FKF Awards: These Attractions Convinced Enthusiasts
Der BigDipper „Helios” im FANTASIANA Erlebnispark Straßwalchen konnte die Kategorie „Achterbahn” für sich entscheiden.
© EAP
(eap) The Freundeskreis Kirmes- und Freizeitparks e.V. (FKF) announced the winners of the FKF Awards of the year 2025 during its 11th FKF Convention, held on 21 and 22 February in the Black Forest. Since 2003, the German association has used this award to recognize outstanding achievements in the amusement park and fairground attractions business. The nominated installations are proposed each year by around 1,800 association members from nine countries. The subsequent voting takes place via an internally developed voting system that takes into account the individual experiences of the participants. The awards are handed over during the year by the association’s board in a personal ceremony.
„Mission Bermudes” gewinnt in der Kategorie „stationäre Anlage”. © JL AUDY_FUTUROSCOPE
In the “Roller Coaster” category, the Austrian FANTASIANA Erlebnispark Straßwalchen prevailed with its new attraction “Helios” (BigDipper model by Mack Rides). With its compact layout, the coaster impressed members, among other things, through the use of Stryker trains, which to date have been used exclusively on the Stryker Coaster “Voltron Nevera” at Europa-Park. In addition, the integration of the ride into the “Sonnenbucht” themed area was highlighted, particularly the numerous interactions with surrounding buildings and the thematically designed landscape. A detailed report on Helios can be found in EAP issue 3/2025.
„Phantom” der Schaustellerfamilie Willy Ordelman besticht durch seine auffällige Steampunk-Thematisierung. © fkfev
In the “Fixed Installation” category, a novelty from the Waldkirch-based manufacturer also prevailed: the world’s first installation of a “Rocking Boat”. Embedded in a landscape of rugged rocks and exotic plants, the first water coaster of its kind was realized under the name “Mission Bermudes” at the French Futuroscope theme park. Our cover story in EAP 5/2025 provides more information about this innovative water ride.
The award in the “Mobile Installation” category goes to the major attraction “Phantom” operated by the Dutch showman family Willy Ordelman. The XXL swing ride by manufacturer KMG celebrated its fair premiere on 23 May 2025 at the Steinert fair in Lüdenscheid, Germany. Particularly striking is the eye-catching steampunk theming, which immediately draws attention. In addition to the ride’s dimensions, the distinctive steampunk design was highlighted as a defining feature. ■
