Wild Waves opens Saturday for its final season before permanently closing in November.
FEDERAL WAY, Wash. — After nearly five decades of summer memories, roller coasters and water slides, Wild Waves Theme Park will open its gates for the final season Saturday.
The Federal Way amusement park announced earlier this year that it will permanently close at the end of the 2026 season, citing rising operating costs and millions of dollars in losses since reopening after the COVID-19 pandemic. Still, park leaders say they’re focused on making this last season one to remember.
Wild Waves opens for the season Saturday, kicking off Memorial Day weekend festivities. The park will operate from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday through Monday. Until July, the park will be open on weekends before transitioning to daily operations during the summer months.
Guests can expect rides, water attractions, live entertainment and the return of seasonal events, including Fright Fest later this fall. The park’s final day of operation is scheduled for Nov. 1, 2026.
Wild Waves first opened in 1977 and spans 70 acres in Federal Way. The park is operated by Premier Parks LLC and employs about 35 full-time workers along with roughly 800 seasonal employees each year. In announcing the closure, Premier Parks President and Owner Kieran Burke said increasing costs have made it difficult for the park to continue operating.
“Unfortunately, the rising cost of ongoing operations since reopening after the COVID shutdown has generated millions in losses, which forces us to discontinue operations at the end of our 2026 season,” Burke said in a statement.
The park says all season passes, group events and previously purchased ticket packages will be honored throughout the season.
Property owner Jeff Stock said future plans for the site are still in the early planning stages, but leaders hope redevelopment efforts will benefit both Federal Way and the surrounding community.
“We recognize the deep history and emotional connection many residents have with the park, and we are committed to ensuring a respectful transition while planning a project that will bring meaningful, lasting benefits to the area,” Stock said.
Wild Waves is also offering a military discount during opening weekend as part of its Memorial Day celebration.
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