A MAJOR Part of Florida Theme Park History Permanently CLOSES in a Week

A major piece of Florida’s theme park history is closing after over 80 years.

©Visit Central Florida

More than 30 years before Disney World changed the landscape of Florida tourism forever, Cypress Gardens was the most famous attraction in the Sunshine State. Originally opened in 1936 by the legendary Dick Pope Sr., the botanical garden and theme park was headlined by a water-skiing show that drew in millions of guests – – including some huge celebrities – – to see daredevil performers including Pope’s son Dick Pope Jr. The show’s success popularized the sport, made the park’s home of Winter Haven the “water skiing capital of the world”, and put Florida on the metaphorical map for millions.

The original iteration of Cypress Gardens closed in 2009, but the park and land was purchased by Merlin Entertainment, who refurbished the area into LEGOLAND Florida, which opened in 2011. A LEGO-themed version of the water-skiing show has been one of the park’s entertainment offerings…until now.

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In mid-December 2024, LEGOLAND confirmed that Brickbeard’s Watersport Stunt Show — the show’s current iteration — will be closing after a final performance on December 30th.

©Visit Central Florida

In a statement, the park said that the show, “has been a beloved part of our history, creating lasting memories for families over the years. While we cherish this legacy, we are listening to our guests and our focus is on introducing new and dynamic experiences to continue creating family memories.”

©LEGOLAND

At the time of the announcement, longtime Cypress Gardens and former water ski show director Mark Voisard told television station WFLA that he believed the closure was a cost-cutting measure, saying, “It wasn’t one of the top attractions at Legoland, so they ultimately had to make a business decision. It’s pretty sad for the area because people would go there and go, ‘I remember coming here as a kid.’”

©Visit Central Florida

If you want to catch the final incarnation of this legendary water skiing show, you have ONE WEEK left to get to LEGOLAND Florida before the 80-year-old show disappears forever. Stay tuned to DFB for more on the state’s ever-changing tourism industry.

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Have you ever seen an incarnation of the water skiing show at the former Cypress Gardens? Let us know in the comments below.