An iconic theme park is set to close its doors after almost 50 years in operation.
The Wild Waves Theme Park in Federal Way, Washington, announced on December 10 that 2026 will be its final season, and will close next November after 49 years in business.
Kieran Burke, president and owner of Premier Parks, said in a statement: “We are thankful for our guests, team members, and the community of Federal Way for supporting Wild Waves and creating so many thrills and great memories with families and friends.”
Confirming the closure, he cited “the rising cost of ongoing operations since reopening after the COVID shutdown,” which has “generated millions in losses [and] forces us to discontinue operations at the end of our 2026 season.”
Wild Waves will open for the season on May 23, 2026, before closing its doors permanently on November 1.
Before the closure, Burke has promised “thrilling rides, refreshing waterpark fun throughout the summer, and our popular Fright Fest Halloween celebration,” concluding with the park closing on November 1, 2026.”
“In its final year of operation, the park will celebrate the memories, nostalgia, and family fun with themed events, and special promotions,” Burke said.
Wild Waves opened in 1977, and in the decades since, has welcomed millions of guests, from locals to tourists, along with employing 800 seasonal team members, and 35 full-time employees.
Jeff Stock, owner of the property and partner of Premier Parks, said he was “grateful” for the longstanding partnership, and paid tribute to “the deep history and emotional connection many residents have with the park.”
He said they were planning “a respectful transition while planning a project that will bring meaningful, lasting benefits to the area,” and while the plans were in “preliminary stages,” additional details will be released when available.
Wild Waves is the largest combination theme and water park in the state of Washington, located just outside Seattle.
The company confirmed in a statement that all previously purchased 2026 group events, season passes, and ticket packages will be fully honored for the 2026 season.
Visitors to the theme park reacted with sadness on social media, one admitting they were “genuinely upset,” and another recalling they worked their first-ever job at the park.
“I hate to hear about businesses closing,” one said. “It’s the end of someone’s dream.”
Another wrote: “So sad to hear the news. I grew up with this park as a local, and have many fond memories with family and friends at Wild Waves.”
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