A beloved water park in Washington state is set to close its gates for good after nearly five decades of operation. Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in Federal Way, located about 25 miles south of Seattle and 8 miles north of Tacoma, will open for its final season on Saturday before shutting down permanently in November.
Financial Struggles Lead to Closure
According to park leadership, the decision to close comes after years of financial difficulty. Westin Petree, director of sales and marketing for Wild Waves, cited significant losses sustained during the COVID-19 pandemic and rising operational costs as key factors. “Since the closing during COVID, we’ve sustained millions of dollars in losses, and that contributed to the factor, plus all the rising operational costs,” Petree said on KIRO-FM’s “Seattle’s Morning News.”
A Long History in the Community
The park was originally founded in 1977 by Byron and May Betts as Enchanted Village. In 1984, it expanded with the addition of the Wild Waves water park, becoming a combined amusement and water park destination. “It’s been a staple in the community forever,” Petree noted.
Final Season Events Planned
Despite the impending closure, officials are planning a full slate of activities for the final season. The park will open at 11 a.m. on Saturday and remain operational through November. The season will culminate with the return of Fright Fest, a popular Halloween event featuring haunted houses and seasonal activities.
“It’s mixed emotions this year for all of us,” Petree said. “It’s exciting, and it’s also a bummer.”
Other scheduled events include dive-in movies for children every Thursday from July through August, foam parties for all ages, 21-and-over after-hours events, and a Hispanic cultural festival later in the summer. “We’ve got something for everyone this season,” Petree added.
Uncertain Future for the Property
As the park prepares for its final months, the fate of the sprawling property remains unknown. “I have no idea,” Petree said when asked about future plans for the land. “I’m not involved in decision-making on that, but I would love to know as well.”
Petree is now focused on encouraging longtime visitors to return one last time. “Come catch the wave one more time. We’re still here,” he said. “Come relive the memories and make new ones while we’re still here.”
Season passes for the final season are available for $75.99 and include perks such as three complimentary guest tickets, free parking, and discounts throughout the park.
