American Coaster Enthusiasts

Aviktas arrives: Pleasure Beach officially opens its record-breaking new ride to the public

A new ride at Blackpool’s Pleasure Beach Resort has officially opened - and it's the tallest of its kind in the UK.

Today (21 May), the iconic theme park officially launched its newest ride, Avitaks, welcoming its first riders after much anticipation since its announcement in May 2025.

Thrillseekers travelled from across the country to be among the first to experience the adrenaline pumping spectacle, which launches its riders 138ft into the air while reaching angles of up to 120 degrees.

With its opening, Aviktas became the largest ride of its kind in the UK - almost doubling the size of the previous tallest, Maelstrom at Drayton Manor.

Amanda Thompson OBE, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort said: “Pleasure Beach has always had a reputation for going big and pushing boundaries - Aviktas is no exception. Its sheer size and presence speaks for itself, there is simply nothing
like it in the UK.

“We wanted to build something that sets us apart from anywhere else and gives our guests a genuine must-visit reason tocome to the park. This project is another reminder of our commitment to making Pleasure Beach one of the world’s greatest theme parks.”

Pleasure Beach has invested £8.72m into its newest attraction, marking it as its biggest single investment in 8 years, when the park opened its double-launch rollercoaster, ICON.

Aviktas features a unique design engineered to maximise thrills. Its restraints create a sense of freedom leaving its riders feeling weightless as they soar towards its 138ft peak.

Aviktas has already proven popular among those brave enough to face its thrill, with many heralding it as a standout offering within the theme park industry. Scott Bickerton, a rollercoaster enthusiast, who runs the Youtube channel Your Experience Guide said: “Aviktas is a must ride. It combines airtime, hangtime and intense thrill to provide a completely fresh experience.

“When you’re up at 138ft, the views across Pleasure Beach and out to sea are spectacular. Not only is it an incredible thrill ride, it’s already become a striking visual landmark for the town.”

Fans have been waiting with much anticipation for the park's new addition, having been first announced in May 2025. The months following, saw the arcade and amusements venue, named the Bowl-A-Drome, that previously stood on the site
demolished and by November its four 16 tonne legs had been erected.

The new addition represents the next chapter in Pleasure Beach’s ongoing evolution strategy, having already re-imagined classic rides like Launch Pad and “Europe’s Best Water Ride” Valhalla in recent years.

The park, which has recently been ranked as the best UK theme park in TripAdvisors: Best of the Best awards, will look to keep its momentum running into summer as it celebrates a historic landmark - 130 years of operations.

Visitors can experience Aviktas until 9pm on Saturday May 23, during its Twilight Thrills event. Tickets can be booked online at www.pleasurebeachresort.com

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3 days ago | [YT] | 34

American Coaster Enthusiasts

Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort Invite Warner Bros. Pictures’ Academy Award-Winning Film Sinners Into Their Iconic Gates for Halloween Horror Nights

Guests Will Immerse Themselves in Writer/Director/Producer Ryan Coogler’s
Blockbuster Supernatural Horror Masterpiece in All-New Haunted Houses

All Event Tickets Now on Sale at Universal Studios Hollywood
While Select Tickets Available for Universal Orlando Resort

Universal City, Calif., Orlando, Fla. (May 21, 2026) – Following an over $370 million global box office run and earning widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike, Warner Bros. Pictures’ Sinners adds “haunted house” to its repertoire as it joins Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights lineup of immersive experiences beginning Friday, August 28 at Universal Orlando Resort and Thursday, September 3 at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Since debuting in 2025, Sinners became the highest grossing original horror film, garnering a record-breaking 16 Academy-Award nominations and four Oscar® wins. Written, directed and produced by Ryan Coogler, alongside fellow Proximity Media producers Zinzi Coogler and Sev Ohanian, the film takes place in 1930s Mississippi Delta, where twin brothers Smoke and Stack return to their hometown to open a juke joint for their community. Celebration turns to panic as a troupe of unrelenting vampires crash the opening night, threatening to violently curse the guests in a brutal battle for survival.

“It’s been incredible to see audiences connect with Sinners in such a powerful way,” said Ryan Coogler, Zinzi Coogler and Sev Ohanian, producers of Sinners and founders of Proximity Media, in a joint statement. “Now, partnering with Halloween Horror Nights gives fans the chance to step even deeper into the world of the film — to feel the music, the atmosphere and the tension all around them. Watching it come to life on this scale has been really special for all of us.”

The terrifying Halloween Horror Nights house will transport guests back in time to the popular Club Juke where they will quickly realize that nothing is as it seems when nefarious, red-eyed vampires Remmick, Bert and Joan appear with their insatiable hunger. As they attempt to evade the vampires at every turn, fans will encounter some of their favorite characters lifted straight from the film, including Sammie, Mary, Annie, Pearline and Cornbread. Caught in a deadly struggle between twins Smoke and Stack and the bloodthirsty vampires, guests must survive the night – because the terror will only relent once the sun rises.

“At Halloween Horror Nights, we push the boundaries of what a live horror experience can be,” said John Murdy, Executive Producer, Halloween Horror Nights, Universal Studios Hollywood. “Just as Ryan Coogler's Academy Award winning film, Sinners re-invented the vampire movie, we are re-inventing the haunted house and creating new ways to scare our guests that we’ve never attempted and are thrilled to bring this amazing story to life in a truly terrifying and fully immersive way.”

“The moment Sinners premiered, we knew it was an undeniable fit for Halloween Horror Nights and it’s an honor to bring this story to life,” said Mike Aiello, Senior Director of Entertainment Creative Development at Universal Orlando Resort. “It’s rare for a film to fully satisfy hardcore horror fans while also inviting new audiences into the genre—and that’s exactly what Sinners does. Its world, characters and intensity will translate into a relentless haunted house. We can't wait for our fans to step inside and experience the horror firsthand in a way that only Halloween Horror Nights can deliver."

With a selection of event tickets on sale now for both coasts, guests can begin planning their visits to brave Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort this fall.

A variety of Halloween Horror Nights ticket options for Universal Studios Hollywood are now available. This year’s event runs for a record 42 nights with 8 haunted houses, Terror Tram, multiple scare zones and more. Tickets include General Admission, the Early Access Ticket, which provides entry to select haunted houses beginning at 5:30 p.m. (subject to change), Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass, which enable guests to experience the scares again and again. The Day/Night Ticket, After 2 P.M. Day/Night Ticket, Universal Express Ticket and R.I.P Tour will all include access to the new “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” coaster. Click here to purchase tickets and for Terms and Conditions.

At Universal Orlando, guests can purchase select tickets, upgrades and event-inclusive vacation packages as Halloween Horror Nights, The World’s Premier Halloween Event, returns for its milestone 35th year in Orlando, running 48 select nights from August 28 through November 1.The event will feature 10 all-new haunted houses, outrageous live entertainment, terrifying scare zones and street experiences – with a few haunting surprises. Products on sale now include single-night tickets; the Scream Early add-on ticket, which grants access to Universal Studios Florida, including select haunted houses, beginning at 2 p.m. (guests must have a Halloween Horror Nights admission ticket), and event extras such as Halloween Horror Nights Express Passes, the R.I.P Tour, and the Behind the Screams: Unmasking the Horror Tour. Guests can also take advantage of the Stay, Scream and Save vacation package and save up to $200. The package includes one night of Halloween Horror Nights admission, daytime theme park admission (including Universal Epic Universe), and a stay at one of Universal Orlando’s 11 themed hotels with exclusive theme park benefits including access to a dedicated Halloween Horror Nights entry gate, complimentary resort transportation, access to seasonal experiences at the hotels and more. Plus, guests can now purchase tickets to Premium Scream Night which returns for two event nights this year – August 27 and October 19. Click here to learn more.

All-new merchandise inspired by the Sinners haunted house is now available at Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Orlando Resort and shopUniversal.com. Fans can celebrate the upcoming house in style with a limited release t-shirt and hat. Additionally, an acrylic figure inspired by the house is now available for purchase. Guests can exhibit all the house announcements proudly in a collectible infernal carnival display leading up to the opening night.

Additional event details, including new haunted houses coming to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando Resort, will be revealed soon.

For more information and to purchase tickets to Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com/Halloween and at Universal Orlando, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/Halloween.

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4 days ago | [YT] | 16

American Coaster Enthusiasts

ALL-NEW EXPEDITION ODYSSEY: FIRE & ICE OPENS MAY 23
EXCLUSIVELY FOR ANNUAL PASS MEMBERS

Pass Members Receive Exclusive Preview Access Beginning May 23 Before Guests
Embark on the Ultimate Arctic Mission Through Volcanoes, Glaciers and Iconic Wildlife Starting May 25

ORLANDO, Fla. (May 21, 2026) – SeaWorld Orlando’s all-new Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice exclusively opens to SeaWorld Orlando Pass Members on Saturday, May 23, inviting families to embark on a breathtaking Arctic adventure unlike anything else. The highly anticipated attraction opens to the general public on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 at 2 p.m.

The all-new Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice takes guests on a visually stunning, story-driven mission through the powerful natural forces that shape the Arctic. Guests will soar above erupting volcanoes, glide across frozen landscapes, dive beneath icy waters and journey through breathtaking Arctic environments alongside incredible wildlife including beluga whales, sperm whales, seals and polar bears, all brought to life through an immersive high-definition cinematic experience and SeaWorld Orlando’s state-of-the-art ride system.

“Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice is one of the most ambitious and immersive attractions we have ever created,” said Justin Newton, senior vice president of project delivery for United Parks & Resorts, SeaWorld’s parent company. “From the moment guests step inside the Arctic research station, every detail has been designed to fully transport them into this frozen world and leave them questioning how it was even possible.”

Guests begin their mission inside a newly transformed Arctic research outpost, complete with themed environments, mission control areas and a pre-launch briefing from a research scientist preparing them for the expedition ahead. The attraction blends storytelling, dynamic motion, immersive environments and breathtaking visuals to blur the line between simulation and reality.

In addition to the attraction itself, the experience reflects SeaWorld Orlando’s continued commitment to blending thrilling family adventures with inspiration rooted in the natural world. Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice highlights the beauty and wonder of the Arctic while encouraging guests to care about the planet and the wildlife that call it home.

Best Way to Play This Summer at SeaWorld Orlando

Guests can maximize their visit by pairing Expedition Odyssey: Fire & Ice with SeaWorld Orlando’s all-new summer lineup, including the return of Electric Ocean beginning June 12, featuring high-energy entertainment, nighttime spectaculars, family-friendly dance parties and an all-new drone and fireworks spectacular. Guests can also explore world-class coasters, animal presentations, up-close encounters and seasonal culinary offerings throughout the park.

Now with the limited time Memorial Day Sale, guests can take advantage of the best deals on the season by saving up to 55% on Tickets, Fun Cards and Annual Passes. For the best value and unlimited admission all year long, guests are encouraged to become Annual Pass Members and enjoy exclusive perks including free parking, discounts on food and merchandise, monthly rewards and early access opportunities. For more information and to purchase Tickets, Fun Cards or Annual Passes, visit SeaWorldOrlando.com.

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4 days ago | [YT] | 22

American Coaster Enthusiasts

Don’t Turn Right! The All-New Verbolten: Forbidden Turn Opens on May 30 at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Members will be among the first to ride the one-of-a-kind attraction

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (May 19, 2026) – Verbolten: Forbidden Turn, the mid-Atlantic's first and only drop track roller coaster, will open at Busch Gardens Williamsburg on May 30. The thrilling, family-friendly roller coaster features an all-new storyline, animatronics and immersive special effects. Offering surprises at every turn, visitors travel through the Black Forest at speeds of up to 53 miles per hour, while encountering over 2,800 feet of track, a surprise drop track element and an 88-foot drop towards the Rhine River. With a 48-inch height requirement, Verbolten: Forbidden Turn is an attraction the whole family can conquer together.

The journey begins at the Visitor Center for Black Forest Motor Tours, now under new management, welcoming adventurers eager to explore Germany’s legendary countryside. The drive promises charm and folklore at every turn, but riders will soon discover all is not what it seems. Signs begin to appear; shadows start to move and something dark lurks within the forest. Guests are cautioned not to stray from the road, as one wrong turn could awaken forces long forgotten. On Verbolten: Forbidden Turn, the line between story and reality blurs, and escape is never certain.

"When creating this extraordinary experience, we invested in developing an all-new storyline for the attraction. The updates include new theming pieces and animatronics, including Frau Hexel, the enchanting host of Black Forest Motors,” said Kevin Lembke, president of Busch Gardens Williamsburg. “Guests are really going to love Verbolten: Forbidden Turn because it combines an immersive narrative with a thrilling roller coaster.”

Busch Gardens Members will get exclusive early access to Verbolten: Forbidden Turn on May 29, before the attraction opens to the public. On May 30 at 10:30 AM, park guests are invited to a Grand Opening Ceremony, featuring a ribbon cutting, special guests and more.

LIMITED-TIME MEMORIAL DAY SALE!

For a limited time, guests can save up to 50% on tickets, Fun Cards and Membership during the Memorial Day sale.

Fun Card: Unlimited visits to rides, shows and seasonal events through November 2, 2026.

Membership: Unlimited visits for 12 months, plus free parking, free guest tickets and exclusive discounts on food, beverages and merchandise.

For more information on Verbolten: Forbidden Turn and to see the latest offers, visit BuschGardens.com/Williamsburg and follow Busch Gardens on social media at @BuschGardensVA.

About Busch Gardens Williamsburg
Recognized by the National Amusement Park Historical Association as the Most Beautiful Park for 35 consecutive years, Busch Gardens® Williamsburg is a European-themed adventure park combining 17th-century charm with 21st-century thrills, featuring more than 50 rides and attractions, world-class coasters, and year-round events. Busch Gardens is a part of United Parks & Resorts Inc. (NYSE: PRKS). Learn more at UnitedParks.com.

5 days ago | [YT] | 29

American Coaster Enthusiasts

EVEN MORE AWESOME IS ON THE WAY…UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT PREPARES FOR EXCITING NEW EXPERIENCES ACROSS THE DESTINATION

Universal Orlando Resort is continuing its unprecedented momentum as it prepares for a slate of compelling new guest offerings across the destination – ranging from new themed areas to delicious eateries.

While additional details will be shared in the months ahead, work will soon be underway and impact the following existing experiences:

• Horror Make-Up Show at Universal Studios Florida: Horror Make-Up Show will undergo a temporary closure beginning May 12, 2026 to make way for a reimagined experience. Opening later this year, the updated show will showcase a mix of classic and modern horror properties along with shockingly fun surprises – all while staying true to the comedic and irreverent spirit that guests know and love.  

• Lost Continent at Universal Islands of Adventure: In the coming months, venues and experiences within Lost Continent will permanently close in phases to make way for a new themed area. This will include the closure of Mythos Restaurant in 2027.  

• Thunder Falls Terrace at Universal Islands of Adventure: Thunder Falls Terrace restaurant will close this summer and transform into an all-new dining concept that will become the new signature full-service restaurant in Universal Islands of Adventure. The rethemed dining location will debut in 2027.  

• Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice at Universal CityWalk: Founded by *NSYNC member Joey Fatone and his manager Joe Mulvihill, Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice is coming to Universal CityWalk, featuring a variety of creative, flavor-packed hot dogs, Italian ices and more for guests to enjoy. It will take the place of Hot Dog Hall of Fame, which will close in July to make way for the new venue.

This exciting list of updates joins previously announced new experiences that are on the way, including Five Guys and Luke Combs’ Category 10 coming to Universal CityWalk, and the all-new, high-speed roller coaster, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift joining the Universal Studios Florida family in 2027.

Stay tuned - additional details about these projects will be revealed in the months ahead.  For the latest updates about Universal Orlando Resort, visit www.universalorlando.com.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 29

American Coaster Enthusiasts

SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA DECKS THE HALLS WITH RETURN OF ‘HOLIDAY IN THE PARK’—REIMAGINED, REDESIGNED AND MORE MAGICAL THAN EVER
 
Fan‑favorite holiday celebration returns to Six Flags Over Georgia as a multi‑year, fully immersive seasonal spectacular beginning in 2026

MABLETON, Ga. (May 5, 2026) –The most wonderful time of the year will make a triumphant return as Six Flags Over Georgia announces the return of a reimagined Holiday in the Park. Launching in fall 2026, this beloved seasonal tradition has been completely redesigned from the ground up—ushering in a dazzling new era of immersive holiday magic filled with entertainment, thrill rides, lights and unforgettable moments for the whole family.

From the sparkle of twinkling gateways to the glow of cozy winter villages, Holiday in the Park transforms the park into a living holiday storybook. Guests can expect fully immersive themed lands layered with elaborate décor and thoughtfully infused with Georgia flair. With more live entertainment than ever before—including nightly tree lighting spectaculars, carolers, parade floats, indoor mainstage shows—the season will come alive from day into night in breathtaking fashion.

“I may have just joined the Six Flags Over Georgia team, but together we’re moving fast to enhance the 2026 season beyond our guests’ expectations,” said Richard Pretlow, park president. “They spoke, and we listened. Holiday in the Park has been a treasured tradition here, and we’re excited to bring it back—reimagined, redesigned and ready to sparkle with the magic that only Georgia can bring.”

A Complete Creative Transformation

The return of Holiday in the Park marks a multi‑year investment, beginning in 2026 with three brand‑new, fully immersive themed lands to explore in the park. In the years that follow, additional lands will debut—expanding the footprint and storytelling of the event and continuing to elevate the guest experience season after season.
The creative vision is led by Logan Wince, an accomplished creative director whose immersive approach blends theatrical design, storytelling and large‑scale park transformations.

“This event is about wrapping our guests in warmth, wonder and joy the moment they step through the gates,” said Kelly Daugherty, entertainment director for Six Flags. “Every detail—from the lighting and décor to the music, characters and shows—has been carefully designed to feel emotionally rich, playful, and celebratory. We wanted each land to feel like you’ve stepped inside a holiday dream, where traditions feel familiar but the experience is fresh, awe-inspiring and full of heart.”
In addition to expansive themed environments, guests can enjoy interactive holiday experiences including photos with Santa Claus, a family‑friendly indoor walk‑through attraction, cookie decorating, gingerbread house building, festive photo opportunities and seasonal tasting menus curated by each park’s executive chef.

Adding to the magic, many thrill rides and kids’ areas will remain open, allowing guests to soar and spin by day—and experience the beauty of holiday lights on nighttime rides. Operating dates, hours, show lineup and ride details will be announced at a later time, with schedules designed to maximize daytime warmth, evening sparkle and holiday togetherness.

“In 2026, festive traditions shine again. New memories are made. And the magic glows brighter than ever when Holiday in the Park returns—reimagined, redesigned and ready to wow,” Daugherty added.

Season Pass Value Shines Brighter

The return of Holiday in the Park adds even more value to a Six Flags Over Georgia Season Pass or Membership—especially a 2026 Gold Membership, which includes access to the winter season. For a limited time during the Memorial Day Sale (now through May 31, 2026), guests who purchase a Gold or Prestige Membership will receive a free 2026 All Season Drink Plan, valid for Coca‑Cola® fountain drink refills all season long, including during Holiday in the Park. To purchase a Season Pass or Membership during the Memorial Day Sale, visit sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
 
Holiday in the Park admission is included with all active Memberships, with eligibility also extended to select other admission products. Additional access may apply for guests who purchased during the 2025 MVP Sale, those with an All‑Park add‑on, Prestige Passholders and Gold Passholders at select East Coast Six Flags parks.
 
Kids ages 3-5 can also enjoy admission with the new, free Pre‑K Pass—registration is available now through May 31, and the pass is valid all year. Some exclusions apply. For more information or to register for the Pre‑K Pass, visit sixflags.com/pre-k-pass.
 
In the coming months, the park will share additional Holiday in the Park details at sixflags.com/overgeorgia.
 
ABOUT SIX FLAGS OVER GEORGIA AND SIX FLAGS WHITE WATER
Six Flags Over Georgia is home to more than 40 rides and attractions including 12 world-class roller coasters and the seven-acre Hurricane Harbor water park. Six Flags White Water boasts more than 24 state-of-the-art water slides, interactive children’s areas and wave pool. Six Flags Over Georgia and White Water are the region’s premier destinations for thrilling, family fun. 

ABOUT SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) is North America’s largest regional amusement-resort operator, with 21 amusement parks, 14 water parks and nine resort properties across 13 states in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The Company also manages an amusement park in Saudi Arabia. Focused on its purpose of making people happy, Six Flags provides fun, immersive and memorable experiences to millions of guests every year with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks, resorts and a portfolio of beloved intellectual property such as Looney Tunes®, DC Comics® and PEANUTS®.

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2 weeks ago | [YT] | 40

American Coaster Enthusiasts

Naruto Adventures
Parc Spirou Opens Family Thrill Launch & Nebulaz

April, 2026: Kyûbi Unchained has been unleashed at Parc Spirou. Zamperla’s first Family Launch Coaster is the anchor of an entirely new area. Paired with a Nebulaz, the two rides were themed to characters from the Naruto manga series by Masashi Kishimoto.

“ Our goal was to provide an experience that set a new benchmark in the European market ,” said Charles De Bruyne, Sales Manager Europe. “ It was great working with Parc Spirou. They did a fantastic job imagining this new area and Zamperla is proud to be supplying two new rides. The combination of the iconic Nebulaz ride and Family Thrill Launch Coaster created an Integrated Rides package that provides over 1,000 people per-hour for the entire area,” he noted.

The 15,000 sq meter (161,459 sq ft) site in the park is based on the Nonoha village in Naruto. It features 10 different life size characters for guests to interact with, a recreation of the Hokae monument, Team Kakashi’s training area and a restaurant recreating the famous Ichiraku Ramen.

“This project demonstrated why Zamperla has become the go-to company for themed attractions,” said Enrico Patechi, Creative Design Manager. “Naruto was one of the shows that defined my childhood, so working on this project was a true honor. Being already familiar with the story and characters helped me quickly align with the client’s vision and TV Tokyo’s expectations. Bringing such iconic designs into the real world required attention to detail and respect for the original artwork. That emotional connection became a powerful driver for creativity, pushing us toward a more authentic result ,” he continued.

The Family Thrill Launch offers many unique attributes for a Zamperla roller coaster:

• Structural Fiberglass: The vehicles have a special fabrication process that reduces annual maintenance costs.

• Wheel Launch: This launch system uses less energy than an LSM for the same application and is mechanically simple.

• On-Board Audio: The placemaking doesn’t stop with the station, our on-board
audio continues the immersive experience with the ride.

“The Family Thrill Launch fills a need we continually hear from parks,” said Adam Sandy, Roller Coaster Sales & Marketing Director. “They are looking for coaster that accomplishes three distinct goals: a wide rider demographic, offers marketable ride elements and is well -themed . We know that our latest coaster checks all three boxes ,” he noted.

Learn more about the park at Home - Parc Spirou.

Rides

Kyûbi Unchained
Total Track Length: 670 m (2198 ft)
Total Traveled Track: 1004 m (3294 ft)
Maximum Height: 34 m (111.5 ft)
Number of Trains: 1
Passengers per-Train: 28
Height Restriction: 105 cm (42 in) minimum rider height
Hourly Capacity: 680 pph
Model: Family Thrill Launch Coaster 670

Rasengan Chakra Rotation
Nebulaz

About Zamperla
Antonio Zamperla S.p.A. is a renowned Italian manufacturer of amusement rides located in Vicenza, Italy. The company’s 57 years of experience creating amusement rides makes them a go-to manufacturer. Zamperla traditionally manufactures more amusement rides annually than any other company.

Zamperla’s Roller Coaster Business Unit is a division that designs, engineers and fabricates thrill-makers of all sizes. The company has invested heavily in its roller coaster team over the past decade and has become a key roller coaster manufacturer across the world.

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2 weeks ago | [YT] | 34

American Coaster Enthusiasts

SIX FLAGS GREAT ADVENTURE ANNOUNCES RETURN OF HOLIDAY IN THE PARK IN 2026

Reimagined, immersive holiday event returns to New Jersey with new themed lands, entertainment and family experiences

JACKSON, N.J. — May 5, 2026 — The most wonderful time of the year is making its triumphant return to Six Flags Great Adventure as Holiday in the Park comes back in 2026, reimagined, redesigned and more magical than ever.

This fan-favorite seasonal event has been completely transformed into a fully immersive holiday experience, blending festive entertainment, seasonal flavors, dazzling lights and select thrill rides into one unforgettable winter celebration for families across the region.

From glowing entryways to cozy winter villages, the park will be transformed into a living holiday storybook. Guests can explore immersive themed lands filled with elaborate décor, each designed to capture the spirit of the season with a fresh and modern twist.

Holiday in the Park will feature more live entertainment than ever before, including:

-Nightly tree lighting spectaculars

-Holiday carolers and live musicians

-Festive performances

-Seasonal characters and interactive moments throughout the park

“We heard our guests loud and clear,” said John Reilly, president and CEO of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. “Holiday in the Park has long been a cornerstone event at these properties, and we’ve taken everything we’ve learned to thoughtfully evolve the experience. This brand-new Holiday in the Park captures the heart and wonder of the season while maximizing the warmth of the day for rides and entertainment and offering plenty of cozy ways for guests to warm up. This is a more intentional, more magical holiday celebration—designed to delight all generations.”

A Complete Creative Transformation

The 2026 debut marks the beginning of a multi-year investment, starting with three all-new immersive themed lands at Great Adventure. Additional experiences will be introduced in future seasons, continuing to expand the event.

The creative vision is led by Logan Wince, an accomplished creative director whose immersive approach blends theatrical design, storytelling and large-scale park transformations.

“This event is about wrapping our guests in warmth, wonder and joy the moment they step through the gates,” said Kelly Daugherty, entertainment director for Six Flags. “Every detail—from the lighting and décor to the music, characters and shows—has been carefully designed to feel emotionally rich, playful, and celebratory. We wanted each land to feel like you’ve stepped inside a holiday dream, where traditions feel familiar but the experience is fresh, awe-inspiring and full of heart.”

In addition to expansive themed environments, guests can enjoy interactive holiday experiences including photos with Santa Claus, a family-friendly indoor walk-through attraction, cookie decorating, gingerbread house building, festive photo opportunities and seasonal tasting menus curated by each park’s executive chef.

Adding to the magic, many thrill rides and kids’ areas will remain open, allowing guests to soar and spin by day—and experience the beauty of holiday lights on nighttime rides. Operating dates, hours, show lineup and ride details will be announced at a later time, with schedules designed to maximize daytime warmth, evening sparkle and holiday togetherness.

“In 2026, festive traditions shine again. New memories are made. And the magic glows brighter than ever when Holiday in the Park returns to Six Flags Great Adventure and Six Flags Over Georgia—reimagined, redesigned and ready to wow,” Daugherty added.

Six Flags Pass Value Shines Brighter

The return of Holiday in the Park adds even more value to Six Flags Season Passes and Memberships—especially Gold Membership, which includes access to the winter season. For a limited time during the Memorial Day Sale (now through May 31, 2026), guests who purchase a Gold or Prestige Membership at Six Flags Great Adventure will receive a free 2026 All Season Drink Plan, valid for Coca-Cola® fountain drink refills all season long, including during Holiday in the Park. Holiday in the Park admission is included with all active Memberships at the respective parks, with eligibility also extended to select other admission products. Additional access may apply for guests who purchased during the 2025 MVP Sale, those with an All-Park add-on, Prestige Passholders and Gold Passholders at select East Coast Six Flags parks.

Kids ages 3 to 5 can also enjoy admission with the Pre-K Pass at no additional
cost—registration is available now through May 31 at 22 parks, and the pass is valid all year. Some exclusions apply. For more information or to register for the Pre-K Pass, visit sixflags.com/pre-k-pass.

In the coming months, the park will share additional Holiday in the Park details at sixflags.com/greatadventure.

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2 weeks ago | [YT] | 33

American Coaster Enthusiasts

Message from Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World:

Dear Guests,

Today, we are sharing difficult news.

Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World will not open for the 2026 summer season.

This was not the outcome we hoped for. Over the past several years, we invested significant effort to revive and improve the park while exploring every possible path to open this year. Ultimately, operating and financial realities made that unsustainable.

We know this is disappointing, and we truly appreciate the support we’ve received from our guests, employees, and the Grand Island community.

For those who purchased a 2026 season pass, full refunds will be processed over the next 30 days. No action is required at this time, and we will reach out directly if anything further is needed.

We also plan to continue the July 4th fireworks tradition from the park property, with more details to come.

For our full statement, additional information, and ways to contact our team, please visit: niagaraamusementpark.com

Thank you for your support, your patience, and for the memories created over the years.

Sincerely,
IB Parks & Entertainment

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 30

American Coaster Enthusiasts

Lake Compounce Opens for Historic 180 Year with New Experiences, New Events & New Food & Beverage Offerings

The Official Park of Family Fun Kicks Off a Full Season of Thrills on Saturday, May 9

BRISTOL, CONN. [April 29, 2026] – Lake Compounce, America’s First Amusement Park, is gearing up for Opening Day as the park celebrates 180 years. Beginning on Saturday May 9, visitors will be welcomed back to the park for the 2026 season and can expect new events, new entertainment, upgraded food offerings, and more during their visits.

The festivities start at 11 a.m. as the first 180 guests that enter through the gates receive a limited-edition commemorative coin honoring the park’s 180 birthday. From Opening Day through the end of the season, families will be delighted by several new or upgraded offerings around the park. Details include:

Upgrades to Wildcat and Boulder Dash: The nearly 100-year-old Wildcat Roller Coaster returns smoother than ever following a full retrack in partnership with Gravity Group and will now feature a second train to help reduce guests time in line. The award-winning Boulder Dash Roller Coaster continues its multi-year upgrade project, with an additional 550 feet of Titan Track added during the off-season, bringing the total to 1,735 feet of steel track.

New! All-American Summer: In honor of America’s 250 birthday, the park will host an all-new event featuring fireworks on July 3 and 4, plus every Saturday through August 15. The celebration continues with dazzling drone shows on August 21 and 22, along with patriotic entertainment and specialty food and beverage offerings available through August 22.

Upgrades to Food and Beverage Offerings: This off-season several food and beverage offerings were upgraded, and new menu items like flatbread pizzas, mac and cheese bowls, and fried Oreo sundaes have been added to several menus throughout the park.

New! Lake Compounce Legacy Corner: This new walk-through experience will offer a way for guests to experience 180 years of park history through nostalgic photos, memorabilia, and artifacts.

In addition to the new All-American Summer, Lake Compounce will host events throughout the season, including the return of Kids Fest in June featuring meet and greets with popular characters. The park’s beloved day to night fall event, Phantom Fall Fest is also back beginning this September and offering family friendly fun during the day and five haunted houses and scare zones throughout the park each night.

“This season is about delivering a better experience through every touchpoint in the park,” said Doug Hemphill, General Manager of Lake Compounce. “Whether it’s a smoother ride on a favorite coaster, trying something new to eat, or exploring our history in a whole new way, we’ve made thoughtful improvements throughout the park to ensure every visit feels fresh, fun, and memorable.”

To celebrate the start of the season, guests can purchase a 2026 Season Pass for a low as $59.99, less than the price as a single day ticket. Select passes offer a variety of perks including access to all events, free parking, discounts on food and beverages, and more.

For more information on the 2026 season, purchase Season Passes, and learn more about upcoming events, visit LakeCompounce.com.

About Lake Compounce
From single-day adventures to weekend getaways, Lake Compounce has been the place for great family escapes for 180 years. As America’s first continuously operating amusement park, the park offers rides, events and attractions for all ages including Connecticut’s largest water park, Crocodile Cove, and overnight accommodations at the Lake Compounce Campground. Located in Bristol, Connecticut, this historic New England destination continues to create unforgettable family memories year after year.

About Herschend
Lake Compounce Amusement and Water Park and Lake Compounce Campground are part of Herschend’s family of brands. Herschend is the world’s largest family-held themed attractions company, with a portfolio of over 40 family entertainment brands across North America, including destinations, resorts, theme parks, water parks, immersive experiences, and content enjoyed by audiences worldwide. For more information, visit www.Herschend.com.

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