OWA Parks & Resort will kick off the summer season with its “Summer with a Splash” celebration over Memorial Day weekend, featuring a full lineup of entertainment, attractions and new experiences for visitors of all ages.

The three-day event will bring family-friendly activities, live music and patriotic tributes to Downtown OWA, highlighted by a nighttime fireworks show, a news release said. Resort officials say the annual kickoff combines returning favorites with new additions as the Gulf Coast destination enters its peak season.

Tropic Falls at OWA remains the centerpiece of the resort’s summer attractions. The venue features 23 theme park rides along with indoor and outdoor water experiences, including high-speed slides, a lazy river, a wave pool and a surf simulator. The indoor water park is the largest in the region, offering a climate-controlled option for guests looking to stay cool.

Festivities begin Friday, May 22, with a fountain show at OWA Lake followed by activities from 4 to 9 p.m. Guests can participate in a Patriotic Paint Party to create red, white and blue T-shirts, make windsocks with colorful ribbons and join “Pitch, Hit & Splash,” a water balloon version of baseball. A scavenger hunt and live DJ music will continue throughout the evening.

Events continue Saturday, May 23, from 2 to 9 p.m. with similar activities throughout the afternoon. At 3 p.m., a Presentation of Colors will honor fallen soldiers, followed by a moment of silence. Live music begins at 3:30 p.m. with The Heat performing ‘70s classic rock on the Island Stage, followed by the Neil Dover Band at 6 p.m. The evening will end with a fireworks show at 8:50 p.m.

Sunday, May 24, will wrap up the weekend with activities from noon to 4 p.m., including crafts and games set to live DJ music. The celebration concludes with the All-American Pie Showdown, a pie-eating contest open to participants throughout the afternoon.

OWA is also introducing a new “Bonus Play Add-On” for summer 2026. Guests who purchase General Family 4-Packs or Gulf Coast Neighbors Family 4-Packs can add $10 in arcade and laser tag play to each Tropic Falls ticket. The add-on must be selected at the time of purchase.

Downtown OWA continues to expand with new dining options, including Ben’s Pretzels and Voodoo Daiquiris. Ben’s Pretzels will serve hand-rolled soft pretzels, while Voodoo Daiquiris will offer a variety of frozen drinks in a tropical setting.

“Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to kick off summer, and we’re thrilled to offer new experiences alongside our classic attractions,” said Ken Leone, Property Manager, OWA Parks & Resort. “With the addition of Ben’s Pretzels and Voodoo Daiquiris, plus everything happening across the property, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”