A Southern California theme park dedicated to young children has unexpectedly decided to shut down for the rest of the year, catching parents and season ticket holders off guard.

Located in Chula Vista, Sesame Place San Diego announced on social media this Monday that it will shift to a seasonal schedule. The park’s final operating day will be Sunday, Sept. 21, and it aims to reopen in spring 2026.

“Sesame Place will adopt a seasonal schedule to ensure every visit is brimming with more excitement, attractions, and activities,” said the park in a statement. “By concentrating on our most popular times of the year, we can provide the best experience from guests’ arrival to their departure.”

The park, which made its debut in 2022, offers rides, water attractions, shows, and opportunities for children to interact with beloved “Sesame Street” characters like Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Elmo.

Many lashed out on social media, saying they were blindsided by the decision.

“I am extremely disappointed,” wrote Afra Romero. “We were looking forward to going for Halloween and Christmas time.”

Other parents complained that they had already booked trips to San Diego to visit the park.

“I am trying so hard not to cry in front of my almost 4-year-old,” expressed Kimberlee Amber-Nicole Brown. “This was supposed to be his birthday trip, all he wanted was ‘somewhere with rides’.”

“My family planned to travel from out of state for the Halloween Spooktacular,” stated Sel Ruiz. “How do you expect people to organize entire vacations based on your posted operating schedule and then cancel with less than two weeks’ notice?”

The park replied, apologizing and offering Ruiz tickets to SeaWorld San Diego’s Halloween event or an alternate date in 2026. It has offered all season pass holders a complimentary SeaWorld Fun Card, valid for unlimited admission through the remainder of the year.

Sesame Place Philadelphia, the original park, opened in the 1980s.