NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES — RWS Global, the world’s leader in live moments across entertainment and sports, and OneTeam Partners, the commercial partner to numerous Players Associations and thousands of elite athletes, today announced a strategic partnership to reimagine the fan experience at sports venues across North America. The organizations will seek to collaborate with teams and venues to create immersive, branded experiences before and after games, during breaks in action and throughout the year when venues would otherwise sit idle.

RWS Global will utilize their unmatched expertise in creating one-of-a-kind, immersive fan experiences to transform stadiums and arenas into bespoke, seasonal worlds that celebrate the unique identity of each team and its fanbase. From hair-raising Halloween haunts to enchanting winter wonderlands, RWS Global will design, build and operate live entertainment activations that captivate and inspire. OneTeam will work alongside RWS Global to engage its market-leading network of partners to secure IP rights and sponsorships that add value and dimension to every experience. 

“As a provider of premium entertainment around the world, we are thrilled to be teaming up with OneTeam Partners to bring our creative and technical expertise in building best-in-class experiences to teams and stadiums around the U.S.,” said Ryan Stana, Chairman & CEO at RWS Global. “This partnership expands what’s possible in and around sports venues, transforming downtime into unforgettable fan moments. It’s an exciting next chapter in our growth across the sports entertainment space.”  

“As OneTeam Partners enters the world of live entertainment, there’s no better collaborator than RWS Global,” said Sean Sansiveri, CEO, OneTeam. “Their industry-leading creativity and immersive design, combined with our unparalleled connection to the athlete community, unlocks bold new ways to engage fans through authentic athlete connections and deliver greater value for players, teams, leagues, and venues.”  Together, RWS Global and OneTeam will develop world-leading experiences that energize teams and leagues on a global level, turn stadiums and arenas into must-visit destinations and generate fresh new revenue opportunities throughout the year.

ORLANDO — SeaWorld celebrates 10 years of Baby Shark with today’s debut of “Happy, Happy SeaWorld!” – a vibrant new animated music video that spotlights marine life and SeaWorld’s dedication to ocean conservation. The video will stream on YouTube as part of a nationwide collaboration between SeaWorld and Pinkfong, the creators behind the global Baby Shark phenomenon, bringing the enchanting world of marine animals into the homes of children while fostering an understanding of animal care.

In this feel-good adventure, Pinkfong and Baby Shark take on the role of veterinarians, caring for adorable baby animals at SeaWorld parks. From playful otters and waddling penguins to rescued baby turtles and gentle belugas, the animation brings SeaWorld’s animal conservation and rescue mission to life through heartwarming, educational storytelling.

“We’re excited to bring this message of care, compassion and conservation to life in a fun and memorable way,” said Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Entertainment. “This video is not only fun for families, it also reflects the real work happening every day at SeaWorld to protect marine life.”

The song is now available on YouTube and will be available on Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music starting May 16, making it the perfect singalong soundtrack for kids everywhere.

Travis Lane joins Chance Rides as Project Management Director, bringing deep experience from Spirit AeroSystems. He’ll lead the company’s PM team and report to President & CEO Aaron Landrum.

NORTH RICHLAND HILLS, Texas — It’s a girl! Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, Peppa and George are celebrating the gender reveal of baby number three – marking the occasion with a picture-perfect moment surrounded by a beautiful display of pink balloons. Beginning this summer, fans are invited to meet the newest little piggy in person at PEPPA PIG Theme Park Dallas-Fort Worth and PEPPA PIG World of Play, plus PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida and PEPPA PIG World of Play locations in Michigan and Chicago. Merlin Entertainments, a global leader in location-based entertainment, in collaboration with Hasbro, a leading games, IP and toy company, are bringing this exciting development in the beloved children’s series to life with an all-new interactive character experience.

The news comes just in time for Mother’s Day, celebrating moms (and mums) everywhere, including one of the most beloved mothers in children’s television, Mummy Pig. To support growing families, PEPPA PIG Theme Park Florida will introduce designated “parent-to-be” parking spots starting in June, making visits easier and more accessible for expectant families.

PEPPA PIG Theme Parks are immersive destinations designed especially for kids six and under. Families can step into the playful world of PEPPA PIG and spend the entire day exploring gentle rides, themed play areas, live shows and character meet-and-greets. Each Park is a Certified Autism Center, offering inclusive and accessible experiences for all guests. PEPPA PIG World of Play features themed play zones, hands-on activities and character interactions, perfect for a few hours of indoor fun.

Merlin Entertainments continues to expand the PEPPA PIG brand worldwide, bringing unforgettable experiences to life for the youngest of theme park-goers. The newest PEPPA PIG experience opened in April inside LEGOLAND New York Resort. The LEGO® DUPLO® PEPPA PIG Playground merges the popular world of PEPPA PIG with the LEGO DUPLO universe in a play area spanning more than 13,000 square feet. Fans can also find PEPPA PIG branded experiences at PEPPA PIG Lands in Gardaland and Heide Park, PEPPA PIG Theme Park in Gunzberg, Germany and PEPPA PIG World of Play in Shanghai and Leidschendam.

LAS VEGAS — F1 Arcade, the world’s first official F1 experiential hospitality brand, is now accepting inquiries for private meetings and events at its upcoming flagship venue in Las Vegas. Slated to open in October 2025, F1 Arcade Las Vegas will offer a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination where world-class hospitality meets the high-octane energy of Formula 1.

Located at The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, F1 Arcade Las Vegas will span more than 21,000 square feet across two floors and feature an expansive outdoor terrace overlooking the Las Vegas Strip. It will be the largest U.S. location for F1 Arcade to date. Designed for corporate outings, social events, product launches and holiday parties, the venue delivers an immersive social racing experience with cutting-edge full-motion simulators and a vibrant, high-style environment.

F1 Arcade Las Vegas will offer several event formats, including exclusive spaces, private rooms and full buyouts for up to 600 guests. The private room, The Briefing Room, features a 19-foot bar, 23 racing simulators and dedicated dining and seating options for up to 220 guests, along with AV capabilities and an exclusive Strip-facing terrace. The venue’s largest buyout configuration includes 87 simulators, three permanent bars, one portable bar and 19 large televisions—including a 9-foot LED screen at the main bar—making it ideal for conferences, brand activations or large-scale celebrations. Private event guests will experience the thrill of competition and the joy of connection through additional games, including React, a lightning-fast reaction game used by drivers in their training, and Lights Out, where every millisecond counts in a high-pressure race start. Whether going head-to-head or cheering from the sidelines, guests will share moments of laughter, adrenaline and celebration—creating memories that last long after the checkered flag.

Signature cocktails and “Designated Drivers” mocktails concocted by Lauren Paylor “LP” O’Brien, winner of the first season of Netflix’s “Drink Masters,” complement F1 Arcade’s menu. The venue’s collection of globally inspired dishes ensures guests enjoy memorable culinary offerings along with their exhilarating competitive entertainment experience.

“F1 Arcade Las Vegas sets a new standard for private events, blending the thrill of Formula 1 with refined hospitality and cutting-edge entertainment,” said Shelley Wiliams, vice president of U.S. sales, F1 Arcade. “Whether it’s a corporate meeting or a full venue celebration, we offer a sleek, high-touch experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else.”

F1 Arcade’s Las Vegas debut will follow the success of its Boston Seaport and Washington, DC openings. With continued growth in U.S. viewership and fan engagement, the brand is planning 30 locations worldwide over the next five years, including upcoming locations in Philadelphia, Denver and Atlanta.

MARIETTA, Ga. — Six Flags White Water opens for the 2025 season this Saturday, May 10, featuring an array of enhancements designed to elevate the guest experience, including the debut of Cabana Village, a new luxury rental experience.

“Summer is officially here, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back for another season of refreshing, relaxing and reinvigorating fun,” said Lindsey Lambert, park director at Six Flags White Water. “From luxury amenities like our all-new Cabana Village to exciting culinary upgrades and enhanced attractions, guests will truly have it made in the shade this season.”

New for 2025, Cabana Village offers a premium, resort-style retreat within the park, prioritizing comfort and convenience. Each private cabana accommodates up to ten guests and includes:

• Dedicated concierge service
• Private access to Little Hooch Lazy River
• Picturesque views of the Atlanta Ocean Wave Pool
• Shaded seating, personal lockers and additional exclusive amenities

Additionally, the park is enhancing its food and beverage offerings throughout the park. Led by newly appointed executive chef, Priscilla Hamilton, highlights include handspun milkshakes, freshly baked cookies and a new signature pizza.

Military Appreciation Days, May 24 – 26
Six Flags White Water is honoring the bravery and selflessness of active and retired military personnel during Military Appreciation Days, May 24 – 26. On these select dates, all active military personnel and veterans will receive free park admission. Additionally, up to six specially discounted admission tickets can be purchased in advance online.

Free admission for active or retired military personnel may be redeemed day of and in person at the front entrance of the park. Discounted admission tickets for friends and family must be purchased in advance online at sixflags.com/whitewater. A valid military ID is required.

Six Flags White Water is open weekends, May 10 – May 18. Summer daily operation begins May 24. For more information, visit sixflags.com/whitewater.

FRISCO, Texas — Strikz Entertainment is celebrating its 20th year with an exciting party filled with retro deals, amazing prizes, and plenty of ways to enjoy two decades of strikes, spares, and smiles!

Strikz Entertainment, a cornerstone of family fun in Frisco, is thrilled to announce its 20th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, May 17. Locally owned and community-driven, Strikz invites the public to a day packed with exciting deals, contests, and community spirit as it marks two decades of entertainment excellence.

“Strikz has been proud to be a part of the Frisco community for 20 years. This celebration is our way of thanking the families, friends, and guests who have supported us every step of the way,” said Neil Farren, founder and owner of Strikz Entertainment.

Anniversary celebration includes:

• Throwback Pricing: Celebrate like it’s 2005 with retro rates—bowling for $20 per lane per hour and Arcade cards: buy a $20 card for just $10.
• Grand Prize Raffle: Guests who join onsite can enter for a chance to win Free Bowling for a Year — that’s one free game every week!
•  Social Media Contest: Snap, share, and win! Post your celebration photos with #20YearsofStrikz for a chance to win a $50 Gift Card.

Strikz will also host Community Fundraiser Days on June 1, 8 and June 15, donating 20% of daily sales to local organizations, including Frisco Flyers, Frisco Miracle League, and Stay in the Fight Veterans Foundation.

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. — What started as a small roadside attraction in 1961—a simple train ride through the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains—has now become an innovative force within the theme park industry. The attraction that now sits on that same ground has blossomed to become a place known around the world as the home of authentic family fun and memory making. Since its opening in 1986, Dollywood Parks & Resorts has grown to become a complete family destination; a beloved powerhouse within its industry, much like its namesake Dolly Parton has become to generations of fans worldwide. 

Dolly was at the park Friday to celebrate the anniversary of Dollywood’s original opening day, May 3, 1986. During an exclusive event for media and season passholders, she, alongside her Dollywood business partner Peter Herschend, as well as Dollywood Parks & Resorts President Eugene Naughton and Dolly Parton Productions’ Ted Miller, explained how their partnership came into existence and has grown in the decades since. They also shared some of their favorite moments and treasured memories from Dollywood’s 40 seasons. 

In addition to hearing from the park’s founders and executive leadership, event attendees were treated to a preview of Dollywood’s 40^th anniversary season retrospective show, “Play On,” which debuts tomorrow. Additionally, those guests left with a cupcake—a nod to Dollywood’s 1^st birthday when Dolly posed atop a giant cake—and a code to stream an exclusive new album of previously unpublished songs Dolly has written about her Dollywood theme park. Anyone can stream the music—called The Dollywood Collection: Celebrating 40 Years of Music & Memories—for free by visiting https://dolly.lnk.to/Dollywood40thAlbum.

Dolly thanked guests for their part in making Dollywood one of the most recognized and awarded parks in the world. While it may have seemed farfetched to many when they heard her 1982 interview with Barbara Walters, her dream for “’Dollywood USA,’ a fantasy city…like a mountain Disneyland” displayed a true visionary mindset that allowed her to create a family destination experience in her home county, a place she calls “one of the most wonderful places in the world.”

“I’ve always believed the Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful places God ever made, and I feel blessed to call them home. When I first dreamed of creating Dollywood, I had two simple hopes. I wanted to build a place that would bring people from all over to see the magic of the Smokies and, hopefully, fall in love with them just like I did,” Dolly said.

“And I knew that when they came, they’d meet the folks who live here and feel the kindness and hospitality that make this place so special. I think that’s why Dollywood keeps being named one of the best theme parks in the world—it’s not just the beauty of the mountains, it’s the heart of the people who welcome you here.”

Dolly’s visionary status certainly sets her among the biggest dreamers of the theme park industry. Naughton said the opportunity to work alongside the Dreamer-in-Chief is the highlight of his nearly four-decade career.

“I’m lucky to have been able to work alongside the biggest names in the industry during my career,” Naughton said. “But when I was approached with the opportunity to work with Dolly and to help her put wings on her dreams, it really was the opportunity of a lifetime. Her ability to create and dream, along with her ability to inspire others, has shown me that she really does need to be considered as one of the greatest names within our industry.” 

During the event, Dolly also shared details about a new opportunity created in partnership with the Tennessee Governor’s Faith-Based and Community Initiative and the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services to offer children in foster care a complimentary one-time visit to experience the fun of Dollywood. The offer is available to Tennessee families fostering through DCS or one of their providers.    

Dollywood is more than just beautiful landscaping, world-class attractions, award-winning entertainment offerings and craveable culinary creations that line its picturesque pathways. What makes it tick are the more than 4,000 hosts, 13 of which have been employed at Dollywood prior to or since its opening in 1986, who make this place different. It’s the reason why the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, park has risen to prominence, with guests often listing the feelings they experience at Dollywood as the reason they want to return so often. While the park continues to innovate and find new ways to celebrate family, its most important way—through making one-on-one guest connections—is refreshingly simple.

Dollywood Parks & Resorts’ recent accolades underscore its emergence as a premier destination on the international theme park scene. With surveys and guest comments pointing to the park’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere, it comes as no surprise the park has earned one of the most impressive lists of awards within the theme park industry in the last decade.

Since 2022, Dollywood has been named: 

• Tripadvisor’s #1 Best U.S. Theme Park based on actual guest reviews (2022, 2024)
• Tripadvisor’s #2 Best U.S. Theme Park based on actual guest reviews (2023)
• Forbes’ Top 300 Best Customer Service (#27 out of all industries; one of only two theme parks on the list) (2024)
• Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards include Best Park, Best Guest Experience, the Legend of Christmas, Best Kids Area, Best Family Coaster, Most Beautiful Park
• Forbes’ America’s Best Midsize Employer (2022, 2025)
• USA Today National Top Workplace (2022, 2025)
• Travel + Leisure: Best Parks in the World 
• National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA)- Favorite Theme Park (2023, 2024)
• Southern Living: Best Attraction in the South (2024)
• #1 attraction in the world “Guests Want to Return To” (2024)
• Dollywood’s Splash Country awarded Al Turner Memorial Commitment to Excellence Award by the World Waterpark Association (2024)
• Newsweek Top Customer Service Award (2024) 
• Newsweek Greatest Workplaces for Women (2025)

Following a year of record attendance in 2024, Dollywood Parks & Resorts—the #1 U.S. theme park according to Tripadvisor reviews—has a lot to celebrate in 2025. Last year, the park added The Dolly Parton Experience—subsequently named by USA Today as one of the Top Five Best New Theme Park attractions in 2024—and celebrated the first full year of operation for the company’s second lodging property, Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

Additionally, Dollywood’s Splash Country celebrates its 25^th season—which media in attendance also were able to enjoy during the day—while Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa enjoys its 10^thyear of operation in 2025. In a year full of milestone anniversaries, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library marks its 30^th anniversary, and as of today, has gifted more than 270 million books to children around the world under the age of 5.

Two of the largest projects in 2025 include the Wilderness Pass Restaurant—which opened in the park today—and a new 750-space parking lot which opened in mid-April. Projects like the new parking area and Wilderness Pass Restaurant are important pieces of the company’s half-billion dollar, 10-year expansion plan announced by Dolly and Naughton in 2021.

Guests currently can enjoy Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival (now-June 8) which features iconic Mosaiculture displays throughout the park. Vivid larger-than-life flower sculptures create an immersive atmosphere for park guests with more than half-a-million blooms during this award-winning festival. Dollywood’s culinary team showcases their world-class abilities during the event with a menu full of delicacies to highlight the tastes of spring in the Smokies.

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration presented by Food City (June 14-August 3) is everyone’s favorite summer tradition and once again includes Dollywood’s Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show each night. Even more drones take to the skies this year to present a mesmerizing show that honors Dollywood’s 40^th season. “Gazillion Bubble Show: Evolution” and “Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience” provide popping bubbles and playful pooches to help every guest feel like a kid this summer. 

A family tradition for many, Dollywood’s Harvest Festival presented by Humana (Sept. 12- Oct. 27) celebrates the beauty of fall with thousands of carved pumpkins, spirited performances from talented singers and the fun of Great Pumpkin LumiNights. Great Pumpkin LumiNights, previously named the best theme park harvest event in the world, features elaborate displays that are fun for every member of the family. Creative culinary items, accomplished artisans and fall fun in the Smokies make this a picture-perfect time to enjoy Dollywood. 

The industry’s Best Theme Park Christmas event—Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas presented by Humana (Nov. 1- Jan. 4, 2025)—concludes the park’s 2025 season with six million lights, festive holiday shows and the warm Christmas atmosphere guests have come to expect during this joyous time of year.

GRAPEVINE, Texas —This week, Meow Wolf’s Texas-based exhibitions have achieved international acclaim at IAAPA Honors 2025, one of the most prestigious award programs in the global attractions industry. Announced this week at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany, Meow Wolf Grapevine was named 2025’s Top Location-Based Experience (LBE) in the world, while Meow Wolf Houston received global recognition for Best Food & Beverage Building Renovation or New Build for its signature dining experience, Cowboix Hevvven.

Held for the first time in Europe in conjunction with Europa-Park’s 50th anniversary, IAAPA Honors 2025 gathered industry leaders from more than 100 countries to recognize creativity, innovation, and excellence across theme parks, museums, and immersive experiences. Meow Wolf was one of only a handful of U.S.-based companies to receive recognition.

The Top LBE of the Year award—one of the evening’s most coveted honors—spotlights Meow Wolf Grapevine’s achievement in redefining what an immersive art experience can be. Located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, The Real Unreal exhibition has quickly become a cultural anchor in the region, blending interactive storytelling, bold visual design, and community collaboration in ways rarely seen in traditional attractions.

“To see a Texan experience like Meow Wolf Grapevine celebrated on an international stage is incredibly meaningful,” said Meow Wolf Grapevine General Manager Jamie Weaver-Garia. “This award is a tribute to the artists, staff, and guests who have shaped our Meow Wolf locations into something truly extraordinary.. We’re honored to represent the innovation coming out of North Texas.”
Meow Wolf Houston, which opened its doors in October 2024, was also honored for Cowboix Hevvven, the exhibition’s otherworldly bar and grill that fuses psychedelic visuals in a western dive world. Designed by a collective of Texan artists and featuring a menu curated to reflect Houston’s culinary creativity, the venue has quickly become a standout in the city’s food and beverage scene.

“Cowboix Hevvven pushes the boundaries of what food and beverage can be in an immersive space,” said General Manager of Meow Wolf Houston Aaron Johnson. “This award reflects the talent and imagination of Houston’s artists and chefs who helped create a dining experience that’s as inventive as the exhibition itself.”

This dual recognition solidifies Meow Wolf’s reputation as a leader in immersive arts and entertainment—not just nationally, but globally. With both Texas locations less than two years old, the honors signal a powerful emergence of creative excellence from the Lone Star State.  The accolades come on the heels of last week’s Webby Award wins, further affirming Meow Wolf’s expanding influence on the global and digital stage.

DALLAS, Texas — AIMS International, the world leader in amusement safety education is pleased to announce its expansion into the Asia-Pacific market with the first-ever AIMS Asia Pacific Safety Seminar. This highly anticipated event was held at the Pan Pacific Singapore from April 21 to 25 and featured world-class speakers, the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Singapore, and top industry professionals.

AIMS partnered with CASY Engineering Consultancy, Yogeeswaran Sivasithamparam, and Girish Jagajeevan to bring this event to the Asian market and successfully execute it at the high level the industry has come to expect from AIMS International.

Amy Lowenstein, AIMS International executive director delivered the keynote address speaking to best practices from North America followed by 40 hours of amusement safety education across the 5-day event. A variety of sessions covered topics from maintenance to inspection, operations, electrical, permitting, welding, corrosion, risk assessment, and ASTM F-24 Rides Standards.

“The passion and engagement throughout the week was inspiring,” said AIMS board member Rob Gavel. “We are grateful to Yogee and his team for their enthusiastic support and efficient management of the seminar.”

The AIMS Asia Pacific Safety Seminar will return to Singapore in April 2026. Keep an eye on the AIMS website for dates and registration information for attendees and instructors and sponsorship opportunities.