SAN ANTONIO — Amusement Today recognized the “Best of the Best” at a live event held at San Antonio’s Six Flags Fiesta Texas on Saturday.

“It was amazing to return to an in-person networking event,” said Tim Baldwin, Golden Ticket Awards communications coordinator, Amusement Today. “While online presentations the last two years enabled us to still recognize the great accomplishments in our industry, meeting with peers and colleagues face to face is invaluable. We needed this. It’s heartwarming to honor these places and the people continuing to bring fun and smiles in a time when things are still uncertain.”

As the international poll results came in, some Texas amusement parks and its owners got to lay claim to a few awards.

The most prestigious award was that of the Golden Ticket. Six Flags Over Texas received a Golden Ticket Award for Best New Show for “Christmas At The Southern Palace.”

“With a live band, amazing vocalists and colorful costumes and sets, it was no surprise to see audiences leaping to their feet at the end of performances,” Baldwin said. “It was electric.”

“We’re thrilled to accept a 2021 Golden Ticket Award,” said Six Flags Over Texas Park president Dennis Clark. “This recognizes the exceptional experience we work so hard to provide our guests every day. We’re carrying this momentum forward with a long list of new and returning events in 2022 and 2023.”

Six Flags Fiesta Texas was honored with the Publisher’s Pick: Turnstile Award for its creative innovation toward refurbishing the 22-year-old coaster attraction, Poltergeist.

“The Publisher’s Picks are always deeply felt by Amusement Today. These recognitions are for things that could easily go unnoticed but are a direct result of someone ‘doing the right thing,’” said AT Publisher Gary Slade. “Forward-thinking decisions continue to happen. For us to be able to spotlight that is a very rewarding experience.”

Additionally, the park’s president, Jeffrey Siebert, was presented the Leadership award.

Also, two industry icons from Amarillo, Texas, were revered for their career accolades. Paul and Alethea Roads, founders of Wonderland Park, were given the Golden Ticket Awards LEGENDS. Having turned kiddie rides into full amusement parks, the Roads ultimately cultivated the best practices for small-park owners around the world.