The wait is over! Sacoa Cashless System invites all IAAPA Expo 2024 attendees to visit booth #606 where the company has officially unveiled five groundbreaking products and solutions designed to revolutionize the entertainment industry.

From today to November 22, Sacoa’s booth will showcase cutting-edge innovations designed to take FECs to new heights. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to experience these technologies first-hand, guided by Sacoa’s experts in cashless solutions. Learn about the new K5 Kiosk, Redemption Kiosk, KwikPay, Redemption 2, and Time Tracker.

Don’t miss your chance to see the future of entertainment technology in action and learn how Sacoa can help increase your profits! Visit Sacoa’s booth, #606, today!

HENRICO, Va. and ORLANDO, Fla. — Infinite Acquisitions Partners LLC (“Infinite”) today announced it has entered into a nonbinding letter of intent (“LOI”) with Oceaneering International, Inc. (“OII”) for Infinite to acquire Oceaneering Entertainment Systems (OES) from OII through an acquisition of assets. In addition, Infinite and Falcon’s Beyond Global, Inc. (Nasdaq: FBYD) (“Falcon’s Beyond”), a visionary leader in innovative and immersive storytelling through Falcon’s Creative Group, Falcon’s Beyond Destinations  and Falcon’s Beyond Brands, today announced that they have entered into a nonbinding LOI for Falcon’s Beyond to operate OES.  Infinite is a major stockholder of Falcon’s Beyond.

OES, the entertainment focused arm of OII, has been an industry leader in developing complex ride and show systems for over 25 years. OES is an award-winning pioneer of entertainment systems and show equipment and a trusted provider to the world’s top theme park developers and operators.

OES and Falcon’s Beyond have collaborated on themed entertainment projects globally for more than two decades. If the transactions proceed, Infinite, as the owner of OES, would tap Falcon’s Beyond’s expertise to operate OES, including its development and support of trackless ride vehicles, flying theaters and beyond. Falcon’s Beyond would seek to employ key OES staff in operating OES.

“We are excited about the opportunity to own and grow OES,” said Lucas Demerau, President of Infinite.  “We believe that Falcon’s expertise in experiential themed entertainment and technology makes them a great fit and they’ll be able to operate and further amplify the OES brand.”

“We are thrilled to pursue the opportunity to operate OES and to build upon OES’ legacy of innovation powered by world-class employees,” said Cecil D. Magpuri, CEO of Falcon’s Beyond. “This strategic move would further bolster Falcon’s Beyond’s platform as a world-class entertainment provider.”

“Falcon’s innovative attraction development and storytelling prowess make it an ideal operator of OES,” said Dave Mauck, Vice President and General Manager of OII. “Existing OES customers would remain customers of OES, with Falcon’s Beyond servicing the contracts and providing the same high quality and level of service that has built OES’s stellar reputation.”

The transactions involving Infinite, OII, OES and Falcon’s Beyond are subject to ongoing discussions, due diligence and the execution of binding agreements, and there is no assurance that binding agreements for the transactions will be executed.

BOTTROP-KIRCHHELLEN — The final curtain has fallen for the Halloween Horror Festival, bringing the 2024 regular season at Movie Park Germany to a close. The more than 280 monster actors not only hunted down hundreds of thousands of guests, but also a new record: Germany’s largest film and amusement park achieved a significant 9 percent increase in guests this Halloween fall compared to the previous year and even surpassed the previous record year of 2022. This makes this year’s Halloween Horror Festival the most successful in the park’s history.

Movie Park Germany also achieved a solid result for the entire regular season from March to November 2024 with visitor numbers slightly above the previous year. Before Germany’s largest film and amusement park kicks off the second event year of “Movie Park’s Hollywood Christmas” on November 29, the team is reviewing the park’s business after 202 operating days:

“The Halloween period has long been one of the most important times of the year for us and attracts many guests time and time again,” says Managing Director Thorsten Backhaus. “Nevertheless, the Halloween Horror Festival has never been as successful as in 2024. Despite the previous successes, we have been able to improve once again and are very proud of this new record.”

Merlin Entertainments, a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, has announced “Adventures Made Real”: a new, global strategic partnership with Mojang Studios, the creator of Minecraft, the best-selling video game of all time. The collaboration will bring Minecraft adventures to life in the real world through immersive and interactive entertainment attractions in fixed locations around the globe. It will create new and exciting ways to immerse yourself in the physical Minecraft world including digitally enabled real-life experiences, as well as the creation of touchpoints that will allow guests to unlock exclusive in-game content to continue their gaming journey.

Merlin will be investing in excess of £85 million ($110 million) in the first two attractions, which will be launching in the US and the UK between 2026 and 2027. This will include the development of first-of-its-kind concepts for Minecraft-themed guest accommodation, retail, and food & beverage, alongside exciting experiences – including a Minecraft-themed ride – at Merlin locations in these two countries. Longer-term, Merlin will expand these experiences to other destinations globally.

The creative collaboration and development of these cross-reality experiences between Merlin Magic Making and Mojang Studios teams will ensure authenticity in all features.

This collaboration aligns with Merlin’s strategy to engage and work with leading IP and brands across its estate, establishing successful partnerships to bring these to life in key locations across the world. This is Merlin’s first global partnership with a gaming brand.

Scott O’Neil, Chief Executive Officer of Merlin Entertainments, said: “This is a significant milestone for Merlin, which reinforces our commitment to reaching new audiences through bold and captivating concepts, and directly supports our ambitions for growth.

“Minecraft is the best-selling video game of all time, and this world-first will see fans experience its thrill and creativity in real life, at theme parks and city-centre attractions in leading tourist destinations. This initial investment is just the beginning, replicating Merlin’s tried-and-tested approach to globally launching new concepts and platforms, as we have with LEGO, Peppa Pig, Sony Pictures, CBeebies and others.

“This is an exciting opportunity for our Merlin Magic Making team, working collaboratively with Mojang Studios to bring cross-reality experiences, themed accommodation and other elements to life for the largest gaming community in the world.”

Kayleen Walters, Vice-President Franchise Development for Gaming at Microsoft, said: “Partnering with Merlin Entertainments is an incredibly exciting step for us at Mojang Studios. Merlin’s expertise in creating world-class attractions makes them the perfect partner to help us bring Minecraft to life in new and immersive ways in permanent locations around the globe.

“Our vast and diverse community is always looking for new opportunities to explore and engage with Minecraft, and we are thrilled to build touchpoints around the globe that will surprise and delight them. These new real-life Minecraft experiences will not only grow our community but also offer fans many more opportunities to immerse themselves in the world of Minecraft in ways they’ve never imagined.”

Scott and Kayleen will be speaking about the partnership – and the global rollout of these real-life experiences – at IAAPA Expo 2024 in Orlando at 4pm (EST) on Tuesday 19^th November, during a Fireside Chat session: Inspiring Minds of the Attractions Industry, chaired by IAAPA’s President, Jakob Wahl. Visit IAAPA’s website for more information.

ORLANDO — Wicked: The Experience will thrillify guests at Universal Orlando Resort when it officially opens on Saturday, November 16. The all-new immersive experience invites guests to step into the breathtaking world of Wicked before the highly anticipated Universal Pictures film hits theaters on November 22.

Located inside Universal Studios Florida just steps away from the front gate, guests can follow the yellow brick road into the fantastical Land of Oz for the unique opportunity to visit iconic Wicked locations from Shiz University to the Emerald City. Along the way, they’ll find fanciful costume and prop replicas created by the designers from the film on display, immersive photo opportunities, spectacular scenic and theming that will recreate the most memorable moments of the film and an exciting variety of new merchandise including elevated apparel, home goods, accessories, toys and more.

OTTAWA, Ontario, Canada — ProSlide is honored to announce an extraordinary collaboration with Chimelong Water Park, the world’s most-visited water park. Opening Spring 2025 in Guangzhou, China, this expansion will feature ProSlide’s leading technology and newest innovations. This project highlights ProSlide and Chimelong’s commitment to advancing water park guest experience and will strengthen Chimelong’s position as a leading water park in China and around the world.

The first complex is the world’s first Launched HydroMAGNETIC LIM Mammoth Water Coaster. ProSlide’s HydroMAGNETIC technology is the most advanced raft propulsion system in the world and is featured at leading water parks like Holiday World, Universal’s Volcano Bay, and Everland Caribbean Bay.

The second complex anchors Chimelong’s reimagined entrance pavilion. The two water rides on this complex will dominate the landscape and create breathtaking views for guests as they enter the water park. The first raft ride is an enormous Double TORNADO 60, making Chimelong the first water park in the world with three TORNADO 60s. The second raft ride features brand new water ride technology that ProSlide will be unveiling at the upcoming IAAPA Expo in Orlando.

A History of Excellence Together
ProSlide and Chimelong have partnered on several world-leading projects including two IAAPA Impact Award Winners – the ProSlide TORNADO (2007) and the ProSlide BehemothBOWL (2008).

About Chimelong Water Park
Since its opening in 2007, Chimelong Water Park has captured the hearts of millions, attracting over

2.5 million guests annually and proudly holding the title of China’s largest water park. Connected to the renowned Chimelong Paradise amusement park, it has become a beacon of innovative water- based entertainment, setting an inspiring example across the industry.

This latest expansion represents more than just an addition of new rides; it symbolizes the shared dedication of ProSlide and Chimelong to pushing the envelope in the water park experience, setting new standards of innovation and excitement.

CALVERTON, N.Y. — From soak to spray there’s water every which way beginning next summer at Splish Splash Water Park, as the park debuts an all-new water playground. Set to open for visitors in summer 2025, the new kids’ zone will welcome the tiniest of tots as the water park celebrates its 35^th summer season.

Opening in 2025 at New York’s Largest Water Park, the new kid-friendly zone will offer families more than 15 fun and silly ways to stay cool during their visit to Splish Splash. The all-new water playground will be decked out with three-pint sized water slides, six interactive spray features, five water play features, a dump bucket and fun for all to soak and spray.

“At Splish Splash, we want to make sure we are offering a variety of attractions fit for guests of all ages,” said General Manager Mike Bengtson. “This all-new water playground will offer our smallest guests pint-sized thrills during their visit with more than 15 exciting features. We can’t wait to welcome families back to the park for a splash-tastic summer.”

In addition to the new water playground, Splish Splash has a little something for everyone including more than 30 thrilling attractions like the new light and sound experience, Hyperlight, the iconic Ailen Invasion water slide and the beloved Bootlegger’s Run water coaster. Plus, next summer visitors can once again expect to enjoy a full lineup of events including Father’s Day Flop, Shark in the Park, Hero Appreciation week, Touch-a-Truck Day and more.

To celebrate the park’s 35^th season and new water playground, Splish Splash is kicking off its Black Friday Sale early. Right now, visitors can save up to $50 on Season Passes and enjoy unique perks with select passes like free parking, discounts on food, retail, H2Go and more. Those interested can also take advantage of the park’s low payment plan with monthly payments as low as $14.

The NOVEMBER IAAPA EXPO 2024 issue includes:

• New land,Tír Na nÓg, dazzles at Emerald Park
• Gillian’s Wonderland Pier shuttered, but memories it created will remain forever
• Lost Island adding Rocky Mountain Construction coaster for 2025
• Pirate ship will soon sit atop arcade roof at Playland Castaway Cove
• Hersheypark, S&S Worldwide partner for “twisted” swing into 2025
• Cedar Point, Vekoma to unleash America’s first tilt coaster in 2025
• Huangshi Dinosaur Dream Factory opens Zamperla vertical-lift coaster
• Disney Adventure, Maurer announce longest roller coaster at sea
• Universal Epic Universe sets opening date, begins ticket sales
• Story Land celebrates 70 years of family-driven smiles and fun
• Six Flags Qiddiya City rises, moving rapidly closer to completion
• Circuit of the Americas expands offerings with miniature golf
• Embed, Mr. Gatti’s Pizza reshaping business of fun in Kentucky
• Tulsa State Fair lives up to slogan, experiences “11 Days of Awesome”
• Pittsburgh event features first-ever Ferris wheel on a bridge
• 2024 North Carolina State Fair has an 11-day run filled with success
• Texas adds a new Great Wolf Lodge Resort in the Houston area
• WhiteWater West’s new Moosehorn Falls debuts at Canada’s Wonderland
• Parks survive back-to-back hurricanes, but lives changed forever
• Hotel planned as part of official resorts of Hersheypark expansion
• Rides 4 U, Fun Spot America celebrate and extend partnership
• NRCMA Museum Progress Report
• Focus On The Horizon: Sammie Schaefer of the Museum of Illusions
• Gateway introduces Galaxy 8 update, new e-commerce platform
• Precision Chains assists with chain operation, replacement needs
• Coat Your Pool provides longevity, aesthetics to splash, wave pools
• The development of ASTM Standards for the water park industry
• AIMS International announces Jim Pattison Jr. to deliver keynote
• Extreme Engineering provides comfort, safety with FLX Shade … and so much more!

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — “Episode 5 of ABC-TV’s hit series “The Golden Bachelorette” featured an extended bowling date at a Lucky Strike Lanes in Los Angeles. In this shot Joan Vassos, the Golden Bachelorette, has a heart-to-heart talk with one of her suitors. To the right of her, red as one of the Bachelorette’s signature roses, is an Intercard iTeller. It can’t offer Joan everlasting love but Intercard’s cashless technology can make it easy for her and her suitors to play a few arcade games in between takes.

The telegenic Intercard iTeller has previously appeared in an episode of “Law and Order: SVU” and a music video by Imagine Dragons.”

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort is saluting the service of active duty and retired military members with a selection of exclusive offers to experience the nonstop thrills and unparalleled excitement of the award-winning theme park destination. Military personnel and their families can purchase the exclusive 2025 Military Freedom Pass, which gives them access to Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay every day from November 14, 2024 through December 19, 2025 with limited blockout dates. Plus, this group also receives special vacation packages and discounts at Universal Orlando hotels.

2025 MILITARY FREEDOM PASS
Military members and their families can enjoy more than a year of theme park thrills with the 2-Park 2025 Military Freedom Pass. Available for $210, Freedom Pass ticketholders will receive park-to-park access to both Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure, where they can experience some of the most innovative theme park experiences ever created – including the all-new DreamWorks Land, a colorful new area featuring attractions, character meet and greets, interactive play areas and a live show inspired by DreamWorks Animation’s most beloved characters from Shrek, Trolls and Kung Fu Panda.

The 3-Park 2025 Military Freedom Pass is also available for an additional $35 and includes admission to Universal Volcano Bay water theme park, a tropical oasis where guests can enjoy a variety of relaxing and thrilling experiences, including taking in the views of a 200-foor volcano while relaxing on the sands of Waturi Beach, conquering a 125-foot drop on the Ko’okiri Body plunge and more.

The 2025 Military Freedom Pass is now available for purchase at participating sales outlets on Military Base installations throughout the United States (valid identification required). Pass blockout dates include December 25, 2024 – January 2, 2025, and April 14, 2025 – April 20, 2025. This offer cannot be purchased at the Universal Orlando Front Gate. For more information about this offer, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Military.

MILITARY VACATION PACKAGES
Military members and their families can take their Universal Orlando vacation to the next level and stay near the thrills with two vacation package options: the Military Create Your Own Vacation Package and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Military Vacation Package. Both packages come complete with the Military Freedom Pass, allowing guests to visit all year long (limited blockout dates apply).

The customizable Military Create Your Own Vacation Package includes:

• Hotel Accommodations at one of the 11 magnificent Universal Orlando hotels, including the brand-new Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel (opening May 22, 2025), Universal Stella Nova Resort (opening January 21, 2025) and Universal Terra Luna Resort (opening March 25, 2025). 
• Military Freedom Pass to visit Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and/or Universal Volcano Bay on the same day
• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Universal Volcano Bay up to one hour before they open to the general public

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Exclusive Military Vacation Package includes:

• Hotel Accommodations at one of Universal Orlando’s 11 magnificent hotels or other participating hotels
• Military Freedom Pass to visit Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure on the same day
• Early Park Admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter up to one hour before it opens to the general public
• Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Flight in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley featuring four flavors of the guest’s choosing
• Breakfast at the Leaky Cauldron in Universal Studios Florida (one per person)
• Breakfast at the Three Broomsticks in Universal Islands of Adventure (one per person)
• Special gifts, including one Honeydukes Cooler Tote and one Shutterbutton’s Photography Studio session in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley