Six Flags and Cedar Fair Complete Merger, Becoming Largest Theme Park Operator in North America

Theme parks just changed forever now that Six Flags and Cedar Fair have officially merged. The plan was initially announced in late 2023, and according to USA Today, the merger was finalized on Monday, June 1.

The new company will keep the Six Flags name and is now the largest theme park operator in North America, having a combined 42 properties, comprised of theme parks, water parks, and resorts. While everyone knows Six Flags, they may be less aware of Cedar Fair because, unlike Six Flags parks, Cedar Fair parks all have their own names. Cedar Fair was the owner of massive theme parks like Cedar Point, Kings Island, and Knott’s Berry Farm. 

While the merger is some big news in the world of business and travel, it’s massive news for coaster enthusiasts. For decades, Cedar Fair and Six Flags have battled it out to have the most, biggest, fastest, and longest roller coasters in the world. From Kingda Ka at Great Adventure to Top Thrill 2 at Cedar Point, Fury 325 at Carowinds, and Superman: Escape from Krypton at Magic Mountain, the new combined company holds 8 of the 10 tallest coasters in the world. It now also has the three largest theme parks by roller coaster count, with Magic Mountain, Canada's Wonderland, and Cedar point. Point

“We believe that by combining the best ideas and most successful entertainment practices of both Six Flags and Cedar Fair, the new Six Flags can deliver a superior level of joy and excitement that has yet to be experienced by regional park guests,” said Six Flags executive chairman Selim Bassoul in a statement.

People magazine reports that currently there are no plans to change park names, so Cedar Fair parks like Cedar Point, Dorney Park, and Knott’s Berry Farm will keep their heritage names despite now being part of the Six Flags family.