Iconic IE Amusement Park Closing Its Doors After More Than 50 Years

COLTON, CA — After more than half a century of entertaining families from Southern California and beyond, Fiesta Village in Colton is shutting down, the company announced.

Fiesta Village co-owner Michelle O’Brien told SF GATE the decision to close the park came down to "The economics of the amusement park industry and what we’re doing have changed dramatically."

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"We’ve just reached a point where continuing simply wasn’t sustainable," she added.

The owners announced the closure earlier this month on the amusement park's website. Employees were informed about the decision before the announcement was made public, the owners said.

"This decision [to close] has not been easy," a message on the Fiesta Village website said. "For decades, Fiesta Village has been a place where families gathered, friendships grew and memories were made. When we were given the opportunity 25 years ago to carry forward the tradition that began in 1974, our goal was to preserve that spirit and create a welcoming space for connection, celebration and joy, while also providing meaningful employment for the people who helped bring it all to life."

O'Brien, who bought Fiesta Village in 2002, owns the park with her husband, Patrick O'Brien. After taking ownership of the park, the couple added more rides and attractions, including laser tag and a roller skating rink, SF Gate reported.

The O’Briens told SF Gate that higher operational costs and lower attendance contributed to the closure.

The O'Briens said they tried to find a buyer rather than close the historic amusement park.

"There was just no interest," Patrick told SF Gate.

The park will be open to the public until July 11, followed by a few private events before Fiesta Village permanently closes.

"We invite you to bring your family and friends to celebrate Fiesta Village one last time—to laugh, play and create one final memory together," the website message reads. "It would mean the world to thank you for your support over the years and say goodbye in person."

Michelle said she has received a massive response from the community since news of the park's closure spread. Some have asked the O'Briens if they could purchase pieces of the park as keepsakes.

"We think if Fiesta can live on in other people's homes and hearts, then we will do everything we can to make that happen," she told SF Gate.