After closing last year, the iconic Raging Waters water park in East San Jose is set to reopen this summer under new management. The San Jose City Council will vote on February 27 to approve a proposal from California Dreamin’ Entertainment to operate the park for the 2024 season.
Raging Waters first opened in 1985 and became a popular summertime destination with its 14 water slides, 350,000-gallon wave pool, and other attractions. Raging Waters is one of the few water parks left in Northern California. The previous operator, Palace Entertainment, ended its lease with the city in September 2022, disappointing many loyal Bay Area residents.
Mayor Matt Mahan said, “We’ll spend less in the long run because we’re keeping it maintained.” We’re continuing to invest in it, not letting it just disintegrate.”
The reopening comes as the South Bay Area is losing its other major theme park, Great America in Santa Clara, which is set to close within the next several years. With Raging Waters operational again, residents will have a local option to find water fun and beat the summer heat. The park also represents an economic boost for small businesses in East San Jose, plus it gives local children a fun summer option in a City that seems to be lacking those of late.