Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana, marked a major milestone on its newest attraction this week. Workers completed the “crown” of the 90‑foot lift hill for the Cannonball water roller coaster, a project that promises to bring the Midwest its first water coaster and set a new height record for the ride type across North America.
What makes Cannonball unique
The upcoming Cannonball will combine the thrills of a traditional steel coaster with the splash‑filled excitement of a water ride. Its 75‑foot drop will be the tallest on any water coaster in the United States and Canada, offering riders a dramatic plunge that ends in a splash pool before the train climbs back up for another series of twists and turns.
Construction progress and timeline
Holiday World officials confirmed that the lift hill topping‑off took place on Friday, signaling that the structural phase of the project is on schedule. “We’re thrilled to see the hill take shape and to know we’re still on track for a May opening,” said a park spokesperson. The park plans to keep the attraction open for a few more weekend dates, including a Halloween event this Saturday, before fully focusing on final testing and safety inspections.
Impact on the local community
The new coaster is expected to boost tourism in the Santa Claus area, drawing visitors from across the Midwest during the summer season. Local businesses anticipate increased traffic, especially hotels, restaurants, and retail shops that benefit from the influx of coaster enthusiasts and families seeking a weekend getaway.
What visitors can expect
When Cannonball opens next May, guests will experience a ride that blends high‑speed coaster elements with water‑based thrills. The park has emphasized safety and family‑friendly fun, ensuring that the coaster will be accessible to a wide range of riders while still delivering the adrenaline rush that coaster fans crave.
Looking ahead
Holiday World continues to operate its existing attractions while the Cannonball project moves forward. The park’s management remains confident that the coaster will be ready for its grand opening as planned, adding another marquee attraction to an already popular destination.
Stay tuned for further updates as the park approaches the final testing phase and prepares for the official launch of Cannonball.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
