California theme parks are introducing a range of new attractions, events, and deals for visitors this summer. Parks across the state are extending hours and offering special programming to mark anniversaries, unveil reimagined rides, and celebrate seasonal festivities.
SeaWorld San Diego has launched the Jewels of the Sea: Jellyfish Experience, an exhibit featuring jellyfish in three galleries with interactive elements such as an 18-foot-tall jelly cylinder and a touchable globe. The park’s log ride, Journey to Atlantis, is set to reopen with updated scenery and a new storyline later this summer. Weekend character appearances and the Summer Spectacular Concert Series are also scheduled through August 23.
Sesame Place San Diego in Chula Vista has opened its water park section for the season. Events include Sesame Summer Splash festivities, Elmo’s dog Tango’s Gotcha Day celebration (July 11–13), Best Friends Weekend (August 1–3), and B Is for Bubbles weekend (August 8–10). These activities run through September 1.
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim is marking its 70th anniversary with special decorations, merchandise, themed food offerings, and a new song performed by the Jonas Brothers. Classic attractions like It’s a Small World have been updated, while shows such as Paint the Night Parade return. The newly reimagined Tiana’s Bayou Adventure debuts this summer. On July 17—the actual anniversary—a new attraction titled Walt Disney—A Magical Life will premiere at the Main Street Opera House. Ticket deals offer admission as low as $100 per day during much of spring and summer.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk continues its centennial celebrations with events including a drone show on May 17 and free movies on Fridays from June 13 to August 8. Additional boardwalk activities include luaus on July 11 and July 25, live entertainment during Evenings on the Colonnade (June 16–August 7), half-price wristbands after 5 p.m., and discounted arcade games during Mornings at the Arcade.
LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad is hosting its first LEGO Festival through June 8 with play zones led by Master Builders. The LEGOLAND Driving School reopens May 21 with an upgraded track design. Special events include the LEGO World Parade starting June 21 and Red, White & Boom! over July Fourth weekend. The Summer Play Pass offers unlimited admission through September 19 for $129—the price of one regular ticket—and hotel packages feature new DUPLO-themed rooms for younger guests.
California’s Great America in Santa Clara will present fireworks on holiday weekends, host a car show over Labor Day Weekend, and feature Peanuts gang performances throughout summer. South Bay Shores water park opens May 24; entry is included with general admission tickets starting at $42 online or season passes from $85.
Belmont Park in San Diego’s Mission Beach celebrates its centennial this year with updates to its Giant Dipper roller coaster—the fifth-oldest coaster in the U.S.—and offers commemorative merchandise plus chances to win lifetime passes.
Gilroy Gardens marks its own milestone—25 years—with historical exhibits running through May that highlight mascots like Gilbert “Gil” Garlic. The Cherry Jubilee event runs June 6–July 6 featuring live entertainment focused on cherries. Water areas open May 10 alongside special Camp Nights that allow overnight stays in the park.
Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park brings back Knott’s Summer Nights dance parties and Ghost Town Alive! from June 13 to September 1. Guests can visit revamped areas like Camp Snoopy or book value hotel packages at Knott’s Hotel; Independence Hall remains open as part of America’s upcoming semiquincentennial celebrations.
Universal Studios Hollywood hosts Universal Fan Fest Nights until May 18 spotlighting franchises such as Star Trek and Harry Potter alongside themed food experiences. Universal Mega Movie Summer begins June 13 honoring films Jaws (1975) and Back to the Future (1985) with character meet-and-greets and specialty merchandise; enhanced effects have been added to Jurassic World–The Ride tied to Jurassic World Rebirth running through August 10. A ticket deal allows visitors who buy by August 13 to get two days’ entry for as little as $55 per day if used before December 17.
Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita expands DC Heroes & Villains Fest through July with live shows in DC Universe area plus other events including Star-Spangled Nights fireworks (July Fourth weekend) and Out on the Mountain Pride event (August 22). Hurricane Harbor next door debuts upgrades on May 24 featuring tropical theming enhancements across slides, dining options, cabanas, shade areas, plus mist effects from its volcano backdrop.
Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier holds Pier 360 Beach Festival June 28–29 offering music performances alongside ocean sports competitions; red-white-and-blue lighting decorates Pacific Wheel over July Fourth weekend.
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo introduces Star-Spangled Nights (July 4–5) featuring live entertainment capped by a drone show instead of fireworks due to wildlife concerns at their rescue-focused animal park—which offers interactive tours highlighting animals unable to survive independently in nature. Military members receive free admission over Memorial Day weekend at Six Flags parks statewide—including Knott’s Berry Farm—with discounted tickets available for family members when purchased onsite.
