Dallas, Friday, 22 August 2025.
In a groundbreaking strategic move, Cedar Fair and Six Flags completed their merger in July 2024, creating the largest theme park operator in the United States. The combined entity now controls over 42 properties across North America, including 27 amusement parks and 15 water parks. This consolidation represents a significant shift in the industry, driven by the need to compete with entertainment giants like Disney and Universal. The merger brings together two historic regional park chains, offering an unprecedented ‘All Park Passport’ that allows season pass holders access to an expansive network of attractions. The new company, headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, aims to leverage complementary strengths and create enhanced guest experiences.
Merger Details and Corporate Structure
The merger between Cedar Fair and Six Flags was officially completed on July 1, 2024, forming Six Flags Entertainment Corporation [1]. The new company boasts a portfolio of 42 properties across North America, including 27 amusement parks and 15 water parks [2]. Cedar Fair stakeholders became the majority owners, holding a 51% stake in the merged entity [3]. Richard Zimmerman, previously President and CEO of Cedar Fair, was appointed as the new President and CEO, while Selim Bassoul became the Executive Chairman of the board [4].
Financial and Strategic Implications
The merger comes with significant financial expectations, including projected cost savings of 120 million by the end of 2024 and 2025 respectively through merger synergies [5]. The combined company aims to invest 500 million in capital improvements over the next two years, with a focus on new attractions and infrastructure enhancements [6]. This strategic move is partially motivated by the need to compete more effectively with entertainment giants like Disney and Universal [7].
Guest Experience and Passport Innovation
A key highlight of the merger is the introduction of an ‘All Park Passport’ launching on January 6, 2025 [8]. This innovative program allows season pass holders access to all legacy Six Flags and Cedar Fair parks, including notable destinations like California’s Great America, Cedar Point, and Six Flags Magic Mountain [9]. The passport add-on is priced between $110 and $130, depending on the pass tier [10].
Operational Challenges and Restructuring
The merger has not been without challenges. Six Flags reported a significant drop in Q2 2025 revenue, with earnings falling to $930 million, below the expected $1.03 billion [11]. The company has initiated cost-cutting measures, including layoffs of approximately 10% of its workforce and the elimination of 29 park presidents, replacing them with regional general managers [12].
Bronnen