This week is the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions (IAAPA) Expo, the major trade show for the themed entertainment industry. It’s a chance for attraction designers to show off their newest creations, as well as to hand out awards for the amazing work already done and recognize those who have contributed to the industry.

Dolly Parton is among those being recognized, as she’s joining the IAAPA Hall of Fame , but last night, the Themed Entertainment Association announced the recipients of the 2026 Thea Awards . Perhaps unsurprisingly, Universal Destinations and Experiences and its new park Epic Universe were the big winners, and deservedly so. However, I was stoked to see another attraction that hasn’t made all the headlines also take home a prize.

Epic Univers

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