By Robert Haugh

California’s Great America will close permanently on Labor Day, Sept. 6, 2027, ending more than half a century as one of Santa Clara’s best-known landmarks.

Six Flags confirmed the closing and said the amusement park will reopen in March for a final “Farewell Season.” 

“For more than five decades, this Santa Clara theme park has brought people together, created family traditions and served as the backdrop for unforgettable memories,” Great America park manager Dave Vosejpka said in the company’s announcement.

The company has not yet released the complete 2027 operating calendar.

For Santa Clarans, the closing creates a big question: What happens to the 112-acre property?

Prologis owns the land and has not publicly announced what it will build on the property. 

KQED reported possible future uses could include logistics, advanced manufacturing or data centers, although no development proposal has been announced.

The Silicon Valley Business Journal reported Great America has about 100 full-time employees and 235 seasonal and part-time employees. Employment increases to about 1,500 workers during peak season. Its closure will also eliminate one of Santa Clara’s major tourism attractions.

After 51 years, Santa Clara will get one final summer of roller coaster rides, the carousel, and the water park.

Then the focus will shift to what replaces them.