Holiday World to Launch Cannonball! Water Roller Coaster for 2027
Cannonball! Water Roller Coaster: A New Thrill at Holiday World
Holiday World is set to revolutionize the amusement park experience with its introduction of Cannonball!, a stunning water roller coaster scheduled to debut in May 2027. With a staggering investment of $22 million, Cannonball! represents the largest single-attraction expenditure in the park's illustrious history. As the Midwest's first water roller coaster, it is designed to deliver exhilarating fun for family guests, perfectly blending adrenaline with a family-friendly atmosphere.
A Unique Experience Awaits
The Cannonball! water coaster will reach impressive heights, taking riders 90 feet into the sky before plunging into a thrilling experience that traverses over 1,000 feet of twisty coaster track. The ride is not just about speed; it promises a dramatic 75-foot drop that is likely to leave chills of excitement in its wake. At a maximum speed of 45 miles per hour, Cannonball! stakes its claim as the fastest water roller coaster in the United States, ensuring that thrill-seekers will relish every moment.
Leah Koch-Blumhardt, Fourth-Generation Owner and Director of Communications, articulates the inspiration behind the ride: "This ride is dedicated to every kid who had to work up the courage to climb the tall diving board at their community pool. There’s something special about the way we come together to celebrate our independence as a nation, and we hope Cannonball! conveys that magic."
Riders over 42 inches in height can experience the fun when accompanied by an adult, making it a rite of passage for many young families eager to create lasting memories together.
Themed Ride Elements
Cannonball! is uniquely themed to capture the essence of a Fourth of July community pool party, complete with a nod to the beloved tradition of cannonball dive competitions. The design features boats resembling colorful novelty inner tubes, including Strawberry, Watermelon, Doughnut, Stars and Stripes, Patriotic popsicle, and more. Riders will wind past a picturesque barbecue setting before climbing that exhilarating lift hill, creating a festive atmosphere before the splashdown.
The narrative of the ride encapsulates small-town Americana—a tribute to quirky local traditions that create shared experiences. As guests delve into the ride, they are encouraged to shout “Cannonball!” as they plunge down into the Boulder Canyon Community Pool, surrounded by whimsical giant inflatable swans.
Construction and Future Plans
Construction is already underway, with Holiday World on track for an exciting opening next year. The anticipation is palpable as the community and park visitors alike eagerly await what might become a defining feature of the park’s lineup, joining popular attractions such as the award-winning Good Gravy!, which has delighted guests since its opening in 2024.
The park prides itself on creating an environment tailored to families, with plans to continue growing its portfolio of attractions designed for shared experiences. “Our vision is to be every family's home for the holidays,” Koch-Blumhardt elucidates. "Cannonball! is going to introduce a perfect stepping stone between family rides and more high-thrill coasters."
Finally, Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari will continue their tradition of providing complimentary features like Free Unlimited Soft Drinks, Sunscreen, and Parking, making visits enjoyable for all guests. In the coming months, further activities and seasonal festivals will feature as part of America’s celebration of its 250th anniversary, ensuring that there will always be something exceptional happening at Holiday World.
For family adventurers and thrill-seekers alike, the wait for Cannonball! is only set to heighten the excitement of visiting what is widely known as the Water Coaster Capital of the World. With its rich history and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences, Holiday World remains a quintessential destination for those seeking both thrills and wholesome fun.
Get Ready for Cannonball!
So mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable ride experience at Holiday World’s Cannonball!—coming in 2027 to Santa Claus, Indiana!