Industry professionals are invited to attend the 2026 Golden Ticket Awards on September 11 and 12. The host facilities this year will be the brand-new theme park, COTALand, built on the campus of Circuit of the Americas in Austin, and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in nearby Round Rock. Registration for the event will be open soon!
Thanks to the many generous GTA sponsors — including our Gold Sponsors of Gerstlauer, Ride Entertainment, Rides 4 U / SBF-Visa and Vekoma — the event remains free for those working in the industry.
Anyone who has never attended will be surprised by the diversity of networking activities. Beyond the awards ceremony, there will be behind-the-scenes tours, social receptions, time in the parks, dinners and fun fundraising opportunities for National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives and Morgan’s Wonderland.
Nominations are open
The Golden Ticket Awards will be presenting acknowledgements in 21 voted-on categories, as well as Show Person of the Year, Publisher’s Pick and Legend awards.
Several categories are open for nominations: Best New Attraction Installation (acknowledging impact), Best New Show, Leadership (individual, park or company) and Best Innovation. Likewise, nominations for Standout FEC are being accepted as well. Nominations can be submitted at goldenticketawards.com/nominate.
All other categories are open for any qualifying attraction or park.
Looking to recognize a new installation that has impact or a leader who exemplifies industry excellence? Is a new show a total wow? Is a new product, attraction or procedure innovating the guest experience or safety? Take a moment to nominate.
Nominations will be accepted through June 30.
Host hotel
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is the host hotel. Attendees will enjoy access to the massive indoor water park during their stay, as well as the various FEC options throughout the family areas. The stunning resort is beautifully decorated with African artistry and makes for a great getaway. Discounted room reservations are available now!
Circuit of the Americas
Circuit of the Americas opened in 2012 as the nation’s Formula 1 racetrack. Since that time, it has grown, now containing a concert venue and various year-round options such as a sports field, karting and miniature golf. The newest addition is COTAland, opening in the summer of 2026. In addition to roller coasters, water rides and family rides, thrill-seekers can step up for the ultimate ride, Hot Lap, where they will sit alongside a professional race car driver and hit speeds of more than 100 mph.
Amusement Today is thrilled to welcome the industry to the Networking Event of the Year. The connections made, experiences enjoyed and entertaining networking opportunities are sure to be worthy of placing the 2026 Golden Ticket Awards on the calendar. Registration includes admission to the parks, food and drink, the awards ceremony and more!
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