La Ronde’s 2026 season officially kicked off this Saturday, May 16, with a major behind-the-scenes change: the Montreal park is now under the management of La Ronde Opérations Inc., a company led by Kieran Burke. This transition marks the completion of a deal announced earlier this year and paves the way for a phase of continuity infused with new developments.
According to management, this new governance structure aims to preserve the park’s identity while enhancing the visitor experience for both families and season pass holders.
A longer season and extended evenings
Starting with the launch, the park will open its doors on weekends beginning May 16, before transitioning to daily operations starting June 12. The season will also be extended with additional opening periods, including a special week in late August and an extension of the popular Festival de la Frayeur in late October and early November.
Hours will also be extended: some summer evenings will run until 10 p.m., while days associated with L’International des Feux Loto-Québec may run until 11:30 p.m. In total, the park is adding approximately 120 hours of activities to its calendar.
Enhanced offerings for season pass holders
Among the most notable changes, the new Gold and Prestige passes will offer expanded benefits. Holders will notably have access, for the first time, to two outdoor water parks:
- Village Vacances Valcartier
- Calypso Water Park
In addition to these additions, several perks are planned on-site at La Ronde: complimentary tickets to bring guests on select dates, priority access during specific times, and included parking for the Prestige pass.
A program focused on classics and experiences
The 2026 program will focus on events already deeply rooted in the park’s tradition, while continuing to offer seasonal entertainment. Highlights will include themed evenings, gourmet events, country music gatherings, and the popular shows from the Pays de Ribambelle.
With La Ronde Opérations Inc. taking the reins, the park is entering a phase where the customer experience and expanding the offering take center stage. Management says it aims to build on existing strengths while introducing gradual improvements to attract an even broader audience, both local and international.