Midwest Theme Park Unveils Plans for $22M Water Roller Coaster, the Country’s Tallest and Fastest

A new water roller coaster is set to revolutionise the attractions at Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari in Santa Claus, Indiana, with plans for the grand opening of ‘Cannonball!’ in May 2027. This ambitious project, which represents a significant investment of £22 million, marks the largest single-attraction expense in the history of the park, promising thrill-seekers an unforgettable experience.

Located in the park’s Fourth of July section, Cannonball! will offer visitors a unique theme that centres around a playful community pool party, complete with a cannonball diving contest. Designed by the renowned German manufacturer Mack Rides, this water coaster will break records as the first of its kind in the Midwest and the third nationally.

The attraction’s journey begins with an impressive 90-foot lift hill, followed by a breathtaking 75-foot drop that propels riders through an exhilarating 1,000 feet of track, reaching maximum speeds of 45 mph. Upon its debut, Cannonball! will set the standard as the fastest water coaster and feature the tallest drop in the United States.

Leah Kock-Blumhart, the park’s director of communications and a fourth-generation owner, highlighted the personal touch behind this ride, stating, “This ride is dedicated to every kid who had to work up the courage to climb the tall diving board at the community pool. And it’s a tribute to every small town with a quirky annual tradition.”

The queue for Cannonball! will immerse guests in the atmosphere of a small-town community centre pool, recognised as Boulder Canyon, U.S.A. Visitors will board one of seven uniquely themed boats, designed to resemble vibrant inner tubes in flavours such as strawberry, watermelon, and donut. Other designs include the American flag, a patriotic popsicle, and even a Holiday World rainbow, featuring red, yellow, and blue.

As riders float away from the boarding station, they will pass through a barbecue cookout, creating an engaging prelude to the thrilling lift hill. The ride promises to feature five total drops, culminating in a hefty splashdown in the imaginary community pool, where guests are encouraged to shout “Cannonball!” as they plunge into the water.

Part of the eccentric charm of Cannonball! will be the introduction of whimsical inflatable sculptures, including “Ron the Swan” and “Ron Swan’s Son,” playfully referencing characters from the popular NBC series, Parks and Recreation. These additions will contribute to the light-hearted theme and ambience intended for the attraction.

Construction is already underway for Cannonball!, and Holiday World assures that the project is progressing according to schedule, with a planned opening for summer 2027.

Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari has a rich history, having been founded in 1946 as Santa Claus Land. Over the years, the park has developed into a destination featuring four distinct themed sections: Halloween, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Independence Day. In 2024, the park introduced ‘Good Gravy!’, a family coaster celebrated for its unique seven-story backward spike and listed among USA Today’s 10Best New Roller Coasters.

In a press release, Lauren Crosby, the director of entertainment and events, reflected the park’s creative approach to ride concepts. She remarked, “We’re daring enough to be a little absurd with our ride concepts. We built a gravy-themed coaster, and now we’re building one around a fictional cannonball competition! Where else can you board a donut-innertube-themed boat, then hop on an American flag-themed boat?!”

With Cannonball! poised to make a significant impact on the amusement landscape, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari aims to further establish itself as a pioneer in offering extraordinary and entertaining attractions that cater to families and thrill-seekers alike. As construction progresses, excitement builds amongst the community and visitors eager to experience what promises to be a landmark addition to the park.