Mexico’s multi experience theme park Xcaret has been honoured with the Applause Award for 2018 – making it one of the greatest theme/amusement parks in the world.

Biannually since 1980, the Applause Award has honoured a park whose management, operations and creative accomplishments have inspired the industry with foresight, originality and sound business development.

“With an original and creative vision, Xcaret has created one of the most unique and authentic park destinations in the world,” notes Andreas Veilstrup Andersen, president and CEO of the Liseberg Group and chairman of the Applause Award board of governors. “The park is balancing world class experiences, based on native culture and natural attractions, with sustainable operations and a strong commitment to the local community.”

This latest Applause Award was presented on November 13 at the opening ceremony of IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando, Florida. With this new honour, Xcaret joins what are considered the best amusement and theme parks in the world.

Previous winners of The Applause Award are as follows:

  • 1980: Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World, USA
  • 1982: Opryland, USA
  • 1986: EPCOT, Walt Disney World, USA
  • 1988: Knott´s Berry Farm, USA
  • 1990: Europa-Park, Germany
  • 1992: Efteling, the Netherlands
  • 1994: Universal Studios Florida, USA
  • 1996: Cedar Point, USA
  • 1998: Silver Dollar City, USA
  • 2000: Hershey Park, USA
  • 2002: Busch Gardens Williamsburg, USA
  • 2004: Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, USA
  • 2006: Universal´s Islands of Adventure, USA
  • 2008: Xetulul, Guatemala
  • 2010: Dollywood, USA
  • 2012: Ocean Park, Hong Kong
  • 2014: Puy du Fou, France
  • 2016: Busch Gardens Tampa, USA