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National Waterpark Day July 28

Imagine a scorching summer day, the sun beating down, and the only respite you crave is the cool, refreshing embrace of water. Enter the world of waterparks, a modern-day oasis that has become a staple for summertime fun. But how did these havens of splashy delight come to be? From the ancient Indus Valley Civilization with its rudimentary water slides to the adrenaline-pumping, state-of-the-art parks we know today, the evolution of waterparks is a fascinating journey through time. National Waterpark Day, celebrated every July 28, isn't just a nod to contemporary aquatic playgrounds; it's a tribute to centuries of innovation, community, and the unadulterated joy of making a splash. As we gear up to don our swimsuits and dive into the history of these aquatic paradises, let's not forget the visionaries and hardworking souls behind the scenes who've transformed simple swims into unforgettable adventures.

Key Takeaway

National Waterpark Day was established in 2016 by the World Waterpark Association (WWA) to promote waterparks as family-friendly destinations and recognize the contributions of industry professionals.
Waterparks have a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations, but the modern waterpark as we know it began to take shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, gaining popularity in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. Today, waterparks offer a range of attractions and are a popular destination for families and tourists.

Timeline

1977
First Water Park
The first modern water park, Wet ‘n Wild, opened in Greensboro, North Carolina.
1980
Water Slide Invention
The first bowl slide, the AquaLoop, was invented by German company Wiegand-Waltjens.
1985
Water Park Industry Growth
The water park industry saw significant growth, with more than 50 new parks opening across the United States.
1994
Indoor Water Parks
The first indoor water park, Great Wolf Lodge, opened in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin.
2005
Wave Pool Innovation
The first surf simulator, FlowRider, was introduced at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels, Texas.
2012
Tallest Water Slide
The tallest water slide in the world, the Verruckt, opened at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in Kansas City, Kansas.
2016
National Waterpark Day
National Waterpark Day was officially recognized and celebrated on July 28.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Splash: Kick off National Waterpark Day with a dive into the cool, refreshing waters of your favorite waterpark. Whether it's racing down a water slide or floating along a lazy river, there's no better way to start the day. Pack your sunscreen, grab your towels, and don't forget your sense of adventure!

  2. Afternoon Adventures: As the sun climbs higher, why not challenge yourself with some of the park's more thrilling rides? Test your mettle on high-speed slides, or catch a wave in the wave pool. For families, interactive play areas offer splashtastic fun that'll keep the kiddos giggling all afternoon.

  3. Evening Chill: After a day packed with excitement, wind down with a leisurely float under the stars. Many waterparks host special events or movie nights in the pool, making for a magical end to National Waterpark Day. It's the perfect time to relax, share stories of the day's adventures, and plan your next visit.

Interesting Facts

1. Origins in 2016

National Waterpark Day was first celebrated in 2016, thanks to the World Waterpark Association.

2. Ancient Beginnings

Evidence of water slides dates back to 2000 BC in the Indus Valley Civilization.

3. First Water Chute

In 1884, Evanston, Illinois, saw the construction of the first recorded water chute.

4. Popularity Boom

The 1950s and 1960s marked a surge in waterpark popularity in the United States.

5. Purpose of the Day

This day honors waterpark professionals and promotes these parks as family-friendly destinations.

Why We Love This Day

  • Splash into Fun: National Waterpark Day is the perfect excuse to beat the heat and dive into some fun. Waterparks offer a unique blend of relaxation and adrenaline-pumping rides, making them a hit for all ages. From lazy rivers that let you float your cares away to towering slides that send you zooming at heart-racing speeds, there's something for everyone. This day reminds us to take a break from the daily grind and make a splash!

  • Celebrating Innovation and History: This day isn't just about the thrills; it's also a nod to the incredible journey of waterparks from simple swimming pools to the elaborate aquatic playgrounds we know today. Acknowledging the roots of waterparks, which trace back to ancient civilizations, adds a layer of appreciation for the creativity and engineering marvels that go into designing modern waterparks. It's fascinating to see how far we've come, from the first water chute in 1884 to the immersive water worlds across the globe.

  • A Tribute to Industry Professionals: Behind every thrilling water slide and meticulously maintained wave pool are the hardworking professionals who make it all possible. National Waterpark Day shines a spotlight on these unsung heroes, from lifeguards ensuring our safety to engineers dreaming up the next big attraction. It's a day to appreciate the dedication and effort that go into creating safe, enjoyable environments where families can make lasting memories together. Let's give a big shoutout to these folks for keeping the fun flowing!

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
JULY 28 2022
JULY 28 2023
JULY 28 2024
JULY 28 2025
JULY 28 2026
JULY 28 2027
JULY 28 2028

FAQ

What national day is 28th July?

It's National Tree Day, National Crime Prevention Month, Auntie's Day, National Soccer Day, World Nature Conservation Day… and much more!

What year was the first National Water Park Day created?

The day was founded by Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in 2017. Company spokesperson Travis Nelson said of the day, "We founded National Waterpark Day to commemorate the fun and lasting memories families create at our waterparks every summer."