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 […]
North Carolina State Fair’s Midway Event Center taking shape

North Carolina State Fair Director G. Kent Yelverton provided Amusement Today with an exclusive media preview of the new 30,000-square- foot Midway Event Center taking shape on the Raleigh fairgrounds. Details in an upcoming issue of AT.
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 […]
SeaWorld reaches milestone of 43,000 animal rescues, underscoring the ongoing need to help animals in need

ORLANDO — SeaWorld through its SeaWorld Rescue team has surpassed the milestone of rescuing 43,000 injured, sick and orphaned animals, underscoring the continuing need to help animals in the wild. Early in May, SeaWorld Rescue in San Diego rescued six birds, along with a young, orphaned California sea lion pup that was found on the […]
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 […]
Hersheypark to host all-american summer kickoff during 120th year

HERSHEY, Pa. — Hersheypark amusement park today announced it will host an All-American Summer Kickoff event over Memorial Day Weekend in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary and the Park’s 120th operating year. The multi-day celebration will feature a variety of patriotic events and activations as the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania transitions to summer operations […]
Talley Amusements’ Freedom 250 Wheel to anchor historic Great American State Fair celebration on the National Mall

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Taylor Talley of Talley Amusements has secured the contract to bring the “Freedom 250 Wheel” to the Great American State Fair on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., as part of America’s upcoming 250th birthday celebration. The 110-foot Ferris wheel, formally known as the Levent Wheel, will serve as one of the […]
Massanutten Resort announces ShenandoaH2O as official name of hotel and waterpark expansion

MASSANUTTEN, Va. — Massanutten Resort, a premier family resort in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, today announced ShenandoaH2O as the official name of its highly anticipated new on-site hotel and indoor Waterpark expansion. Built directly into the mountain experience, ShenandoaH2O introduces a new way for guests to stay, play, and reconnect, all in one place. Designed for families, groups, and […]
Six Flags Great Adventure partners with Project Purple to turn coaster excitement into a greater purpose

JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure is proud to announce a new partnership with Project Purple, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding support for pancreatic cancer research and patient programs. As part of the partnership, the park’s highly anticipated 2027 coaster project, currently known publicly as “Project Purple,” will serve as more than just a […]
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 […]
Wainwright Family Enterprises names Matt Freed COO as Long Beach Island attractions portfolio expands

BEACH HAVEN, N.J. — Wainwright Family Enterprises (WFE), the company behind a growing portfolio of family attractions on Long Beach Island, including Fantasy Island Amusement Park and Thundering Surf Waterpark, has promoted longtime leader Matt Freed to Chief Operating Officer as the organization continues to expand its operations. Freed has been a leader within Wainwright […]
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 […]
PortAventura World and Vekoma create WeRiseUp, a new company to develop mixed reality experiences

PortAventura World and Vekoma have reached an agreement to drive the creation of WeRiseUp, a new independent company spun off from Adventure Labs by PortAventura World. The resort’s digital innovation unit is evolving into a studio specialising in mixed reality, with the aim of scaling the technology developed and validated at PortAventura Park over recent […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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, […]
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 […]
Michigan’s Parks and Rec Spring Carnival features T.J. Schmidt & Company midway
T.J. Schmidt & Company, Standish, Michigan, was the midway provider at the April 29 to May 3 Parks and Rec Spring Carnival in Wyoming, Michigan. Cool weather greeted guests on the Friday of the event, highlighted in the accompanying photos. Complete event details to appear in an upcoming issue of Amusement Today.
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 […]
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: […]
EXTRA! EXTRA! The May 2026 issue is now available!

In this issue:
PortAventura World and Hard Rock International seal an agreement to open Hard Rock Cafe PortAventura

PortAventura World has announced a landmark agreement with the iconic hospitality and entertainment brand Hard Rock International to open a new Hard Rock Cafe at the entrance of PortAventura Park this summer. Hard Rock Cafe PortAventura will become the first Hard Rock Cafe located within a theme park resort in Europe, offering guests a unique opportunity to enhance their visit with […]
Six Flags Great Adventure welcomes Mike Fehnel as park president

JACKSON, N.J. — Six Flags Great Adventure today announced Mike Fehnel as Park President of Six Flags Great Adventure, Wild Safari and Hurricane Harbor New Jersey, bringing more than 30 years of amusement industry experience to one of the company’s flagship destinations. Fehnel began his career as a seasonal associate in 1992 and has since […]
Six Flags reintroduces Park Presidents at 10 key properties to strengthen local leadership and enhance guest experience

DALLAS, Texas — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) today announced the reintroduction of park presidents at 10 of the company’s key properties. The change is part of a new operating structure designed to better support the unique needs of each park and strengthen performance across the company’s portfolio. It reinforces Six Flags’ commitment to […]
Eastern States Exposition welcomes Samantha Sawyer to the marketing team

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Samantha Sawyer of Middlefield, Mass., has started a full-time venture as brand creative coordinator at Eastern States Exposition (ESE). In this role, she will serve as the primary graphic designer for ESE and support the digital content manager by creating standout photos, videos and multimedia assets for social, digital ads and […]
Fort Wayne Zoo to be featured on The Kelly Clarkson Show on April 21

FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne Zoo is thrilled to be featured on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” airing April 21 on NBC. Please check for your local listing for scheduled air times. In the segment “What I’m Liking” the Zoo’s Teens for Nature Program will step into the spotlight, sharing how this volunteer leadership […]
Six Flags launches new, free Pre-K pass to give families a head start to summer fun

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) invites families with young children to kick off summer early with a limited-time, free Pre‑K Pass offering children ages 3 to 5 free admission for the entire season at 22 parks across North America. Available from April 22 through May 31, the free Pre‑K Pass provides unlimited visits all season long […]
Roller Coaster Museum celebrates momentous 2025

PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives (NRCMA) is proud to announce the publishing of its first-ever annual report, which is now available for free on the museum’s website: www.rollercoastermuseum.org/annual–report. The report gives readers and would-be donors an inside look at the organization, from the people behind it, the museum’s operations, upcoming […]
Air Canada becomes the official Canadian airline of Walt Disney World Resort

MONTRÉAL — Air Canada has been named the Official Canadian Airline of Walt Disney World® Resort, deepening its long-standing relationship with Disney and solidifying its status as the Canadian airline of choice for family and leisure travel. The exciting collaboration brings together two iconic brands to create even more magical and memorable travel experiences. “For so many, a trip […]
Industry veteran Pat Ternes of Chance Rides passes away

WICHITA, Kan. — It is with deep sadness that Chance Rides shares the passing of friend and colleague, Pat Ternes, who passed early this morning. Ternes was a valued member of the Chance Rides family for more than three decades. He was well known and respected not only within the company but throughout the industry. […]