Summary (tl;dr)

Wild Waves Theme Park in Federal Way, Washington, has announced it will permanently close after its 2026 operating season, citing significant financial losses since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Essential Background

Wild Waves Theme & Water Park, initially opened as The Enchanted Village in 1977, with the Wild Waves water park added in 1984, has been a popular summer destination in the Pacific Northwest for decades. The park, operated by Premier Parks, LLC, is located in Federal Way, Washington, and has undergone several name changes and ownership shifts over its nearly 50-year history. In 2020, the park did not open due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to tickets and season passes being rolled over to 2021.

The Full Story

On December 10, 2025, Wild Waves Theme Park announced its permanent closure following the conclusion of its 2026 season on November 1, 2026. The decision stems from "millions in losses" incurred due to the rising costs of operations since the park reopened after the COVID-19 shutdown. Premier Parks President and Owner Kieran Burke stated that these financial challenges made continued operation unsustainable. The park will operate as planned for its final season, opening on May 23, 2026, and honoring all pre-purchased tickets, season passes, and group events. Property owner Jeff Stock indicated that preliminary plans for the site's future are underway, with further details to be released after community review.

Why It Matters

The impending closure of Wild Waves Theme Park signifies the end of a long-standing recreational landmark for many in the Pacific Northwest, particularly residents of Washington State. The park, which employs approximately 35 full-time and 800 seasonal workers, will cease to be a significant employer in Federal Way. For many, it represents the loss of childhood memories and a major entertainment option in a region with relatively few large-scale amusement parks. The announcement also highlights the lasting economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the entertainment and travel industries, as the park specifically cited post-pandemic operational costs as the primary reason for its financial distress. The future redevelopment of the 70-acre site is also a point of local interest and concern.

Geographic Location

• Wild Waves Theme Park, Federal Way, King County, Washington, United States (announcement of permanent closure)