There is a new management company for Darien Lake Theme Park.

Herschend Family Entertainment will now operate the local amusement park and economic engine. It’s a multi-state entertainment business, most famous for operating Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park in Tennessee.

Chris Thorpe, General Manager at Darien Lake, says the company may change – but the park will remain the same, or better.

"You'll look at us moving in the direction of enhancing the overall family entertainment experience," says Thorpe of the years ahead. "You'll look at us moving in a direction that fulfills our mission, vision and values - which is to create memories worth repeating."

"You'll see us continue to...provide world-class theme park entertainment."

He noted that Herschend has won an "Applause Award," signifying a company that has introduced new entertainment innovations to the theme park business.

Chris Thorpe will remain in his role as park GM. All other full-time employees at Darien Lake will be retained as well, according to Thorpe.

Herschend Family Entertainment is based near Atlanta. They have a hand in 24 entertainment properties in eight states. 

Herschend takes over from PARC Management LLC.