News Summary
Busch Gardens has introduced an Annual Pass program, offering unprecedented benefits for visitors. The program includes unlimited admission with no blackout dates, exclusive perks such as early access to attractions, free guest tickets, and complimentary parking. Both Williamsburg and Tampa Bay parks will feature seasonal events, enhancing the visitor experience. The initiative also underscores the parks’ commitment to animal welfare, with accreditation from the AZA. Interested guests can purchase passes at a special introductory price, promising a year full of adventure and unforgettable memories.
Williamsburg, VA – Busch Gardens has announced the launch of its 2026 Annual Pass program, introducing unprecedented benefits and enhanced features for theme park enthusiasts. This new initiative aims to provide guests with exceptional value and offers unlimited admission with no blackout dates, making it easier than ever for families and thrill-seekers to enjoy everything the parks have to offer.
The 2026 Annual Pass will grant pass members access to a variety of exclusive perks, including early access to upcoming attractions and animal habitats that are set to debut in 2026. Additionally, pass holders can enjoy free guest tickets, complimentary parking, and special promotions for in-park purchases, including a limited-time introductory offer of up to $100 in promotional cards.
Marc Swanson, CEO of United Parks & Resorts, highlighted the exciting opportunity for pass members to experience unlimited thrills and memorable moments. The 2026 Annual Pass also includes expanded seasonal festivals, featuring new culinary offerings, concerts, and expanded entertainment options to enhance the visitor experience throughout the year.
Seasonal Events for 2026
Both Busch Gardens parks, located in Williamsburg, Virginia, and Tampa Bay, Florida, will host a variety of seasonal events in 2026. These events include:
- Williamsburg: Mardi Gras, Food & Wine Festival, Concert Series, All-New Summer Entertainment, Bier Fest, Halloween Spooktacular, Howl-O-Scream featuring new haunted houses, and Christmas Town with millions of lights.
- Tampa Bay: A landmark new animal habitat, Kids’ Weekends with Sesame Street friends, Food, Wine & Garden Festival, Glory in the Gardens, Military Appreciation Month, and Christmas Town.
Additionally, those who purchase the 2026 Pass can take advantage of the remainder of the 2025 season, including seasonal events like Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town. The program’s features and benefits may vary based on the applicable pass tier, and terms are subject to change depending on park policies.
Commitment to Animal Welfare
Both Busch Gardens parks are accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and certified by American Humane, underscoring their commitment to animal welfare and habitat preservation. These recognitions reflect the parks’ dedication to providing a safe and nurturing environment for their animal residents.
Purchasing the Annual Pass
Interested guests can obtain passes at a limited-time introductory price by visiting BuschGardens.com. This offer not only promises fun and excitement throughout 2026 but also encourages visitors to explore the diverse offerings at each park, highlighting the unique experiences available for pass members.
As Busch Gardens prepares for the launch of its 2026 Annual Pass program, visitors can anticipate a year full of adventure, entertainment, and unforgettable memories, setting a high bar for theme park fun in the coming years.
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Additional Resources
- Breaking Travel News
- Wikipedia: Busch Gardens
- PR Newswire
- Google Search: Busch Gardens 2026 annual pass
- Amusement Today
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Annual Pass
- WFMZ
- Google News: Theme Parks 2026

Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.