Starting Today - Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town Returns Bigger & Brighter, Featuring New & Returning Festive Favorites

With over 70 miles of dazzling lights across the park, new festive treats, holiday animal encounters, jolly rides and shows, there’s something for the whole family – All included with Park Admission

The holidays shine brighter than ever at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™, filling the season with holiday cheer and festive fun. Beginning November 14 through January 5, the park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of twinkling lights and two spectacular new additions — the ALL-NEW Holiday Skies Spectacular, featuring hundreds of drones synchronized to classic holiday music, and the ALL-NEW Serengeti Light Show, an immersive, multi-sensory light and music display across the park’s iconic Serengeti Plain.

The iconic Skyride will sparkle once again with festive lights, providing guests with breathtaking nighttime views of Busch Gardens dressed in its best holiday decor. Guests can also enjoy rides on fan-favorite attractions and coasters, including the recently returned Kumba, Phoenix Rising and more. Beloved holiday experiences like Santa’s North Pole Experience, the Holly Jolly Express, and dazzling shows such as Christmas on Ice will fill the air with festive magic for all ages.

Seasonal treats from holiday-flavored hot chocolates to freshly baked cookies exclusive to Christmas Town will add extra sweetness to the celebration. This year, guests can delight in all-new holiday-inspired menu items, explore the gingerbread cookie decorating station, and sip on a selection of new Christmas Town craft cocktails available throughout the park. With unique holiday shopping, countless special holiday photo opportunities, and endless ways to create lasting memories, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town is the perfect holiday tradition for family and friends.

“There’s nothing quite like the joy and wonder that fill the park during Christmas Town,” said Brian Bacica, Park President of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. “From festive shows to sparkling decorations around every corner, we can’t wait for guests to make cherished holiday memories with us.”

 

Visitors of all ages can enjoy fan-favorite entertainment celebrating the holiday season. Returning entertainment includes:

 

• ALL-NEW Serengeti Light Show - A luminous, choreographed display that turns the Serengeti into a living canvas of color and sound, celebrating the beauty of the season. The show features tens of thousands of Christmas lights choreographed to the tune of our own exclusive iteration of "Carol of the Bells"
• ALL-NEW Holiday Skies Spectacular:  – Watch the night sky come alive with a breathtaking drone show, perfectly synchronized to a soundtrack of classic holiday tunes in an awe-inspiring finale unlike anything else in Florida
• Christmas on Ice – Returning by popular demand, this exhilarating seasonal spectacle at the Moroccan Palace Theater features breathtaking ice-skating performances. Experience the joy of the holiday season as talented skaters dazzle with routines set to beloved Christmas classics and contemporary favorites.
• Mrs. Claus’ Storytime - Perfect for little ones and families alike, this enchanting story time will delight audiences with Mrs. Claus' warm presence and charming storytelling style. Children will be captivated as she weaves magical tales that inspire wonder and celebrate the true spirit of the holidays.
• Busch Gardens Holiday Magic - This captivating performance features amazing illusions, impressive choreography, and festive music for a memorable holiday experience in the Stanleyville Theater.
• Three Kings Journey – Be immersed in the inspiring musical tale of the Three Wise Men as they embark on their journey to Bethlehem.
• Holly Jolly Express – All aboard the jolliest train in town! Guests will be whisked away on a festive journey around the park, where they can sing along to their favorite holiday tunes. Join the celebration and spread Christmas cheer while riding the Holly Jolly Express!
• Elmo’s Christmas Wish – Join Cookie Monster, Rosita, Grover, and Zoe as they help Elmo find his Christmas wish! Families are sure to be singing and dancing along while watching this fun holiday show.
• Christmas Town Character Appearances – Don’t miss your chance to capture unforgettable moments with special seasonal characters scattered throughout the park! Pose for photos with enchanting princesses and many more festive friends who are eager to celebrate the season.
• New Years Eve Fireworks– Ring in the new year with music, fireworks and thrill rides. Join Busch Gardens on December 31 for unforgettable fun during the day and fireworks at night.

 

Guests can also enjoy Santa’s North Pole Experience, where they can meet Santa, explore his workshop, and share their holiday wishes. Plus, guests can visit Rudolph’s Winter Wonderland, in a NEW location, featuring festive decorations, interactive displays, merch, and opportunities for photos with beloved characters from the classic holiday tale.

 

Christmas Town runs select dates from Nov. 14 through Jan. 5. To learn more about all the festive experiences Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has to offer, guests can visit ChristmasTown.com.

While Christmas Town is included with park admission, guests can unwrap even more holiday value with flexible membership options and limited-time savings.

 

Exclusive Offers to Make the Holiday Season Even Brighter

For a limited time, guests can save up to 60% on Tickets – starting as low as $57 – during our limited time Flash Sale or play all year with up to 25% on Fun Cards and Annual Passes for a limited time. Pass Members receive 12 months of access to thrilling attractions, vibrant seasonal events, and exclusive perks. With unbeatable benefits, including free guest tickets, free parking and discounts on merchandise, food and beverage, it’s the perfect gift for adventure seekers of all ages. For more information, park hours and to purchase tickets, visit www.BuschGardensTampa.com.

 

Source & Photos: Busch Gardens Tampa Press Release 

 

Six Flags Entertainment Unwraps Dazzling Holiday Experiences Beginning Nov. 15 with Millions of Lights & Magical Nights

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, North America’s largest regional amusement park operator, will unwrap dazzling holiday celebrations from coast to coast beginning Nov. 15. Ten parks will deliver magical celebrations that blend heartwarming traditions with high-energy thrills at WinterFest, Holiday in the Park, Knott’s Merry Farm and Christmas in the Park. 25 million twinkling lights, photos with Santa, festive décor, live entertainment, seasonal gifts and a limited-time menu of unique feasts and treats will join the parks’ iconic array of roller coasters and family rides to transform them into winter wonderlands of fun.

In addition, four of the company’s resort hotels will offer special winter stay experiences ranging from festive getaways to fully immersive holiday escapes with exclusive entertainment and magical surprises around every corner.

“This winter, we’re turning thrills into timeless holiday traditions,” said Christian Dieckmann, chief commercial officer for Six Flags. “Guests will be surrounded by millions of twinkling lights and joyful moments—from our iconic rides and slides to photos with Santa, live entertainment, festive shopping and a delicious lineup of seasonal treats. It’s all part of our commitment to creating unforgettable memories for families and friends, perfectly wrapped in the joy of the holidays.”

Events will run select dates at these participating theme parks:

• Canada’s Wonderland: WinterFest – Nov. 15, 2025 to Jan. 3, 2026
• Knott’s Berry Farm: Knott’s Merry Farm – Nov. 21 to Jan. 4, 2026
• Six Flags Mexico: Christmas in the Park – Nov. 27, 2025 to Jan. 18, 2026
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Holiday in the Park – Nov. 22 to Dec. 23, 2025; plus New Year’s celebrations Dec. 26, 2025 to Jan. 4, 2026.
• Six Flags Over Texas: Holiday in the Park – Nov. 23 to Dec. 31, 2025
• Six Flags Magic Mountain: Holiday in the Park – Nov. 27, 2025 to Jan 4, 2025
• Kings Island: WinterFest – Nov. 28 to Dec. 31, 2025
• Carowinds: WinterFest – Nov. 28, 2025 to Jan 3, 2026
• Six Flags Discovery Kingdom: NEW! WinterFest – Nov. 28 to Jan. 4, 2026
• Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec: Christmas in the Park – Dec. 20, 2025 to Jan. 4, 2026                                                      

Thrilling rides, dazzling lights and live entertainment

Across Six Flags Entertainment parks, millions of eye-popping lights will surround guests in a kaleidoscope of color. The parks will offer visual spectacles on magical midways framed in twinkling cheer, in radiant themed zones, beneath shimmering canopies and “dancing” on trees to the rhythm of holiday music.

The thrills of the season will reach new heights as theme park favorites take on a merry twist, blending high-speed excitement with the magic of the holidays. Like Santa on his sleigh, guests will dash through the sky on some of their favorite roller coasters and family rides. Even the parks’ littlest guests will have a stocking full of adventures to explore.

A diverse array of live entertainment will capture the holiday spirit. From stirring tree lighting ceremonies and live bands to elaborate stage productions complete with powerful vocalists, high-energy dancers and even flying angels, each show will invite guests to step into a world full of breathtaking artistry, cultural flair, nostalgic charm or festive cheer.

Seasonal offerings and unique feasts and treats

Guests will have the option to elevate their experience with a curated selection of festive and interactive offerings available exclusively during the holiday season. While selections vary at each park, they include:

• St. Nick’s Pics – Step into Santa’s immersive world and capture the magical moment.
• Unlimited Hot Chocolate – Refill a souvenir mug with chocolately goodness.
• Interactive Bubble Wand – Unlock magical moments throughout the park with bubbles and lights.
• Interactive Ornament – Watch as shows and interactive wands activate music and lights on this special toy.
• Igloos – Cuddle up in a cozy, heated hideaway with optional upgrades for more merriment.
• Ice Skating – Glide into fun with reserved time slots and skate rentals.
• Cookie Decorating – Dazzle a sweet treat with icing, sprinkles and candy art.
• S’mores Kits – Grab everything needed to toast the perfect fireside dessert.
• Priority Ride Access – Give the gift of time with expedited ride access.

 

Each park will offer a unique holiday menu that reflects regional flavors and the imaginative creations of its executive chef. Whether guests favor sweet or savory tastes, they’ll have ample options to explore during each visit. Examples of regional specialties include:

• Canada: Holiday Poutine, Montreal Melt and Blueberry Cobbler Hot Apple Cider.
• Great Lakes: It’s a Wonderful Chop, Turkey Dinner Ball and Melting Snow Mocktail.
• California: Roasted Chicken Tortilla Soup, Butternut Squash Soup Bread Bowl, French Onion Dip Burger and Mistletoe Margarita.
• Texas: Country Fried Feast Cone, Snickerdoodle Sundae and Christmas Cranberry Punch Cocktail.
• Southeast: Sweet & Tangy Pulled Pork Mac Bowl, Southern Bread Pudding and S’mores Hot Chocolate.
• Mexico: Christmas Turkey Torta, Rosca de Reyes and Ginger Horchata.

More information can be found on each park’s website. (Editor’s Note: See Holiday Feast Fun Facts below for additional information.)

Giving the gift of unlimited fun

Season passes to Six Flags Entertainment parks provide an unbeatable value with world-class rides, signature entertainment, events, special perks and more. “They’re the perfect gift for families and friends looking for exciting ways to make memories together. Our parks are running limited-time holiday offers that are too good to pass up. While guests need to act now to take advantage of the savings, the passes will deliver fun long after the holiday season is over,” Dieckmann said.

Through Dec. 1, the company will have special offers for its 2026 Silver Pass:

• Six Flags Over Texas, Over Georgia, Discovery Kingdom, Magic Mountain, Fiesta Texas, and Great Adventure will offer guests the opportunity to gain unlimited access in 2025 and through Labor Day 2026 plus free parking for the cost of a “Good Any Day Ticket.”
• Six Flags St. Louis, Great America, Frontier City, Darien Lake and New England will offer guests the opportunity to buy a one-day ticket and get the summer for free. This offer will include free parking.

Each park’s website will detail its offerings and inclusions.

 

Resorts provide thrilling holiday escapes

 

Guests can turn a day of fun into a multi-day retreat with a visit to one of Six Flags’ resort hotels. Offerings will vary from fun and festive to totally immersive. Holiday escapes will be available at the following resorts:

• Six Flags Great Escape Lodge (Lake George, NY): Holiday at the Lodge – Nov. 28 to Dec. 24, 2025. This visit to the Adirondack Mountains will include festive décor, themed activities, live entertainment and unlimited access to the indoor waterpark. Guests can enjoy rooms as low as $99 plus tax per night if booked by Dec. 7. Offer valid on stays through April 30, 2026. Rooms limited, promo code CYBER.

• Castaway Bay (Sandusky, OH): Nov. 21 to Dec. 31, 2025. This resort near the southern shore of Lake Erie will include themed activities, meet and greets with Santa and admission to the indoor waterpark.
• Knott’s Hotel (Buena Park, CA): Nov. 21, 2025 to Jan 4, 2026. Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, this hotel will include all-day drink wristbands, hotel parking, admission to Knott’s Merry Farm and a breakfast buffet option.
• Schlitterbahn Waterpark & Resort (New Braunfels, TX): This resort in the San Antonio metropolitan area is perfectly positioned for great getaways to the Texas Hill Country, beautifully decorated for the holidays. Resort open daily (waterpark closed).

For a complete listing of event dates, links to tickets and more, visit www.sixflags.com or each park and resort’s website.

Source: Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Press Release

Photos: Courtesy of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation 

Registration Now Open for Inaugural Run Dollywood Weekend!

 Dollywood fans can now lace up for a whole new way to make memories, as registration is officially open for the inaugural Run Dollywood race weekend, taking place April 25-26, 2026. For the first time ever, guests can experience the smiles and spirit of Dollywood while competing in scenic races through the heart of the Smoky Mountain destination.

Runners now can visit Dollywood.com/RunDollywood to register for the event. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged due to the popularity of this inaugural running. Race bib pickup takes place on Friday, April 24, at Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. 

 

Participants can enjoy the beauty of spring in the Smokies as they race through the challenging and rewarding course that winds its way through the park and the surrounding area. A full calendar of races is planned for the inaugural event weekend, including the marquee half-marathon slated for Sunday morning. Companion races—a 1-mile kids fun run(ages 4-12), a 5k, a 10k —are scheduled for Saturday morning.

 

Each race will be officially timed and will feature live music and on-course entertainment that only the theme park named #1 in the U.S. by Tripadvisor users can offer. All participants receive an inaugural event shirt, race bib, commemorative medal, and complimentary photo by FinisherPix. Additional Dollywood photo opportunities will be available for purchase at iconic locations throughout the route. Following the event, participants can spend the rest of the day enjoying the world-class attractions, entertainment, and fun of Dollywood

 

For more information about the inaugural Run Dollywood race weekend, visit Dollywood.com/RunDollywood.

Source: Dollywood

Aquatica Orlando to Debut ILLUMINATE This Weekend: First-Ever Nighttime Lantern Festival!

This weekend, Aquatica Orlando will shine brighter than ever as ILLUMINATE – A Lantern Festival at Aquatica opens to guests on Saturday, Nov. 8. This all-new nighttime experience will transform the award-winning water park into a radiant realm of light and imagination, running select nights through Jan. 31.

Guests can stroll through glowing walkways, discover majestic animal lanterns, and explore five immersive realms of light from 6 to 10 p.m. Each realm features vibrant storytelling, interactive surprises, themed bites, and photo-ready moments. During this nighttime event, pools and water slides will pause operations so guests can fully enjoy the immersive lantern experience.

“ILLUMINATE is unlike anything we’ve ever done at Aquatica,” said Bradley Gilmour, Park President of Aquatica Orlando. “From glowing mermaids and candy-colored forests to a lantern safari brought to life on our Serengeti Express train, this festival will light up the night in a way that is both completely new and uniquely Aquatica. We can’t wait for families to create glowing holiday memories in a setting that feels worlds away, yet right here in Orlando.”

ILLUMINATE is more than just a feast for the eyes, it’s an experience crafted to engage all five senses. From the glow of towering lanterns and the soundscapes woven into each realm to the scent of cotton candy drifting through Candy Cascade Falls and the warm campfire aroma in S’mores Alley, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to immerse guests fully. Aquatica Orlando’s entertainment, design, and technical teams have gone above and beyond to blend artistry with innovation, ensuring each realm feels alive with wonder, connection and holiday spirit. 

Five Realms of Light, One Enchanting Night
ILLUMINATE invites guests to wander through five all-new glowing environments, each with its own story, atmosphere, and lantern creations. Here’s a Breakdown of the Brilliance:

AquaLuma – Legend tells of five animal guardians who first brought light to the waters: Roa the Kiwi, Papa the Spoonbill, Wae Wae the Takahe, Kata the Kookaburra, and Ihu the Gecko. Their glowing footprints, laughter, and starlight guide explorers through arches of shimmer and radiant wildlife that still shine today.

Candy Cascade Falls – A sugary dreamscape where giant gummy bear guardians awaken the forest of sweets, sparking lollipops to sprout and peppermint paths to glow. Every laugh makes the candy sparkle, every step makes the falls flow sweeter, creating a world where joy itself lights the way.

Enchanted Lagoon – Said to be born of a pearl that fell from the moon, this mystical cove is home to a luminous mermaid who keeps watch over the dreams and wishes cast into her waters. Guests can take part in “Wishes by the Water,” a glowing new lantern activity where families can release their own illuminated wishes across the lagoon.

Myst Wood Waters – Deep in a forest where dragonflies taught the light to dance and macaws painted the skies, a Great Tree of Light pulses with energy. Visitors can feel its heartbeat glow as they step on an interactive mat beneath the tree, activating a dazzling light display while lantern birds, bubbles, and color-shifting chameleons bring the forest alive.

Rivers of Discovery – A glowing tribute to the animals that inspire and the parks that protect like SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, and Discovery Cove — this lantern-lit safari celebrates connection, care, and curiosity. From dolphins and flamingos to giraffes and lions, each lantern tells a story of wonder and discovery, a journey illuminated by those who care.

Festive Fun for the Whole Family
In addition to the glowing realms, ILLUMINATE will feature:

Kiwi Santa Meet & Greet – A whimsical summer-styled Santa inspired by New Zealand traditions, perfect for festive family photos.

Kiddie Alley Express – The Mini Serengeti Express train invites the young and young at heart to ride through a lantern safari of lions, zebras, and giraffes.

Wishes by the Water – Families can take part in a magical “wishing tree” experience. Guests will write a wish on a scroll, seal it in a decorative vial, and receive a small lantern to “release their wish” into the water.

S’more Stations & More Holiday Fun – Bring cozy holiday vibes to life by taking part in meet-and-greets with Kiwi (tropical) Santa and his merry elves or writing a letter to Santa at the craft station (included with admission). Don’t forget classic s’mores are available for purchase or can be redeemed with event lanyards.

Limited-Time Food & Beverage Offerings
Culinary creativity meets holiday cheer with exclusive menu items available only during ILLUMINATE. Guests can indulge in limited-time in treats such as Brisket Mac & Cheese, Apple Cider Churros, Pork Belly Tacos, S’mores Pizza, and festive sips like the Cotton Candy Margarita or a non-alcoholic Christmas Tree Punch.

Light Up the Night with Sweet Savings
ILLUMINATE tickets are now on sale starting at just $24.99 during the Black Friday Presale! Foodies can take their experience to the next level with a Lantern Lanyard (available in five- or ten-punch options), giving them the flexibility to taste their way through the festival. Pass Members can take advantage of exclusive discounts on admission and food lanyards. Standard Pass Member parking rules apply.

Source: Aquatica Orlando

Universal Studios Hollywood Debuts a Dynamic 2026 Slate, From Thrilling Special and Seasonal Events to the Highly Anticipated Arrival of Its First-Ever, High-Speed Outdoor Roller Coaster “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift”

2026 is shaping up to be a stellar year at Universal Studios Hollywood and the Southern California theme park destination is sharing its mighty 2026 Event Calendar to help guests plan their Best Day in L.A. as they gear up to enjoy a variety of unique events, fan-favorite seasonal activities and the arrival of its high-speed outdoor roller coaster, “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.”

 

What better way to experience all that Universal Studios Hollywood has to offer than with a coveted Annual Pass. Plus, for a limited time with the purchase of a new 12-month Annual Pass, guests enjoy three additional months free for a total of 15 months of fun, now through April 8, 2026 (restrictions apply).

 

A great holiday gift or stocking stuffer, Universal Studios Hollywood’s Annual Pass offers member exclusive perks throughout the year, including dedicated events and opportunities from Park Takeovers and Appreciation Days to collectible giveaways and special ticket offers to such popular seasonal events as Halloween Horror Nights and Universal Fan Fest Nights, as well as discounts within the theme park and at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. The must-have Platinum Annual Pass includes the coveted after 3pm Universal Express access to each ride, attraction and seated show with a shorter wait time (restrictions apply).

 

Visit UniversalStudiosHollywood.com for details and to purchase. Blockout dates and restrictions apply.

 

The return of its popular Mega Movie Summer and fan-favorites events, Butterbeer Season and Back to Hogwarts within “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter,™” are just a few examples of the adventure ahead.

 

At a glance, here’s what to expect in 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood:

Source: Universal Studios Hollywood