Slagharen is more than a theme park: it’s a full family adventure, where the Wild West spirit meets unforgettable experiences. With attractions designed for all ages and the added magic of an on-site resort, it’s a destination where families can truly disconnect and enjoy time together. As we warm up for 2026, Sander de Haas, General Manager, shares insider tips to make the most of your stay, along with what guests can expect in the seasons ahead.

As General Manager, how would you describe the essence of Slagharen to someone visiting for the first time?

Slagharen is a place where adventure meets nostalgia. It’s a unique Wild West-themed park & resort where families can experience thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and live entertainment—all set in a charming, Old Wild West atmosphere. Guests can also extend their adventure by staying overnight in our themed accommodations, and enjoy our large water park, Aqua Mexicana, where they can relax and swim in a vibrant Mexican-inspired setting. Whether you’re seeking excitement, relaxation, or quality family time, Slagharen offers a little bit of everything for every guest.

If you had to share just one insider tip to help guests make the most of their visit, what would it be?
Arrive early and plan your route around the park. Starting your day with the most popular attractions like Gold Rush before the crowds arrive will help you experience more without the wait. And don’t forget to leave time to enjoy the live shows and street entertainment—they’re truly part of the Slagharen Wild West theming. Also, take a break at one of our many restaurants, which offer a variety of dining options—from á la carte and buffet restaurants to your favorite snacks or pizza. And don’t forget to explore the shops throughout the park, where you can always find a fun souvenir to take home.

Which attractions or experiences would you say are absolute must-dos, and why?
The Gold Rush roller coaster is a must for thrill-seekers, offering high-speed excitement and stunning views of the park. For families, the Mine Train provides a more relaxing but yet iconic experience. And for an immersive adventure, our seasonal events, like the Magic Spring Festival or Halloween Scary Priairie or Western Nightmares, showcase Slagharen’s storytelling in a way you can’t find anywhere else.

What is your personal favorite attraction or moment in the park?
I always enjoy walking through the Main Street area, during day time you reall see the park comes alive in this area. People walk from one side of the park to the other. There’s something special about seeing families enjoying the atmosphere, the music, the rides and the entertainment—it’s a reminder of why we do what we do.

What advice would you give guests to plan their day better and avoid common mistakes?
To fully experience everything Slagharen has to offer, combine all our attractions with the live shows and street entertainment. If you want to see it all, plan your day in advance so you can enjoy your favorite rides and still catch all the performances. Careful planning ensures you won’t miss a single highlight of the park.

Looking ahead to 2026, what can our visitors expect? Are there any novelties, improvements or surprises you’re particularly excited about?
In 2026, we are incredibly excited to introduce Sky Sifter, a brand-new attraction that will bring a fresh layer of adventure to Slagharen’s Wild West story. At the heart of the story is a sheriff with a single clear ambition — or perhaps an all-consuming obsession — supported by an impressive machine and a defining choice between two experiences: gold or silver. Within Sky Sifter, guests can choose between two distinct adventures, brought together in one attraction.

Sky Sifter will take guests high above the park, offering breathtaking views while delivering a dynamic and surprising ride experience. It’s designed to be accessible for families, but also be a thrilling adventure for people who seek a most intense experience. The storytelling around the attraction will make guests feel like they are part of a daring expedition—sifting through the skies in search of gold or silver.

But Sky Sifter is more than just a ride. The surrounding area will be enhanced with new theming elements. We are also investing in overall park improvements in 2026, including guest comfort, upgraded facilities, and enhancements to our accommodations and a sustainable investment for Aqua Mexicana with the installations of heat pumps to heat the water completely without gas.

What excites me most about Sky Sifter is how it represents our future: building on our strong Wild West identity while continuing to innovate and surprise our guests. It will be a true new highlight in the park and another reason for families to return and create new memories together.

What would you like to say to guests who are considering visiting Slagharen this season?

Whether you’re planning a day visit or a longer stay, Slagharen offers adventure, excitement, and memories that last a lifetime. Come explore, enjoy the Wild West spirit, and discover why so many guests return year after year. We can’t wait to welcome you!