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Holiday World announces $22m Fourth of July-themed water coaster

Fastest water coaster in the US set to open in May 2027

Amusement park called Holiday World with water ride, colorful umbrellas, and blue roller coaster.

Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana has announced a new $22m water coaster called Cannonball

Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana has announced a new $22 million water coaster called Cannonball, set to open in May 2027.

Cannonball represents the largest single-attraction investment in Holiday World's history and will be the fastest water coaster in the US, with the nation's tallest drop.


Designed by Mack Rides, it's themed to a "Fourth of July community center pool party with a longstanding cannonball dive competition", the park said in a press release.

It will be the new marquee attraction of the Fourth of July section at Holiday World, which also houses areas inspired by Halloween, Christmas and Thanksgiving.

"This ride is dedicated to every kid who had to work up the courage to climb the tall diving board at their community pool," said Leah Koch-Blumhardt, park owner and director of communications.

"And it’s a tribute to every small town with a quirky annual tradition. There’s something special about the way we come together to celebrate our independence as a nation, and we hope Cannonball conveys that magic."

Fastest water coaster in the US

The water coaster features a 90-foot lift hill, more than 1,000 feet of coaster track, speeds of up to 45 mph, five total drops including a 75-foot drop, and a huge splash.

Riders will board one of seven boat-style ride vehicles decorated as colourful novelty innertubes.

A family-friendly attraction, Cannonball has a minimum height requirement of 42 inches when accompanied by an adult, and 48 inches unaccompanied.

"Cannonball is going to be the perfect step between Good Gravy! and the rest of our high-thrill roller coasters," said Koch-Blumhardt.

Lauren Crosby, park owner and director of entertainment and events, said: "We’re daring enough to be a little absurd with our ride concepts.

"We built a gravy-themed coaster, and now we’re building one around a fictional cannonball competition! Where else can you board a donut-innertube-themed boat, then hop on an American flag-themed boat?!”

Images courtesy of Holiday World