A New Chapter for La Ronde: Revitalizing an Iconic Montreal Amusement Park
La Ronde, the beloved amusement park on Île Ste-Hélène, has embarked on a fresh journey with a change in management, marking the beginning of its 2026 season. The park, which has been a cornerstone of Montreal's summer entertainment for decades, is now under the stewardship of U.S. investment firm EPR Properties and La Ronde Operations, owned by the renowned theme park entrepreneur Kieran Burke.
A New Vision for an Old Favorite
The acquisition of La Ronde by EPR Properties, along with six other U.S. theme parks, signifies a strategic move to expand their portfolio and breathe new life into these recreational destinations. With a price tag of $331 million USD (approximately $455 million CAD), this deal underscores the potential for growth and innovation within the amusement park industry.
Kieran Burke, a veteran in the theme park business, has taken the operational reins of La Ronde. His companies already manage several successful parks, including Village Vacances Valcartier near Quebec City and Calypso Waterpark near Ottawa. Burke's expertise and track record in the industry are expected to bring a fresh perspective and enhanced experiences to La Ronde.
Extended Hours, More Operating Days
One of the immediate changes promised by the new management is an expansion of operating hours and days. La Ronde will now be open on weekends through June 7, including the Victoria Day long weekend. From June 12 until the week of August 24, the park will operate seven days a week, adding an extra week of daily operations compared to previous years. Additionally, summer evening hours will be extended, with the park staying open until 10 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and until 11:30 p.m. during the International des Feux Loto-Québec fireworks competition.
Revitalizing a Period of Decline
La Ronde's history is a tale of highs and lows. While it opened with great fanfare as part of Expo 67, the park has faced challenges in recent years. The dismantling of iconic landmarks, such as La Spirale, a towering glass observation tower, has left a mark on the park's landscape and the memories of Montrealers. However, this new chapter under Burke's leadership offers an opportunity for rejuvenation and a chance to restore La Ronde's status as a premier summer destination.
A Broader Perspective
The changes at La Ronde reflect a larger trend in the amusement park industry. As competition intensifies and visitor expectations evolve, park operators must adapt and innovate to stay relevant. The extended hours and additional operating days are strategic moves to enhance the visitor experience and maximize revenue. Moreover, Burke's involvement brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success, which could potentially elevate La Ronde to new heights.
In my opinion, the future of La Ronde looks promising. With a fresh vision and experienced leadership, the park has the potential to reclaim its position as a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike. The extended hours and additional operating days are a step in the right direction, offering more opportunities for visitors to create lasting memories. Personally, I'm excited to see how La Ronde evolves under this new management and how it continues to shape the summer entertainment scene in Montreal.
