2001 NEWS ARCHIVE

Archive of past news articles on theme and amusement parks, thrill rides and attractions.

December 2001

Dec 21, 2001
Cedar Fair Declares Fourth Quarter Cash Distribution
The partnership declares a cash distribution of forty-one cents per limited partner unit payable mid-February.

Dec 19, 2001
Cedar Fair Finalizes Capital Expenditures For 2002
The partnership announced that it has finalized plans for $42 million in capital expenditures at its parks.

Dec 17, 2001
Knott's Accelerates Into 2002 With New Hot Rod Coaster
The park will recreate greasers paradise, hot rods, flaming paint jobs and plenty of speed roller coaster style.

Dec 10, 2001
Six Flags Fiesta Texas Announces New Dark Ride
Scooby-Doo and gang will appear at the park in the new Scooby-Doo Ghostblasters interactive ride opening in 2002.

Dec 10, 2001
Disney Salutes Armed Forces With Free Park Admission
Active U.S. military members will receive complimentary admission to Disney parks during salute.

Dec 3, 2001
IAAPA 2001: Orlando Show and Convention Third Largest Ever
The association's annual convention and tradeshow hosted nearly 29,000 attendees in eight-days.

Dec 1, 2001
IAAPA 2001: Celebrates Hall of Fame Inductees
Four individuals were inducted into the Hall of Fame during the association's annual convention and tradeshow.

November 2001

Nov 30, 2001
Six Flags Magic Mountains Holds Annual Toy Drive
Guests who bring a new unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more will receive free admission to the park.

Nov 27, 2001
Custom Coasters to Renovate Indiana Beach Dark Ride
The company will build its second ride in two years at Indiana Beach this off-season.

Nov 27, 2001
IAAPA: 2001 New Product and Best Exhibit Awards
Premier Rides, SS Power and LifeFormations and others earn First Place Awards for products and exhibits.

Nov 26, 2001
IAAPA: 2001 Service Awards Winners Honored
The winners of the 2001 Service Awards were honored during the annual convention and tradeshow.

Nov 26, 2001
Knott's Becomes Knott's Merry Farm for the Holidays
The park will celebrate the holidays with shopping, dining, and entertainment through January 6.

Nov 26, 2001
Dixie Stampede Kicks Off Toys For Tots Toy Drive
Dolly Parton's popular dinner attraction is serving as the designated drop off point for toys.

Nov 26, 2001
Cedar Point Announces Plans For 15th Roller Coaster
The park's newest record-breaking coaster Wicked Twister will debut when the park opens in May 2002.

Nov 26, 2001
Snoopy Rocks! On Ice Coming to Cedar Point in 2002
The new family oriented ice show to debut at the park voted the 'Best Amusement Park in the World.'

Nov 20, 2001
Cedar Fair Announces Capital Improvements for Cedar Point
New world-class roller coaster and family ice show part of $13 million in expenditures at park.

Nov 9, 2001
Knott's Salutes Fire and Police Personnel With Free Admission
Fire and Law Enforcement Days at the park begins November 22 and continues until December 16.

Nov 9, 2001
Disneyland Discounts 2-Day Admission for Local Residents
The park is hoping to boost attendance during the holidays with the new discounted ticket.

Nov 8, 2001
Cedar Fair Reports Record Revnues For 3rd Quarter
Revenues and earnings rise for the third quarter despite the tough economy.

Nov 7, 2001
Knott's Honors Veterans and Active Military Thru Nov 22
The park is honoring the brave men and women who have served with free admission to the theme park.

Nov 7, 2001
Winter "Off Season" Amusement Park Operations
Plan your off-season trips with this list of parks open for rides and fun during the winter months.

Nov 7, 2001
It's a "Holiday Fantasy Forest" at Dollywood's Smokey Mountain Christmas
Three million lights will illuminate the theme park during the annual Christmasfest beginning on November 10.

Nov 7, 2001
Phunfest 2001
A special review of the fun found at this fall's enthusiast event the Phoenix Phaul Phunfest at Knoebels.

Nov 2, 2001
SeaWorld Diving Into Expanded November 2001 Schedule
The adventure park is expanding its operating schedule to include weekends through November 25.

Nov 1, 2001
Paramount's Carowinds to Add Coaster for 30th Anniversary
The addition of the parks 11th roller coaster will highlight this important milestone for the park.

Nov 1, 2001
Paramount's Kings Dominion Entertainment Audtions Nov 2-12
The park will begin its search for singers, dancers, actors and tecnicians on November 2, 2001.

October 2001

Oct 25, 2001
Paramount's Kings Dominion Thanks Coaster Enthusiasts
To show their appreciation coaster enthusiasts are invited to a special walk back this Saturday.

Oct 25, 2001
Michigan's Adventure Announces Expansion Plans for 2002
Cedar Fair plans more than $5 million in capital expenditures for the park's 2002 season.

Oct 25, 2001
Cedar Fair Named to Mergent's Dividend Achivevers List
The partnerhsip which owns amusement parks and water parks has been designated a 'Divident Achivever'.

Oct 23, 2001
Carowinds 11th Roller Coaster To Highlight Park's 30th Anniversary
The new roller coaster to anchor a newly themed Carolina Boardwalk section of Paramount's Carowinds theme park.

Oct 22, 2001
Caricature Carvers at Dollywood's Harvest Celebration
Nationally recognized caricature carvers will be higligted at the celebration October 26-27.

Oct 17, 2001
Halloweekends at Cedar Point Infested With Lurking Creatures
The new Halloween attraction at Cedar Point has frightening characters hiding in the shadows and darkness.

Oct 16, 2001
It's All Treats - No Tricks During Halloween at Hersheypark
This special event includes fun for the entire family at the sweetest amusement park on earth.

Oct 12, 2001
Terra Mitica and Paramount Parks Sign Strategic Agreement
Paramount will enter the European market by taking over the operations at Terra Mitica theme park.

Oct 12, 2001
Holiday World Announces Improvements To Roller Coaster
Two new trains for The Legend roller coaster will add capacity and improve the ride experience.

Oct 10, 2001
Holiday Spectcular to Debut at Disney's California Adventure
Disney's Luminaria will begin in early November and run nightly at the park through early January.

Oct 9, 2001
Anheuser-Busch Adventure Parks to Honor America's Hereos
The parks will offer free admission to police, fire and emergency workers through end of year.

Oct 9, 2001
Holiday World Ends Record Season With Attendance Up 8%
The park completed its 56th season Sunday with its highest seasonal attendance ever, topping last years record.

Oct 9, 2001
Second Monster Coaster Debuts at Six Flags Great America
The world's tallest, fastest, suspended looping boomerang roller coaster opened Saturday at the park.

Oct 9, 2001
Disney's 'Ultimate Ride' Roller Coaster Game Released
Ultimate Ride challenges coaster fans and gamers to design the Ultimate Roller Coaster.

Oct 5, 2001
Fright Fest Begins Tonight At Six Flags Magic Mountain
The annual Halloween spooktacular starts tonight at Six Flags first and only Xtreme Park.

Oct 5, 2001
Holiday World to Build World's Largest Enclosed Waterslide
The new water ride named ZOOMbabwe will debut in Indiana's largest water park in 2002.

Oct 2, 2001
Dolly Parton Announces $10 Million Addition to Dollywood
Country music star plans more adventures in imagination for Dollywood Theme Park visitors.

Oct 2, 2001
FearFest Begins Friday at Paramount's Kings Island
The Midwest's largest haunted event reincarnates itself this fall every Friday and Saturday night in October.

Oct 1, 2001
Haunted Mansion Holiday Opens Friday at Disneyland
The holiday conversion of the Haunted Mansion opens Friday at the Disneyland resort.

Oct 1, 2001
Bonfante Gardens Theme Park Suddenly Ends 2001 Season
The new theme park closed early to conserve capital and hopes to reopen for the 2002 season.

September 2001

Sep 24, 2001
Dolly Parton Breaks Ground in Orlando on Dixie Stampede
The new $25 million show and theatre project is slated to open in Orlando in November 2002.

Sep 17, 2001
Bill Koch Holiday World's Patriarch Passes Away at 86
Koch's legacy includes the world's first theme park Holiday World, the town of Santa Claus and his family.

Sep 14, 2001
Disneyland Observes National Day of Prayer and Rememberance
At noon, the entire resort, including both theme parks will come to a stop for a moment of silence.

Sep 13, 2001
Holiday World Gives Away Free Tickets to Blood Donors
The park in an effort to support the American Red Cross is donating parks tickets to donors.

Sep 7, 2001
Knott's Coaster Reopens After State Declares Safe
Investigators found no mechanical problems and coroner concludes death was the result of pre-existing condition.

Sep 7, 2001
Cedar Fair L.P. Reports Increase In August Attendance
Attendance for the month of August, including Labor Day weekend, increased 5% from a year ago.

Sep 6, 2001
Freak Preview Nights Offer Savings for 29th Halloween Haunt
Knott's Scary Farm fans can save up to $20 per ticket by attending on these special preview nights October 4-7.

Sep 6, 2001
100 Years of Magic Celebration at Walt Disney World
Starting October 1 this new celebration will feature new spectacles in all four Walt Disney World parks.

Sep 5, 2001
'Viva La Indpendencia' at Six Flags Over Georgia
Six Flags presents a latino festival featuring Tiranos Del Norte, El Morro and more.

Sep 5, 2001
Screams of Fright to Fill October Nights at Kings Dominion
FearFest, the region's newest, largest and most terrifying Halloween haunt coming to the park this October.

Sep 5, 2001
New 'Slingshot' Ride Now Open at Six Flags Darien Lake
The park's new up-charge attraction from Funtime Industries launches guests 200 feet at over 80 mph.

Sep 5, 2001
Millennium Force Closed For Opening of Millennium Mania
Necessary maintenance is forcing the park to close the coaster for at least the opening day of Millennium Mania.

Sep 5, 2001
Farewell to the Country Bear Playhouse at Disneyland
Country Bear Playhouse to give farewell performances at Disneyland now through September 9.

Sep 4, 2001
Cedar Point Kicks Off 2002 Season Pass Program
The all-new lower priced pass offers the ultimate value at the best amusement park in the world.

Sep 2, 2001
Knott's Roller Coaster Closed After Female Dies
A female rider was found slumped over and unconscious after taking a ride on the park's popular roller coaster.

August 2001

Aug 31, 2001
Millennium Mania Returns to Cedar Point in September
Park guests can enjoy five of Cedar Point's best rides without the crowds on four evenings.

Aug 31, 2001
Giovanola Freres Disputes Rumors About Company Closing
The company confirmed that they are still in the business of building amusement park equipment.

Aug 31, 2001
2nd Extreme Ride to Debut at Six Flags Over Georgia
The world's tallest, fastest suspended looping coaster will open this Saturday at the park.

Aug 31, 2001
Kings Dominion Looking For Ghouls, Ghosts and Zombies
Interviews are scheduled for the newest and biggest regional Halloween attraction at the park this October.

Aug 31, 2001
Labor Day Fireworks at Paramount's Great America
Festivities at the park this Labor Day weekend include fireworks, the MDA Telethon and a classic car show.

Aug 23, 2001
Netherlands Coaster Manufacturer Files For Bankruptcy
Vekoma, the world's largest coaster manufacturer announced that they will file for bankruptcy protection.

Aug 23, 2001
Universal Announces Plans For Third Theme Park in Asia
Universal Studios and Renong will develop a $800-million theme park in the southern state of Johor in Malaysia.

Aug 21, 2001
Six Flags Launches New Site Extending Online Presence
New interactive Web site to extend the company's Internet presence at www.sixflags.com.

Aug 21, 2001
Don Robinson Promoted to Exec VP of Hong Kong Disneyland
Former senior vice president of Walt Disney World Operations to oversee the new theme park.

Aug 20, 2001
Six Flags Magic Mountain Announces Opening of Deja Vu
The world's, tallest, fastest, suspended looping boomerang coaster to open Saturday at Six Flags.

Aug 20, 2001
Fans, Collectors to Gather For 2001 Disneyana Convention
The theme for this year's convention 'A Disney Family Reunion' for Walt Disney's 100th birthday.

Aug 20, 2001
European Park Announces Record Breaking Coaster
Thorpe Park in England plans to build the world's largest looping roller coaster with ten inversions.

Aug 19, 2001
Superman Coaster Reopens at Six Flags New England
The park reopened the ride after completing their accident investigation and required repairs.

Aug 17, 2001
Canada's Only Active Volcano to Erupt at Wonderland
Paramount Canada's Wonderland will come alive as the park's volcano erupts nightly through September 3.

Aug 16, 2001
Knott's 29th Annual Halloween Haunt to Begin October 4
This October the park will become Knott's Scary Farm terrorizing guests for nineteen horrifying nights.

Aug 16, 2001
Three... Two... One... Blast Off On Cedar Point's VertiGo
Cedar Point's newest challenge park activity VertiGo, a vertical thrill ride is now open to thrill guests.

Aug 15, 2001
Conneaut Lake Fans Raise Thousands to Save Coaster
Blue Streak Challenge participants raise several thousand dollars to preserve the classic coaster.

Aug 10, 2001
Hersheypark to Build Setpoint Inverted Water Coaster
The new interactive water roller coaster will open for the 2002 season and guests may name the new ride in a contest.

Aug 9, 2001
Riders Roll Through Kings Dominion On Record Attempt
The latest world record roller coaster riding attempt to raise money for the Children's Miracle Network.

Aug 6, 2001
Trains Collide on Superman Ride of Steel at Six Flags
Nineteen passengers were transported to local hospitals to be treated for mostly minor injuries.

Aug 3, 2001
Six Flags to Celebrate 40th Anniversary Worldwide
On Sunday, August 5 Six Flags will celebrate its 40th at all of its theme parks around the globe.

Aug 3, 2001
Waterfort Artisan Visits Busch Gardens Williamsbug
Holiday heirloom ornament designer makes a signing appearance in the Ireland section of the park August 5-11.

Aug 3, 2001
Park Celebrates 30 Millionth Visitor At Dollywood
On July 31 the park celebrated this important attendance milestone after sixteen seasons of operation.

Aug 3, 2001
Rhino Rally Reopens at Busch Gardens Tampa
The attraction reopened to the public after a month of modifications following a minor accident.

Aug 2, 2001
New Wooden Coaster For Waldameer Park Delayed
A state decision to study the shoreline will further delay the park's attempt to build a major new roller coaster.

Aug 2, 2001
Europa Park to Build Europe's Largest Roller Coaster
Germany's largest theme park broke ground on a new hypercoaster to become the tallest and fastest in Europe.

Aug 1, 2001
Paramount's Kings Dominion Starts Building 12th Coaster
Park officials announced Ricochet a new wild mouse coaster that will be built for the 2002 season.

July 2001

Jul 31, 2001
Amusement Today Announces 2001 Golden Ticket Awards
The prestigious poll conducted by the magazine reveals the best of the best in the amusement industry.

Jul 31, 2001
Historic Idora Park Wooden Coasters Are Now History
Two historic wooden roller coasters met their fate Thursday morning as a bulldozer plowed over them.

Jul 31, 2001
Thrill Ride Collapses at Michigan's Adventure Park
The Chaos spinning ride broke off its axle Monday evening injuring and stranding passengers.

Jul 31, 2001
Legendary Coaster Designer Schwarzkopf Passed Away
Anton Schwarzkopf will be best remembered for his innovations in steel roller coaster design.

Jul 28, 2001
Coaster Trains Collide at Canobie Lake Amusement Park
Five people were injured after the trains on the Yankee Cannonball ran into each other Friday.

Jul 27, 2001
Couple to be Married on Skycoaster at Kentucky Kingdom
One brave couple will say I do on board the newest thrill ride at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom.

Jul 27, 2001
Roller Coaster Record Attempt to Raise Money For Kids
The latest attempt at the 24-hour world record is to benefit the Children's Miracle Network.

Jul 24, 2001
Knott's Announces New Thrill Ride "Vertigo"
The park will introduce one outrageous new ride with three insanely great thrills in late-2001.

Jul 22, 2001
Train Collision Closes Branson USA Roller Coaster
Two trains collided on the Windstorm roller coaster at Branson USA injuring several riders.

Jul 20, 2001
Cedar Point Announces Plans To Debut New Ride
Vertigo, a new thrill ride to open in Cedar Point's Challenge Park later this summer.

Jul 17, 2001
Six Flags Great Adventure Announces Alcatraz The Ride
This new interactive simulator ride will debut at the park this fall and the official grand opening next season.

Jul 16, 2001
Technifex Named Technical Show Producer for Tomb Raider Ride
The company known for sensational special effects will work on the new adventure ride at Paramount's Kings Island.

Jul 10, 2001
Discovery Channel Goes Behind-The-Scenes at Cedar Point
New one-hour documentary on the world's largest amusement park will premiere July 16.

Jul 5, 2001
Cedar Fair Reports Attendance Increase For June
Attendance at Cedar Fair parks rose 5% in the month of June compared to the same period a year ago.

Jul 5, 2001
Park World Ranks New England's Superman Number One
Superman Ride of Steel earned the number one ranking from Park World magazine for the second year in a row.

Jul 2, 2001
Tomb Raider: The Ride to Open at Paramount's Kings Island
New attraction will change the face of thrill ride history and become one of the world's greatest adventure rides.

June 2001

Jun 29, 2001
Six Flags Magic Mountain Extends Operating Season
The park has extended its operating season and will be open daily through September 30.

Jun 29, 2001
Kings Island Welcomes One-Millionth Guest On Son Of Beast
Paramount's Kings Island celebrates the milestone by giving away season passes and prizes to the lucky rider.

Jun 28, 2001
World's Fastest Roller Coaster Coming To Japan
Fujikyu Highlands to open a Thrust Air roller coaster that will break the current coaster speed record.

Jun 28, 2001
Popstar to Celebrate Electronic and Dance Music Culture
Paramount's Great America invites all teens to this special tribute on Saturday, June 30.

Jun 28, 2001
Celebrate The Fourth at Paramount's Great America
Extended hours, Fourth of July all-you-can-eat BBQ and fireworks make for a great celebration.

Jun 28, 2001
Massive Fireworks Display Planned at Kings Island
The park will present an all-new fireworks display 30 times the size and scope of the traditional display.

Jun 28, 2001
Cedar Point Lights Up The Night With Fireworks Display
The park announced its annual Forth of July fireworks display and extended park hours for the summer.

Jun 27, 2001
Rhino Rally Closed After Land Rover Tips Over
The new ride at Busch Gardens Tampa closed after two riders suffered minor injuries when a vehicle tipped.

Jun 27, 2001
Six Flags Plans 200-Foot Tall Coaster for Ohio Park
Company officials are being met with opposition from neighbors as they propose a new roller coaster.

Jun 27, 2001
Construction Walls Up Around Windjammer at Knott's
Rumors circulate as construction walls go up around the Windjammer roller coaster at Knott's.

Jun 27, 2001
Tokyo DisneySea Grand Opening Date Set For September 4
Disney's newest theme park is setting sail for adventure and imagination in Tokyo with seven themed areas.

Jun 27, 2001
Spectacular Nightime Parade Premiers at Tokyo Disneyland
Dreamlights, Tokyo Disneyland's new Electrical Parade is receiving rave reviews since its debut to guests on June 1.

Jun 27, 2001
Disney to Build Coaster at Animal Kingdom for 2002
Chester Hester's Dino Rama! will be a new mini-land of zany fun planned for the Animal Kingdom park.

Jun 27, 2001
Magic Carpets of Aladdin Open At Disney's Magic Kingdom
This wew spinning ride themed to popular animated film is now open in Adventureland at the Magic Kingdom.

Jun 27, 2001
Asian Amusement Expo 2001 July 11-13 in Hong Kong
The Asian Amusement Expo promises to be something for everyone in the amusement and leisure industry.

Jun 25, 2001
Disneyland Settles Suit Over Brain Injury from Ride
The company agreed to pay an undisclosed sum to a woman who claims she was injured on Indiana Jones.

Jun 19, 2001
Disneyland to Give Davy Crockett Explorer Canoes The Boot
The original Frontierland attraction is slated to close at the end of the summer after 46 years of service.

Jun 16, 2001
Six Flags Magic Mountain Reopens Goliath Roller Coaster
The park reopens the popular roller coaster after investigators and the coroner reports conclude that the ride is safe to operate.

Jun 15, 2001
Train Valleys On Zoomerang Coaster at Lake Compounce
A day after a tragic accident at the park the train on the Zoomerang got stuck stranding 26 passengers.

Jun 13, 2001
Lake Compounce Employee Killed on Roller Coaster
A maintenance worker died after he was struck by a train on the Boulder Dash roller coaster while working.

Jun 12, 2001
V2: Vertical Velocity Blasts Off at Six Flags Marine World
The new high-tech, spiraling impulse coaster that rockets riders from 0-70 mph is now blasting off at Marine World.

Jun 12, 2001
Disney's California Adventure to Open Millionaire Attraction
A new live show based on ABC's Who Wants To Be A Millionaire is coming to the park this August.

Jun 12, 2001
Kennywood's Classic Old Mill Ride Celebrates 100 Years
Members of the Dark Rides and Funhouse Enthusiasts came out to celebrate the centennial for the Old Mill.

Jun 12, 2001
Bonfante Gardens Theme Park Opens This Friday
Northern California's newest theme park will welcome the public to the new park on Friday, June 15.

Jun 4, 2001
28-Year Old Female Dies While Riding Goliath
The unfortunate death was the result of an aneurysm according to the county coroner.

Jun 3, 2001
Riders Evacuated from Knott's Boomerang Coaster
The train stopped mid-way through the boomerang double inversion forcing an evacuation.

Jun 1, 2001
The Power of Blast! Unleased at Epcot for Summer
Daily performances of this summer-long spectacle of music and motion included with Epcot admission.

Jun 1, 2001
Universal Orlando Offers Summer Passes For Florida Residents
New passes offer admission through the summer to both Orlando theme parks for one low price.

Jun 1, 2001
Cedar Fair Completes Acqusition of Michigan's Adventure
Cedar Fair assumed the complete operations and management of the park as of today.

Jun 1, 2001
Cedar Fair Completes Acquisition of Oasis Water Park
Oasis located in Palm Springs, California is a 16-acre seasonal water park with 20 water rides and attractions.

May 2001

May 29, 2001
Coasterpalooza! June 9 at Paramount's Great America
One-day event for coaster enthusiasts to celebrate the 117th anniversary of the Coney Island Switchback Railway.

May 24, 2001
Record Holder Takes On The Boss At Six Flags St. Louis
Richard Rodrigues plans to ride the coaster daily now through August 10 to bring a record home to America.

May 24, 2001
Holiday World Coasters to Appear on Discovery Channel
The Raven is rated number one and The Legend is called an extreme ride in the new TV specials on Discovery.

May 24, 2001
Colby From Survivor Series to Appear at Cheetah Opening
Wild Adventures exciting new coaster will debut with a celebrity on board for the first offical ride.

May 24, 2001
Astroworld to Celebrate 25th Anniversary of Texas Cyclone
The park will celebrate with Retro Revive Weekend, a dyno-mite 1970's celebration June 1-3.

May 24, 2001
Darien Lake Offers New Events Memorial Day Weekend
Family-friendly Mardi Gras Extravaganza offers parades, music, festive food and childrens's activities.

May 24, 2001
Six Flags Hurricane Harbor New Jersey Opens Saturday
The park's second season kicks off Saturday with the debut of Hurricane Mountain, a new six slide complex.

May 24, 2001
Ireland Themed Area Now Open at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
America's most beautiful theme park gets a wee bit greener this Spring with the addition of Ireland.

May 24, 2001
California State Investigators Close Rides After Accident
An accident at Six Flags Marine World last weekend prompted state investigators to close two similar rides.

May 24, 2001
"Snoopy's Rockin Summer" Begins June 23 at Knott's
Summer entertainment at Knott's to including a new Snoopy ice show and an extreme sports spectacular.

May 24, 2001
Knott's Celebrates Memorial Day With Free T-Shirt Giveaway
Kids ages 3-11 will receive a free t-shirt with each paid child's admission, which is now only $15 through September 3.

May 24, 2001
Six Flags America Introduces Two New Guest Programs
Fast Lane allows guests to make ride reservations and Prime Time will offer passholders an extra hour of fun.

May 21, 2001
Johnny Rockets and Soak City Kickoff Summer at Cedar Point
Soak City water park and new Johnny Rockets restaurant now open for the summer season at Cedar Point.

May 16, 2001
Cedar Fair to Purchase Palm Spring Water Park
Oasis Water Park will become the third Southern California water park owned and operated by Cedar Fair L.P.

May 11, 2001
Panda Express Coming to Six Flags Magic Mountain
The world's #1 thrill park partners with largest Chinese food service chain to bring gourmet food to park.

May 9, 2001
Six Flags Reports First Quarter Results For 2001
The company affirms strong outlook for 2001 with good early season attendance, season pass and group sales.

May 8, 2001
Universal Studios Unwraps The Mummy Returns Attraction
The all-new The Mummy Returns: Chamber of Doom maze opens at Universal Studios Hollywood.

May 7, 2001
Cedar Fair Announces Acquisition of Michigan's Adventure
The partnership has reached an agreement in principle to acquire the Michigan based amusement and water park.

May 4, 2001
Six Flags Completes Acquisition of La Ronde Park
Six Flags completed its previously announced acquisition of La Ronde, a 146-acre theme park in Montreal.

May 4, 2001
Rare Lincoln Signatures Part of Park's Exhibit
Holiday World may be the only theme park in the world with Abraham Lincoln's signature on permanent display.

May 3, 2001
Cedar Point World's Largest Coaster Park Opens May 6
Voted the 'Best Amusement Park in the World', Cedar Point rolls into opening day of 2001 season on Sunday.

May 3, 2001
Boulder Dash Voted World's Number One Wooden Coaster
After first year of operation Lake Compounce's new wooden coaster is honored in NAPHA annual poll.

May 3, 2001
Disneyland Officials Confirm Closure of Rocket Rods
Despite statements saying it would return officials have now confirmed the ride's closed for good.

May 1, 2001
Millionaire Attraction Now Open at Disney-MGM Studios
Walt Disney World's newest theme park attraction is based on a popular television game show.

May 1, 2001
Make Way For a New Texas Legend at Six Flags
The biggest, brightest star in the galaxy, Titan sets the state for a colossal 40th anniversary celebration.

May 1, 2001
Electrical Parade Comes to Disney's California Adventure
The popular nightime parade will return to the Disneyland resort for nightly performances starting July 4.

April 2001

Apr 24, 2001
Project Mother's Day for Stark Raven Mad Participants
Enthusiasts going to this event are encouraged to bring a Mother's Day card for Holiday World's matriarch Pat Koch.

Apr 16, 2001
IAAPA Returns to Orlando for Annual Industry Trade Show
IAAPA Orlando 2001 is the largest show for the industry and will be held Nov. 14-17 in Central Florida.

Apr 13, 2001
Bonfante Gardens Theme Park Sets Opening Date
Northern California's new and highly anticipated theme park will open to the public in mid-June.

Apr 13, 2001
Unisys Family Fun Runs to Benefit Arthritis Foundation
The event to be held at Six Flags Over Georgia offers something for everyone on Sunday, May 6th.

Apr 13, 2001
AstroWorld to Host 12th Annual Senior High Physics Day
High school seniors will learn the fundamentals of physics at Six Flags on Friday, April 20.

Apr 13, 2001
Dorney Park to Host Summer Job Fair On May 17
Earn some extra cash and enjoy the benefits of working in a park with a job this summer at Dorney Park.

Apr 12, 2001
Senior Job Fair April 16 at Six Flags Darien Lake
Seniors find convenience, satisfaction and flexibility in seasonal work at Six Flags Darien Lake.

Apr 12, 2001
Six Flags AstroWorld Hosts "EGGStrvaganza" Sunday
The 2nd annual biggest, greatest Easter egg hunt will take place at the park on Sunday, April 15.

Apr 12, 2001
Nitro Delivers Power and Finesse at Great Adventure
Six Flags Great Adventure debuted their 12th roller coaster, the third one designed by Bolliger & Mabilard.

Apr 11, 2001
Six Flags America Opens Earlier Than Ever
The local answer to Spring Break is with a new Spring Break Sneak Peak at Six Flags.

Apr 9, 2001
Cedar Point to Open Johnny Rockets Restaurant at Park
Cedar Point will be the first and only amusement park to offer the famed Johnny Rockets experience.

Apr 4, 2001
Prime Time at Astroworld Exclusively For Passholders
Season passholders and catered outing guests gain access to the park one hour before the general public.

Apr 4, 2001
2001 Season To Deliver New Thrills at Great Adventure
New this year Nitro, the extreme thrill coaster, Fast Lane ride reservations and Free Safari for all.

Apr 4, 2001
Student to Travel The World to Study Coaster Design
A senior at Harvey Mudd College was awarded a fellowship to study international roller coaster design.

Apr 2, 2001
New Theme Park Takes Shape in Gilroy, California
Bonfante Gardens, Northern California's newest theme park is scheduled to open in late-May.

Apr 2, 2001
Disneyland Resort Welcomes 450 Millionth Guest
San Antonio resident treated to special day and is given a liftime pass to The Happiest Place on Earth.

March 2001

Mar 30, 2001
Survive the Nitro Camping Experience for the First Ride
Camp inside the park for two-days to be one of the first riders on Nitro and to win other great prizes.

Mar 30, 2001
Hypersonic XLC: The Next Generation of Roller Coasters
This unique air-launched coaster is now open to thrill riders at Paramount's Kings Dominion.

Mar 28, 2001
Friends of Conneault Lake Announce Blue Streak Challenge
The event to be held at the park will help raise funds for the upkeep of this classic wooden roller coaster.

Mar 23, 2001
Cedar Point Voted Best In The World For Steel Coasters
The park earned top honors from the National Amusement Park Historical Association for having three of the top five steel coasters.

Mar 22, 2001
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Named "Favorite Theme Park"
The top honors was awared to the European-themed park by the National Amusement Park Historical Association.

Mar 22, 2001
Looney Tunes USA Opens at Six Flags Over Texas
The new giant kids section offers double the rides and attractions for the entire family.

Mar 22, 2001
Walt Disney World Adds 20th Fastpass Attraction
Millionaire a new attraction at Disney-MGM Studios is one of five slated to offer Fastpass by summer.

Mar 19, 2001
Six Flags Reports 11% Growth Over Previous Year
Six Flags announced its results of operations for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31.

Mar 19, 2001
Perrier Named Official Bottled Water of Six Flags Parks
Six Flags and the Perrier Group launch multi-million dollar marketing and promotional alliance.

Mar 18, 2001
2001 Amusement Park Opening Dates
A list of opening dates for amusement parks around the United States.

Mar 13, 2001
Zoom Into The Fast Lane With No Lines at Astroworld
Six Flags will introduce a ride reservation system, called Fast Lane to eliminate waiting in line.

Mar 13, 2001
New Shows Add International Flair to Fiesta Texas
Six Flags line up of exciting entertainment includes many new sensational shows for the 2001 season.

Mar 13, 2001
Online Auction to Help Save Asbury Park Palace
Save Tillie announced a second auction with proceeds going to support their efforts to save the Palace.

Mar 13, 2001
Nitro Extreme Thrill Coaster to Blast Off In One Month
Six Flags Great Adventures newest roller coaster is on-schedule to operate on the park's opening day, April 7.

Mar 12, 2001
Busch Gardens Offers New Savings On Theme Park Fun
Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA introduce a new opportunity to save money on admission.

Mar 12, 2001
Knott's to Celebrate Easter With EggMazeMent
The 6th year for this family event will combine walk-through adventures with new shows, rides and other surprises.

Mar 12, 2001
Six Flags Expands in Europe as Company Marks 40th
Belgium theme park becomes third international Six Flags property, the park will undergo major transformation to brand.

Mar 12, 2001
Six Flags Great America To Elevate Thrills This Season
The record breaking addition of two new roller coasters will elevate thrills to the ultimate extreme.

Mar 9, 2001
Cheetah to Stalk Wild Adventures Beginning This May
The park will build a new wooden roller coaster this season as part of its 5-year, $50 million expansion.

Mar 7, 2001
Main Street Electrical Parade to Glow Away April 1st
Guests at Walt Disney World can share the magic of this cherished favorite nightly until it ends.

Mar 7, 2001
Cedar Point Radisson Harbour Inn to Offer Internet Access
Stay connected to this web site and others with high-speed Internet access in your room at Cedar Point.

Mar 7, 2001
Cedar Point To Feature Michael Jordan To The Max
This summer park guests may see Michael Jordan on the huge IMAX screen at the Cedar Point Cinema.

Mar 6, 2001
Landmark Ballroom Destroyed In Blaze at Idora Park
The historic ballroom one of the last remains of the closed park was destroyed by fire Monday morning.

February 2001

Feb 28, 2001
ESPN Selects Lake Compounce For Site of X Trails
The final qualifier for the X Games will be held at Lake Compounce amusement park in Bristol, Connecticut.

Feb 26, 2001
Dinosaurs to Take Over Wild Adventures This Season
Dino Island to be the opening feature at the Wild Adventures new motion simulator theater.

Feb 26, 2001
CoasterMania to Be Held June 1 at Cedar Point
The annual event for enthusiasts includes exclusive ride time on the park's most popular coasters.

Feb 22, 2001
Skyline is Changing at Six Flags Over Georgia In 2001
This year's $16 million in capital improvements is the largest in Six Flags Over Georgia park history.

Feb 22, 2001
Paramount's Kings Island to Feature Cyberspace Adventure in 3-D
Paramount Action FX Theatre will feature 7th Portal, a new, action packed and motion spectacular in 2001.

Feb 15, 2001
Paramount's Kings Island And Nickelodeon Team Up
New park rides and attractions based on the Rugrats, The Wild Thornberrys and Blue's Clues to open in 2001.

Feb 15, 2001
Incredible Flying Coaster Coming to Six Flags America
Batwing to take flight over Six Flags America this season and will prove that human flight is possible.

Feb 7, 2001
Straight Up With A Twist At Six Flags Marine World
Northern California's most extreme thrill ride, V2 Vertical Velocity, is coming to Six Flags in 2001.

Feb 1, 2001
Nitro Unveiled At Six Flags Great Adventure
The countdown begins for the opening of Nitro, a BM hypercoaster, dubbed the most explosive coaster on the planet.

Feb 1, 2001
Great Adventure Extends Free Safari to All Park Guests
In an unprecedented move Six Flags officials will offer free admission to the Wild Safari during the 2001 season.

Feb 1, 2001
Six Flags Creates New Mega Park in Ohio
New park to feature three extraordinary parks in one - a thrill ride park, a marine life park and a water park.

Feb 1, 2001
Six Flags Over Texas Announces 2nd Expansion For 2001
Park officials unveiled the biggest single expansion project in the history of the park with new kids section and family attractions.

January 2001

Jan 31, 2001
Paramount's Great America Adds Psycho Mouse Coaster
The park unveils more than 15 new thrills and adventures, including rides and shows for the 2001 season.

Jan 18, 2001
Busch Gardens Williamsburg Launch Platinum Passport
Park officials announced the launch of an unprecedented passport program with extraordinary benefits.

Jan 18, 2001
Six Flags Announces Share Price for Public Offering
Officials announced that the preferred income equity redeemable shares will be priced at $25.

Jan 16, 2001
Snoopy's Presidential Days at Knott's Berry Farm
Peanuts Presidency makes its first executive order to admit kids into Knott's for only one dollar.

Jan 16, 2001
Knott's Admits Postal Service Workers for Only $10
The park is offering this special reduced admission price to US Postal Service employees now through Feb 9.

Jan 15, 2001
Christian Pop Rock at Universal Studios Hollywood
Some of the biggest names in Christian rock will take the stage for 'Rock The Universe' in March.

Jan 10, 2001
Six Flags Buys SeaWorld Ohio To Combine Parks
The two parks will become one of the largest entertainment destinations in the Midwest.

Jan 9, 2001
Celebrate Mardi Gras at Universal Studios Orlando
The world's ultimate party returns to Universal Studios Orlando for the sixth year in February.

Jan 8, 2001
Six Flags Over Texas 2001 Season Pass Sale
Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Six Flags Over Texas with a special deal on season passes.

Jan 7, 2001
Florida Fun Card Returns By Popular Demand
Residents can enjoy unlimited entry into SeaWorld Orlando or Busch Gardens Tampa for the price of a single-day admission.

Jan 7, 2001
Cedar Fair, L.P. Entertains Record Number of Guests in 2000
Attendance at Cedar Fair's five amusement parks rose 2% over the previous record set in 1998.

Jan 7, 2001
X-Flight to Take Riders Flying at Six Flags Ohio
Mankind will no longer be grounded after this incredible flying coaster proves human flight is possible.

Jan 4, 2001
SeaWorld Orlando Leads With Admission Price Hike
The latest increase makes SeaWorld Orlando one of the most expensive theme parks in the country.

Jan 2, 2001
Disney Extends Epcot's Millennium Celebration Shows
Some celebrations are too good to end according to Disney officials who've extended several shows.

Jan 2, 2001
Walt Disney World Starts New Year With A Bang
The start of the New Year's parties signaled the end to the 15-month Millennium Celebration.

Jan 1, 2001
Disneyland Fills To Capacity During Holidays
The park was forced to close the gates three times in the past week because of overflow crowds.

Jan 1, 2001
Park Attendance Rose In 2000 For Many Amusement Parks
Attendance at North American amusement parks was up 3% in 2000, to a record 175.1 million.

Jan 1, 2001
Disney to Change Look of Epcot's Icon Spaceship Earth
The makeover will carry on the look from the Millennium Celebration into a new, lasting beacon at Epcot.

Looking for more stories? Read the 2000 news articles in the news archives.

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