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Six Flags Great America just opened its 50th season, and the Gurnee park is rolling out an epic summer like never before. Starting today, April 25, thrill-seekers can experience new attractions, thrilling entertainment, and vintage nostalgia. From June 20 through August 9, an unforgettable 50th Anniversary Celebration promises excitement for every generation.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Opening Date: Season launches April 25, 2026, in Gurnee, Illinois
- Anniversary Celebration: June 20 through August 9 with extended hours until 10:00 p.m.
- New Ride: THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity, a super boomerang coaster with 185-foot height
- 50 Years of History: Park originally opened May 29, 1976 as Marriott’s Great America
What’s New in 2026 for Six Flags Great America
THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity takes center stage as the park’s newest attraction. This super boomerang coaster launches riders skyward with 160-foot drops and 630-foot tracks of pure adrenaline. The ride races forward and backward, creating heart-pounding thrills for daring guests.
Beyond the coaster, Six Flags Great America welcomes guests with reimagined classics and creative experiences. All the fan-favorite rides return alongside new entertainment offerings that celebrate five decades of memories.
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Historic 50th Anniversary Celebration Kicks Into High Gear
Starting June 20, the park transforms into a celebration zone. An all-new nighttime spectacular features a stage show and parade with new-themed floats. Each evening, an all-new drone show lights up the summer sky with special effects never before seen.
Extended park hours run until 10:00 p.m. every night during the celebration window. The entire park buzzes with energy as families create memories across five incredible decades.
Exclusive Anniversary Features and Merchandise Await
Detail
| Feature | Description |
| Legacy Museum | Historic artifacts and memorabilia inside Emporium at Orleans Place |
| Anniversary Bricks | Personalized commemorative bricks placed at Great America Legacy Path |
| Exclusive Merchandise | Limited-edition apparel and collectibles at 50th Anniversary Legacy Store |
| Specialty Food | Nostalgia-inspired menu items from five decades of park history |
The 50th Anniversary Legacy Store inside Emporium overflows with limited-edition finds. Guests can purchase personalized Anniversary Bricks engraved with special messages, which become lasting tributes along the Great America Legacy Path at Carousel Plaza.
“Celebrate a milestone 50 years in the making with new experiences, nostalgic touches, and extended park hours.”
— Six Flags Great America, Official Park Statement
The Park’s Historic Five-Decade Journey
Six Flags Great America opened its gates on May 29, 1976, originally as Marriott’s Great America. The Gurnee landmark welcomed thrill-seekers and families for decades. In 1984, the amusement operator Six Flags acquired and renamed the park, launching a new era of innovation.
Over five decades, the park has grown into an iconic destination serving millions of guests from across the Midwest and beyond. Each season brought new rides, unforgettable moments, and cherished family traditions that span generations.
How Are You Planning to Celebrate Six Flags Great America’s Historic 50th Season?
With April 25 marking opening day and the grand 50th Anniversary Celebration launching June 20, fans have endless reasons to visit. THE FLASH: Vertical Velocity offers new thrills, while the nighttime spectacular and drone shows create unforgettable evenings.
Whether you’re a longtime season pass holder, a first-time visitor, or someone rediscovering childhood memories, Six Flags Great America rolls out the ultimate golden anniversary experience. Plan your visit today.
Watch More
Sources
- NBC Chicago – Six Flags Great America reveals 2026 opening date and 50th anniversary festivities announcement
- Six Flags Official – 50th Anniversary Celebration event details and park updates
- FOX 32 Chicago – Six Flags Great America celebrates 50 years with expansion plans in Gurnee
