originally posted on 6/27/2023 6:20:00 PM
Coaster Con happens for one week each year — the week beginning on Father’s Day in June. It’s a gathering of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, during which the world’s largest roller coaster enthusiast organization convenes to ride coasters and to discuss, learn about and savor everything related to coasters and amusement parks.
Photo: Courtesy of ACE. View full-sized image.
The host parks offer exclusive opportunities for members, such as behind-the-scenes ride tours, ERTs (exclusive ride times — enthusiasts get to enjoy certain rides before the park opens or after the park closes, often with minimal wait times) and park-catered dinners that are a noticeable step up from the normal food offerings.
Carowinds' entrance message welcoming ACE.
Photo: Paul Daley. View full-sized image.
As Coaster Con entices attendees from all over the country and the world, it can be an excellent place to meet other roller coaster enthusiasts and forge lasting friendships.
Dollywood displayed ACE's 45th anniversary logo in many places throughout their park.
Photo: Derek Perry. View full-sized image.
This year, Coaster Con 45 was the largest in ACE’s history, with more than 1,200 attendees, which beat the prior record, Coaster Con 44, by over 400 guests. For more than 500 of those attendees, Coaster Con 45 was their first Con experience.
The Coaster Con 45 group picture at Carowinds.
Photo: Adam Napotnik. View full-sized image.
Interested in learning more about Coaster Con? Click here!
— Kohl Gribble, ACE360 Coordinator
#ACE360