For a lot of seniors, graduation season comes with a familiar question: how do you celebrate in a way that feels big, memorable, and still close to home? Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is betting that the answer is after-hours access to the park—music thumping, friends everywhere, and the coasters running late into the night.

In 2026, Six Flags will once again roll out its spring Grad Nite events across multiple regions nationwide, offering private celebrations for graduating middle and high school students. Think of it as a school-only night built around the stuff teens actually want from a sendoff: dance parties, dining, games, thrill rides, and plenty of “we did it” group photos—without the price tag (or planning stress) of a destination graduation trip. 

Many Six Flags parks have hosted Grad Nite for more than a decade, and the company says the appeal is simple: a “secure and festive environment” where students can laugh, bond, and celebrate their scholastic achievements together.

Two major additions headline the 2026 lineup. Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina, is new for 2026, giving East Coast schools another large-scale option for an end-of-year blowout. Out West, Knott’s Berry Farm is also joining the party with new offerings, including both a Junior Grad Nite and a Senior Grad Nite—an approach that makes it easier for schools to match the vibe to their graduating class.

“Graduation is a time to celebrate achievements and friendships,” said Trent Turner, vice president of marketing and sales for Six Flags. He added that Grad Nite gives students the chance to be together for “the ultimate adventure before they turn the page to begin a new chapter.”

Here’s how the 2026 schedule breaks down by region and park. On the East Coast, Carowinds hosts Grad Nite on Friday, May 1, with Six Flags Over Georgia also holding its Grad Nite on Friday, May 1. Six Flags Great Adventure follows on Friday, June 5.In Illinois, Six Flags Great America’s Grad Nite dates are April 24, May 9, and May 16. Texas schools can look to Six Flags Over Texas on Friday, May 8, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas on May 14.

California is where the lineup gets especially tailored. Knott’s Berry Farm will host Junior Grad Nite on Thursday, May 14, and Senior Grad Nite on Thursday, May 28. Six Flags Magic Mountain will offer Junior Grad Nite on May 8 and May 22, with Senior Grad Nite on May 15 and May 29.

Because these are limited, in-demand private events, Six Flags is encouraging schools to sign up early to secure a spot. School administrators can find details and register through Six Flags’ Grad Nite page.

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