In 2025, Germany’s most iconic theme park — Europa-Park — celebrates an incredible milestone: 50 years of unforgettable moments, innovation, and family-driven passion.
What began in 1975 as a bold dream in the quiet village of Rust has grown into one of Europe’s top entertainment destinations. Half a century later, the Mack family, founders and visionaries behind Europa-Park, marked the occasion in true style — surrounded by friends, guests, and the industry’s leading voices.
A Celebration of Generations
The pre-opening event felt more like a heartfelt reunion than a corporate milestone. Led by Roland Mack, the Mack family arrived at the gates of the park in a vintage bus packed with kids, echoing the spirit of community and joy that has defined Europa-Park for decades.
Mascots Ed and Edda welcomed visitors — stars of the upcoming animated film Grand Prix of Europe and the faces of Europa-Park’s newest ride, Grand Prix EDventure, launching this season.
But beyond the characters and celebrations, there was a deep sense of legacy in the air. Roland Mack proudly introduced the next generation of leadership, including Ann-Kathrin Mack, who joins her brothers Michael and Thomas as a managing partner — and becomes the first woman in the company’s 250-year history to hold this role. Other family members, like Frederik Mack, are also stepping into operational leadership, ensuring the tradition continues.
From Humble Roots to a Thriving Empire
The Macks took a leap of faith in the 1970s, transforming a quiet corner of Germany into a thriving entertainment hub. Today, Europa-Park includes:
- Europa-Park Theme Park – With 21 themed areas (and Monaco coming in 2026)
- Rulantica – A Nordic-inspired indoor water world
- Eatrenalin – A multisensory fine dining experience
- 6 Luxury Hotels – Designed for family comfort and elegance
- Mack Group Companies – Including Mack Rides, Mack Animation, and VR Coaster
- Silver Lake City – A fast-growing campground with immersive theming
The empire reflects not just the evolution of a park, but of a global brand leading innovation in rides, storytelling, and experience design.
What’s New in 2025?
The theme of the 50th anniversary season is: “Experience. Europe. Together.” The goal? To make every guest — first-timer or long-time fan — feel like part of the story.
Here’s what’s on the calendar:
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Grand Prix EDventure | A new family dark ride with immersive sets, interactive gameplay & rotating cars |
| Silver Star Hall Exhibition | A walk through 50 years of park history, plus a sneak peek at Monaco 2026 |
| The Legend of Zorro | A thrilling stunt horse show set to wow family audiences |
| New Parade & Music | Featuring Celebrating Under the Stars by pop icon DJ BoBo |
The new Grand Prix EDventure attraction blends tech and narrative, using Mack Rides’ Gameplay Theater system — delivering two ride-throughs in one loop, with multiple screens, sets, and animatronic surprises. It’s also connected to the upcoming Grand Prix of Europe movie — a collaboration with Warner Bros. Film Productions Germany.
A Family Business, Still Moving People
Despite challenges — from financial struggles to global shutdowns — the Mack family has stayed true to their mission: creating meaningful, emotion-packed experiences that move people. From wagons in the 1700s to high-speed coasters like Voltron Nevera, the journey has always been about passion, people, and play.
As Michael Mack put it best:
“If you know our history, you know we like moving people.”
With eight generations of creative minds now shaping the future, and a global fanbase that continues to grow, Europa-Park’s next 50 years look just as exciting as the last.
