Elitch Gardens Opens for 2026 Season

Elitch Gardens is back for another season, opening Saturday, April 18, and this year marks a pretty big milestone – 136 years in Denver.

That kind of longevity says a lot. Generations of locals have grown up going to Elitch’s, whether it’s for roller coasters, summer water park days, or just wandering the park with friends. It remains one of those Denver spots that keeps showing up in people’s memories.

The 2026 season is set to be one of their longest yet, with more operating days and a packed lineup of events planned throughout the year. Along with the usual mix of coasters, KiddieLand rides, and the water park, they’re adding new festival weekends, drone shows, dive-in movies at the wave pool, and a handful of adults-only water park nights.

Later in the year, things shift into seasonal mode. Fall brings back Fright Fest, which takes over the park for six weekends with both daytime and nighttime experiences. Then in winter, Elitch Gardens flips again into Elitch Holidays, with lights, rides, and all the festive extras.

There’s also a bigger-picture backdrop this year, with 2026 marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence and 150 years of Colorado statehood. Elitch’s is leaning into that sense of history – not in a heavy way, but as a reminder of how long the park has been part of the city.

If you’re thinking about going more than once, season passes are already on sale and tend to pay off quickly if you hit the park a couple of times across spring, summer, and fall.

The park officially opens April 18 and runs on select days through early January. Season passes are available now!

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