LOUISVILLE, Ky. — This Valentine’s season, Kentucky Kingdom is sharing the love with guests by unveiling the full lineup of attractions and renderings of Discovery Meadow— a new $11 million family-friendly land. As part of the $25 million investment over the next two seasons, Discovery Meadow will open to the public on May 10, 2025. The new land features six acres dedicated to family fun with a Kentucky twist and includes three new attractions, 24 new and re-themed experiences, and its very own character. Guests can look forward to more fun and more ways to make memories worth repeating in an atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of Kentucky.
Three Brand-New Family Rides:
- Redbird Racer – Spin and swoop aboard a vibrant cardinal defending its home.
Get ready to dash through the trees on our new swinging family ride inspired by one of Kentucky’s famous flyers. This ride promises an exciting adventure for guests of all ages.
- Scout’s Squirrel Race – Playful squirrels chase the ultimate prize—a giant acorn.
Bounce around on our new family ride nestled in the lush gardens of the new land. This experience highlights one of nature’s most diligent and resourceful foragers, promising fun for the entire family.
- Cumberland Express – A whimsical garden train adventure wrapped in vines.
Hop aboard our family-friendly train that winds through the wilderness. Spot and hear the furry friends who call this beautiful landscape home as you embark on this delightful journey!
More Comfort, More Fun:
- Shaded 4,800 square foot playground – The perfect cool-down spot for explorers of all ages.
- Two refreshed eateries plus a brand-new Dippin’ Dots cart.
- More seating & shade – Relax and recharge with added comfort.
- Games Garden – Classic yard game fun with a Kentucky twist.
- Two refurbished restrooms.
- Two new retail locations
Discovery Meadow will also feature four “wow” moments offering fans photo ops to capture the beauty of the new land. Of course, Discovery Meadow wouldn’t be complete without its newest character, Scout the Squirrel.
“Discovery Meadow is the most exciting addition to Kentucky Kingdom in years, and we can’t wait for families to experience this incredible land,” said Sarah Worrell, General Manager of Kentucky Kingdom. “From brand-new rides to reimagined favorites, interactive play areas, and surprises at every turn, Discovery Meadow is designed to spark family joy, adventure, and connection like never before. It’s a true celebration of Kentucky’s beauty and spirit—bigger, bolder, and more immersive than anything we’ve ever done.”
Discovery Meadow is just the beginning. Following its opening, more details will be shared about plans for $14 million worth of improvements in 2026.
Discovery Meadow and Kentucky Kingdom Theme and Water Park officially opens May 10, 2025, but Season Passholders will get an exclusive first look on May 9.
FARMINGDALE, N.Y. — Adventureland announced it will be freezing its prices— without freezing the fun! Long Island’s most popular amusement park, offering family fun for everyone since 1962, is offering more value this year, and for the same ticket prices as last year. The park is freezing its admission rates, group rates, season pass rates, and birthday party rates at the same prices from the 2024 season.
“At a time when everything around us is going up, we are proud and excited to be able to provide our guests this price freeze on admission,” said Jeanine Gentile, Adventureland Park Manager.“We are still making additions to the park, so you will definitely see some great changes for this upcoming season. But one thing that will not be changing is the admission prices for the 2025 season!”
The price freeze is not the only exciting news from Adventureland. For the first time, the amusement park is offering payment plans through FlexPay for online orders of $100 or more. This brand-new option will allow visitors to book tickets and purchase season passes online—now—and conveniently pay over time. Daily tickets and season passes are currently available for purchase online. For full details please visit https://adventureland.us/?keyword=Tickets
Last year, Adventureland announced plans for a multi-year, five-phase $15 million redevelopment. Now currently in phase 2, the amusement park promises a ‘Bigger and Better’ 2025 season, which includes two new outdoor games: ‘Wave Blaster’ and ‘Jungle Run.’ Additionally, plans are in place to install three new concession stands and a third restroom facility. Especially exciting is the highly-anticipated new family ride, ‘Wave Twister,’ scheduled to open this spring.
The opening weekend of the 2025 season will be March 22nd and 23rd. For more details, visit Adventureland.us.
Fairs and festivals industry advocate and advisor, Greater Ohio Showmen’s Association (GOSA) is celebrating 75 years of impactful leadership in 2025. The non-profit organization, 455 members strong, represents the enterprises of modern midways at fairs and festivals across the State of Ohio.
The Ohio Concessionaires Association was established in 1950, changing its name to GOSA in 1953 to serve the growing community of food, rides, and game businesses on the modern midway. As Bill Sterling, GOSA president notes, “we have achieved a significant impact over the years for our members and the industry in Ohio, and nationally too.”
GOSA spearheaded initiatives creating the Ohio Amusement Ride Safety Advisory Council, and the first Rider Responsibility Law in the United States. Recognizing the value of the Association’s leadership, State regulators have awarded GOSA two seats on the Advisory Council. In addition, GOSA is represented on the Ohio Food Services Advisory Board, and the Ohio Game Rule Advisory Board.
“Our fairs and festivals are the showcases of the agriculture industry, where families look forward to creating new memories each year,” said Brian Baldridge, Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. “Ohio’s ride safety regulations are among the strongest in the country, which help ensure a safe experience for fairgoers. ODA commends the Association for their strong industry representation, dedication and focus on safety.”
Howard Call, Director of the Ohio Fair Managers Association, echoes the sentiment noting, “GOSA is an indispensable partner given everything they bring to the table, and we anticipate continuing our strong relationship going forward.” “Our amusement industry is evolving every year with more sophisticated rides, menus, food options and staffing challenges,” Bill Sterling observes, adding, “We need to leverage our advisory affiliations, and continue to work in concert with our members, government, and industry partners advocating for common sense regulation to achieve efficient operations while staying on our toes to meet every challenge.” Sterling concludes, ” And we will, as we have done for the past 75 years.”
AGAWAM, Mass. — Six Flags New England, the region’s largest theme park, is hiring more than 2,000 part-time and seasonal employees for the 2025 season. The company’s “Rapid Hiring Program” provides an expedited online option for interested applicants. Job seekers are encouraged to visit sixflagsjobs.com to apply and complete interview questions remotely. The Rapid Hiring Program offers convenience, speed, efficiency and flexibility for those wanting to apply and interview from the comfort of their home or mobile device.
“We’re excited to begin our hiring season which makes us that much closer to the start of Six Flags New England’s 25th year and the highly anticipated launch of Quantum Accelerator,” said Richie Pizzale, human resources manager. “Our wide array of positions allow us to match an applicant’s skills and career goals to the right position. And our efficient hiring process ensures that applicants can complete everything, including paid training, quickly and start earning money.”
The park will also offer an onsite, in-person hiring event during National Hiring Week Feb. 15 through 17.
On-Site Hiring Event
- WHERE: Six Flags New England Human Resources, 1756 Main Street, Agawam, MA 01001.
- WHEN:
- Saturday, Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Sunday, Feb. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Monday, Feb. 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- APPLICATION: Applicants are encouraged to apply at sixflagsjobs.com prior to attending the hiring event to expedite the interview process.
Six Flags New England will be hiring for all positions, including rides, lifeguards, food and beverage, admissions, entertainment, retail, park service/cleanliness team, EMT/paramedics, security and a variety of other exciting positions.
Team Member Benefits/Need to Know Information
- Positions start at $15.00/hr. with select positions at $15.75/hr. with flexible schedules, a fun atmosphere, free park admission for team members and their friends, in-park discounts, scholarships and the opportunity to gain valuable customer service skills.
- With more than 100 attractions and New England’s largest water park, Hurricane Harbor, there are a variety of positions to match every skill set.
- Interested applicants must be at least 16 years old.
During the 2025 season, employees will be among the first to experience Six Flags New England’s exciting, new coaster: Quantum Accelerator. This cutting-edge coaster will be the park’s 12th and the first dual-launch straddle coaster in New England, offering an exhilarating blend of high-speed excitement and captivating steampunk adventure.
“At Six Flags, fun is serious business. We welcome and celebrate the diverse workforce we assemble each year to serve our guests and are incredibly proud to be a place where people can make friends and make a difference,” Pizzale added.
Six Flags New England opens for the season April 5. Interested candidates will not want to miss out on an incredible opportunity to work at Six Flags New England and are encouraged to apply online at jobs.sixflags.com.
Universal Epic Universe portals will emerge upon Super Bowl LIX viewers screens this Sunday night. As part of the highly anticipated commercials that will air, Universal Orlando Resort is debuting a new ad featuring the worlds of SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, Dark Universe and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic located inside Universal Orlando’s fourth theme park – Universal Epic Universe – opening on May 22.
Viewers will be able to see the spot right after the big game and just before the official trophy ceremony, leaving viewers saying, “You’ve got to see this!”
SAN SEBASTIAN — For over ten years, the Spanish company has been dedicated to researching and developing advanced wave-generation technologies, creating sustainable and profitable surf lagoons to deliver perfect waves and beach experiences anywhere. Its patented technology and robust business model have become one of the main attractions for new real estate and leisure developments.
As a result, Wavegarden is currently the company with the most operational surf parks worldwide. To date, it has nine facilities across four continents that have attracted over 2 million visitors and generated more than 35 million waves. Additionally, 10 projects are currently under construction, set to open between 2025 and 2026, with another 50 projects in development.
In this context, the company highlights in its video “Why Wavegarden?” the features and advantages that position it as a global leader:
High profitability
With an internal rate of return (IRR) over 20%, each facility has proven profitable. This success has inspired several clients to open additional facilities and consolidate their growth.
A globally patented system
The Wavegarden Cove wave-generation technology, patented worldwide, represents an unprecedented technological breakthrough. Capable of producing up to 1,000 waves per hour, the system ensures the greatest variety, quality, and quantity of waves on the market, with minimal energy and water consumption.
Maximum energy efficiency
Wavegarden Cove is the most efficient and sustainable wave generator on the market, consuming only 0.3 to 1.0 kWh per wave, depending on its size and power – 10 times less than equivalent pneumatic systems. This energy efficiency can save between $2 million and $3 million USD annually. Furthermore, thanks to its low energy consumption, it is the only surf lagoon technology capable of being fully powered by solar energy produced on-site.
The highest surfer capacity
With a capacity of over 90 surfers simultaneously in the lagoon, our surfer capacity to lagoon size ratio is up to 4 times more than other surfing lagoons. Economically, this nearly triples revenue generation from the surf lagoon alone while benefiting other surrounding business units such as hospitality, accommodation, surf schools, and retail shops.
Waves for all skill levels
Wavegarden offers the most extensive wave menu on the market, featuring over 20 types of waves tailored to beginners, intermediate, advanced, and expert surfers.
Over 20 years of lifespan
The Wavegarden Cove has a lifespan exceeding 20 years, with a proven reliability rate of 99.9%. Its robust machinery ensures uninterrupted operation during use. Thanks to continuous technological evolution, Wavegarden delivers the best surfing experience outside the ocean. It provides a space for sports, fun, and leisure, while fostering a healthy and active lifestyle.
CARLSBAD, Calif. — Hold onto your hard hats! The cutest construction crew EVER has arrived at LEGOLAND California Resort! A team of LEGO sized builders, equipped with boundless energy and LEGO DUPLO bricks, was hard at work placing the final bricks in the world’s first-ever LEGO DUPLO themed hotel rooms at LEGOLAND Hotel, officially opening for stays Feb. 15.
The little helpers didn’t just come to play, they used their little hands to help prepare the rooms by bringing DUPLO bricks in kid-sized dump trucks and wheelbarrows, all while taking dance breaks in the Hotel’s disco elevators. Designed especially for toddlers ages 18 months to 5 years, these jungle themed rooms will feature the colorful DUPLO bricks, perfect for the littlest hands to build whatever they can imagine!
What awaits inside the world’s first LEGO DUPLO Hotel rooms?
- A Jungle Jamboree: Vivid colors and playful DUPLO animal décor, including larger-than-life giraffes, curious koalas and playful penguins to create an immersive jungle experience
- Separate Sleeping Area For Kids: Bunk beds and a trundle bed ensure sweet dreams for little safari adventurers
- Building Zone: DUPLO® bricks in each room provide endless building fun
- Interactive Surprises: Hidden features and playful elements will keep tiny hands and minds engaged, including an in-room treasure chest with daily scavenger hunt prizes!
Ready to book your wild adventure? Families can snag their stay in these one-of-a-kind LEGO DUPLO rooms starting today! If you’re looking to make your stay the ultimate toddler adventure, LEGOLAND California is offering a special deal perfect for a first sleepover! For a limited time, families can grab $39 kids’ tickets with the purchase of an adult ticket. This incredible offer gives access to the Park’s SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND California, which features more than 60 rides, shows and attractions, including the exciting new Dino Valley. Plus, families can extend the fun with a sleepover at LEGOLAND Hotel or LEGOLAND Castle Hotel and save up to 30%! Tickets have limited availability and are for purchase now through March 14, 2025, for visits through March 14, 2025.
MUNICH, Germany — Maurer Rides has become the first roller coaster manufacturer worldwide to receive the prestigious B Corp certification. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to social responsibility, environmental consciousness, and sustainable business practices. Maurer Rides CEO Jörg Beutler stated: “We pursued B Corp certification to better structure our diverse sustainability efforts and identify further areas for improvement. Sustainability is a personal priority for me, and I firmly believe that everyone benefits from it – our company and employees, our customers, and society as a whole.”
What is B Corp?
The B Corp certification is awarded by the nonprofit organization B Lab and certifies that companies meet the highest standards in social responsibility, environmental sustainability, transparency, and corporate governance. Maurer Rides has undergone this rigorous certification process, demonstrating that economic success and responsible action can go hand in hand. Currently, there are over 9,000 B Corp companies worldwide, with just over 100 located in Germany.
A Milestone for the Amusement Industry
With this certification, Maurer Rides is setting a strong precedent for the future of the amusement industry. Traditionally, the manufacturing of amusement rides involves high resource consumption. As a B Corp, Maurer Rides is committed to continuously improving its environmental footprint – whether through sustainable material sourcing, energy-efficient products, or resource-saving designs.
Taking Responsibility Beyond the Ride
Maurer Rides aims to take responsibility – for the environment, for social justice, and for ethical business conduct. The B Corp certification underscores that the company is not only developing innovative roller coasters but also actively working towards a more sustainable and just world.
A Role Model for the Industry
Maurer Rides’ B Corp certification can serve as an inspiration for the entire amusement industry. Through sustainable innovations and responsible entrepreneurship, the company strengthens its position as a pioneer in the field, setting new standards for a more sustainable future in the amusement park sector.
SANDUSKY, Ohio — Cedar Point’s record-breaking Siren’s Curse tilt roller coaster is one step closer to bringing even more happy screams to the famed amusement park destination. Crews today lifted the ride’s signature element – the tilt track – to the highest point on the roller coaster. This 45-ton, 61-foot-long section of track is the ride’s signature terrifying element, teetering the coaster’s train into a 90-degree vertical position before locking into place and releasing riders into the 2,966 feet of twisting track below.
Siren’s Curse is North America’s tallest, fastest and longest tilt roller coaster and joins Cedar Point’s ultimate collection of 19 roller coasters. Bringing the lore and legend of the mythical Lake Erie siren to life, Siren’s Curse lures its riders with on-board audio and dynamic LED lighting, immersing them into an adrenaline-pumping multi-sensory ride experience. Siren’s Curse is scheduled to open in early summer.
ORLANDO — Falcon’s Creative Group, a division of Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. (Nasdaq: FBYD) (“Falcon’s” or the “Company”), a visionary leader in innovative and immersive storytelling, kicked off its year-along 25th anniversary celebration with high honors and a special proclamation from Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings.
In recognition of Falcon’s Creative Group’s pioneering spirit, growth and contributions as one of the world’s leading firms in themed entertainment and master planning, February 1st has officially been proclaimed Falcon’s Beyond Day in Orange County, Florida.
Amid a standing room only of roughly 200 Falcon’s employees and community partners, Mayor Demings read the proclamation aloud to Falcon’s Beyond CEO Cecil D. Magpuri and praised him for starting his business in Orlando and continuing to invest in the local economy.
“Falcon’s Creative Group and Falcon’s Beyond have extended their leadership beyond the entertainment sector to being a valued member of the Orange County community, contributing to the local economy, earning Falcon’s distinction as Orlando’s second “Unicorn” company, a rare accomplishment that underscores its value and impact on the global stage,” said Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings. “Falcon’s Creative Group has been an incubator for innovation by bringing jobs and opportunities to local talent in supporting local businesses, and fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and inspiration.”
A homegrown Orlando company located in the theme park capital of the world, Falcon’s Creative Group has sparked innovation since its inception in 2000, when it was founded as Falcon’s Treehouse by CEO Cecil D. Magpuri and his wife Marty. Drawing from Cecil’s extensive creative experience in themed entertainment and attractions development with Universal Creative and Iwerks Entertainment, the business evolved into Falcon’s Creative Group in 2014 to include design, digital media, and licensing divisions. Fast-forward to the present, Falcon’s Creative Group has successfully designed and delivered over $120 billion worth of themed experiences around the world in 27 countries.
Upon receiving the proclamation, Cecil expressed much gratitude to everyone who has helped Falcon’s grow as a Company and thanked Mayor Demings, the Orlando Economic Partnership and other community partners for making Orange County a wonderful place to live, work and play.
“I’m so proud to be an Orlando-based company and I wouldn’t think of having our headquarters any place else,” said Cecil D. Magpuri, CEO of Falcon’s Beyond.
Known for its simply masterful work, Falcon’s Creative Group is a creative design firm that specializes in master planning, attraction & experiential design, project management, development of content, interactives, software, and technologies. As a dedicated, trusted and highly collaborative creative partner, Falcon’s prides itself on delivering visually spectacular and iconic work that can be enjoyed in theme parks, zoos, aquariums, location-based entertainment venues, themed restaurants and shops, resorts and more.
Over the past 25 years, Falcon’s talented team of creative directors, writers, designers, illustrators, producers, and programmers have brought some of the most well-known intellectual properties in the world to life. Client and IP collaborators over the years include Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Qiddiya Investment Company, Atlantis, Marvel, National Geographic, NASA, AT&T, Lego, Hard Rock, Formula 1, Lionsgate, Cartoon Network, Herschend Live, 343 Industries, and many more.
