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Digital Issue

Category: Business

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 […]

“From Cold Waters To Warm Care” — a SeaWorld turtle rescue story 

We’ve taken in 14 critically endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtles. The turtles were flown (by volunteer pilots) from Cape Cod (New England area) to Orlando after being “cold-stunned.” SeaWorld Orlando is providing medical care and rehabilitation before we can release them back to warmer waters. Multiple partners were involved in this rescue.

Electrocoin brings Intercard’s latest cashless technology to UK’s EAG Show 2026

ST. LOUIS — Electrocoin, Intercard’s UK distributor, will be at the 2026 EAG show at stand D46 in London January 13-15, 2026. They will showcase the Impulse Tap, the iTeller PlusXL kiosk and other great Intercard products. Visitors can learn why trend-setting UK amusement venues like Lane 7 rely on Intercard for innovative and dependable […]

Six Flags Qiddiya City, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation’s first destination outside North America, is now officially open

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Qiddiya City, Saudi Arabia’s first-of-its-kind theme park and entertainment destination, celebrated its grand opening Dec. 31 by welcoming guests from across the Kingdom and globe. The debut marks Six Flags Entertainment’s first theme park designed and built outside North America. The trailblazing new park blends immersive entertainment with innovative technology […]

360 Parks acquires Wonderland Amusement Park in Amarillo, Texas

AMARILLO, Texas — 360 Parks has acquired Wonderland Amusement Park, a beloved Amarillo institution featuring 30 rides and attractions, from longtime owners Paula and Paul Borchardt. The acquisition ensures the continued operation and preservation of one of West Texas’ most cherished family entertainment destinations as it prepares to celebrate 75 years of fun in 2026. […]

Launch Family Entertainment closes out 2025 with record growth, six new openings, and accelerated multi-unit development

WARWICK, R.I. – Launch Family Entertainment (Launch), a leading indoor family entertainment franchise, is ending 2025 with major development milestones, including six new park openings, 13 secured franchise agreements, and a record number of secured leases that will further expand the brand’s national footprint.  Launch celebrated six new park openings in 2025, bringing its full-family […]

Roller Coaster Museum announces 2026 events calendar

PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA), the world’s largest collection of historic amusement artifacts, today announces its 2026 event schedule, which includes three public events: “Our goal has always been to make this collection available to the public,” said Pete Owens, Chairman of the NRCMA Board of Directors. “While we […]

Dollywood announces hiring events for 2026 season

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. —With the excitement of a new season and a new groundbreaking ride to be unveiled in the spring, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has scheduled several hiring events in January and February to prepare for the exciting year ahead. With the celebration of Dollywood’s 40th anniversary season throughout 2025, The Dollywood Company continues to […]

Mini Golf and Game Courts open at Michigan’s First “Outdoor Hotel”

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. — An 18-hole Modular Advantage® Mini Golf course along with a putting green, shuffleboard and lawn game court (for croquet, bean-bag toss, and lawn bowling), all designed and installed by Adventure Golf & Sports (AGS), were recently opened at the Alpen Bluffs Outdoor Resort in Gaylord, Michigan. Rob Platt, co-owner of the resort says, “Alpen Bluffs is […]

Holland Fiberglass welcomes Chris Cosme as Director of Operations

TAMPA, Fla. — Holland Fiberglass, an affiliate of the Ralph S. Alberts Company, Inc. is pleased to announce the hiring of Chris Cosme as the company’s new Director of Operations. Chris joins the team with a strong background in operations and technical leadership across some of the most well-known names in the amusement and entertainment industry. […]

New Mega Ozone Bowling is Intercard’s 31st with the company

ST. LOUIS — Intercard’s latest cashless technology is part of the fun at the newest Ozone Bowling FEC in Seville, Spain. The 129,000 square foot center is the largest in Europe and the 31st Ozone Bowling venue to use Intercard technology. The €7m location is in the Aleste Plaza shopping centre in the eastern part […]

IRT welcomes Six Flags Qiddiya City to the International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) Program

QIDDIYA CITY, Saudi Arabia — International Ride Training is proud to announce the induction of Six Flags Qiddiya City to the International Ride Operator Certification (iROC) Program, a globally recognized third-party certification program designed to elevate operational safety, performance, and consistency within the attractions industry. Developed and administered by International Ride Training (IRT), the iROC […]

A blockbuster bite! Raising Cane’s debuts in LA’s Universal CityWalk Hollywood December 11

LOS ANGELES — Universal cravings meet Universal CityWalk! Raising Cane’s—the Chicken Finger craze taking LA by storm—celebrates its star-worthy opening at 1000 Universal City Plaza inside Universal CityWalk on Thursday, Dec. 11. This can’t-miss, first-of-its-kind Raising Cane’s Restaurant is designed to be as craveable as the Chicken Finger meals it serves. The new Restaurant features […]

AAMCF brings the Kids to the Arcade

CARY, Ill. — The American Amusement Machine Charitable Foundation (AAMCF) welcomed over 60 young athletes and their families from our charity partner, KEEN Chicago, along with local supporters, for an unforgettable morning of fun at Lucky Strike Chicago, in downtown Chicago. The lively event featured bowling, arcade play, and plenty of smiles as KEEN (Kids […]

Tim Carson of Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies elected as IAFE State & Provincial Associations Representative

DENVER, Colo. — Tim Carson, IFMG, of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies in Edmonton, Alberta, has been elected State & Provincial Associations Representative of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention & Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “It […]

RWS Global elevates holiday cheer for more than 7,500,000 guests around the world this winter

NEW YORK, N.Y. — RWS Global, the world leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, is celebrating a fun-filled holiday season, delighting more than 7.5 million visitors at attractions around the globe, on land and at sea. With more than 150 custom-created experiences, RWS Global is raising holiday cheer with unparalleled theatrical and experiential […]

Anna Whelchel of Indiana State Fair elected as IAFE Zone 3 Director

DENVER, Colo. — Anna Whelchel, CFE, of the Indiana State Fair, has been elected Zone 3 Director of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention & Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. Whelchel serves as the Chief Revenue & Marketing […]

Brett Warder of Calgary Stampede elected as IAFE Zone 7 Director

DENVER, Colo. — Brett Warder of the Calgary Stampede in Calgary, Alberta, has been elected Zone 7 Director of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention & Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “I look forward to supporting fairs and […]

Play Social Inc. announces Phil Royle as new Chief Executive Officer

LAS VEGAS — Play Social Inc., the creator of the Play Playground social game experience with locations in Las Vegas and Nashville, announces the appointment of Phil Royle as its new chief executive officer, beginning Monday, Jan. 5, 2026. A veteran of Merlin Entertainments with more than 25 years of international attractions development experience, Royle will […]

Jayme Buttke of Wisconsin Association of Fairs honored with IAFE Top Recruiter Award

DENVER, Colo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) proudly honored Jayme Buttke, IFMG, CFE, Wisconsin Association of Fairs, with the 2025 IAFE Top Recruiter Award. This distinguished recognition was announced on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the IAFE Convention and Trade Show held in Denver, Colorado. “Jayme brought 23 new fairs from […]

Ray Allison of Indiana State Fair elected 2026 IAFE Board Chair

DENVER, Colo. — Ray Allison, CFE, Chief Operating Officer of the Indiana State Fair, has been elected Chair of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) Board of Directors during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “It has been a privilege to work in […]

Alicia Shoults of Ohio State Fair elected as IAFE Second Vice Chair

DENVER, Colo. — Alicia Shoults, CFE, of the Ohio State Fair in Columbus, has been elected Second Vice Chair of the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE). The election took place during the association’s annual business session at the 2025 IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “I am deeply honored and humbled […]

Dr. Michael Lariscy of Savannah Exchange Club Fair Association honored with IAFE Heritage Award

DENVER, Colo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) proudly presented Dr. Michael Lariscy of the Savannah Exchange Club Fair Association in Savannah, Georgia, with the prestigious Heritage Award. The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, during the IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “The Heritage Award celebrates the […]

Jenni Axelson of Sherburne County Fair honored with IAFE Heritage Award

DENVER, Colo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) proudly presented Jenni Axelson, IFMG, CVFM, of the Sherburne County Fair in Elk River, Minnesota, with the prestigious Heritage Award. The announcement was made on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, during the IAFE Convention and Trade Show in Denver, Colorado. “The Heritage Award celebrates the […]

Kelly Collins of State Fair of West Virginia honored with IAFE Rising Star Award

DENVER, Colo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) proudly recognized Kelly Collins, IFMG, CFE, of the State Fair of West Virginia in Lewisburg, with the prestigious Rising Star Award. The announcement was made on Monday, December 1, 2025, during the IAFE Convention and Trade Show held in Denver, Colorado. “Our industry thrives […]

Jessica Underberg inducted into the International Association of Fairs and Expositions Hall of Fame

HAMBURG, N.Y. — The Erie County Agricultural Society (ECAS) is proud to announce that Chief Executive Officer and Fair Manager Jessica Underberg has been inducted into the International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) Hall of Fame, the highest honor awarded by the organization. Underberg received the recognition on Monday, December 1, during the IAFE Convention and Trade […]

Pete Owens, attractions industry veteran, accepts nomination as new museum chairman

PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA), the world’s largest collection of historic amusement artifacts, has selected Pete Owens, a 26-year veteran of the attractions industry, as its new chairman. He succeeds Jeff Novotny, also an industry veteran, who served as chairman for seven years. “It is an honor to be […]

Dippin’ Dots splashes into Kalahari Resorts nationwide

PADUCAH, Ky. — Dippin’ Dots, the Original Beaded Ice Cream, announced today a new partnership with Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, home to America’s largest indoor waterparks. Beginning this month, guests can enjoy Dippin’ Dots at every Kalahari location nationwide, adding extra delight to the resort experience families already love. “We are proud to grow our partnership with Kalahari Resorts, […]

Legacy Entertainment launches “The Safari Park Company”

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Legacy Entertainment, a globally renowned entertainment design and production studio, has announced the launch of a new dedicated division – the company’s seventh — The Safari Park Company. This new specialized business unit has been established to meet the major global demand for Legacy to not only design all-new Safari Parks, but also for […]

Vekoma Rides and Mobaro announce strategic partnership to elevate safety and maintenance standards in the amusement industry

ORLANDO — Two of the amusement industry’s most trusted and premium brands, Vekoma Rides and Mobaro, are proud to announce a strategic partnership aimed at transforming safety and maintenance operations across theme parks worldwide. At IAAPA Expo in Orlando, both companies have formally signed the partnership agreement. This strategic alliance represents a major leap forward […]

Intercard’s Happy Hoedown brings cowboy style to IAAPA Expo

ST. LOUIS — Yee-haw! Intercard’s annual IAAPA Expo Customer Appreciation Party rounded up more than 400 of the company’s global family for a rip-roarin’ cowboy-style hoedown on November 18, 2025. Guests hit the trail from as far away as Asia, Australia, the Middle East and South America to celebrate the launch of the year’s biggest […]

BenQ launches BR9708 4K Projector bringing true cinema color and realism to hyper-realistic Entertainment environments

ORLANDO —  BenQ, a world leader in visualization and display technology, today announced its BR9708, a purpose-built 4K projector designed for dark rides, immersive attractions, escape rooms, and themed environments that demand cinematic realism at an accessible price. Unveiled at IAAPA Expo 2025, the BenQ BR9708 delivers the color performance of high-end projectors at a fraction […]

GoPhoto LLC announces agreement to acquire Capturelife

ORLANDO — GoPhoto LLC today announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Capturelife, a leading provider of digital photo delivery and engagement solutions. This strategic move strengthens GoPhoto’s commitment to delivering innovative experiences for consumers and businesses in the photography industry, expanding its capabilities in mobile-first photo sharing and digital content monetization. Capturelife has built […]