On November 2nd, Cedar Fair and Six Flags Entertainment have agreed to a merger set to boost their recovery in the post-pandemic era. This strategic move comes as the amusement park industry seeks to regain its footing amid cautious consumer spending due to economic uncertainties.


The newly unified enterprise will oversee an impressive array of 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and 9 resort properties scattered across 17 states within the U.S., as well as in Canada and Mexico. This combined collection boasts many of North America's most renowned parks, each with considerable brand recognition and a dedicated patron base, competing vigorously within the bustling recreational sector. The alliance brings together an entertainment portfolio enriched with popular IPs such as Looney Tunes, DC Comics, and PEANUTS (known as Snoopy the dog), offering the foundation for creating captivating new experiences through well-known characters and immersive storytelling.


This union is projected to yield more than $3 billion in revenue, according to statements from both corporations.


Selim Bassoul, Six Flags' President and CEO, expressed enthusiasm about the merger: "Uniting Six Flags with Cedar Fair will transform the amusement park experience for our visitors by integrating the strengths of both entities."
Operational excellence is set to heighten as the merger of Cedar Fair’s and Six Flags’ operational strengths promises a fortified platform for enhancing park attractions and optimizing overall performance. The integration is expected to capitalize on Cedar Fair’s recent investments in park improvements to hasten Six Flags’ ongoing evolution. Moreover, the collaboration will strive for an enriched customer experience, offering broader park access to season pass holders and an upgraded joint loyalty scheme with additional benefits.


The partnership is expected to increase visitor numbers and, consequently, revenue and cash flow. This boost is seen as a competitive move against industry giants such as SeaWorld Entertainment, Merlin & Disney’s Theme Parks.
The merger is slated for completion in the first half of 2024, with the combined entity to be named Six Flags. Ending the day on a high note, Six Flags' stock closed Thursday with an ascent of over 6 percent.