertainment operations across parks and destinations worldwide. Kathy Bagshaw has been appointed Senior Advisor, Operations, focused on strengthening delivery and operational excellence across major parks for key […]

Kings Dominion begins 2026 hiring season

DOSWELL, Va. –– Kings Dominion is hiring more than 2,500 seasonal employees for the 2026 season, which begins Saturday, March 21. The park will begin filling these roles during a week-long hiring event by parent company Six Flags Entertainment Corporation to fill more than 50,000 positions in its parks across North America. “With so many roles available, […]

Six Flags Over Texas And Hurricane Harbor Arlington seek to hire more than 1,400 employees for exciting 2026 season

ARLINGTON, Texas –– Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor Arlington, North Texas’ premier theme park and sister water park, today announced plans to hire more than 1,400 seasonal employees for the 2026 season, which launches Feb. 28. The park is currently filling these roles and will continue during a week-long hiring event Feb. 14 to 22 by parent company Six Flags Entertainment Corporation to fill more than 50,000 positions in its parks across North America.   “We are so excited for the new season and all that Six Flags […]

Now open: SpongeBob’s Crazy Carnival Ride at Nickelodeon Play! Istanbul

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Nickelodeon Play! at Tersane Istanbul, has officially opened SpongeBob’s Crazy Carnival Ride, an interactive dark ride by Sally Dark Rides that brings the world of SpongeBob SquarePants to life through playful competition, immersive storytelling, and family-friendly fun. The attraction opened November 28, 2025, along the shores of the Golden Horn, introducing a 5,000 sq. m. indoor […]

Catherine “Cat” Lorenzo named New president of Morgan’s Wonderland

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Morgan’s Wonderland, the first-of-its-kind, Ultra-Accessible™ theme and water park, is proud to announce Catherine “Cat” Lorenzo as Park President. Lorenzo’s appointment marks a new chapter in the park’s continued commitment to inclusion, excellence, and unforgettable experiences for guests of all abilities. “As Park President, Cat embodies the values that define Morgan’s […]

DEAL 2026 Intercard and new mobile iReader

ST. LOUIS — Intercard will exhibit at this year’s DEAL, the Dubai show that has been guiding the theme park and amusement industries in the MENA region for more than 30 years.  The show runs from February 10-12, 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Intercard’s CEO Scott Sherrod, Bajro Spahic and Alberto Borrero, senior vice-president of […]

Dolly Parton’s Stampede ready to begin 39th season of fun and adventure

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — When Dolly Parton’s Stampede opens for its 39th season on February 6, guests quickly will understand why a trip to this most-visited dinner attraction in the world is unlike any entertainment experience they’ve ever encountered. The Stampede features an exciting combination of equestrian expertise, vibrant music and storytelling, colorful butterflies, comedic escapades […]

Knott’s Berry Farm to debut Crafty’s Kitchen Summer 2026

BUENA PARK, Calif. — Knott’s Berry Farm, one of Southern California’s most popular theme park destinations, will debut a new eatery in the heart of Charleston Circle, right across from the famous fountain, this summer. The venue, currently a Johnny Rockets, will undergo a complete transformation starting April 15, which is just after the conclusion […]

Kevin Naughton passes away at 69

Kevin Naughton, a NEAAPA Past President and Hall of Fame member, who has worked decades in the attractions and motorsports insurance industry, passed away on Monday, January 26, 2026. He was 69 years old. Kevin is the 3rd generation to work at Naughton Insurance, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. Kevin joined […]

Journey acquires Scruffy Dog Creative Group, expanding end-to-end design, fabrication, and delivery capabilities

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Journey, the multidimensional experience agency, has acquired Scruffy Dog Creative Group (SDCG), the UK-based design-and-build studio known for its advanced fabrication, manufacturing, and delivery capabilities across theme parks, visitor attractions, resorts, museums, brand activations, and immersive experiences. This acquisition marks a significant evolution in Journey’s ability not only to design transformative […]

TEA welcomes Whitney Hines as Director of Operations and Programs

BURBANK, Calif. — Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) the association for the global community of creators, innovators, and fabricators of themed experiences, is pleased to announce the appointment of Whitney Hines as Director of Operations and Programs. In this role, Hines will oversee the day-to-day operations of the association and member relations. She will also work on product […]

Flyover acquired by Brogent Tech accelerates $442B experiential shift

VANCOUVER, B.C. — Flyover, a leading immersive flying theater attraction brand, today announced that Brogent Technologies Inc. (Taipei Exchange: 5263) (“Brogent”), a global leader in flying ride technology and attraction engineering, has reached an agreement to acquire Flyover Attractions from Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. This strategic transaction supports Flyover’s next phase of international growth […]

IAAPA: Summer Work Travel Visas not affected by recent Visa processing pause

Recent media coverage has raised concerns about a newly announced pause in U.S. visa processing affecting 75 countries, which went into effect today. We want to provide an important clarification for organizations that utilize the Summer Work Travel program (J-1 visa). After confirming with official sources, this pause applies only to immigrant visas. It does not […]

Miraculous Corp partners with Ground Control Entertainment to launch world’s first Miraculous Family Entertainment Center

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Miraculous Corp — the groundbreaking joint venture between Mediawan and ZAG and home to the beloved global franchise Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir—has officially signed an agreement with Ground Control Entertainment to establish the first Miraculous Family Entertainment Center destination in the Middle East. Opening Spring 2026 at the iconic Mall of Qatar in Doha, the Miraculous Adventure will be […]

Family Entertainment Group names Steve Paris chief operating officer

ITASCA, Ill. — Family Entertainment Group (FEG), a leading operator of family entertainment centers and destination arcades across North America, today announced the promotion of Steve Paris to Chief Operating Officer (COO). The appointment is part of a strategic leadership realignment designed to support the company’s accelerating growth. Previously serving as Senior Vice President of Strategic Operations, Paris will […]

Young Builders Land at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex for Legoland Florida Resort’s Junior Galaxy Explorers event ahead of new Galactic Roller Coaster

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. — Imaginations skyrocketed out of this world this past Saturday, when LEGOLAND Florida Resort hosted the final local stop of its Junior Galaxy Explorers search at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. Set at America’s gateway to space, the family-friendly event brought together hands-on LEGO spacecraft builds, creative problem solving, and STEM-inspired play for aspiring explorers ages 6–12. Surrounded by real-world rockets and […]

Hershey to debut new destination experiences throughout 2026

HERSHEY, Pa. — One of the country’s most iconic destinations, Hershey, Pa., will debut a new hotel, a new restaurant, a water park enhancement, upgrades to a historic live entertainment venue and patriotic summer celebrations at Hersheypark during its 120th operating year.  Centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, Hershey […]

Drew Horn appointed COO as KMI International expands operational leadership

ORLANDO — KMI International, an employee-owned project and construction management consulting firm headquartered in Orlando, Florida, is proud to announce the promotion of Drew Horn to Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective January 5, 2026. Horn brings more than 30 years of experience spanning cost estimating, project management, and project controls, with a track record of supporting […]

Disney to include Disability Access Proposal in 2026 proxy after withdrawing SEC exclusion request

WASHINGTON — The Walt Disney Company withdrew its request to exclude a shareholder proposal on disability accommodations from its 2026 proxy statement, according to an SEC filing submitted today by Disney’s counsel, Wilmer Cutler Pickering Hale and Dorr LLP. The proposal, submitted by shareholder Erik G. Paul, calls for an independent review of Disney’s controversial 2024-2025 […]

Mapping the next era of leisure: a deep dive into the 2030 Validation Report

Katapult, the themed attraction, experience and destination design company, has released a comprehensive update to its industry roadmap: the Leisure & Attraction Trends 2030: Validation Report. This deep dive arrives at a pivotal moment for the industry, stress-testing original projections against a market that has experienced a “rollercoaster ride” of change over the past twelve […]

Brogent Technologies unveils the Middle East’s largest flying theater in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Brogent Technologies is proud to unveil Flying Over Saudi, the Middle East’s largest flying theater attraction, officially opening on December 24, 2025, in Riyadh. The project marks a significant milestone for the region’s theme park and immersive entertainment industry, introducing a new benchmark for large-scale, premium flying theater experiences while reinforcing Riyadh’s position as a […]

QubicaAMF expands OneSource Partner Network with ARCO/Murray National Construction’s sports & entertainment team

RICHMOND, Va. — QubicaAMF today announced that ARCO/Murray National Construction, a national design-builder with a dedicated sports and entertainment group, has joined QubicaAMF OneSource™, a curated partner network designed to help investors, developers, and operators bring entertainment concepts to life with trusted expertise—from early planning through opening day. QubicaAMF OneSource connects clients with a network […]

Intercard announces integration with the Toast Platform

ST. LOUIS — Intercard is excited to announce that it has joined the Toast Partner Ecosystem. This integration is designed to allow restaurants, bars and other venues with arcades and entertainment attractions to accept an Intercard game card as payment for food and beverage service, increasing customer convenience by making it possible for customers to […]

Vekoma Rides Parts & Services B.V. and Drone Over The Top LLC announce cooperation to advance safety-focused drone inspections for Theme Parks

THE NETHERLANDS — Vekoma Rides Parts & Service LLC is proud to proud to announce a new strategic partnership with Drone Over The Top LLC, a certified aerial inspection company specializing in advanced structural assessments for amusement rides. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to safety, precision, and innovation in the amusement industry. Traditionally, visual […]

Entrepreneur names Urban Air “No. 1 Adventure Park Brand” in 2026 Franchise 500 for eighth consecutive year

DALLAS — Urban Air Adventure Park, part of the youth enrichment growth-focused platform Unleashed Brands, ranked No. 178 on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2026 Franchise 500® list. This signifies the eighth year the brand has been named No. 1 in the Adventure Parks category. Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500® is considered one of the most competitive and comprehensive franchise rankings, evaluating […]

Huss Pirate Ship, Bounty’s Revenge II, sets sail at Adventure World

BREMEN, Germany — Huss Park Attractions, the German ride manufacturer, has worked with Adventure World in Perth, Australia, to bring back its much-loved pirate ship ride, Bounty’s Revenge, nine years after the original was retired. Adventure World offered a pirate ship experience for over 30 years, with the ride, also from HUSS, eventually being retired […]

FACE Amusement Group welcomes David Knight as Vice President of Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — FACE Amusement Group, a leading operator of entertainment experiences and hospitality brands across the United States, today announced the appointment of David Knight as vice president of Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown. In partnership with famed chef, author and Emmy Award–winning television personality Guy Fieri, Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown is a 43,000-square-foot, immersive family entertainment destination designed to […]

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 = […]

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 […]

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 […]