OLD FORGE, N.Y. (July 30, 2026) — Water Safari invites guests of all ages to help celebrate the park’s 70th anniversary during a one-day birthday celebration Friday, Aug. 7. Throughout the day, guests can enjoy giveaways, complimentary birthday treats, character meet-and-greets, memorable rides and experiences, including the park’s new Paul Bunyan’s Log Haul family roller coaster.
As part of the celebration, Water Safari is extending an extra special invitation to guests who have been part of the park’s story from the very beginning. Guests 70 and older may visit free of charge all day Friday, Aug. 7, to relive favorite summer memories, join their children and grandchildren, and celebrate seven decades of family fun. For park admission, guests just need to show a photo identification at any ticket booth.
“All of us at Water Safari are incredibly proud to celebrate 70 years of creating unforgettable family memories,” said Shawn Kidd, president of Water Safari. “This milestone anniversary is a celebration of our guests, our team members, and the generations of families who have made Water Safari part of their summer traditions. We look forward to welcoming everyone, especially guests who have been visiting us for decades, for this birthday celebration.”
Highlights of Water Safari’s celebration include:
- The first 800 guests to the park will receive a commemorative 70th anniversary Water Safari pin while supplies last.
- Guests can enjoy a complimentary birthday treat at the Museum of Enchanted Memories from 2-3 p.m. while supplies last.
- A Walter Safari park mascot meet-and-greet and photo opportunity will take place at the Museum of Enchanted Memories from 2-3 p.m.
- A special presentation honoring Water Safari’s recognition of receiving the Historic Business Preservation Award by New York state at the Museum of Enchanted Memories at 2:15 p.m.
- The 70th anniversary photo trail invites guests to take photos around the park at rides and attractions that have been part of the park’s history and legacy, including the 19-foot-tall Paul Bunyan statue.
- Family rides together on the park’s new roller coaster, Paul Bunyan’s Log Haul
Since 1956, Water Safari has been a place where families laugh, cool off, and create traditions together that last a lifetime. For seventy years, the park has continued to reinvest in new experiences while honoring the memories that have made it a beloved Adirondack destination.
The best way to experience the Water Safari 70th anniversary event is with the entire family. The Enchanted Parks Family Fun Pack, available for a limited time, includes, park admission, a basket meal, and a 20-ounce limited-edition souvenir cup with free refills for the day for 4 guests.
All Water Safari anniversary celebration activities are included with park admission. To purchase the Family Fun Pack, day tickets, rent a private cabana, and to learn more about park hours, and event information, visit WaterSafari.com.
About Water Safari Resort
Enchanted Forest Water Safari is New York’s largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions, including 33 heated water rides designed with family fun in mind for all ages. The park also features classic amusement rides, fun food, exciting games, cool shops, private cabanas, storybook-themed characters, a family circus show, and much more. WaterSafari.com
Calypso’s Cove family fun park is right next door to Water Safari. Calypso’s Cove is open afternoons and evenings throughout the summer season. Attractions include go-karts, kiddie go-karts, mini golf, ropes course with zipline, arcade with prizes and family-friendly food featuring pizza, boneless wings, and more. CalypsosCove.com
Old Forge Camping Resort is next door to Water Safari and offers year-round Adirondack camping and special seasonal events. The family-friendly campground features heated one-room cabins; two-room cottages that include a kitchenette and private bathroom; individual RV hook-up sites, and tent sites. OldForgeCamping.com
Water’s Edge Inn is the premier lakefront Adirondack lodging destination located directly across the street from Water Safari in the heart of Old Forge. With its scenic setting and inviting amenities, Water’s Edge Inn is a wonderful home base for an Adirondack getaway. Open year-round, the hotel features guest rooms, luxury suites, a heated indoor pool and sauna, free continental breakfast, and Wi-Fi, and more. WatersEdgeInn.com
Old Forge, New York offers summer fun for everyone. Old Forge and the Fulton Chain of Lakes are known for Adirondack hospitality, friendly people, charming main street shops, great restaurants, and plenty of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike, canoe, kayak, boat, and jet ski; visit the View Arts Center and several area museums, take a train ride or a day cruise; enjoy live entertainment; or simply relax and take in the natural scenery. From a family meal to a special night out, visitors can find what to do and where to eat while at ExperienceOldForge.com and OldForgeNY.com
About Enchanted Parks
Enchanted Parks is a leading owner and operator in the entertainment and leisure industry. The third largest privately held regional park operator in the United States, Enchanted Parks operates eight properties nationwide, delivering memorable experiences across amusement parks, water parks, and destination attractions. The company operates its parks through empowered teams and entrepreneurial practices that drive operational efficiency, exceptional guest service, and strong, lasting customer relationships by consistently delivering outstanding value. For more information, visit Enchantedparks.com
[KW1]I think I’ll keep this and do it ourselves if no one else can come from NYS 🙂
[KW2]include? I will include this on the website, but maybe not for the PR?
[SS3]This didnt feel super newsy to me but Knoebels did something similar for their 100th anniversary. I think it’s ok to include.
