ORLANDO, Fla. – SeaWorld’s first theme park opened in 1964 in San Diego. SeaWorld Orlando opened nine years later.
After 60 years as a company, SeaWorld is celebrating a landmark anniversary with its “So Much More to Sea” campaign.
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“It’s more than just a talking point,” said Jon Peterson, president of SeaWorld Orlando. “Open your eyes and see.”
Peterson highlighted the theme park’s many accomplishments at the celebration’s launch party on Thursday, praising attraction and restaurant transformation at SeaWorld Orlando, as well as its continued commitment to rescuing and caring for marine animals. Over 40,000 animals have been rescued since the park opened in 1973.
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Launch party festivities run through March 24, where Peterson will speak to guests and reflect upon the company’s 60 years. The ceremony will take place each day at park opening with a cake cutting. Guests will also receive a free cupcake, while supplies last.
Other launch party festivities include:
- New and exclusive vintage merchandise, including reusable water bottles, plush animals, snow globes, backpacks, notebooks, blankets, t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, a custom Precious Moments collectible and more.
- For the first time in recent years, guests can see Shamu & Crew together again and take a commemorative photo with them. Kids of all ages will love meeting costume characters - Shamu, Coral the Dolphin, Sydney the Shark and Puck the Penguin!
- Commemorative in-park screens sharing memorable moments in the parks from guests and ambassadors. Guests are invited to share their own images and videos of their favorite SeaWorld memories using #SeaWorld60.
- A special gallery of historic photos and memorabilia from the park over the past 60 years will be located in the Pass Member’s Lounge.
Following the kickoff celebration on Thursday, News 6 got a tour of new additions at the park.
Among the highlights of SeaWorld’s 60th anniversary celebration include:
- Highly-anticipated themed rides and attractions such as “Penguin Trek” at SeaWorld Orlando.
- New cirque-style shows at SeaWorld Orlando, along with a live performance character show titled “Shamu and Crew - ‘Together Again’” at SeaWorld San Diego.
- A new 60th Anniversary celebration parade featuring beloved live costumed characters for guests of all ages.
- Exclusive limited-edition food and beverage offerings, collectibles and memorabilia.
Guests who want to enjoy all the 60th anniversary celebrations can take advantage of the special $60 Anniversary Ticket, now available in limited quantities on select dates for the rest of the year.
For the ultimate SeaWorld experience, guests are encouraged to purchase an annual pass, offering 12 months of visits with special benefits including free parking, free guest tickets, VIP event access, merchandise discounts and more.
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