Six Flags America Cancels Fright Fest in Preparation for Park’s Permanent Closure

Six Flags America, a popular amusement park in Bowie, Maryland, has made the decision to cancel its annual fall Fright Fest event. This news comes in light of the park’s upcoming closure, revealed earlier this year by Six Flags Entertainment Corporation. The end of the 2025 season will mark the permanent shutdown of the 500-acre park and its associated water park, Hurricane Harbor. The cancellation of Fright Fest has left many park enthusiasts disappointed, as the event has been a staple at Six Flags America since 1999, offering visitors haunted rides and Halloween-themed activities.

In a recent statement to PEOPLE, park representatives mentioned that while Fright Fest will not be returning for the final season, Kids Boo Fest will still take place. Kids Boo Fest, designed for younger children, will run on weekends from September 13 to November 2. This daytime event aims to provide Halloween-themed entertainment and rides for families to enjoy. The decision to focus on daytime activities aligns with the park’s goal of offering a family-friendly experience during its last operating season.

Six Flags America’s parent company, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, justified the closure of the Maryland park as part of a strategic realignment. The company’s President & CEO stated that after evaluating various options, the decision was made to market the property for redevelopment to maximize its value. The park closure will impact approximately 70 full-time associates, who will receive severance and other benefits as the park approaches its final day of operation on November 2.

Despite the disappointment surrounding the closure of Six Flags America, season pass holders have been offered the opportunity to visit Fright Fest at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, the closest alternative park in the Six Flags portfolio. The company has not yet determined the fate of the rides and attractions at Six Flags America post-closure, leaving open the possibilities of relocation to other parks within the chain or potential sales to other amusement park operators. This move forms part of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation’s larger portfolio management strategy.

With a presence across 27 amusement parks, 15 water parks, and nine resorts in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation remains a leader in the theme park industry. Six Flags America, initially established in 1974 as a wildlife preserve experience, later evolved into the renowned amusement park it is known as today. The park’s legacy will be remembered by loyal visitors and employees alike as it prepares to conclude operations after decades of providing entertainment and memories.

While the closure of Six Flags America marks the end of an era for the Maryland community, the park’s final season offers an opportunity for guests to create lasting memories and bid farewell to a beloved entertainment destination. As the park transitions towards closure, the support and understanding of visitors play a crucial role in commemorating the legacy of Six Flags America. While the decision to cancel Fright Fest may come as a disappointment to some, the continuation of Kids Boo Fest serves as a reminder of the park’s commitment to providing enjoyable experiences for guests of all ages.