Hopes of Keeping Joyland Open Fade (With Additional Information)

A Lubbock legend for 50 years is closing for good. Hopes were raised with a local group of investors planned to purchase the business to keep it open. Those hopes were dashed today after the following release was provided by David & Kristi Dean:

January 10, 2023
From David and Kristi Dean
Joyland Amusement Park
Lubbock, Tx:
“It is with a broken heart that we must announce that Joyland Amusement Park will not be reopening after all.  The local group of investors that originally agreed to purchase the business have backed out of the sale.  Liquidation of the park will follow.
We would like to sincerely thank the people of Lubbock and the surrounding area for their support and all the great memories we have shared over the past 50 years.”
David & Kristi Dean

Further response has been provided by the team looking to purchase the property:

We share the disappointment of not being able to move forward with a transition of Joyland as our team has encountered numerous obstacles which prevent a successful transition.  Our intent to purchase this Lubbock landmark has been earnest from day one – but a number of overwhelming factors – chiefly the inability to obtain specialized insurance, vandalism during the offseason, dwindling carryover staff, the fast-approaching spring operating season – and many other factors – contributed to this difficult decision.  We appreciate the efforts of the Dean family, the City of Lubbock and citizens for their support of our efforts.  An enormous amount of time, energy and investment into the exploration of this endeavor has been put forth – including entrance design makeover, proposed splash pad and many other upgrades to benefit families and our community – but factors beyond our control were too great to overcome.


Darryl Holland
Owner/Promoter
Cactus Theater
Lubbock, Texas
A Lubbock legend is gone and will be liquidated as soon as possible. We thank the Dean family for their love of entertainment and hosting Joyland where the fun was for 50 years and wish them the best in their retirement.

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