GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — On May 17, a huge turnout of 439 members of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) will travel from around the globe to descend upon Arlington for the 2026 ACE Spring Conference. The collective of aficionados will have members from 40 states, the District of Columbia and three international countries.
“This year is Six Flags Over Texas’ 65th anniversary,” said Communications Director Derek Perry, Los Angeles, California. “This park has so much history, and we are honored to kick off our event season here and help the park celebrate all its accomplishments.”
Frontier City opened its gates in 1958. Capitalizing on a western theme, the park continues to exhibit entertaining excitement and historic character.
“The park is being very gracious with behind-the-scenes activities. This will allow our members to really get the flavor of the park,” said Perry. “We are grateful for the hospitality.”
“So many of the attendees will be experiencing the park for the first time,” said ACE President Elizabeth Ringas. “Frontier City rescued the Wildcat roller coaster in 1991, and part of ACE’s mission is to preserve those rides and experience from the past. We salute them in those efforts.”
Attendees will enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, discussions with park management and special club perks like exclusive ride time that allow attendees to ride before the park opens. Prior to arriving in Oklahoma, conference attendees will have enjoyed two days at Six Flags Over Texas.
ACE Events Director Tim Baldwin grew up in Oklahoma and is excited to see the group return to familiar stomping grounds.
“We haven’t held an event here on a national scale in 35 years, so I’m thrilled that so many people will be able to see the charm this park has,” said Baldwin. “We’re completely psyched.”
About ACE: Founded in 1978, American Coaster Enthusiasts is a nonprofit, volunteer organization dedicated to the preservation, promotion, appreciation and safe enjoyment of roller coasters. With more than 7,000 members worldwide, ACE is the largest and longest-running enthusiast organization in the world. Members of ACE receive exclusive park benefits, newsletters, magazines and the opportunity to attend national, local and even international tours at parks. ACE has been prominently featured on various news programs and many cable networks such as the Travel Channel.