National Waterpark Day
July 28
About National Waterpark Day
National Waterpark Day takes place on Tuesday, 28 July 2026, encouraging people across the United States to head to their nearest waterpark and make the most of the summer heat. Founded by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, the day celebrates the slides, wave pools and lazy rivers that draw millions of visitors every year during the hottest stretch of the calendar.
How to Celebrate National Waterpark Day
The whole point of National Waterpark Day is to get out and enjoy the water, so dive straight into these ideas.
- Visit a local waterpark – With more than 1,000 waterparks across the United States, there is likely one within easy reach. Pack sunscreen, a towel and a sense of adventure, and spend the day working your way through the slides.
- Tackle a record-breaking slide – If you fancy a thrill, seek out a headline attraction such as a tall body slide or a water coaster. Many parks build their summer marketing around their signature rides, so 28 July is a good excuse to be brave.
- Build your own backyard version – No park nearby? A garden hose, a slip-and-slide and a paddling pool can recreate the fun at home for a fraction of the cost, which is perfect for younger children.
- Float the lazy river – Not every waterpark visit needs to be adrenaline-fuelled. Grab a rubber ring, drift around the lazy river and let the day slow down.
- Plan a group outing – Waterparks are far more fun with friends and family. Organise a group trip, split the picnic duties and turn the day into a proper summer event.
- Try an indoor waterpark resort – Resorts with indoor waterparks let you celebrate whatever the weather. They are also a good option for a weekend break that combines accommodation and splashing in one place.
- Cool off in the wave pool – Wave pools recreate the feel of the ocean without the tides or the salt. They are ideal for families with mixed swimming abilities, since the shallow end stays gentle.
- Share your day online – Post your favourite slide photos and tag the parks you visit. Many parks run social competitions on the day, so you could win free passes for next time.
What is National Waterpark Day?
National Waterpark Day is an annual American observance dedicated to the joy of waterparks and the relief they offer from summer heat. It is aimed at families, thrill-seekers and anyone who enjoys a day spent on slides and in pools. The day celebrates the entire waterpark experience, from towering slides to gentle splash pads for toddlers, and it doubles as a celebration of an industry that has become a staple of the American summer.
When is National Waterpark Day?
National Waterpark Day falls on 28 July every year. In 2026 that lands on a Tuesday. The date is deliberately fixed in late July because it sits in the hottest part of the Northern Hemisphere summer, when a trip to the waterpark feels most welcome.
The History of National Waterpark Day
National Waterpark Day was founded in 2017 by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, a company with deep roots in the waterpark business. Kalahari opened its first waterpark in July 2000 in the Wisconsin Dells, a region so packed with attractions that it is sometimes called the waterpark capital of the world. As the company expanded to other parts of the country, it wanted a day that recognised the unique appeal of waterparks at the height of summer.
The Registrar at National Day Calendar reviewed the proposal and declared the observance official, to be celebrated on 28 July each year. Choosing late July was no accident. July is typically the hottest month of the year across much of the United States, and it is precisely when families look for ways to cool down and keep children entertained during the school holidays.
Waterparks themselves have a much longer history. The modern outdoor waterpark grew rapidly through the late twentieth century, and today the industry is worth billions of dollars annually. National Waterpark Day arrived as a way to bottle that summer spirit into a single, sharable date that parks, families and fans could rally around.
Fun Facts About National Waterpark Day
- The United States has the largest and most concentrated waterpark market in the world, with over 1,000 waterparks and new ones opening every year.
- As of 2024 the US waterpark industry was valued at roughly 5.9 billion dollars, up more than 5 per cent on the previous year.
- Noah’s Ark in the Wisconsin Dells spans around 70 acres and boasts over 50 slides, two wave pools and multiple lazy rivers, making it one of America’s largest outdoor waterparks.
- In 2023, Typhoon Lagoon recorded the highest attendance of any US waterpark, with around 1.9 million visitors.
- Of nearly 1,200 waterparks across the United States and Canada in 2023, more than 800 were outdoor parks.
- The Wisconsin Dells, where National Waterpark Day’s founder opened its first park, is widely promoted as the waterpark capital of the world.
Why National Waterpark Day Matters
Beyond the obvious fun, National Waterpark Day celebrates affordable family time, active outdoor play and the seasonal rituals that make summer memorable. Waterparks bring communities together, support thousands of jobs and give children a reason to put down screens and cool off in the sunshine. If you enjoy marking the lighter side of the calendar, you might also like Air Conditioning Appreciation Day, another July observance born from the desire to beat the summer heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is National Waterpark Day?
National Waterpark Day is an annual American celebration of waterparks and the summer fun they provide. It encourages people to visit a waterpark, enjoy the slides and pools, and make the most of the hot weather.
When is National Waterpark Day in 2026?
National Waterpark Day is on Tuesday, 28 July 2026. It is celebrated on the same date every year.
Who founded National Waterpark Day?
It was founded in 2017 by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, which opened its first waterpark in the Wisconsin Dells in July 2000. The observance was made official through National Day Calendar.
Spread the Word
Join the celebration and share your best slide and splash photos on social media with #NationalWaterparkDay and #NationalWaterparkDay2026. Tag your friends and challenge them to take the plunge and meet you at the nearest park.
Related Awareness Days
- Air Conditioning Appreciation Day – A July observance celebrating the technology that keeps us cool through the hottest days of summer.
- National Fried Clam Day – A seaside summer food day that pairs perfectly with a day out by the water.
- National Stitch Day – Another light-hearted day on the calendar for fans of fun, feel-good observances.
Links
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