Carowinds Amusement Park Faces Job Cuts Amid Six Flags Restructuring

Carowinds, the popular amusement park located in Charlotte, North Carolina, has recently announced layoffs as part of a broader restructuring initiative by its parent company, Six Flags. This decision, confirmed by Kristin Fitzgerald, the east regional director of public relations for Carowinds, has raised concerns among employees and park enthusiasts alike.

Context of the Layoffs

The layoffs at Carowinds are part of a significant 10% reduction in full-time staff across Six Flags’ operations. This move comes in the wake of a merger between Six Flags and Cedar Fair, which has prompted a reevaluation of business needs and staffing structures. Fitzgerald stated, “This decision was made after careful consideration and a thorough review of our evolving business needs.”

Details of the Layoffs

While the exact number of employees affected has not been disclosed, it has been confirmed that the majority of those laid off were offered alternative positions, either part-time or seasonal. For those not continuing with the company, a separation package and other benefits will be provided. This approach aims to soften the impact of the layoffs on employees, reflecting a commitment to support them during this transition.

This is not the first instance of job cuts at Carowinds in 2025. Earlier in January, the park underwent a restructuring process that also resulted in layoffs, indicating a trend of ongoing adjustments within the organization.

Broader Implications for Six Flags

The job cuts at Carowinds are part of a larger strategy affecting Six Flags’ 27 amusement parks. The company is eliminating all park president positions, a move that has been reported by various news outlets, including the Orange County Register. This restructuring is expected to streamline operations and reduce costs, aligning with the company’s financial goals.

In addition to the layoffs at Carowinds, Six Flags plans to cut approximately 135 full-time jobs across its California parks, which include notable attractions like Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. The company has assured that eligible associates will have the option to transition into part-time roles or receive severance packages.

Financial Strategy and Future Outlook

The corporate restructuring at Six Flags is part of a cost-reduction plan discussed by President and CEO Richard Zimmerman during an earnings call earlier this year. The company is focused on improving its financial performance and operational efficiency, especially following the merger with Cedar Fair.

Earlier in 2025, Six Flags also announced the closure of Six Flags America and the Hurricane Harbor water park in Maryland after the operating season, although they have stated that there are no plans to close any additional parks in their portfolio.

Conclusion

The recent layoffs at Carowinds highlight the challenges faced by amusement parks in a rapidly changing economic landscape. As Six Flags navigates its restructuring efforts, the impact on employees and the overall guest experience remains a critical concern. While the company aims to streamline operations and enhance profitability, the human element of these decisions cannot be overlooked. The future of Carowinds and its workforce will depend on how effectively the park adapts to these changes while continuing to provide memorable experiences for its visitors.

Images courtesy of Six Flags.