The theme park industry has once again been forced to navigate the challenges of extreme weather, with both SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas shuttering their doors today due to a rare winter storm sweeping through the region.
As unexpected closures continue to disrupt operations, both parks, located in San Antonio, Texas, have cited inclement weather as the primary reason for suspending their activities.
SeaWorld San Antonio announced the closure via its website as the area is hit by weather warnings of snow, freezing rain, and temperatures plummeting as low as 33 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, Six Flags Fiesta Texas wrote on Facebook, “Due to winter weather, Six Flags Fiesta Texas will remain closed on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Your safety is our top priority!”
Mardi Gras Celebrations on Hold
Though today’s closures are unwelcome for many, the bright side lies in the quick resolution of the situation. Both SeaWorld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas are planning to reopen tomorrow, February 23, just in time to continue their Mardi Gras festivities.
SeaWorld San Antonio’s Mardi Gras celebrations have been a hit with guests, bringing vibrant live music, dazzling costumes, and a menu of indulgent New Orleans-inspired food. The park’s signature treats include jambalaya, shrimp and andouille skewers with dirty rice, po-boy sandwiches, and, of course, beignets. The event offers a rich cultural experience that has become a beloved tradition for many.
Across the street at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, the Mardi Gras Parade: Spectacle of Color remains a focal point of the park’s festivities. Guests have flocked to the park to enjoy not only the parade but also a host of live performances and exclusive food options. The temporary closure, while disappointing, is a small setback for a park that thrives on its live entertainment offerings and immersive seasonal experiences.
Wider Impact of Cold Weather on Theme Parks
The cold weather phenomenon is not isolated to San Antonio. In Orlando, Florida, both Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort were forced to close their water parks, Blizzard Beach and Volcano Bay, respectively, as a result of low temperatures.
While it seems like Blizzard Beach has spent a huge chunk of its operating season closed for cold temperatures, there’s not long left until the park locks down for a longer closure. Disney typically begins its multi-month maintenance period in March, when it in turn opens Typhoon Lagoon.
Despite these disruptions, the industry remains resilient. Theme parks, which have historically faced unexpected closures due to extreme weather and other emergencies, continue to navigate these challenges with a focus on guest safety and rapid recovery.
SeaWorld has also previously noted that it plans to invest in more indoor attractions to avoid the impact of weather complications in the future – whether that’s extreme heat, hurricanes, or, as today has proven, an unexpected Arctic blast.
Do you think the weather is having a greater impact on theme parks lately?
