Sesame Place San Diego shocked fans this week by announcing it will end its 2025 season early, closing on September 21, 2025, with plans to reopen in spring 2026. The surprise move has left many season pass holders and visitors frustrated, especially since fall and winter events like Halloween and Christmas were abruptly canceled.
What Happened
- The Chula Vista park, including its water attractions, will shut down as it transitions to a seasonal schedule.
- It will not reopen again until May 2026.
- No prior warning was given, leaving many visitors feeling blindsided by the sudden announcement.
ark’s Response & What They’re Offering
Sesame Place is trying to make things right by offering several options for guests affected by the closure:
| Group | Offered Solution |
|---|---|
| Season pass holders | Free “Fun Cards” to SeaWorld San Diego for unlimited admission through the rest of the year. |
| Single-day ticket holders | Option to rebook their visit for 2026, switch to a SeaWorld ticket, or request a full refund. |
| Guests with bundled “rest-of-2025” deals | Many aren’t eligible for the SeaWorld Fun Card because their pass wasn’t officially part of the 2025 season; some are demanding refunds or credit. |
Why the Change
The park says this adjustment is about focusing on peak visitation times to ensure a better guest experience. According to the statement, concentrating resources during the highest demand periods will allow more attractions to be open, staff to be at full capacity, and operations to be smoother across popular events.
What This Means for Guests
- Visitors planning trips for fall events are out of luck — Halloween shows, meet-and-greets, and other seasonal offerings are canceled.
- Those who traveled or planned vacation schedules are now dealing with unexpected changes.
- With limited communication in advance, many feel the lack of transparency compounds the disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will I get a refund if I bought a ticket or pass for late 2025?
Yes. If you hold a single-day ticket, you can request a refund, rebook for 2026, or switch to SeaWorld. Some bundled pass deals may have restrictions.
Why close so suddenly and for so long?
The park says it’s reallocating resources to the busiest times to deliver the best guest experience during peak seasons.
Will the park still have Christmas and Halloween events?
No. These seasonal events are canceled for 2025. The park will not reopen until spring 2026.
Can I use my pass at another affiliated park?
Yes — season pass holders are being offered “Fun Cards” to SeaWorld as an alternative for the rest of the year.
What about folks who bought special “rest of 2025” passes expecting holiday access?
There’s frustration and confusion. Many are asking for refunds because the promised access to events and late-season days is now void.
Key Takeaway
Sesame Place San Diego’s sudden shift to a seasonal schedule through 2025 has shaken its community of fans and families. While the park is offering some alternatives like access to SeaWorld and refunds, many feel the notice was too short and the impact too large, especially for those who planned around fall events.
If you have a pass or ticket for the rest of 2025, check your options now — whether that’s switching parks, getting a refund, or adjusting your plans for next year.