One of Sweden’s greatest cultural acts – Electric Banana Band will come to Gröna Lund on June 7, 2025. The band was formed in 1980 and consists of several prominent musicians, including three of Sweden’s greatest cultural personalities: Lasse Åberg, Klasse Möllberg and Janne Schaffer.

Electric Banana Band is permeated by humor and themes that have succeeded, with the swing intact, touching on everything from environmental issues, friendship and not least caring for our animals. Electric Banana Band will perform with a unique summer concert at Gröna Lund this summer where the whole family can go bananas with jungle hits in the band’s energetic concert/art installation. Their message carved out in the form of Electric Banana Band’s subtle lyrics about protecting nature and being kind to each other has made them loved by generation after generation that shows Electric Banana Band’s unique cultural achievement. Electric Banana Band has previously drawn large crowds at concerts such as the Hultsfred Festival, where 27,000 people danced, and the Sweden Rock Festival, where 32,000 fans went bananas in front of the stage. With these successes behind them, expectations are high for the gig on Gröna Lund’s Main Stage.

With a combination of pop, rock and reggae influences, they have created iconic songs such as “Banankontakt”, “Zwampen” and not least “Min Piraya Maya” – where an entire audience in front of Hultsfred’s largest stage followed Electric Banana Band’s entire Maya choreography – flawlessly. Will we see a synchronized sea of audiences in front of Gröna Lund’s Main Stage also in the summer of 2025? The outlook is good! Welcome to Grönan on June 7 – it will be animally good!

SINGAPORE — Embed, the world’s FEC tech partner of choice for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, announces the global movement of its chief executive teams to kick off 2025 with gusto.

“We always say that our customers are at the heart of everything we do and how we do it—our customer-centricity has always been the driving force of our business,” says Renee Welsh, CEO at Embed. “This is not just PR talk or a company line; this is The Embed Difference — the commitment to layering value for our customers to enable their success, which includes partnering with the best tech partners, like Amazon Web Services, Apple, and Google, breaking industry barriers, and travelling to the corners of the world to be with them.”

Proving that actions are louder than words, CEO Renee Welsh and CTO Andy Welsh recently relocated from Singapore to Dubai, UAE, Embed’s HQ in EMEA, to deepen Embed’s roots in a region with many Embed customers and unparalleled growth.

To support Welsh’s regional vision, Rob McMenamin joins Embed as the new EMEA General Manager. From his 12 years with entertainment giant and Embed customer, Majid Al Futtaim (MAF), McMenamin is the group’s former Director of Leisure & Entertainment and has an extensive amusement and entertainment background from the UK, Australia, and the Middle East.

This strategic EMEA move comes shortly after Embed relocated its C-suite executives Sara Paz (CMO and Chief Growth Officer) and Michael Lopez (CXO and General Manager, NASA region) from Singapore to Dallas, TX in early 2024.

Lopez welcomes the latest appointments to the CX team to further Embed’s focus on customer care, support, and training: Mike Hartgrove joins as the new Global Director of Customer Experience, bringing his management expertise from multiple industries to lead the Support and Training teams, reinforcing Embed’s 99% customer approval rating.

To ensure the Embed system’s seamlessness and consistency in every location, Michael Smith takes on the role of Embed’s Global Director of Installation, equipped with over 17 years of C-level executive leadership in health sciences industries and as President of wellness start-up, The Virtual Formula.

In their move to Dallas, Paz and Lopez rolled out an ongoing series of customer success programmes for the Embed family of FECs. Within a few months in North America, astounding results ensued: hiring the Embed Success Squad™, the dedicated team of professionals, gurus, and consultants with the single aim of supporting Embed customers to maximise their system with free SaaS product trials, virtual and onsite training, best practice consultations, and free marketing toolkits and printed marketing collaterals.

The Success Squad™ also includes two payment industry experts, affectionately referred to as Payment Gateway Gurus, who provide complimentary payment processing consultations to help Embed customers cut their losses from fluctuating processing rates (due to hidden fees, merchant fees, etc.) and take advantage of the savings they can get by simply changing their payment provider, achieving life-changing results for operators.

On top of these benefits, the big move to the NASA region paved the way for an industry-first event, opening the November 2024 IAAPA Expo week in Orlando, FL with the customer-exclusive, TED Talk- style Embed Connect Summit, enabling Embed customers to meet, network, share insights and best practices to cross-pollinate ideas with the industry’s best players, and exploring how to take their business to the next level together. “We’re expecting to yield groundbreaking results with this strategic EMEA movement to complement what we have accomplished in the NASA region thus far,” concludes CEO Renee Welsh.

WINDERMERE, Fla. — Innovative Attraction Management (IAM), a leading provider of creative management services and strategic growth solutions for the entertainment and leisure industry, is proud to announce its acquisition of Diggerland USA, a unique and one-of-a-kind theme park where guests can operate real construction equipment in a family-friendly environment. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in IAM’s expansion strategy, reinforcing its commitment to offering exceptional experiences for visitors of all ages.

Diggerland USA, located in West Berlin, NJ, offers a thrilling and hands-on adventure with attractions that allow guests to operate diggers, backhoes, and other heavy machinery under the supervision of trained staff. Since its inception, the park has attracted families looking for an exciting, educational, and unique alternative to traditional amusement parks.

The acquisition will enable IAM to leverage its expertise in attraction management and operational efficiencies to further develop and grow Diggerland USA, while preserving the park’s core value of offering an interactive, immersive experience for guests. IAM plans to invest in the park’s infrastructure, introduce innovative new attractions, and enhance the guest experience through cutting-edge technology and personalized service.

“We are thrilled to welcome Diggerland USA into the IAM family,” said James Harhi, CEO of Innovative Attraction Management. “Diggerland represents an incredible opportunity to expand our portfolio with a unique and niche offering in the family entertainment space. We are committed to preserving its fun and educational appeal, while also bringing new, exciting elements to the park. This acquisition aligns perfectly with our vision of creating world-class experiences that inspire joy and wonder in visitors.”

Solomon Partners served as financial advisor to Diggerland.

The Children’s Aquarium Dallas in Fair Park will remain open during the expected winter weather Thursday and Friday, January 9 and 10.

While schools are closed, the aquarium will offer a warm, indoor place for families to enjoy fun and educational activities when it is safe to travel.

Families attending on Thursday and Friday will receive free Stingray food so they can pet and feed the friendly animals in Stingray Bay.

PHOENIX, Arizona — Donald Lee DiGirolamo, a former partner in then N.H.-based O.D. Hopkins died in Phoenix with his family on November 5, 2024. He was 80.

Don, as he was known by his friends, was born in Springfield, Ill. On May 31, 1944, to Cathryn and Gladstone DiGirolamo. He was the youngest of three children having an older sister Gladys and brother Jim. He excelled in sports during high school having played on both the wrestling team and football team. Following high school, he entered the service, serving two years as a cook for the U.S. Army.

Following his service in the Army, he registered with Devry Tech in Chicago, Ill., where he learned the trades of computer programming and draftsman. Following stops in the job market, he became bored with the humdrum job of being indoors all the time. He met someone in a bar one day and asked what they did. The person replied that he worked at a company that had a ride at the Illinois State Fair — and that interested Don a lot. He asked, “What do I have to do to get hired? I’m tired of my current indoor job.” The person said they had an opening for a truck driver and if he was interested, they would loan him a truck so he could go to the DMV and get his CDL license. Don passed the test, got his CDL license and started his job in the early 60’s with O.D. Hopkins and Associates.

Don started by driving the company truck around the fair circuit for Hopkins as needed. He would later move into management with the company where he worked closely with Jerry Pendleton for many years. Pendleton would make Don a partner in the company which was now supplying numerous rides to the amusement park industry. Jerry took care of all the logistics for the company as well as the financial side. Don was assigned the operations parts & service as well as the management duties on the operational side of the rides.

Longtime friend Paul Borchardt, Wonderland Park, Amarillo, Texas shared this about Don, “In 1979 we first met Don, as he brought our O.D.Hopkins Sky Ride to us on the recommendation from Joe Malec of Peony Park in Nebraska. Don and my Father-in-Law (Paul Roads) immediately gave each other nicknames. Don enjoyed directing the workers, and Paul Roads kept asking him when he would start helping the workers erect the ride. This was the beginning of a long-trusted relationship, one that would result in the development of seven prototype Hopkins rides for Wonderland Park. During the next 40 years, Don and later Jeannie would be at the park for delivery, erection, and testing of our new rides. Even if there was not a delivery to be made, he still found time to pass through Amarillo so he could stop to harass Paul and tease him that he only stopped to collect his pay from his friend Paul. They agreed that this was the only excuse needed a enjoy a few good Margaritas. Paul said this was good as he could pay in Margaritas as that was all he was worth. This is more of a story but shows that in this industry friendship is very valuable and full of good people, like Don, that we called our Friend!”

Amusement Today Publisher Gary Slade commented on Don’s passing saying, “I too can confirm the Margarita stories in Amarillo and the friendship both Pauls had with Don. Don was among the great industry Legends when it came to being a gentleman and industry friend. We all lost a dear friend, but Heaven gained an Angel.”

Don would later meet his wife Jeannie in the early 80’s and they carried out a long-distance relationship for several years while she worked for the Department of Defense as a Contracting Officer.  Dan later proposed, and with her acceptance, they were married on October 18, 1986, having enjoyed 38 years of marriage.

Don is fondly remembered by his wife Jeannie, sister Gladys Sokolis, nieces and nephews.

ORLANDO — Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to celebrate 30 years of Mardi Gras from February 1 through March 30 during Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval, featuring an all-new menu of mouth-watering international cuisine, a spectacular parade with colorful floats and – on select nights – live concerts by the biggest names in music. And guests can enjoy all the fun as part of regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida.

Here is an overview of what’s in store at this year’s celebration:

STAR-STUDDED MARDI GRAS CONCERT LINEUP
This year’s star-studded concert series will feature 12 live performances by some of the most popular musical artists from across the globe – including GRAMMY- winning artist T-Pain, global pop superstar Joe Jonas and Latin GRAMMY-winning artist Juanes. Live performances will take place on select nights at the Music Plaza Stage inside Universal Studios Florida, following the Mardi Gras parade. See below for the complete concert line-up.

Deborah Eicher, International Sales & Marketing Director at Swiss based RES RIDES, has been selected to serve on the IAAPA European & Middle East (EMEA) M&S Subcommittee beginning in January 2025. The EMEA M&S subcommittee is a constituency volunteer committee of industry leaders that represents manufacturers and supplier members of IAAPA.

“I am honoured to be selected as a member of the EMEA IAAPA M&S Subcommittee and I look forward to putting my 20+ years’ experience in the attractions industry and trade show space to work for the EMEA M&S constituency,” says Deborah.

The EMEA M&S Subcommittee develops programs and services for the constituency, recruits manufacturing and supplier members, and recommends strategies for expos in the region including venues for future show locations.

Deborah is currently serving as a IAAPA Honor Awards Judging Task Force Committee Member that is responsible for judging the Best Digital Marketing and Best Social Media in the Marketing Category. The awards will be presented at the IAAPA Honors at Europa-Park, April 28-30, 2025.

Deborah Eicher has an MBA and an ICAE and is a past member of the IAAPA Foundation Board of Directors and the Global IAAPA M&S Committee.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials (NAARSO) is excited to announce the addition of 16-hours of comprehensive amusement ride inspection courses conducted entirely in Spanish at its 38th Annual Safety Seminar. These will occur from Monday, January 27, to Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at the Hilton Charlotte Airport in Charlotte, NC.

NAARSO, a non-profit organization committed to promoting safety within the amusement industry, invites traveling shows, amusement parks, water parks, and other facilities to have team members attend this who are involved with the inspection of amusement rides and whose first language is Spanish. This new educational offering is designed to provide fundamental training across multiple disciplines involved in inspecting amusement rides and devices, including:

• Electronics
• Hydraulics
• Industry Standards
• Ride Inspection Techniques
• And more!

The courses will be available in both virtual and in-person formats. Limited in-person seating is available for up to 40 participants.

Course Pricing:

• Virtual: $150.00 for NAARSO members; $250.00 for non-members
• In-person: $300.00 (for the Spanish courses only)

Please note that pricing for testing is separate, and testing will be conducted online. Attendees who wish to attend the rest of the safety seminar Wednesday January 29^th through Friday January 30^th, 2025, will need to pay the full safety seminar registration price. The Spanish- language courses will only be offered on Monday and Tuesday.

Scholarship Opportunities: NAARSO is offering two in-person and two virtual scholarships for this course, ensuring accessibility for those who qualify. Registration Information: Registration for this unique opportunity opens on January 2, 2025. Spaces are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kentucky Kingdom Theme & Water Park is ringing in 2025 by announcing more details about the three new family rides debuting in May.

In our commitment to enhancing the Kentucky Kingdom experience, we are proud to introduce three brand-new rides that will be featured in our exciting new Kentucky-themed land. These attractions are designed with families in mind, offering something for everyone to enjoy:

• Squirrel Ride (Name Coming Soon): Bounce around on our new family ride nestled in the lush gardens of the new land. This delightful experience highlights one of nature’s most diligent and resourceful foragers, promising fun for the entire family.
• Train Ride (Name Coming Soon): 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!
• Bird Ride (Name Coming Soon): Get ready to dash through the trees on our new swinging family ride inspired by one of Kentucky’s famous flyers. With an oval-shaped course and thrilling turns, this ride promises an exciting adventure for guests of all ages.

Follow Kentucky Kingdom on TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates and behind-the-scenes sneak peeks as the new land comes to life. Stay tuned for details on a February groundbreaking event that will reveal all the details about the new land and rides with a Kentucky twist.

“I know that families are going to love these new rides and our brand-new land that celebrates Kentucky,” said Sarah Worrell, Kentucky Kingdom General Manager. “This is just the first of many exciting announcements we have planned for this year. We can’t wait to share more thrilling news with our community soon!”

As a reminder, 2025 season passes are currently available at the lowest prices—don’t miss your chance to secure your pass before prices go up after TOMORROW! Be some of the first to experience the $11 million new land and learn about the details behind the $25 million investment into the park through 2026. More details are coming soon!

PALMETTO, Fla. — The James E. Strates Shows, one of North America’s leading outdoor amusement providers, has proudly signed an agreement with the Manatee River Fair Association, Inc.to serve as the exclusive carnival midway provider for the annual Manatee County Fair in Palmetto, Florida.

“Being part of the Manatee County Fair is an honor as the Fair celebrates and highlights the community’s rich agricultural traditions, diverse talents, and cultural heritage,” said John Strates, third-generation carnival owner and Director of Operations. “Strates Shows is dedicated to providing a safe and exciting carnival midway experience, where families can relax, have fun, and create treasured memories to last a lifetime.”

“We look forward to partnering with the Strates Shows in providing a new midway experience for our guests, said Danny Alfonso, Manatee County Fair CEO-Fair Manager. “The Strates family are highly respected in our industry, not only for their deep generational history, but more importantly for their excellence in professionalism as they truly partner with each fair, to provide a unique, safe and exciting experience for their guests.”

For over a century, James E. Strates Shows has been a trusted name in the world of carnival midways, bringing world-class entertainment to fairs and festivals across the Eastern Seaboard. With a legacy of excellence, Strates Shows sets itself apart through a carefully curated blend of traditional charm and modern thrill.

Strates Shows is known for its state-of-the-art rides, where cutting-edge technology meets breathtaking excitement. From exhilarating roller coasters and towering Ferris wheels to family- friendly classics, Strates Shows offers a wide range of attractions designed to create unforgettable moments for all ages. The company’s commitment to innovation keeps the experience fresh and exciting, while safety remains a top priority.

“With a history of providing high-quality, family-friendly entertainment, James E. Strates Shows continues to set the standard for carnival midways across North America,” said Strates Shows Press Agent Marty Biniasz. “Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a food lover, or simply looking for a day of family fun, Strates Shows offers a timeless experience that keeps fairgoers coming back year after year.”

Strates Shows, a proud family-owned and operated business, is led by the third generation of the Strates family, including Jimmy, Jay, John, and Susan. Continuing the legacy, Nick Strates joined the show full-time in 2015 as part of the fourth generation, ensuring the tradition lives on.

The carnival midway at the Manatee County Fair will feature a collection of state-of-the-art carnival rides, games, and concessions. The lineup includes a dedicated Kiddieland for young children, along with midway favorites such as the “Claw,” “Dream Wheel,” and “Sky Flyer.”

The Manatee County Fair is considered the largest annual event in the Bradenton-Sarasota area. The 109^th edition of the Fair is scheduled to take place January 16 through January 26, 2025 at the Fairgrounds in Palmetto. For Fair information visit www.manateecountyfair.com.

“We are delighted to have Strates Shows join with us as we present “Keeping Agriculture Alive in 2025” at the Manatee County Fairgrounds, adds Alfonso.