Washington’s popular Wild Waves Theme and Water Park in Federal Way announced on Wednesday, December 10 that it will close permanently after one final season. The closure will leave a hole in the area’s summer entertainment offerings, as Wild Waves is the only theme park in the Seattle area (Federal Way is a city in King County and is part of the Seattle metropolitan area).
The 70-acre theme and water park opened under the name The Enchanted Village in 1977 and is operated by Premier Parks LLC. After nearly 50 years, the shutdown marks the end of a longtime regional attraction and a major seasonal employer in South King County. The park employs about 35 full-time staff and around 800 seasonal workers, according to Premier Parks.
Read on for the answers to all your questions.
Why is Wild Waves shutting down?
Park officials say the decision is due to significant financial losses—“millions” in revenue—following rising costs after the COVID-19 pandemic.
“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,” said Kieran Burke, president and owner of Premier Parks, in a statement.
Will Wild Waves still open for the 2026 season?
Yes. The park will open for its final season on May 23, 2026.
When is the park’s last day of operations?
The final day of operations will be Nov. 1, 2026, ending with the park’s annual Fright Fest for Halloween.
What happens to season passes and pre-purchased tickets?
All 2026 season passes, group event bookings, and ticket packages will be honored during the park’s last season.
What will be the future of the Wild Waves site?
As for the future of the theme park site, it sounds like it won’t be left to sit unused. There is apparently an unnamed and “meaningful” project in very early stages of planning.
“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,” said Jeff Stock, Wild Waves’ property owner and partner of Premier Parks.
“Additional details will be released as the project moves through planning and community review processes,” Stock added.
We will keep you updated!