California theme park abruptly closes for the rest of 2025

A Southern California theme park geared toward young children has announced it will close for the remainder of the year, surprising parents and season ticket holders.

Sesame Place San Diego, located in Chula Vista, announced on social media

Monday that it will “transition” to a seasonal schedule. Its last day of operations will be Sunday, Sept. 21, and will reopen in spring 2026.

“Sesame Place will transition to a seasonal schedule, making every visit filled with more excitement, attractions, and activities to enjoy,” the park said in a statement. “By focusing on our most popular times of year, we can deliver the best possible experience from the moment guests arrive until the moment they leave.”

The park, which opened in 2022, features rides, water attractions, shows, and the opportunity for kids to interact with “Sesame Street” characters like Big Bird, Cookie Monster and Elmo.

Many lashed out on social media, saying they were blindsided by the decision.

“I am extremely disappointed,” wrote Afra Romero. “We were looking forward to going for Halloween and Christmas time.”

Other parents complained that they had already booked trips to San Diego to visit the park.

“I am trying so hard not to cry in front of my almost 4 year old,” wrote Kimberlee Amber-Nicole Brown. “This was supposed to be his bday trip, all he wanted was ‘somewhere with rides’.”

“My family planned to travel from out of state to attend the Halloween Spooktacular,” wrote Sel Ruiz. “How do you expect people to plan entire vacations around your posted operating schedule and pull the plug with less than two weeks notice?”

The park replied, apologizing and offering Ruiz tickets to SeaWorld San Diego’s Halloween event or an alternate date in 2026. It has offered all season pass holders a complimentary SeaWorld Fun Card, valid for unlimited admission through the remainder of the year.

Sesame Place Philadelphia, the original park, opened in the 1980s.