Launch Family Entertainment announces Arlington, Texas opening on May 1
ARLINGTON, Texas — Launch Family Entertainment (Launch), a premier indoor family entertainment park, has announced the opening of its newest location in Arlington, TX, with doors set to welcome guests on Friday, May 1. Located at 4907 S Cooper St, the Arlington Launch Family Entertainment will feature a wide variety of attractions for guests of all ages, including trampolines, […]
International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) designates 10 industry leaders as Certified Fair Executives (CFE)
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The International Association of Fairs and Expositions (IAFE) is proud to announce that 10 members have been designated as Certified Fair Executives (CFE) during the 2026 IAFE Management Conference. The newly certified individuals are: The CFE designation is the highest level of professional certification offered by the IAFE. The program encourages […]
Dollywood’s resorts welcome spring with fresh blooms and flavorful bites
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Flowers blossom and flavors flourish as Dollywood’s resorts draw inspiration from Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival (April 18-June 7) and springtime in the Smokies. Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort each offer guests colorful and unique dining experiences, live entertainment and festival-influenced activities for the entire family. […]
Universal Orlando Resort prepares for exciting new experiences at Universal CityWalk — the epicenter of awesome
Universal Orlando Resort is continuing its unprecedented momentum with the upcoming debut of several new experiences at Universal CityWalk – the destination’s entertainment complex featuring delicious dining, shopping and non-stop excitement from day to night. New experiences on the way include:
Zamperla rides featured in Maple Island, Lotte World Seoul’s new family area
Vicenza / Seoul — Zamperla is proud to be part of the brand-new Maple Island area at Lotte World Soul, as the supplier of three attractions that will bring the area to life for broad family appeal. The installation builds on the ongoing relationship between Lotte World Seoul and Zamperla. It highlights how Zamperla’s broad, […]
ETF celebrates 75 years
This year, ETF marks a special milestone: its 75th anniversary. From its beginnings in 1951 as a machine manufacturer for textile and floor covering industry, ETF has grown into an international company with two strong divisions, including ETF Ride Systems, with more than 100 ride systems and 800 vehicles operating in theme parks and museums […]
Surf Farm selects Wavegarden technology for Australia’s Next Landmark Surf Park
SAN SEBASTIAN, Spain — Surf Farm, the landmark surf and lifestyle destination located at the gateway to the Sunshine Coast at the Glass House Mountains, has announced Wavegarden as its official surf technology partner. With this partnership, Wavegarden is set to add a highly anticipated new world-class complex to its global network of 12 surf […]
Dion Marketing tees up monstrous account with 39 franchise locations and growing
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Dion Marketing, a full-service marketing agency in Jacksonville, FL, has recently added Monster Entertainment to its repertoire of clients in the attractions industry. Monster Entertainment is the franchisor of Monster Mini Golf, the leader in glow-in-the-dark family entertainment with 63 total units, including new locations in development and 39 locations currently throughout […]
Vekoma Rides celebrates 100th Anniversary with launch of exclusive merchandise collection
VLODROP, The Netherlands — Rollercoaster manufacturer Vekoma Rides is celebrating a historic milestone this year: its 100th anniversary. To mark the occasion together with its fans, the company will launch the Century Collection starting April 15, an exclusive, limited‑edition merchandise collection available as a pre‑order for eight weeks only via Vekoma100years.com. Vekoma’s story began in […]
Six Flags Great America opens on April 25 for historic 50th Anniversary season
GURNEE, Ill. — Six Flags Great America officially opens for the 2026 season on April 25, launching a milestone year as the theme park celebrates 50 years of thrills, family fun and unforgettable memories. The season features a summer-long 50th Anniversary Celebration running June 20 through Aug. 9 offering special entertainment, limited-time menu items, nostalgic experiences and new reasons to celebrate […]
Go Usa Fun Park drives 25% revenue growth with Power Tee automation
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Power Tee, a global leader in automated teeing technology, today announced that GO USA Fun Park has realized a 25% increase in driving range revenue following the installation of the Power Tee system across its hitting bays. The upgrade has enhanced the guest experience and further established GO USA Fun Park as a leading destination for golf […]
AIMS International announces new board leadership and director appointments
DALLAS, Texas — AIMS International, the world leader in amusement industry safety education and certification, today announced new leadership for its Board of Directors. Randall Wilke will assume the role of Board President, Michelle Faulk will serve as Vice President, and Andrew Wheeler has been appointed to the Board of Directors. All appointments take effect April 1. Wilke succeeds Pat Hoffman, […]
Meow Wolf names Matthew Henick as chief executive officer
SANTA FE, N.M. — Meow Wolf, the immersive entertainment company that transforms art, storytelling, and technology into world-bending experiences, today announced that Matthew Henick has been named Chief Executive Officer, effective April 27, 2026. The announcement comes at a defining moment for the company: Meow Wolf is preparing to open its highly anticipated Los Angeles […]
Melby, manatee rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, returns to Florida waters after rehabilitation at SeaWorld Orlando
ORLANDO — SeaWorld Orlando, in partnership with local and state officials, successfully returned the manatee known as “Melby” to the wild in the Indian River Lagoon near Ballard Park today, after he was rescued from a storm drain in Melbourne Beach, Fla., in early February. The return drew a crowd of local officials, community members […]
Dollywood’s Public Employee Appreciation Days return to celebrate America’s Veterans, first responders and teachers
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — One of Dollywood’s long-standing promotions returns once again to honor those who work tirelessly every day to serve our country and our communities. Dollywood’s Public Employee Appreciation Days returns this spring and provides qualifying guests across the country an opportunity to buy a one-day Dollywood admission ticket online for just $59 plus […]
Star Lanes Polaris named AAMA FEC of the Year, continuing a legacy of excellence among TrainerTainment clients
FORT WORTH, Texas — TrainerTainment, a division of The GrowthPro Group, proudly announces that coaching client Star Lanes Polaris has been named FEC of the Year by the American Amusement Machine Association. Recognized at Amusement Expo International, this award honors top-performing family entertainment centers that set the standard in guest experience, operational excellence, revenue growth, […]
WhiteWater unveils signature attractions at Sun World Vũng Tàu, setting a new benchmark for Vietnam’s aquatic entertainment
VUNG TAU, Vietnam — Rising along Vietnam’s southern coastline, Sun World Vũng Tàu is making waves as one of the country’s largest and most ambitious beachfront entertainment destinations. At its core is Aqua Adventure Water Park, where the global leading water park designer and manufacturer WhiteWater delivered a lineup of stellar attractions that anchor the park’s […]
AAMA meets with legislators on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC
CARY, Ill. — On Wednesday, March 4, AAMA members met with 10 congressional offices as well as representatives from the House Ways and Means Committee to share and seek solutions to several challenges facing the Amusement Industry. The AAMA members in attendance represented a cross section from the industry and included: They met with five […]
TEA to bring themed entertainment industry together at Liseberg
BURBANK, Calif. — The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) is excited to announce the reschedule of the 2026 TEA SATE EME conference which will now take place 6-9 July in Gothenburg, Sweden. The incredible event will be hosted by Liseberg, one of the most iconic theme parks in the world. “SATE program is a core experience for our members, […]
EXTRA! EXTRA! The April 2026 issue is now available!
In this issue:
Universal Studios Hollywood introduces its all-new dining pass inviting guests to enjoy its culinary creations with a selection of entrées, snacks and beverages for maximum value
UNIVERSAL CITY, Calif. — Universal Studios Hollywood introduces its all-new Dining Pass, offering guests a convenient and flexible way to enjoy meals and snacks throughout their theme park visit for a single price. The Dining Pass, available now, can be purchased on site or online. The new Dining Pass serves up a menu of curated items, including […]
S&S Worldwide celebrates Nutcracker opening at Lagoon
LOGAN, Utah — S&S Worldwide (S&S) is thrilled to celebrate the opening of Nutcracker at Lagoon. The newest Screamin’ Swing has been opened at the manufacturer’s home park, and the employees couldn’t be happier. “I am so excited about this ride,” says Project Manager, Steve Johnson. “Being able to build a ride so close to […]
Accesso acquires Dexibit, establishing the first cross platform AI and analytics platform for visitor attractions
ORLANDO — accesso Technology Group (AIM: ACSO), the leading global technology provider to leisure, entertainment and cultural markets, today announced the acquisition of DexibitLimited, the only AI and analytics platform purpose-built for the visitor attractions industry. Operators generate vast amounts of data, but it often sits in disconnected systems and takes too long to turn […]
Cinemacon gets first look at Hybrid Impulse Plus Reader from Intercard
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the world leader in cashless technology for the amusement industry, will exhibit at the cinema industry’s CinemaCon 2026 at Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas from April 13-15. Account executive Joe Guccione will be at booth 732J to showcase Intercard’s cashless payment systems for use in cinemas. Featured this year is Intercard’s new hybrid […]
2026 Amusement Expo International a winner in Las Vegas
Buoyed by a move of this year’s AEI to the state-of-the-art West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and a new headquarters hotel—Resorts World—the energy and excitement levels spilled over to the exhibit hall, education program and everything in between! Here’s a closer look at AEI numbers this year: Show Floor Expo registration statistics […]
National Roller Coaster Museum completes restoration of retired Six Flags Great America coaster car
PLAINVIEW, Texas — The National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA) is proud to announce the completed retro-restoration of its lead vehicle from Iron Wolf, the debut coaster from legendary manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard (B&M). “The stand-up coaster concept was one of the most innovative designs of its time,” said Pete Owens, President of the NRCMA. […]
Guests can take the Dollywood Parks & Resorts fun home with officially licensed Monopoly game
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dollywood Parks & Resorts guests looking to bring a piece of Tripadvisor’s #1 U.S. theme park home now have a fun new way to do it! The MONOPOLY: Dollywood Edition, under license from Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, is now available for purchase at several retail locations across the […]
Amusement Entertainment Management Client Wins 2026 FEC of the Year
Star Lanes Polaris of Columbus, Ohio proudly accepted The American Amusement Machine Association’s (AAMA) 2026 Family Entertainment Center Location of the Year Award during the AAMA President’s Ceremony held at Amusement Expo in Las Vegas, March 18, 2026. Brothers Doug & Jeff Mechling, owners of Star Lanes Polaris, began their journey in 2013, opening a […]
Merlin joins forces with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Triotech to bring the world of Jumanji to life at Madame Tussauds
Merlin Entertainments – a world leader in branded entertainment destinations – today announces four new locations across its global estate where the World of Jumanjj is being crafted into an immersive ride for guests to enjoy. Using Triotech’s XD Dark Ride platform, a new interactive Jumanji-themed experience will be on offer to guests visiting Madame Tussauds locations […]
Wavegarden partners with Surf Eye to launch the next generation of CheckMySurf
SAN SEBASTIAN, Spain — Wavegarden, the global leader in the surf park sector, has partnered with Surf Eye, a leading provider of AI video technology systems, to power the evolution of CheckMySurf, Wavegarden’s proprietary coaching and automated video technology. This partnership not only elevates the surfing experience and accelerates skill progression but also drives lagoon […]
Six Flags Great Escape prepares for major hiring event this weekend
QUEENSBURY, N.Y. — Six Flags Great Escape Resort is gearing up for the 2026 season with an onsite, in-person hiring event Saturday, March 28. The park seeks more than 1,500 part-time and seasonal employees for the 2026 season. Job seekers can apply in person at the Human Resources office March 28. Those with internet access are encouraged to […]
Arcade Time named Best New Arcade in the U.S. in national design awards
ORLANDO — Arcade Time Entertainment (Arcade Time) in Orlando, Florida, has been named Best New Arcade in the U.S. in the 41st Annual Bowling Center Architecture and Design Awards, presented by Bowling Center Management (BCM) magazine. The award highlights the center’s high-energy atmosphere, immersive attractions, and the central role bowling plays in its rapidly expanding success. Open 24 hours […]
Tag 4 A Cause benefits the National Domestic Violence Hotline
A Tag 4 A Cause night was recently held at Lazertag Extreme in Simi Valley, CA to benefit the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Laser tag players of all ages took part by making donations directly to the cause, enjoying special format laser tag games and participating in a high score trophy challenge throughout the event. […]
Embed celebrates innovation, industry excellence, and growth at Amusement Expo 2026
DALLAS, Texas — Following the global debut of Embed Al and the Embed Ecosystem at IAAPA Expo 2025, Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, brought its next generation of Al-enabled solutions to the North American market at Amusement Expo International 2026. Powered by infrastructure from Amazon […]
Intercard brings integration with GoTab POS to Bar And Restaurant Show 2026
ST. LOUIS — Intercard, the leader in cashless technology for the amusement industry, will be at the Bar & Restaurant Show in Las Vegas on March 24 – 25, 2026. Intercard arcade experts Todd DeMott and Joe Guccione will showcase the latest products at booth #1324 including integration with the popular GoTab platform for bars and […]
Dollywood Parks & Resorts hiring events scheduled for this week
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — With the excitement of spring upon us, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has scheduled two additional hiring events to take place this week for those ready to join the award-winning team! The 2026 season is the perfect time to make Dollywood home, thanks to exciting perks—including 100% free tuition, competitive wages, free lunch […]
Celebtrate the winners — Recognizing achievement. Amplifying impact. Thank you, AEI community.
This year’s Amusement Expo International wasn’t just about what’s next for our industry—it was about recognizing the people and companies who set new standards and lead by example. Please join us in congratulating this year’s outstanding AAMA and AMOA award recipients, who continue to raise the bar for excellence: AAMA Award Honorees: AAMA Hall of […]
Fire destroys T.J. Schmidt & Company maintenance building; carnival to open on schedule
STANDISH, Mich. — Fire destroyed one of the maintenance facilities of T.J. Schmidt & Company on Thursday, March 12. No injuries were reported. The Schmidt and Burtch families, operators of the carnival company, posted an online statement which – in part- said: “We would like to sincerely thank all of you who reached out following […]
Canton Family Fun Center assets head to public online auction
CANTON, Mich. — A unique opportunity is coming to market to the general public as all assets from The Tailgate Garage Entertainment Center in Canton, Michigan will be sold through a public online auction conducted by Orbitbid.com, Inc. The liquidation is being conducted per order of a secured creditor, offering a complete dispersal of a fully […]
International Rides Management makes late 2025 donations to needy causes
International Rides Management (IRMRides.com) now based in Somers Point, NJ, recently relocating from longtime home of Wildwood, NJ recently closed their financial books on the 2025 season, and made some community-based donations. First Baptist Church in Wildwood, NJ received $750 towards the cost of their recent roof replacement. The ASPCA and the Cape May County […]
Dutch Wonderland welcomes Spring with Eggcellent Celebration & all-new Inn
LANCASTER, Pa. — A full season is hopping back in at Dutch Wonderland as the World’s Best Family Park gears up to swing open the park gates on Saturday, March 28. This year, the festivities begin with the fourth annual Eggcellent Celebration featuring spring décor throughout the park, festive food and beverage options, and visits from everyone’s favorite […]
Parks and Resorts launches search for new Group CEO
Parks and Resorts Scandinavia, Sweden’s largest amusement and wildlife park group – operating Gröna Lund, Kolmården, Furuvik, and Skara Sommarland – has initiated the recruitment process for a new Group CEO. Current CEO Christer Fogelmarck will assume the role of CEO at Visita. The search for his successor is already underway and is being led […]
Make a splash this summer: Splish Splash to hire 1,000 hosts for 2026 season
CALVERTON, N.Y. —The unofficial kick off to summer is less than 70 days. Splish Splash, New York’s Largest Water Park, is gearing up for Opening Day on Saturday, May 23. To celebrate more than 35 seasons of Long Island fun, the park is looking for 1,000 motivated hosts to join the park’s award-winning team for the 2026 […]
Six Flags Great Escape Resort launches 2026 hiring season
QUEENSBURY, N.Y. –– Six Flags Great Escape Resort is hiring more than 1,500 part-time and seasonal employees for the 2026 season. Job seekers are encouraged to visit jobs.sixflags.com to apply and complete interview questions remotely or in person at the Human Resources office. “At Six Flags Great Escape Resort, team members do more than fill a role, they help […]
Silver Dollar City ‘Crowns’ Resort, unveils exclusive details
OZARK MOUNTAINS, Mo. — Silver Dollar City officially “crowned” its newest chapter today, lifting the final rooftop beacon into place at the Silver Dollar City Resort and unveiling an unprecedented look inside the destination property. The design combines the natural beauty of the Ozarks with the company’s signature craftsmanship, character and charm. The heartfelt ceremony […]
Dolly Parton kicks off adventurous 2026 season at Dollywood, details upcoming attraction and events
PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — Dolly Parton welcomed season passholders and members of the media to the first day of Dollywood’s 41st season during a special media event today, setting high expectations for what will be the Smoky Mountain theme park’s most exciting year yet. With a brand-new, one-of-a-kind attraction set to open later this spring, the inaugural […]
Beth Bowen, former NEAAPA Secretary/Treasurer and Hall of Fame Member, passed away
On Wednesday, March 11, former Whalom Park owner and manager, former NEAAPA Secretary/Treasurer and Hall of Fame member along side her husband John, Beth Bowen passed away peacefully at home. Beth started working at Whalom Park in 1976, handling promotions, advertising, and public relations. She was named General Manager of the park on 1996. She […]
Six Flags announces strategic partnership with NFL legend Travis Kelce
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) today announced a new strategic partnership with NFL legend and three-time Super Bowl champion Travis Kelce, under which he will serve as a brand ambassador for North America’s largest regional amusement park operator. The partnership unites one of the NFL’s most dynamic and influential personalities with Six […]
Enchanted Parks selects Vantage to unify systems across all eight parks and drive guest engagement
VANCOUVER, Canada — Enchanted Parks, the newly formed entity backed by EPR Properties, who acquired 6 Six Flags parks to create a total portfolio of eight parks across the US, today announced the selection of Vantage as its enterprise-wide guest engagement and unification platform. The deployment, spanning all eight Enchanted Parks venues, represents one of […]
Universal Orlando Resort makes a splash this summer as Universal Volcano Bay Nights, the exclusive after-hours event, returns on select nights May 3 through August 21
ORLANDO — This summer, Universal Volcano Bay Nights returns to Universal Orlando Resort on select nights from May 3 through August 21 – inviting guests to enjoy an exclusive party after dark at the breathtaking water theme park, complete with special in-park experiences, an exclusive menu, access to Volcano Bay’s most popular attractions, and more. The limited-capacity, […]