It's the time of year that rollercoaster-lovers and adrenaline junkies in Chicago have waited for: Opening day of the 2023 season at Six Flags Great America.
Six Flags Great America, dubbed the "Thrill Capital of the Midwest," will officially welcome back guests for the 2023 season beginning Saturday, April 22, the amusement park announced Wednesday.
The 300-acre theme park in suburban Gurnee -- located about 45 miles north of Chicago, and about 49 miles south of Milwaukee -- offers 17 roller coasters, children's themed areas and a full lineup of shows and special events.
“As we kick off the 2023 season, our focus is on providing guests with a lineup of elevated events and experiences, both returning and new,” Park President John Krajnak said in a release.
According to park officials, the park is open on select weekends and weekdays April 22 through May 21, with daily operations beginning May 23.
Here's a full list of hours of admission, special events taking place at Great America this year and more.
Six Flags Hours and Dates
Local
Six Flags Great America is open weekends and select weekdays April 22 through May 21, officials say. Summer daily operation begins May 23.
During dates of operation, the park opens at 10:30 a.m. Closing time varies between 6 p.m. during the week, and 9 p.m. on weekends.
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Special Events and Festivals
Pride Celebration, June 3,4: Featuring fireworks, a parade and more
Flavors of the World, select dates June 16 - July 23: A festival of specialty food items from more than 11 different countries
Neon Nights, select days June, July and August: A nightly parade featuring fireworks on select evenings
July 4th Fireworks Celebration, July 1-4: Nightly fireworks
Viva La Fiesta, select dates August 5-13: A new festival that celebrates Hispanic and Latinx traditions from across North and Latin America
Fright Fest, select nights September 16 - October 29: Rides in the dark, haunted houses, "Monstertainment" and more
Oktoberfest, select days September 16 - October 29: Craft and seasonal brews alongside a menu of German-inspired cuisine.
New Food Offerings
A handful of new food items will be offered in 2023, the park says, including chicken and waffles at Claim Jumpers, a new Bubble Tea Station and more.
More Information
Daily tickets begin at $44.99. According to officials, the park only accepts credit cards on site. Selfie sticks are not permitted inside.
More information about the park and policies can be found here.
