Six Flags Entertainment 10-K 20 Feb 18 2017 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Feb. 15, 2018	Jun. 30, 2017
Document and Entity Information
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2017
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,017
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	SIX
Entity Registrant Name	Six Flags Entertainment Corp
Entity Central Index Key	701,374
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		84,551,519
Entity Public Float			$ 4,259.9

Consolidated Balance Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 77,496	$ 137,385
Restricted-use investment securities	0	3,926
Accounts receivable, net	72,693	69,018
Inventories	24,960	24,156
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	45,923	44,306
Total current assets	221,072	278,791
Property and equipment, net:
Property and equipment, at cost	2,095,887	1,968,565
Accumulated depreciation	(857,930)	(757,310)
Total property and equipment, net	1,237,957	1,211,255
Other assets:
Debt issuance costs	2,991	4,188
Deposits and other assets	12,821	9,218
Goodwill	630,248	630,248
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization	351,587	353,972
Total other assets	997,647	997,626
Total assets	2,456,676	2,487,672
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	28,998	26,209
Accrued compensation, payroll taxes and benefits	26,576	31,039
Accrued insurance reserves	39,347	42,443
Accrued interest payable	26,288	27,684
Other accrued liabilities	34,617	35,461
Deferred revenue	142,014	123,955
Current portion of long-term debt	0	29,161
Total current liabilities	297,840	315,952
Noncurrent Liabilities:
Long-term debt, net	2,021,178	1,624,486
Other long-term liabilities	41,488	48,568
Deferred income taxes	106,851	199,280
Total noncurrent liabilities	2,169,517	1,872,334
Total liabilities	2,467,357	2,188,286
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	494,431	485,876
Stockholders' deficit:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value	0	0
Common stock, $0.025 par value	2,112	2,271
Capital in excess of par value	1,086,265	1,116,227
Accumulated deficit	(1,529,608)	(1,237,804)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(63,881)	(67,184)
Total stockholders' deficit	(505,112)	(186,490)
Total liabilities and deficit	$ 2,456,676	$ 2,487,672

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1	$ 1
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.025	$ 0.025
Common stock, shares authorized	140,000,000	140,000,000
Common stock, shares issued	84,488,433	90,849,428
Common stock, shares outstanding	84,488,433	90,849,428

Consolidated Statements of Oper

Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Revenues
Theme park admissions	$ 741,275	$ 715,413	$ 687,819
Theme park food, merchandise and other	524,582	521,167	500,190
Sponsorship, licensing and other fees	78,096	66,329	59,133
Accommodations revenue	15,121	16,489	16,796
Total revenue	1,359,074	1,319,398	1,263,938
Operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	509,123	489,407	465,219
Selling, general and administrative expense	158,498	291,794	234,810
Costs of products sold	110,374	109,579	100,709
Depreciation	109,206	104,290	104,788
Amortization	2,465	2,603	2,623
Loss on disposal of assets	3,959	1,968	9,882
Interest expense	99,766	82,377	76,205
Interest income	(756)	(505)	(302)
Loss on debt extinguishment	37,116	2,935	6,557
Other expense, net	271	1,684	223
Income before income taxes	329,052	233,266	263,224
Income tax expense	16,026	76,539	70,369
Net income	313,026	156,727	192,855
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(39,210)	(38,425)	(38,165)
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	$ 273,816	$ 118,302	$ 154,690
Earnings Per Share
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic:	86,802	92,349	93,580
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted:	88,494	94,398	97,981
Net income per average common share outstanding - basic:	$ 3.15	$ 1.28	$ 1.65
Net income per average common share outstanding - diluted:	3.09	1.25	1.58
Cash dividends declared per common share (usd per share)	$ 2.62	$ 2.38	$ 2.14

Consolidated Statements of Ope5

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Statement [Abstract]
Stock-based compensation	$ (22,697)	$ 116,339	$ 56,233

Consolidated Statements of Comp

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income		$ 313,026	$ 156,727	$ 192,855
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	[1]	1,376	(4,639)	(8,195)
Defined benefit retirement plan	[2]	1,402	3,543	1,769
Change in cash flow hedging	[3]	525	470	(503)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		3,303	(626)	(6,929)
Comprehensive income		316,329	156,101	185,926
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests		(39,210)	(38,425)	(38,165)
Comprehensive income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation		$ 277,119	$ 117,676	$ 147,761
[1]	Foreign currency translation adjustment is presented net of tax expense of $1.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017, and net of tax benefit of $2.5 million and $4.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
[2]	Defined benefit retirement plan is presented net of tax expense of $0.6 million, $2.3 million, and $1.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, respectively.
[3]	Change in cash flow hedging is presented net of tax expense of $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016, and net of tax benefit of $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2015.

Consolidated Statements of Com7

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax	$ 1,700	$ (2,500)	$ (4,400)
Defined benefit retirement plan, tax	(600)	(2,300)	(1,000)
Change in cash flow hedging, tax	$ 300	$ 301	$ (400)

Consolidated Statements of Equi

Consolidated Statements of Equity (Deficit) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common stock	Capital in excess of par value	Retained earnings (accumulated deficit)	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Beginning Balances at Dec. 31, 2014	$ 223,895	$ 2,323	$ 983,317	$ (702,116)	$ (59,629)
Beginning Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2014		92,937,619
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Issuance of common stock	39,019	$ 94	38,925	0	0
Issuance of common stock (in shares)		3,737,155
Stock-based compensation	56,233	$ 0	56,233	0	0
Dividends declared to common shareholders	(199,362)	0	0	(199,362)	0
Repurchase of common stock	(245,114)	$ (129)	(38,276)	(206,709)	0
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(5,161,803)
Employee stock purchase plan	1,512	$ 1	1,511	0	0
Employee stock purchase plan (in shares)		37,880
Fresh start valuation adjustment for redeemable units purchased	272	$ 0	0	272	0
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	154,690	0	0	154,690	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(6,929)	0	0	0	(6,929)
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2015	24,216	$ 2,289	1,041,710	(953,225)	(66,558)
Ending Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2015		91,550,851
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Issuance of common stock	34,681	$ 75	34,606	0	0
Issuance of common stock (in shares)		3,004,648
Stock-based compensation	116,339	$ 0	116,339	0	0
Dividends declared to common shareholders	(219,093)	0	0	(219,093)	0
Repurchase of common stock	(211,751)	$ (94)	(27,833)	(183,824)	0
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(3,742,275)
Employee stock purchase plan	1,820	$ 1	1,819	0	0
Employee stock purchase plan (in shares)		36,204
Fresh start valuation adjustment for redeemable units purchased	36	$ 0	0	36	0
Change in redemption value of partnership units	(50,414)	0	(50,414)	0	0
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	118,302	0	0	118,302	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	(626)	0	0	0	(626)
Ending Balances (Scenario, Previously Reported) at Dec. 31, 2016	(186,490)	2,271	1,116,227	(1,237,804)	(67,184)
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2016	(87,833)	$ 2,271	1,116,227	(1,139,147)	(67,184)
Ending Balance, Shares (Scenario, Previously Reported) at Dec. 31, 2016		90,849,428
Ending Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2016		90,849,428
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Cumulative Effect Adjustment	98,657	$ 0	0	98,657	0
Issuance of common stock	60,583	$ 50	60,533	0	0
Issuance of common stock (in shares)		1,980,939
Stock-based compensation	(22,697)	$ 0	(22,697)	0	0
Dividends declared to common shareholders	(226,078)	0	0	(226,078)	0
Repurchase of common stock	(499,442)	$ (210)	(61,001)	(438,231)	0
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(8,377,729)
Employee stock purchase plan	1,919	$ 1	1,918	0	0
Employee stock purchase plan (in shares)		35,795
Fresh start valuation adjustment for redeemable units purchased	32	$ 0	0	32	0
Change in redemption value of partnership units	(8,715)	0	(8,715)	0	0
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	273,816	0	0	273,816	0
Other comprehensive income, net of tax	3,303	0	0	0	3,303
Ending Balances at Dec. 31, 2017	$ (505,112)	$ 2,112	$ 1,086,265	$ (1,529,608)	$ (63,881)
Ending Balance, Shares at Dec. 31, 2017		84,488,433

Consolidated Statements of Cash

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net income	$ 313,026	$ 156,727	$ 192,855
Depreciation and amortization	111,671	106,893	107,411
Stock-based compensation	(22,697)	116,339	56,233
Interest accretion on notes payable	1,056	413	856
Loss on debt extinguishment	37,116	2,935	6,557
Amortization of debt issuance costs	4,061	4,503	4,518
Other, including loss on disposal of assets	6,875	992	17,278
Increase in accounts receivable	(3,108)	(6,157)	(6,072)
(Increase) decrease in inventories, prepaid expenses and other current assets	(1,847)	(4,948)	306
Increase in deposits and other assets	(3,597)	(2,011)	(2,465)
Increase in accounts payable, deferred revenue, accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities	5,478	16,134	41,775
(Decrease) increase in accrued interest payable	(1,396)	8,129	13
Deferred income tax (benefit) expense	(1,571)	63,286	54,496
Net cash provided by operating activities	445,067	463,235	473,761
Cash flow from investing activities:
Additions to property and equipment	(135,219)	(129,258)	(114,370)
Property insurance recovery	523	320	173
Purchase of identifiable intangible assets	0	(125)	(29)
Sale (purchase) of restricted-use investments, net	3,926	(890)	(565)
Proceeds from sale of assets	607	2,212	5,123
Net cash used in investing activities	(130,163)	(127,741)	(109,668)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Repayment of borrowings	(949,161)	(333,426)	(710,565)
Proceeds from borrowings	1,313,000	481,170	834,250
Payment of debt issuance costs	(37,336)	(6,278)	(11,916)
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock	62,502	36,501	40,531
Stock repurchases	(499,442)	(211,751)	(245,114)
Payment of cash dividends	(227,101)	(220,314)	(200,957)
Purchase of redeemable noncontrolling interest	(128)	(223)	(1,552)
Noncontrolling interest distributions	(39,210)	(38,425)	(38,165)
Net cash used in financing activities	(376,876)	(292,746)	(333,488)
Effect of exchange rate on cash	2,083	(5,123)	(4,729)
(Decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents	(59,889)	37,625	25,876
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	137,385	99,760	73,884
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	77,496	137,385	99,760
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash paid for interest	96,045	69,320	70,818
Cash paid for income taxes	$ 14,473	$ 17,267	$ 14,975

Description of Business

Description of Business	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Description of Business	Description of Business We own and operate regional theme and waterparks and are the largest regional theme park operator in the world. Of the 20 parks we currently own or operate, 17 parks are located in the United States, two parks are located in Mexico and one park is located in Montreal, Canada. On April 1, 1998, we acquired the former Six Flags Entertainment Corporation ("Former SFEC", a corporation that has been merged out of existence and that has always been a separate corporation from the current Six Flags Entertainment Corporation ("Holdings")), which had operated regional theme parks under the Six Flags name for nearly 40 years, and established an internationally recognized brand name. We own the "Six Flags" brand name in the United States and foreign countries throughout the world. To capitalize on this name recognition, 17 of our current parks are branded as "Six Flags" parks and beginning in 2014 we also began the development, with third-party partners, of Six Flags-branded theme parks outside of North America.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies a. Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our wholly owned subsidiaries. We also consolidate the partnerships that own Six Flags Over Texas ("SFOT") and Six Flags Over Georgia (including Six Flags White Water Atlanta) ("SFOG", and together with SFOT, the "Partnership Parks") as subsidiaries in our consolidated financial statements as we have determined that we have the power to direct the activities of those entities that most significantly impact the entities' economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses and receive benefits from the entities that can be potentially significant to these entities. The equity interests owned by non-affiliated parties in the Partnership Parks are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. The portion of earnings or loss attributable to non-affiliated parties in the Partnership Parks is reflected as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. See Note 5 for further discussion. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. b. Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. c. Fair Value Measurement Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , defines fair value as the exchange prices that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The guidance also specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , these two types of inputs have created the following fair value hierarchy: • Level 1: quoted prices in active markets for identical assets; • Level 2: inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the instrument; and • Level 3: inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable for the asset or liability. This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. See Note 10 for disclosure of methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments by classification. d. Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consists of short-term highly liquid investments with a remaining maturity as of the date of purchase of three months or less, which are readily convertible into cash. For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider all highly liquid debt instruments with remaining maturities as of their date of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents were not significant as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . e. Inventories Inventories are stated at lower of weighted average cost or net realizable value and primarily consist of products purchased for resale, including merchandise, food and miscellaneous supplies. Products are removed from inventory at weighted average cost. We have recorded a valuation allowance for slow moving inventory of $0.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 . f. Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid expenses and other current assets include $21.1 million and $21.4 million of spare parts inventory for existing rides and attractions as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. These items are expensed as the repair or maintenance of rides and attractions occur. g. Advertising Costs Production costs of commercials and programming are charged to operations in the year first aired. The costs of other advertising, promotion, and marketing programs are charged to operations when incurred with the exception of direct-response advertising which is charged to the period it will benefit. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had $1.9 million and $1.8 million in prepaid advertising, respectively. The amounts capitalized are included in prepaid expenses. Advertising and promotions expense was $63.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 , and $62.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , and 2015 . h. Debt Issuance Costs We capitalize costs related to the issuance of debt. Debt issuance costs directly related to our Revolving Loan are presented within other assets as debt issuance costs in our consolidated balance sheets. Debt issuance costs directly related to our Amended and Restated Term Loam B and our senior unsecured notes are presented within noncurrent liabilities as a reduction of long-term debt in our consolidated balance sheets. The amortization of such costs is recognized as interest expense using the interest method over the term of the respective debt issue. Amortization related to deferred debt issuance costs was $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . See Note 7 for further discussion. i. Property and Equipment Property and equipment additions are recorded at cost and the carrying value is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Maintenance and repair costs that do not improve service potential or extend economic life are charged directly to expense as incurred, while betterments and renewals are generally capitalized as property and equipment. When an item is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and applicable accumulated depreciation are removed and the resulting gain or loss is recognized. See Note 3 for further detail of the components of our property and equipment. The estimated useful lives of the assets are as follows: Rides and attractions 5 - 25 years Land improvements 10 - 15 years Buildings and improvements Approximately 30 years Furniture and equipment 5 - 10 years j. Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. We identify our reporting unit and determine the carrying value of the reporting unit by assigning the assets and liabilities, including the existing goodwill and intangible assets, to the reporting unit. We then determine the fair value of the reporting unit and compare it to the carrying amount of the reporting unit. All of our parks are operated in a similar manner and have comparable characteristics in that they produce and distribute similar services and products using similar processes, have similar types of customers, are subject to similar regulations and exhibit similar economic characteristics. As such, we are a single reporting unit. For each year, the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded our carrying amount (provided that we have one reporting unit at the same level for which our Holdings common stock is traded, we believe our market capitalization is the best indicator of our reporting unit's fair value). In September 2012, the FASB amended FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other , which permits entities to perform a qualitative analysis on indefinite-lived intangible assets to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the intangible asset was less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it was necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test. We adopted this amendment in September 2012 and have performed a qualitative analysis on our indefinite-lived intangible assets during the fourth quarter of each year. The fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is generally determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis. An impairment loss occurs to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the fair value. For goodwill, if the fair value of the reporting unit were to be less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss would be recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value. k. Valuation of Long-Lived Assets We review long-lived assets, including finite-lived intangible assets subject to amortization, for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the carrying value of the asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets to the future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset or group of assets. If such assets are not considered to be fully recoverable, any impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset or group of assets exceeds its respective fair value. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. l. Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue upon admission into our parks, provision of our services or when products are delivered to our guests. Revenues are presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations net of sales taxes collected from our guests and remitted or payable to government taxing authorities. In contrast to our season pass and other multi-use offerings (such as our all-season dining pass program, which enables season pass holders and members to eat meals and snacks any day they visit the park for one upfront payment) that expire at the end of each operating season, the membership program continues on a month-to-month basis after the initial twelve-month membership term and can be canceled any time after the initial term pursuant to the terms of the membership program. Guests enrolled in the membership program can visit our parks an unlimited number of times anytime they are open as long as the guest remains enrolled in the membership program. For season passes, memberships in the initial twelve-month term and other multi-use admissions, we estimate a redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable and recognize a pro-rata portion of the revenue as the guest attends our parks. We review the estimated redemption rate regularly and on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Amounts received for multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in deferred revenue. For active memberships after the initial twelve-month term, we recognize revenue monthly as payments are received. As of December 31, 2017 , deferred revenue was primarily comprised of (i) advance sales of season passes, all season dining passes and other admissions for the 2018 operating season, (ii) unredeemed portions of the membership program that will be recognized in 2018, (iii) sponsorship, licensing and other fee-based revenue that will be recognized in 2018 and (iv) a nominal amount for the remaining unredeemed season pass revenue and pre-sold single day admissions revenue for the 2017 operating season that was redeemed during the completion of the 2017 operating season, which ended the first week of 2018. We have entered into multiple agreements to assist third parties in the planning, design, development and operation of Six Flags-branded theme parks outside of North America. Pursuant to these agreements, we provide exclusivity, brand licensing, and other services to assist in the design, development and project management of Six Flags-branded theme parks, as well as initial and ongoing management services. Each significant deliverable qualifies as a separate unit of accounting. We recognize revenue under these agreements over the relevant service period of each unit of accounting based on its relative selling price, as determined by our best estimate of selling price. Our best estimate of selling price is established consistent with our overall pricing strategy and includes, but is not limited to, consideration of current market conditions, various risk factors and our required return and profit objectives. We review the service period of each unit of accounting on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Revisions to the relevant service periods of the units of accounting may result in revisions to revenue in future periods and are recognized in the period in which the change is identified. m. Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts receivable are reported at net realizable value and consist primarily of amounts due from guests for the sale of group outings and multi-use admission products, including season passes and the membership program. We are not exposed to a significant concentration of credit risk, however, based on the age of the receivables, our historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable, we do record an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we have recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $4.2 million and $3.0 million , respectively. The allowance for doubtful accounts is primarily comprised of estimated defaults under our membership plans. n. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities We account for derivatives and hedging activities in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging . This accounting guidance establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. It requires an entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and measure those instruments at fair value. If certain conditions are met, a derivative may be specifically designated as a hedge for accounting purposes. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative (e.g., gains and losses) depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as our risk-management objective and our strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges to forecasted transactions. We also assess, both at the hedge's inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items. Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is effective and that is designated and qualifies as a cash-flow hedge are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until operations are affected by the variability in cash flows of the designated hedged item, at which point they are reclassified to interest expense. Changes in fair value of a derivative that is not designated as a hedge are recorded in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of operations on a current basis. See Note 6 for further discussion. o. Commitments and Contingencies We are involved in various lawsuits and claims that arise in the normal course of business. Amounts associated with lawsuits or claims are reserved for matters in which it is believed that losses are probable and can be reasonably estimated. In addition to matters in which it is believed that losses are probable, disclosure is also provided for matters in which the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome is at least reasonably possible but for which a reasonable estimate of loss or range of loss is not possible. Legal fees are expensed as incurred. See Note 15 for further discussion. p. Income Taxes Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, including net operating loss and other tax carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in operations in the period that includes the enactment date. We have a valuation allowance of $113.5 million and $92.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to utilize some of our deferred tax assets, primarily consisting of certain state net operating loss and other tax carryforwards, before they expire. The valuation allowance was based on our estimates of taxable income by jurisdiction in which we operate and the period over which our deferred tax assets were recoverable. For the foreseeable future, we project taxable income that will allow for the utilization of all of our federal net operating loss carryforwards before they expire. Our liability for income taxes is finalized as auditable tax years pass their respective statutes of limitations in the various jurisdictions in which we are subject to tax. However, these jurisdictions may audit prior years for which the statute of limitations is closed for the purpose of making an adjustment to our taxable income in a year for which the statute of limitations has not closed. Accordingly, taxing authorities of these jurisdictions may audit prior years of the group and its predecessors for the purpose of adjusting net operating loss carryforwards to years for which the statute of limitations has not closed. We classify interest and penalties attributable to income taxes as part of income tax expense. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had no accrued interest and penalties liability. Because we do not permanently reinvest foreign earnings, United States deferred income taxes have been provided on unremitted foreign earnings to the extent that such foreign earnings are expected to be taxable upon repatriation. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) ("the Act") was signed into law by President Donald Trump. The Act contains significant changes to corporate taxation, including reduction of the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense, limitation of the deduction for net operating losses and elimination of net operating loss carrybacks, one time taxation of offshore earnings at reduced, elimination of U.S. tax on foreign earnings (subject to certain important exceptions), new taxes concerning global intangible low-tax income (GILTI), immediate deductions for certain new investments instead of deductions for depreciation expense over time, and modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits including the limitation on deductions for certain executive compensation arrangements under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. All corporation taxation aspects of the Act are included in our year ended December 31, 2017 tax provision. See footnote 11 for further discussion. q. Earnings Per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period including the effect of all dilutive common stock equivalents using the treasury stock method. In periods for which there is a net loss, diluted loss per common share is equal to basic loss per common share, since the effect of including any common stock equivalents would be antidilutive. r. Stock-Based Compensation Pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "Long-Term Incentive Plan"), Holdings may grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, unrestricted stock, deferred stock units, performance and cash-settled awards and dividend equivalents to select employees, officers, directors and consultants of Holdings and its affiliates. We recognize the fair value of each grant as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period using the graded vesting terms of the respective grant. The fair value of stock option grants is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model. The fair value of stock, restricted stock units and restricted stock awards is the quoted market price of Holdings' stock on the date of grant. See Note 9 for further discussion of stock-based compensation and related disclosures. s. Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of net income, changes in the foreign currency translation adjustment, changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated as hedges and changes in the net actuarial gains (losses) and amortization of prior service costs on our defined benefit retirement plan. t. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest We record the carrying amount of our redeemable noncontrolling interests at their fair value at the date of issuance. We recognize the changes in their redemption value immediately as they occur and adjust the carrying value of these redeemable noncontrolling interests to equal the redemption value at the end of each reporting period, if greater than the redeemable noncontrolling interest carrying value. This method would view the end of the reporting period as if it were also the redemption date for the redeemable noncontrolling interests. We conduct an annual review to determine if the fair value of the redeemable units is less than the redemption amount. If the fair value of the redeemable units is less than the redemption amount, there would be a charge to earnings per share allocable to common stockholders. The redemption amount at the end of each reporting period did not exceed the fair value of the redeemable units. u. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2016-09”) to simplify the accounting for employee share-based payments. Upon the adoption of ASU 2016-09, all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies are to be recognized within income tax expense when the awards vest or are settled. We adopted the new guidance in ASU 2016-09 on January 1, 2017. As a result, we recognized $13.8 million in excess tax benefits related to employee share-based payments during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Additionally, we recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to opening retained earnings of $98.7 million to recognize U.S. net operating loss carryforwards attributable to income tax deductions taken in prior periods related to employee share-based payments that were in excess of amounts recognized in our financial statements. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2016-09, we used the "with and without" method when determining when excess tax benefits had been realized, and as a result of our utilization of U.S. net operating loss carryforwards, any excess tax benefits generated to date have not reduced any taxes that would have otherwise been required to be paid. As such, no excess tax benefits had been previously recognized in our financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment ("ASU 2017-04"), which eliminates the requirements to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure goodwill impairment charge. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019 and should be applied on a prospective basis. Early adoption is permitted for any goodwill impairment tests performed in the first quarter of 2017 or later. We elected to adopt this accounting standards update in the fourth quarter of 2017. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated balance sheets, results of operations, cash flows or financial disclosures; however, this standard did change our policy for our annual goodwill impairment assessment by eliminating the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill. In May 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting ("ASU 2017-09"). The amendments in ASU 2017-09 provide guidance about which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting under Topic 718. Entities will be required to apply modification accounting unless the fair value, vesting conditions and classification of the modified award are the same immediately before and after a modification of the award has occurred. ASU 2017-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2017-09 on a prospective basis. We elected to adopt this accounting standards update in the fourth quarter of 2017. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated results of operations, balance sheets, cash flows or financial disclosures. v. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASU 2014-09"). The amendments in ASU 2014-09 provide for a single, principles-based model for revenue recognition that replaces the existing revenue recognition guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Updated 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Deferral of the Effective Date , to defer the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year. Therefore, the new guidance will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. In March and April 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-08 and No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and Principal versus Agent Considerations and Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing , respectively (together, “ASU 2016-08/10”). The amendments in ASU 2016-08/10 state that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The effective date and transition requirements for the amendments in ASU 2016-08/10 are the same as the effective date and transition requirements in ASU 2015-14. It permits the use of either a retrospective or cumulative effect transition method and early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. We have undertaken a review of the Company’s key revenue drivers as it relates to ASU 2014-9. The Company has adopted these standards as of January 1, 2018 and has selected a modified retrospective transition method for the adoption. Based on our evaluation of our revenue streams, the Company has determined that there will not be a material impact as of the date of adoption between the new revenue standard and how we previously recognized revenue, and will not have a material effect on our consolidated results of operations, balance sheets, and cash flows. The Company has finalized what additional information will be disclosed and determined the overall level of disclosure related to revenue recognition will increase. In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02 , Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”). The main amendments in ASU 2016-02 require recognition on the balance sheet of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2016-02 using a modified retrospective approach for leases that exist or are entered into after the beginning of the earliest comparative period in the financial statements, and early adoption is permitted; however, the FASB recently proposed an optional transition method for which entities would still adopt ASU 2016-02 using a modified retrospective transition method, but would recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption rather than in the earliest period presented. We note that with the adoption of the amendments in ASU 2016-02, operating leases related to certain of our land leases with durations greater than twelve months will require recognition in our consolidated balance sheet under ASU 2016-02. This could have a material effect on our consolidated balance sheets, but we do not anticipate this will have a material effect on our results of operations or cash flows. In August 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments ("ASU 2016-15"). The amendments in ASU 2016-15 address eight classification issues related to the statement of cash flows: • debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; • settlement of zero-coupon bonds; • contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; • proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; • proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; • distributions received from equity method investees; • beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and • separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. ASU 2016-15 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2016-15 using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this pronouncement will result in a material impact to the presentation of our statement of cash flows. In November 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash ("ASU 2016-18"). The amendments in ASU 2016-18 require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, an

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , property and equipment was classified as follows: December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Land $ 221,345 $ 221,468 Land improvements 236,135 215,112 Buildings and improvements 295,124 279,052 Rides and attractions 1,059,720 985,406 Equipment and other 283,563 267,527 Property and equipment, at cost 2,095,887 1,968,565 Accumulated depreciation (857,930 ) (757,310 ) Property and equipment, net $ 1,237,957 $ 1,211,255

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Intangible Assets We assess goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite lives for impairment annually during the fourth quarter or when an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate potential impairment. For the year ended December 31, 2017 , we performed a qualitative analysis of our goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets and noted no indicators of impairment. Through that analysis, we determined that it is not likely that the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets exceeded their respective fair values. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the carrying amount of goodwill was $630.2 million . As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , intangible assets, net consisted of the following: As of December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Remaining Amortization Period (Years) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names, trademarks and other $ 344,075 $ — $ 344,075 Finite-lived intangible assets: Third party licensing rights 2.5 24,361 (18,419 ) 5,942 Other 30.0 2,735 (1,165 ) 1,570 Total intangible assets, net $ 371,171 $ (19,584 ) $ 351,587 As of December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Remaining Amortization Period (Years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names, trademarks and other $ 344,075 $ — $ 344,075 Finite-lived intangible assets: Third party licensing rights 3.5 24,461 (16,091 ) 8,370 Other 30.6 2,571 (1,044 ) 1,527 Total intangible assets, net $ 371,107 $ (17,135 ) $ 353,972 Amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets totaled $2.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $2.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . We expect that amortization expense on our existing intangible assets subject to amortization for the succeeding five years and thereafter will approximate the following: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ 2,445 2019 2,439 2020 1,051 2021 59 2022 59 2023 and thereafter 1,459 $ 7,512

Noncontrolling Interests, Partn

Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures
Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures	Noncontrolling Interests, Partnerships and Joint Ventures Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests Redeemable noncontrolling interests represent the non-affiliated parties' share of the assets of the Partnership Parks that are less than wholly-owned: SFOT, SFOG and Six Flags White Water Atlanta, which is owned by the partnership that owns SFOG. The following table presents a rollforward of redeemable noncontrolling interests in the Partnership Parks: (Amounts in thousands) SFOT SFOG Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 227,620 $ 208,101 $ 435,721 Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units — (36 ) (36 ) Purchases of redeemable units of SFOG — (223 ) (223 ) Change in redemption value of partnership units — 50,414 50,414 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 19,312 19,113 38,425 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (19,312 ) (19,113 ) (38,425 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 227,620 258,256 485,876 Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units (32 ) — (32 ) Purchases of redeemable units of SFOT (128 ) — (128 ) Change in redemption value of partnership units 133 8,582 8,715 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 19,701 19,509 39,210 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (19,701 ) (19,509 ) (39,210 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 227,593 $ 266,838 $ 494,431 See Note 15 for a description of the partnership arrangements applicable to the Partnership Parks, the accounts of which are included in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. As of December 31, 2017 , the redemption value of the noncontrolling partnership units in SFOT and SFOG was approximately $227.6 million and $266.8 million , respectively.

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments In April 2014, we entered into three separate interest rate swap agreements (collectively, the "Interest Rate Swap Agreements") with an aggregate notional amount of $200.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate above the 0.75% minimum LIBOR rate in effect on the Term Loan B. The term of the Interest Rate Swap Agreements began in June 2014 and expired in December 2017. Upon execution, we designated and documented the Interest Rate Swap Agreements as cash flow hedges. On March 31, 2017, the Interest Rate Swap Agreements were de-designated due to a change in the forecasted borrowings. The Interest Rate Swap Agreements continued to serve as economic hedges and provide protection against rising interest rates for the Amended and Restated Term Loan B (as defined in Note 7 ) during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Subsequent to the de-designation, the amounts recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss have been amortized into earnings through the original December 2017 maturity date. As of the year ended December 31, 2017 , the Interest Rate Swap Agreements have expired and all related amounts previously held as derivative assets and liabilities on our consolidated balance sheets and previously recorded into our accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI") have been realized in earnings. By utilizing a derivative instrument to hedge our exposure to LIBOR rate changes, we were exposed to credit risk and market risk. Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative contract. To mitigate this risk, the hedging instruments were placed with counterparties that we believed posed minimal credit risk. Market risk is the adverse effect on the value of a financial instrument that results from a change in interest rates, commodity prices or currency exchange rates. We managed the market risk associated with the Interest Rate Swap Agreements by establishing and monitoring parameters that limited the types and degree of market risk that we may have undertaken. We hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. We recorded derivative instruments at fair value on our consolidated balance sheets with the effective portion of all cash flow designated derivatives deferred in other comprehensive income and the ineffective portion, if any, recognized immediately in earnings. Our derivatives were measured on a recurring basis using Level 2 inputs. The fair value measurements of our derivatives were based on market prices that generally were observable for similar assets or liabilities at commonly quoted intervals. Derivative assets and derivative liabilities that had maturity dates equal to or less than twelve months from the balance sheet date were included in prepaid and other current assets and other accrued liabilities, respectively. Derivative assets and derivative liabilities that had maturity dates greater than twelve months from the balance sheet date were included in deposits and other assets and other long-term liabilities, respectively. As of December 31, 2017 , we have no remaining derivative instruments recorded in our consolidated balance sheets, and as of December 31, 2016 , derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges recorded at fair value in our consolidated balance sheets as current other accrued liabilities were $0.9 million . Prior to the March 2017 de-designation, effective changes in the fair value of derivatives that were designated as hedges were recorded in AOCI on the consolidated balance sheet when in qualifying relationships and were reclassified to interest expense when the forecasted transaction took place. Ineffective changes, if any, and changes in the fair value of derivatives that were not designated as hedges were recorded directly in interest expense and other expense, net, respectively. Losses before tax on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments included in our consolidated statements of operations were $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 . There were no gains or losses before taxes on derivatives not designated as hedging instruments for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . Gains and losses before tax on derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedges included in our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 were as follows: Gain / (Loss) Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion) Loss Reclassified from AOCI into Operations (Effective Portion) Gain / (Loss) Recognized in Operations on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 Interest Rate Swap Agreements 57 (944 ) (2,671 ) (769 ) (1,716 ) (1,799 ) 30 (45 ) — Total $ 57 $ (944 ) $ (2,671 ) $ (769 ) $ (1,716 ) $ (1,799 ) $ 30 $ (45 ) $ — As of December 31, 2017 , there are no remaining unrealized gains or losses associated with the Interest Rate Swap Agreements that will be reclassified from AOCI to operations.

Long-Term Indebtedness

Long-Term Indebtedness	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long-Term Indebtedness	Long-Term Indebtedness Credit Facility On December 20, 2011, we entered into a $1,135.0 million credit agreement (the "2011 Credit Facility") with several lenders including Wells Fargo Bank National Association, as administrative agent, and related loan and security documentation agents. The 2011 Credit Facility was comprised of a 5 -year $200.0 million revolving credit loan facility (the "Revolving Loan"), a 5 -year $75.0 million Tranche A Term Loan facility ("Term Loan A") and a 7 -year $860.0 million Tranche B Term Loan facility ("Term Loan B" and together with the Term Loan A, the "Term Loans"). In certain circumstances, the Term Loan B could be increased by $300.0 million . The proceeds from the $935.0 million Term Loans were used, along with $15.0 million of existing cash, to retire the $950.0 million senior term loan from the prior facility. Interest on the 2011 Credit Facility accrued based on pricing rates corresponding with the senior secured leverage ratios of Six Flags Theme Parks Inc. ("SFTP") as set forth in the credit agreement. On December 21, 2012, we entered into an amendment to the 2011 Credit Facility (the "2012 Credit Facility Amendment") that among other things, permitted us to (i) issue $800.0 million of senior unsecured notes (see 2021 Notes below), (ii) use $350.0 million of the proceeds of the senior unsecured notes to repay the $72.2 million that was outstanding under the Term Loan A and $277.8 million of the outstanding balance of the Term Loan B, (iii) use the remaining $450.0 million of proceeds for share repurchases and other corporate matters and (iv) reduce the interest rate payable on the Term Loan B by 25 basis points. On December 23, 2013, we entered into an amendment to the 2011 Credit Facility (the "2013 Credit Facility Amendment") that reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Term Loan B by 50 basis points through (i) a 25 basis point reduction in the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 3.00% to LIBOR plus 2.75% and (ii) a 25 basis point reduction in the minimum LIBOR rate from 1.00% to 0.75% . Additionally, the 2013 Credit Facility Amendment permitted us to use up to $200.0 million of our excess cash on hand, over time, for general corporate purposes, including potential share repurchases. On June 30, 2015, we amended and restated the 2011 Credit Facility (as amended by the 2012 Credit Facility Amendment and the 2013 Credit Facility Amendment, the "Amended and Restated Credit Facility"). The Amended and Restated Credit Facility is comprised of a $250.0 million revolving credit loan facility (the "Amended and Restated Revolving Loan") and a $700.0 million Tranche B Term Loan facility (the "Amended and Restated Term Loan B"). Additionally, the Amended and Restated Credit Facility increased the additional flexibility under the Amended and Restated Term Loan B to $350.0 million . In connection with entering into the Amended and Restated Credit Facility, we repaid the outstanding Term Loan B and we recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $6.6 million . The remaining proceeds from the Amended and Restated Credit Facility were used for share repurchases and payment of refinancing fees. On June 16, 2016, we entered into an amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Facility that reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B by 25 basis points through a reduction in the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 2.75% to LIBOR plus 2.50% . We capitalized $1.0 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of this amendment. Additionally, we used $150.0 million of the proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 Notes discussed below to reduce our borrowings under the Amended and Restated Term Loan B and recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $2.4 million . The paydown of borrowings under the Amended and Restated Term Loan B eliminated any required quarterly amortization payments thereunder until its final maturity on June 30, 2022. On December 20, 2016, we entered into an amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Facility that reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B by 25 basis points through a reduction in the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 2.50% to LIBOR plus 2.25% , with the elimination of the minimum LIBOR rate requirement. We capitalized a nominal amount of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of this amendment and recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.5 million . On June 21, 2017 , we entered into an amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Facility that reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B by 25 basis points through a reduction in the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 2.25% to LIBOR plus 2.00% . We capitalized $0.5 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of this amendment and recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.2 million . As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no advances under the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan were outstanding (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of $18.7 million and $19.7 million , respectively). Interest on the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan accrues at an annual rate of LIBOR plus an applicable margin with an unused commitment fee based on our senior secured leverage ratio. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan unused commitment fee was 0.375% . The principal amount of the Amended and Restated Revolving Loan is due and payable on June 30, 2020. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , $544.8 million was outstanding under the Amended and Restated Term Loan B. Interest on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B accrues at an annual rate of LIBOR plus an applicable margin, based on our consolidated leverage ratio. In April 2014, we entered into the Interest Rate Swap Agreements with a notional amount of $200.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate above the 0.75% minimum LIBOR rate in effect on the Term Loan B. The Interest Rate Swap Agreements continued to mitigate an increase in the LIBOR rate in effect on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B through December 2017. See Note 6 for further discussion. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the applicable interest rate on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B was 3.36% and 3.16% , respectively. Beginning on September 30, 2015, the Amended and Restated Term Loan B became payable in equal quarterly installments of $1.8 million , but the $150.0 million prepayment with proceeds from the 2024 Notes discussed below was applied to the quarterly amortization payments and eliminated the future quarterly amortization payments until maturity. All remaining outstanding principal of the Amended and Restated Term Loan B is due and payable on June 30, 2022. Amounts outstanding under the Amended and Restated Credit Facility are guaranteed by Holdings, Six Flags Operations Inc. ("SFO") and certain of the domestic subsidiaries of SFTP (collectively, the "Loan Parties"). The Amended and Restated Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Loan Parties. The Amended and Restated Credit Facility agreement contains certain representations, warranties, affirmative covenants and financial covenants (specifically, (i) a minimum interest coverage covenant and (ii) a maximum senior leverage maintenance covenant). In addition, the Amended and Restated Credit Facility agreement contains restrictive covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, limit or restrict, among other things, the incurrence of indebtedness and liens, fundamental changes, restricted payments, capital expenditures, investments, prepayments of certain indebtedness, transactions with affiliates, changes in fiscal periods, modifications of certain documents, activities of the Company and SFO and hedging agreements, subject, in each case, to certain carve-outs. 2021 Notes, 2024 Notes and 2027 Notes On December 21, 2012, Holdings issued $800.0 million of 5.25% senior unsecured notes due January 15, 2021 (the "2021 Notes"). The proceeds from the 2021 Notes were used to repay the $72.2 million that was outstanding under the Term Loan A and to repay $277.8 million of the outstanding balance of the Term Loan B. The remaining proceeds were used for share repurchases. Interest payments of $21.0 million were due semi-annually on January 15 and July 15 (except in 2013 when we only made one interest payment of $22.3 million on July 15). On June 16, 2016, Holdings issued $300.0 million of 4.875% senior unsecured notes due July 31, 2024 (the "2024 Notes"). We capitalized $4.7 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of the 2024 Notes. We used approximately $150.0 million of the proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 Notes to reduce our borrowings under the Amended and Restated Term Loan B. We used the remaining net proceeds of the sale of the 2024 Notes for general corporate and working capital purposes, which primarily included repurchases of our common stock. On April 13, 2017, we issued an additional $700.0 million of 4.875% Senior Notes due 2024 (the "2024 Notes Add-on"). We capitalized $3.9 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of the 2024 Notes Add-on. Interest payments of $24.4 million for the 2024 Notes and the 2024 Notes Add-on are due semi-annually on January 31 and July 31 of each year, with the exception of the first payment for the 2024 Notes on January 31, 2017, which was $9.1 million . On April 13, 2017, we issued $500.0 million of 5.500% Senior Notes due 2027 (the "2027 Notes"). We capitalized $2.6 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of the 2027 Notes. Interest payments of $13.8 million are due semi-annually on April 15 and October 15 of each year, with the exception of the first payment on October 15, 2017, which was $13.9 million . A portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2024 Notes Add-on and 2027 Notes was used to redeem all of the outstanding 2021 Notes and to satisfy and discharge the indenture governing the 2021 Notes, including to pay the accrued and unpaid interest to the redemption date, the related redemption premium on the 2021 Notes, and related fees and expenses. The remaining net proceeds were used for general corporate and working capital purposes, which primarily included repurchases of our common stock. In connection with the redemption of all of the outstanding 2021 Notes, in the second quarter of 2017 we recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $36.9 million . The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on and the 2027 Notes are guaranteed by the Loan Parties. The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on and the 2027 Notes contain restrictive covenants that, subject to certain exceptions, limit or restrict, among other things, the ability of the Loan Parties to incur additional indebtedness, create liens, engage in mergers, consolidations and other fundamental changes, make investments, engage in transactions with affiliates, pay dividends and repurchase capital stock. The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on and the 2027 Notes contain certain events of default, including payment defaults, breaches of covenants and representations, cross defaults to other material indebtedness, judgment, and changes of control and bankruptcy events of default. HWP Refinance Loan On November 5, 2007, HWP Development, LLC, which is one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries (“HWP"), entered into a $33.0 million term loan (the "Refinance Loan"). Borrowings under the Refinance Loan bore interest at 6.72% , with payments of principal and interest due monthly. Prior to repayment of the Refinance Loan, HWP was subject to various covenants under the Refinance Loan that placed certain restrictions limiting or prohibiting engaging in certain types of transactions. Pursuant to the Refinance Loan, HWP deposited certain amounts into escrow, including $3.9 million as of December 31, 2016. On September 29, 2017, we repaid all amounts outstanding under the Refinance Loan and on October 13, 2017, all amounts previously held in escrow were released. Long-Term Indebtedness Summary As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , long-term debt consisted of the following: December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Amended and Restated Term Loan B $ 544,750 $ 544,750 2027 Notes 500,000 — 2024 Notes 1,000,000 300,000 2021 Notes — 800,000 HWP Refinance Loan — 29,161 Net discount (8,137 ) (2,192 ) Deferred financing costs (15,435 ) (18,072 ) Long-term debt 2,021,178 1,653,647 Less current portion — (29,161 ) Total long-term debt $ 2,021,178 $ 1,624,486 As of December 31, 2017 , annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities, were as follows: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ — 2019 — 2020 — 2021 — 2022 544,750 2023 and thereafter 1,500,000 $ 2,044,750

Selling, General and Administra

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses	Selling, General and Administrative Expenses Selling, general and administrative expenses comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Park $ 129,090 $ 124,019 $ 119,411 Corporate 29,408 167,775 115,399 Total selling, general and administrative expenses $ 158,498 $ 291,794 $ 234,810 Corporate, selling, general and administrative expense includes a reversal of stock-based compensation expense of $22.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 , and stock-based compensation expense of $116.3 million and $56.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , respectively.

Stock Benefit Plans (Notes)

Stock Benefit Plans (Notes)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock Benefit Plans	Stock Benefit Plans Pursuant to the Long-Term Incentive Plan, Holdings may grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, unrestricted stock, deferred stock units, performance and cash-settled awards and dividend equivalents to select employees, officers, directors and consultants of Holdings and its affiliates. In May 2017 and May 2015, our stockholders approved amendments to the Long-Term Incentive Plan that increased the number of shares available for issuance under the Long-Term Incentive Plan by 4,000,000 shares and 5,000,000 shares, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2017 , we recognized a reversal of stock-based compensation expense related to the Long-Term Incentive Plan of $23.0 million , and during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 , we recognized stock-based compensation expense of $116.0 million and $55.9 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2017 , options to purchase approximately 5,185,000 shares of common stock of Holdings and approximately 12,000 shares of restricted stock or restricted stock units were outstanding under the Long-Term Incentive Plan and approximately 5,498,000 shares were available for future grant. Stock Options Options granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan are designated as either incentive stock options or non-qualified stock options. Options are generally granted with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock of Holdings on the date of grant. While certain stock options are subject to acceleration in connection with a change in control, options are generally cumulatively exercisable in four equal annual installments commencing one year after the date of grant with a ten -year term. Generally, the unvested portion of stock option awards is forfeited upon termination of employment. Stock option compensation is recognized over the vesting period using the graded vesting terms of the respective grant. The estimated fair value of the majority of our options granted was calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model. This model takes into account several factors and assumptions. The risk-free interest rate is based on the yield on United States Treasury zero-coupon issues with a remaining term equal to the expected term assumption at the time of grant. We have sufficient historical data to develop an expected term assumption and we calculated the expected term using a mid-point scenario with a one-year grant date filter to exclude grants for which vesting could not have yet occurred. Expected volatility is based three-fourths on the term-matching historical volatility of our stock and one-fourth on the weighted-average implied volatility based on forward-looking pricing data on exchange-traded options for our stock. The expected dividend yield is based on our current quarterly dividend and a three-month average stock price. The fair value of stock options on the date of grant is expensed on a straight line basis over the requisite service period of the graded vesting term as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards. The following weighted-average assumptions were utilized in the Black-Scholes model to value the stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 CEO Employees CEO Employees CEO Employees Risk-free interest rate 1.64 % 1.56 % 1.05 % 1.00 % 1.80 % 1.13 % Expected life (in years) 3.85 3.85 3.85 3.85 6.25 3.91 Expected volatility 21.89 % 22.70 % 24.30 % 23.17 % 36.04 % 24.85 % Expected dividend yield 4.22 % 4.42 % 4.47 % 4.15 % 4.28 % 4.46 % The following table summarizes stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) Shares Weighted Avg. Exercise Price ($) Weighted Avg. Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($) Balance at December 31, 2016 5,679 $ 36.63 Granted 1,869 $ 55.68 Exercised (1,864 ) $ 32.50 Canceled or exchanged (4 ) $ 34.98 Forfeited (495 ) $ 49.25 Expired — $ — Balance at December 31, 2017 5,185 $ 43.78 7.57 $ 118,178 Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2017 4,972 $ 43.45 7.51 $ 114,964 Options exercisable at December 31, 2017 1,907 $ 31.78 5.64 $ 66,343 The following table presents the weighted average grant date fair value per share of the options granted, the total intrinsic value of options exercised, the total fair value of options that have vested, and the total cash received from the exercise of stock options during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted $ 6.26 $ 5.84 $ 6.14 Total intrinsic value of options exercised $ 52,955 $ 37,847 $ 51,059 Total fair value of options that have vested $ 8,436 $ 10,701 $ 13,897 Total cash received from the exercise of stock options $ 60,583 $ 34,680 $ 39,018 As of December 31, 2017 , there was $11.6 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to option awards. The weighted-average period over which that cost is expected to be recognized is 3.10 years. Stock, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Stock, restricted stock and restricted stock units granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan may be subject to transfer and other restrictions as determined by the compensation committee of Holdings' Board of Directors. Generally, the unvested portion of restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards is forfeited upon termination of employment. The fair value of stock, restricted stock and restricted stock unit awards on the date of grant is expensed on a straight line basis over the requisite service period of the graded vesting term as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards. During the year ended December 31, 2011, a performance award was established based on our goal to achieve Modified EBITDA of $500 million by 2015 (the "2015 Performance Award"). "Modified EBITDA” is defined as the Company’s consolidated income from continuing operations: excluding the cumulative effect of changes in accounting principles; discontinued operations gains or losses; income tax expense or benefit; restructure costs or recoveries; reorganization items (net); other income or expense; gain or loss on early extinguishment of debt; equity in income or loss of investees; interest expense (net); gain or loss on disposal of assets; gain or loss on the sale of investees; amortization; depreciation; stock-based compensation; and fresh start accounting valuation adjustments. Based on the results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2015, the 2015 Performance Award was issued, resulting in the issuance of 1,511,100 shares and 1,314,000 shares, plus associated dividend equivalent rights ("DERs"), in February 2015 and 2016, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2016, we recognized a reduction in stock-based compensation expense of $1.6 million as a result of the decline in the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the date of issuance in February 2016 relative to December 31, 2015. During the year ended December 31, 2014, a performance award was established based on our goal to achieve Modified EBITDA of $600 million by 2017 (the "2017 Performance Award"). The compensation committee of Holdings' Board of Directors determined that, since the incremental investment in the new Mexico waterpark was not planned when the 2017 Performance Award goal was established, the 2017 Performance Award goal would be increased by an amount based on our cost of capital times the incremental investment, prorated for the number of months in 2017 the waterpark was open less pre-opening expenses incurred in 2017. On this basis, the 2017 Performance Award goal increased by $1.1 million to $601.1 million during 2017. If the goal had been achieved in 2017, an aggregate payout under this award to key employees would have been approximately 2,300,000 shares, plus DERs. During the third quarter of 2016, we determined that achievement of the Modified EBITDA performance goal was probable by 2017; however, the adverse weather and natural disasters experienced during the summer months of 2017 prevented us from achieving this goal and, in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation , full or partial achievement of the 2017 Performance Award was no longer deemed probable in the third quarter of 2017. We are currently recognizing stock-based compensation expense based on the probable late achievement of the 2017 Performance Award in 2018, which would result in half of the aggregate payout being awarded. To reflect the probable late achievement of the 2017 Performance Award in 2018, we reduced previously recognized stock-based compensation expense during the year ended December 31, 2017 by $66.7 million , plus an additional $6.2 million for the associated DERs. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation, we have accrued the following amounts for stock-based compensation expense related to the 2017 Performance Awards and related DERs for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 : December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Project 600 Performance Award $ 54,877 $ 91,408 Project 600 Performance Award - DERs 7,635 $ 11,039 Total Project 600 Performance Award Accrued Expense $ 62,512 $ 102,447 Based on the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the last trading day of the quarter ended December 31, 2017 , the total unrecognized compensation expense related to the 2017 Performance Award and the related DERs for the year ended December 31, 2017 is $24.4 million . During the year ended December 31, 2016, an additional performance award was established based on our aspirational goal to achieve Modified EBITDA of $750 million by 2020 (the "2020 Performance Award"). The aggregate payout under the performance award to key employees if the target is achieved in 2020 would be 900,000 shares plus associated DERs but could be more or less depending on the level of achievement and the timing thereof. There has been no stock-based compensation expense recorded for this performance award because it is not deemed probable that we will achieve the specified performance targets as of December 31, 2017 . Based on the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the last trading day of the quarter ended December 31, 2017 , the total unrecognized compensation expense related to this award at target achievement in 2020 is $59.9 million that will be expensed over the service period if it becomes probable of achieving the performance condition. We will continue to evaluate the probability of achieving the performance condition going forward and record the appropriate expense if necessary The following table summarizes stock, restricted stock and restricted stock unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : (Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts ) Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share ($) Non-vested balance at December 31, 2016 10 $ 58.46 Granted 12 $ 61.74 Vested (10 ) $ 58.46 Forfeited — $ — Canceled — $ — Non-vested balance at December 31, 2017 12 $ 61.74 The following table presents the weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock awards granted, the total grant date fair value of stock awards granted, and the total fair value of stock awards that have vested during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards granted $ 61.74 $ 51.46 $ 46.31 Total grant date fair value of stock awards granted $ 750 $ 68,207 $ 70,654 Total fair value of stock awards that have vested $ 560 $ 68,341 $ 70,635 Exclusive of the unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to the 2017 Performance Award and the 2020 Performance Award discussed above, there was $0.3 million of total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to stock, restricted stock and restricted stock units as of December 31, 2017 that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 0.34 years. Deferred Share Units Non-employee directors can elect to receive the value of their annual cash retainer as a deferred share unit award ("DSU") under the Long-Term Incentive Plan whereby the non-employee director is granted DSUs in an amount equal to such director's annual cash retainer divided by the closing price of Holdings' common stock on the date of the annual stockholders meeting. Each DSU represents Holdings' obligation to issue one share of common stock. The shares are delivered approximately thirty days following the cessation of the non-employee director's service as a director of Holdings'. DSUs generally vest consistent with the manner in which non-employee directors' cash retainers are paid. The fair value of the DSUs on the date of grant is expensed on a straight line basis over the requisite service period. During each of the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , approximately 3,000 DSUs were granted at a weighted-average grant date fair value of $56.32 , $54.16 and $46.60 per DSU, respectively. The total grant date fair value of DSUs granted was $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 and $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 . As of December 31, 2017 , there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to the outstanding DSUs. Dividend Equivalent Rights On February 8, 2012, Holdings' Board of Directors granted DERs to holders of unvested stock options, at which time, approximately 10.0 million unvested stock options were outstanding. The DERs accrue dividends as of the record date of each of Holdings' dividends that will be distributed to stock option holders upon the vesting of their stock option award. Holdings will distribute the accumulated accrued dividends pursuant to the DERs in either cash or shares of common stock. Generally, holders of stock options for fewer than 1,000 shares of stock will receive their accumulated accrued dividends in cash and holders of stock options for 1,000 shares of stock or greater will receive their accumulated accrued dividends in shares of common stock. In addition, Holdings' Board of Directors granted similar DERs payable in shares of common stock if and when any shares are granted under the 2015 Performance Award, the 2017 Performance Award and the 2020 Performance Award. Holdings' Board of Directors granted approximately 1.9 million , 1.3 million and 1.2 million additional options to the majority of our full-time employees as well as DERs in connection with such options during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Exclusive of stock-based compensation recognized for the DER grants associated with the 2015 Performance Award and 2017 Performance Award discussed above, we recorded stock-based compensation for DER grants of $4.2 million , $5.1 million and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Employee Stock Purchase Plan The Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the "ESPP") allows eligible employees to purchase Holdings' common stock at 90% of the lower of the market value of the common stock at the beginning or end of each successive six-month offering period. Amounts accumulated through participants' payroll deductions ("purchase rights") are used to purchase shares of common stock at the end of each purchase period. Pursuant to the ESPP, no more than 2,000,000 shares of common stock of Holdings may be issued. Holdings' common stock may be issued by either authorized and unissued shares, treasury shares or shares purchased on the open market. As of December 31, 2017 , we had 1,739,000 shares available for purchase pursuant to the ESPP In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Stock Based Compensation , stock-based compensation related to purchase rights is recognized based on the intrinsic value of each respective six-month ESPP offering period. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , no purchase rights were outstanding under the ESPP. Stock-based compensation (reversal) and expense consisted of the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan $ (23,025 ) $ 116,028 $ 55,862 Employee Stock Purchase Plan 328 311 371 Total stock-based compensation $ (22,697 ) $ 116,339 $ 56,233

Fair Value of Financial Instrum

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments The fair value of a financial instrument is the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties. We use a market approach for our recurring fair value measurements, and we endeavor to use the best information available. Accordingly, valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable impacts are favored. The following table and accompanying information present the estimated fair values and classifications of our financial instruments in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : As of December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Financial assets (liabilities): Restricted-use investment securities $ — $ — $ 3,926 $ 3,926 Interest Rate Swap Agreements — — (871 ) (871 ) Long-term debt (including current portion) (2,021,178 ) (2,057,083 ) (1,653,647 ) (1,679,525 ) The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments: • The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximate fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. • Restricted-use investment securities consist of interest bearing bank accounts for which their carrying value approximates their fair value because of their short term maturity. The measurement of restricted-use investment securities is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement. • The measurement of the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities is based on market prices that generally are observable for similar assets and liabilities at commonly quoted intervals and is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement. Derivative assets and liabilities that have maturity dates equal to or less than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in prepaid and other current assets and other accrued liabilities, respectively. Derivative assets and liabilities that have maturity dates greater than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in deposits and other assets and other long-term liabilities, respectively. See Note 6 for additional information on our derivative instruments and related Company policies. • The measurement of the fair value of long-term debt is based on market prices that generally are observable for similar liabilities at commonly quoted intervals and is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The following table summarizes the domestic and foreign components of our income before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Domestic $ 301,322 $ 216,205 $ 238,416 Foreign 27,730 17,061 24,808 Income before income taxes $ 329,052 $ 233,266 $ 263,224 The following table summarizes the components of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : (Amounts in thousands) Current Deferred Total 2017: U.S. federal $ (72 ) $ (6,774 ) $ (6,846 ) Foreign 11,840 (2,231 ) 9,609 State and local 5,829 7,434 13,263 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 17,597 $ (1,571 ) $ 16,026 2016: U.S. federal $ (41 ) $ 57,950 $ 57,909 Foreign 6,206 (427 ) 5,779 State and local 7,088 5,763 12,851 Income tax expense $ 13,253 $ 63,286 $ 76,539 2015: U.S. federal $ (119 ) $ 61,583 $ 61,464 Foreign 9,656 (2,399 ) 7,257 State and local 6,336 (4,688 ) 1,648 Income tax expense $ 15,873 $ 54,496 $ 70,369 Recorded income tax expense differed from amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes as a result of the following: Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Computed "expected" federal income tax expense $ 115,168 $ 81,643 $ 92,128 Effect of noncontrolling interest income distribution (13,724 ) (13,449 ) (13,358 ) Change in valuation allowance 413 648 896 Effect of state and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 10,767 8,353 1,072 Deductible compensation in excess of book (13,757 ) — — Nondeductible compensation 2,201 2,127 435 Effect of foreign income taxes 2,367 380 741 Effect of foreign earnings earned and remitted in the same year 4,402 6,000 5,155 Effect of foreign tax credits (5,357 ) (9,405 ) (4,432 ) Effect of change in accounting method related to recoverable bankruptcy costs — — (9,603 ) Effect of Tax Reform, including change in valuation allowance of $20,824 (84,599 ) — — Other, net (1,855 ) 242 (2,665 ) Income tax expense $ 16,026 $ 76,539 $ 70,369 In connection with emergence from Chapter 11, the Company's prepetition debt securities, primarily the prepetition notes issued by Six Flags, Inc. (which changed its corporate name to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (Holdings) upon emergence from bankruptcy in 2010) and SFO, were extinguished. Absent an exception, a debtor recognizes cancellation of debt income ("CODI") upon discharge of its outstanding indebtedness for an amount of consideration that is less than its adjusted issue price. The Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") provides that a debtor in a bankruptcy case may exclude CODI from income but must reduce certain of its tax attributes by the amount of any CODI realized as a result of the consummation of a plan of reorganization. The amount of CODI realized by a taxpayer is the adjusted issue price of any indebtedness discharged less the sum of (i) the amount of cash paid, (ii) the issue price of any new indebtedness issued and (iii) the fair market value of any other consideration, including equity, issued. As a result of the market value of our equity upon emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings, we were able to retain a significant portion of our federal NOLs and state NOLs (collectively, the "Tax Attributes") after reduction of the Tax Attributes for CODI realized on emergence from Chapter 11. As a result of emergence from Chapter 11, the Company's NOLs were reduced by approximately $804.8 million of CODI. Sections 382 and 383 of the IRC impose an annual limitation on the utilization of NOLs and other favorable Tax Attribute carryforwards that a corporation has at the time of a so-called "ownership change" within the meaning of IRC Section 382. The Company's issuance of stock pursuant to its reorganization under Chapter 11 resulted in such an ownership change. The limitation amount is the product of the value of the Company, computed under special rules that apply to a bankruptcy reorganization, and a published rate that applied for the month the Company emerged from Chapter 11. The Company's limitation amount is approximately $32.5 million for each year to which NOLs and other Tax Attribute carryforwards that existed at emergence are carried, increased by the portion of the net built-in income and gain that existed at emergence and that IRS pronouncements permit a taxpayer to treat as recognized during the five year period following the ownership change. This has allowed the Company to increase its annual limitation by approximately $696.0 million through the end of 2015. Annual limitation amounts accumulate for future use to the extent they are not utilized in a given year. As a result of the Section 382 limitation, the Company may have a cash tax liability in future years even though its deferred tax assets have not been exhausted. A subsequent ownership change could further limit the Company's utilization of NOLs and other Tax Attributes if a smaller limitation resulted from the subsequent ownership change or applied to NOLs and other Tax Attributes accumulated after emergence from Chapter 11. Substantially all of our future taxable temporary differences (deferred tax liabilities) relate to the different financial accounting and tax depreciation methods and periods for property and equipment ( 20 to 25 years for financial reporting purposes and 7 to 12 years for tax reporting purposes) and intangibles. Our net operating loss carryforwards, foreign tax credits, alternative minimum tax credits, accrued insurance expenses and deferred compensation amounts represent future income tax benefits (deferred tax assets). The following table summarizes the components of deferred income tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets $ 296,132 $ 312,349 Less: Valuation allowance 113,509 92,272 Net deferred tax assets 182,623 220,077 Deferred tax liabilities 289,474 419,357 Net deferred tax liability $ 106,851 $ 199,280 December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Federal net operating loss carryforwards $ 49,543 $ 40,352 State net operating loss carryforwards 119,837 96,356 Deferred compensation 21,464 50,067 Foreign tax credits 52,152 46,795 Alternative minimum tax credits 6,591 6,591 Accrued insurance, pension liability and other 46,545 72,188 Total deferred tax assets $ 296,132 $ 312,349 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment $ 200,008 $ 294,050 Intangible assets and other 89,466 125,307 Total deferred tax liabilities $ 289,474 $ 419,357 As of December 31, 2017 , we had approximately $0.3 billion and $5.6 billion of net operating loss carryforwards available for U.S. federal income tax and state income tax purposes, respectively, that expire through 2030 and 2037, respectively. We have a valuation allowance of $113.5 million and $92.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to utilize some of our deferred tax assets before they expire. The valuation allowance at December 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 was based on our inability to use state deferred tax assets related to NOLs that were generated in states where we no longer do business or where we have consistently not generated taxable income. The change in valuation allowance is all attributable to income from operations. Our unrecognized tax benefit as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $25.7 million and $44.6 million , respectively. The change in unrecognized tax benefit was entirely driven by rate remeasurement of the Act. We classify interest and penalties attributable to income taxes as part of income tax expense. Due to the Company's NOL position, we have not accrued any penalties and interest. Passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) and Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) ("the Act") was signed into law by President Donald Trump. The Act contains significant changes to corporate taxation, including a reduction of the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, creating a territorial tax system, allowing for immediate expensing of certain qualified property, modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits, and providing other incentives. In response to the Act, on December 22, 2017 the SEC staff issued Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 118 ("SAB 118"), to provide guidance for companies that are not able to complete their accounting for the income tax effects of the Act in the period of enactment. The SEC Staff noted in SAB 118 that in these cases a company should continue to apply Topic 740, Income Taxes based on the provisions of the tax laws that were in effect immediately prior to the Act being enacted. SAB 118 provides a measurement period that should not extend beyond one year from the Act enactment date for companies to complete the accounting under Topic 740. While the Company was able to make reasonable estimates of the impact of the changes to Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code on our tax provision for the year ended December 31, 2017, the final impact of the Act may differ from these estimates, due to, among other things, changes in our interpretations and assumptions of the Act, and additional guidance that may be issued by the Internal Revenue Service. As a result, the Company will continue to gather additional information to determine the final impact of these changes. Additionally, due to the complexity of the new tax laws around global intangible low taxed income (“GILTI”), the Company is continuing to evaluate how the income tax provision will be accounted for under the U.S. generally accepted accounting principles wherein companies are allowed to make an accounting policy election of either (i) account for GILTI as a component of tax expense in the period in which the Company is subject to the rules (the “period cost method”), or (ii) account for GILTI in the Company’s measurement of deferred taxes (the “deferred method”). Currently, the Company has not elected a method and will only do so after its completion of the analysis of the GILTI provisions.

Preferred Stock, Common Stock a

Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit)	Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity Common Stock As of December 31, 2017 , the number of authorized shares of common stock was 140,000,000 , of which 84,488,433 shares were outstanding, 5,498,000 shares were reserved for future issuance through our Long-Term Incentive Plan, and 1,739,000 shares were reserved for future issuance through the ESPP. Pursuant to the ESPP, Holdings' common stock may be issued by either authorized and unissued shares, treasury shares or shares purchased on the open market. On November 20, 2013, Holdings' Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program that permitted Holdings to repurchase up to $500.0 million in shares of Holdings' common stock over a four -year period (the "November 2013 Stock Repurchase Plan"). Holdings fully utilized the availability under the November 2013 Stock Repurchase Plan by August 2016. Throughout the program, Holdings repurchased 11,428,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $500.0 million and an average price per share of $43.75 . On June 7, 2016, Holdings announced that its Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase program that permitted Holdings to repurchase an incremental $500.0 million in shares of Holdings' common stock (the "June 2016 Stock Repurchase Plan"). Holdings fully utilized the availability under the June 2016 Stock Repurchase Plan by May 2017. Throughout the program, Holdings repurchased 8,392,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $500.0 million and an average price per share of $59.58 . On March 30, 2017, Holdings announced that its Board of Directors approved a new stock repurchase plan that permitted Holdings to repurchase an incremental $500.0 million in shares of Holdings' common stock (the "March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan"). As of February 15, 2018 , Holdings had repurchased 2,775,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $157.2 million and an average price per share of $56.65 under the March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan, leaving approximately $342.8 million available for permitted repurchases. During the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , Holdings' Board of Directors declared and paid quarterly cash dividends per share of common stock as follows: Dividends Paid Per Share 2017: Fourth Quarter $ 0.70 Third Quarter $ 0.64 Second Quarter $ 0.64 First Quarter $ 0.64 2016: Fourth Quarter $ 0.64 Third Quarter $ 0.58 Second Quarter $ 0.58 First Quarter $ 0.58 2015: Fourth Quarter $ 0.58 Third Quarter $ 0.52 Second Quarter $ 0.52 First Quarter $ 0.52 Preferred Stock As of December 31, 2017 , the number of authorized shares of preferred stock was 5,000,000 , none of which have been issued or reserved for future issuance. The authorization of preferred shares empowers Holdings' Board of Directors, without further stockholder approval, to issue preferred shares with dividend, liquidation, conversion, voting or other rights which could adversely affect the voting power or other rights of the holders of Holdings' common stock. If issued, the preferred stock could also dilute the holders of Holdings' common stock and could be used to discourage, delay or prevent a change of control. Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income The balances for each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income are as follows: Currency Translation Adjustment Cash Flow Hedges Defined Benefit Plans Income Taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ (12,198 ) $ (726 ) $ (52,585 ) $ 5,880 $ (59,629 ) Net current period change (12,602 ) (2,671 ) 1,934 4,819 (8,520 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,799 879 (1,087 ) 1,591 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ (24,800 ) $ (1,598 ) $ (49,772 ) $ 9,612 $ (66,558 ) Net current period change (7,142 ) (944 ) 4,881 965 (2,240 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,716 931 (1,033 ) 1,614 Balance as of December 31, 2016 $ (31,942 ) $ (826 ) $ (43,960 ) $ 9,544 $ (67,184 ) Net current period change 3,120 57 1,136 (2,106 ) 2,207 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 769 865 (538 ) 1,096 Balance as of December 31, 2017 $ (28,822 ) $ — $ (41,959 ) $ 6,900 $ (63,881 ) The Company had the following reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Location of Amount of Reclassification from AOCI Reclassification Year Ended December 31, Component of AOCI into Income 2017 2016 2015 (Amounts in thousands) Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge Interest expense $ 769 $ 1,716 $ 1,799 Income tax benefit (279 ) (669 ) (761 ) Net of tax $ 490 $ 1,047 $ 1,038 Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost Operating expenses $ 865 $ 931 $ 879 Income tax benefit (259 ) (364 ) (326 ) Net of tax $ 606 $ 567 $ 553 Total reclassifications $ 1,096 $ 1,614 $ 1,591

Pension Benefits

Pension Benefits	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Pension Benefits	Pension Benefits As part of the acquisition of Former SFEC, we assumed the obligations related to the SFTP Defined Benefit Plan (the "SFTP Benefit Plan"). The SFTP Benefit Plan covered substantially all of SFTP's employees. During 1999, the SFTP Benefit Plan was amended to cover substantially all of our domestic full-time employees. During 2004, the SFTP Benefit Plan was further amended to cover certain seasonal workers, retroactive to January 1, 2003. The SFTP Benefit Plan permits normal retirement at age 65 , with early retirement at ages 55 through 64 upon attainment of 10 years of credited service. The early retirement benefit is reduced for benefits commencing before age 62 . Plan benefits are calculated according to a benefit formula based on age, average compensation over the highest consecutive five -year period during the employee's last ten years of employment and years of service. The SFTP Benefit Plan assets are invested primarily in equity and fixed income securities, as well as alternative investments, such as hedge funds. The SFTP Benefit Plan does not have significant liabilities other than benefit obligations. Under our funding policy, contributions to the SFTP Benefit Plan are determined using the projected unit credit cost method. This funding policy meets the requirements under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974. We froze our pension plan effective March 31, 2006, pursuant to which most participants no longer earned future pension benefits. Effective February 16, 2009, the remaining participants in the pension plan no longer earned future benefits. Obligations and Funded Status The following table sets forth the change in our benefit plan obligation and fair value of plan assets: Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Change in benefit obligation: Beginning balance $ 216,571 $ 223,389 $ 246,653 Interest cost 8,283 8,901 9,116 Actuarial loss (gain) 11,402 (828 ) (17,869 ) Benefits paid (17,510 ) (14,891 ) (14,511 ) Benefit obligation at end of period $ 218,746 $ 216,571 $ 223,389 Change in fair value of plan assets: Beginning balance $ 178,375 $ 173,123 $ 186,131 Actual return on assets 25,240 15,949 (2,767 ) Employer contributions 6,000 6,000 6,000 Administrative fees (1,571 ) (1,806 ) (1,730 ) Benefits paid (17,510 ) (14,891 ) (14,511 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of period $ 190,534 $ 178,375 $ 173,123 Employer contributions and benefits paid in the above table include only those amounts contributed directly to, or paid directly from, plan assets. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , the SFTP Benefit Plan's projected benefit obligation exceeded the fair value of SFTP Benefit Plan assets resulting in the SFTP Benefit Plan being underfunded by $28.2 million and $38.2 million , respectively. The underfunded amount is recognized in other long-term liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. We use December 31 as our measurement date. The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 Discount rate 3.45 % 3.90 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A Net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss) The following table sets forth the components of net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss): Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 1,700 $ 2,400 $ 2,000 Interest cost 8,283 8,901 9,116 Expected return on plan assets (12,831 ) (12,490 ) (13,438 ) Amortization of net actuarial loss 865 931 879 Total net periodic benefit $ (1,983 ) $ (258 ) $ (1,443 ) Other comprehensive income: Current year actuarial gain $ 1,136 $ 4,881 $ 1,934 Recognized net actuarial loss 865 931 879 Total other comprehensive gain $ 2,001 $ 5,812 $ 2,813 As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we have recorded $42.2 million (net of tax expense of $0.3 million ) and $43.6 million (net of tax benefit of $0.3 million ) in accumulated other comprehensive loss in our consolidated balance sheets, respectively. We anticipate that $0.8 million will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost in 2018 . The weighted average assumptions used to determine net costs are as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Discount rate 3.90 % 4.10 % 3.80 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A Expected return on plan assets 7.25 % 7.25 % 7.25 % Corridor 10.00 % 10.00 % 10.00 % Average future life expectancy (in years) 26.33 27.79 29.39 The discount rate assumption was developed based on high-quality corporate bond yields as of the measurement date. High quality corporate bond yield indices on over 500 AA high grade bonds are considered when selecting the discount rate. The return on plan assets assumption was developed based on consideration of historical market returns, current market conditions, and the SFTP Benefit Plan's past experience. Estimates of future market returns by asset category are reflective of actual long-term historical returns. Overall, it was projected that the SFTP Benefit Plan could achieve a 7.25% net return over time based on a consistent application of the existing asset allocation strategy and a continuation of the SFTP Benefit Plan's policy of monitoring manager performance. Description of Investment Committee and Strategy The Investment Committee is responsible for managing the investment of SFTP Benefit Plan assets and ensuring that the SFTP Benefit Plan's investment program is in compliance with all provisions of ERISA, other relevant legislation, related SFTP Benefit Plan documents and the Statement of Investment Policy. The Investment Committee has retained several mutual funds, commingled funds and/or investment managers to manage SFTP Benefit Plan assets and implement the investment process. The investment managers, in implementing their investment processes, have the authority and responsibility to select appropriate investments in the asset classes specified by the terms of the applicable prospectus or other investment manager agreements with the SFTP Benefit Plan. The primary financial objective of the SFTP Benefit Plan is to secure participant retirement benefits. To achieve this, the key objective in the SFTP Benefit Plan's financial management is to promote stability and, to the extent appropriate, growth in funded status. Other related and supporting financial objectives are also considered in conjunction with a comprehensive review of current and projected SFTP Benefit Plan financial requirements. The assets of the fund are invested to achieve the greatest reward for the SFTP Benefit Plan consistent with a prudent level of risk. The asset return objective is to achieve, as a minimum over time, the passively managed return earned by market index funds, weighted in the proportions outlined by the asset class exposures in the SFTP Benefit Plan's long-term target asset allocation. The SFTP Benefit Plan's portfolio may be allocated across several hedge fund styles and strategies. Plan Assets The target allocations for plan assets are 13% domestic equity securities, 57% fixed income securities, 13% international equity securities, and 17% alternative investments. Equity securities primarily include investments in large-cap companies located in the United States and abroad. Fixed income securities include bonds and debentures issued by domestic and foreign private and governmental issuers. Alternative investments are comprised of hedge fund of funds. The following table presents the categories of our plan assets and the related levels of inputs in the fair value hierarchy used to determine the fair value, as defined in Note 2 (c): Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) ASSET CATEGORY: Equity Securities: Large-Cap Disciplined Equity (a) $ 27,765 $ 27,765 $ — $ — Small/Mid-Cap Equity (a) 3,433 3,433 — — International Equity (b) 24,383 24,383 — — Fixed Income: Long Duration Fixed Income (c) 95,650 95,650 — — High Yield (d) 8,559 8,559 — — Emerging Markets Debt (e) 5,001 5,001 — — Alternatives: Other Investments (g) (h) 25,743 — — — Fair Value of Plan Assets $ 190,534 $ 164,791 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) ASSET CATEGORY: Equity Securities: Large-Cap Disciplined Equity (a) $ 32,365 $ 32,365 $ — $ — Small/Mid-Cap Equity (a) 5,425 5,425 — — International Equity (b) 22,598 22,598 — — Fixed Income: Long Duration Fixed Income (c) 69,583 69,583 — — High Yield (d) 8,918 8,918 — — Emerging Markets Debt (e) 6,360 6,360 — — Alternatives: Hedge Fund of Funds (f) 9,967 — — 9,967 Other Investments (g) (h) 23,159 — — — Fair Value of Plan Assets $ 178,375 $ 145,249 $ — $ 9,967 ________________________________________ (a) These categories are comprised of mutual funds actively traded on the registered exchanges or over the counter markets. The mutual funds are invested in equity securities of U.S. issuers. (b) This category consists of mutual funds invested primarily in equity securities (common stocks, securities that are convertible into common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants and rights to subscribe to common stocks) of non-U.S. issuers purchased in foreign markets. The mutual funds are actively traded on U.S. or foreign registered exchanges, or the over-the-counter markets. (c) The assets are comprised of U.S. Treasury Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities ("U.S. Treasury STRIPS") and mutual funds which are actively traded on the registered exchanges. The mutual funds are invested primarily in high quality government and corporate fixed income securities, as well as synthetic instruments or derivatives having economic characteristics similar to fixed income securities. (d) The high yield portion of the fixed income portfolio consists of mutual funds invested primarily in fixed income securities that are rated below investment grade. The mutual funds are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (e) The emerging debt portion of the portfolio consists of mutual funds primarily invested in the debt securities of government, government-related and corporate issuers in emerging market countries and of entities organized to restructure outstanding debt of such issuers. The mutual funds are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (f) Hedge Fund of Funds consists primarily of investments in underlying hedge funds. Management of the hedge funds has the ability to choose and combine hedge funds in order to target the fund's return objectives. Individual hedge funds hold their assets primarily in investment funds and engage in investment strategies that include temporary or dedicated directional market exposures. (g) This category is comprised of investments in common collective trusts with the underlying assets invested in asset-backed securities, money market funds, corporate bonds and bank notes. The underlying assets are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (h) Common/collective trust investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the total fair value of plan assets. The Company has participant redemptions restricted to the last business day of the quarter, with either a 65 or 90 day period redemption notice. The following table represents a rollforward of the December 31, 2017 and 2016 balances of our plan assets that are valued using Level 3 inputs: (Amounts in thousands) Hedge Fund of Funds Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 9,987 Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date (20 ) Relating to assets sold during the period — Purchases, sales and settlements, net — Balance as of December 31, 2016 9,967 Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date — Relating to assets sold during the period (9,967 ) Purchases, sales and settlements, net — Balance as of December 31, 2017 $ — Expected Cash Flows The following table summarizes expected employer contributions and future benefit payments: (Amounts in thousands) Expected contributions to plan trusts 2018 $ 6,000 Total expected contributions $ 6,000 Expected benefit payments: 2018 $ 9,427 2019 9,960 2020 10,308 2021 10,702 2022 11,212 2023 through 2026 60,401 Total expected benefit payments $ 112,010

Earnings Per Common Share

Earnings Per Common Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Common Share	Earnings Per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period and the effect of all dilutive common stock equivalents. In periods where there is a net loss, diluted loss per common share is equal to basic loss per common share, since the effect of including any common stock equivalents would be antidilutive. For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the computation of diluted earnings per share included the effect of 1.7 million , 2.0 million and 4.4 million dilutive stock options and restricted stock units, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , the computation of diluted earnings per share excluded the effect of 0.4 million , 0.4 million and 0.2 million antidilutive stock options and restricted stock units, respectively. Earnings per common share for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was calculated as follows: For the year ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts) 2017 2016 2015 Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders $ 273,816 $ 118,302 $ 154,690 Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic 86,802 92,349 93,580 Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock units 1,692 2,049 4,401 Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted 88,494 94,398 97,981 Earnings per share—basic $ 3.15 $ 1.28 $ 1.65 Earnings per share—diluted $ 3.09 $ 1.25 $ 1.58

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Partnership Parks On April 1, 1998, we acquired all of the capital stock of Former SFEC for $976.0 million , paid in cash. In addition to our obligations under outstanding indebtedness and other securities issued or assumed in the Former SFEC acquisition, we also guaranteed certain contractual obligations relating to the Partnership Parks. Specifically, we guaranteed the obligations of the general partners of those partnerships to (i) make minimum annual distributions (including rent) of approximately $71.1 million in 2018 (subject to cost of living adjustments) to the limited partners in the Partnership Parks (based on our ownership of units as of December 31, 2017 , our share of the distribution will be approximately $31.1 million ) and (ii) make minimum capital expenditures at each of the Partnership Parks during rolling five-year periods, based generally on 6% of the Partnership Parks' revenues. Cash flow from operations at the Partnership Parks is used to satisfy these requirements first, before any funds are required from us. We also guaranteed the obligation of our subsidiaries to annually purchase all outstanding limited partnership units to the extent tendered by the unit holders (the "Partnership Park Put"). The agreed price for units tendered in the Partnership Park Put is based on a valuation of each of the respective Partnership Parks (the "Specified Price") that is the greater of (a) a valuation for each of the respective Partnership Parks derived by multiplying such park's weighted average four year EBITDA (as defined in the agreements that govern the partnerships) by a specified multiple ( 8.0 in the case of SFOG and 8.5 in the case of SFOT) and (b) a valuation derived from the highest prices previously paid for the units of the Partnership Parks by certain entities. Pursuant to the valuation methodologies described in the preceding sentence, the Specified Price for the Partnership Parks, if determined as of December 31, 2017 , is $387.0 million in the case of SFOG and $485.2 million in the case of SFOT. As of December 31, 2017 , we owned approximately 31.0% and 53.1% of the Georgia limited partner interests and Texas limited partner interests, respectively. Our obligations with respect to SFOG and SFOT will continue until 2027 and 2028, respectively. In 2027 and 2028, we will have the option to purchase all remaining units in the Georgia limited partner and the Texas limited partner, respectively, at a price based on the Specified Price, increased by a cost of living adjustment. Pursuant to the 2017 annual offer, we did not purchase any units from the Georgia partnership and we purchased 0.0708 units from the Texas partnership for approximately $0.1 million in May 2017 . Pursuant to the 2016 annual offer, we did not purchase any units from the Texas partnership and we purchased 0.0650 units from the Georgia partnership for approximately $0.2 million in May 2016. As we purchase additional units, we are entitled to a proportionate increase in our share of the minimum annual distributions. The maximum unit purchase obligations for 2017 at both parks aggregated approximately $494.4 million , representing approximately 69.0% of the outstanding units of SFOG and 46.9% of the outstanding units of SFOT. The $350.0 million accordion feature on the Amended and Restated Term Loan B under the Amended and Restated Credit Facility is available for borrowing for future "put" obligations if necessary. In connection with our acquisition of the Former SFEC, we entered into the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement with certain of the Company's entities, Time Warner and an affiliate of Time Warner, pursuant to which, among other things, we transferred to Time Warner (which has guaranteed all of our obligations under the Partnership Park arrangements) record title to the corporations which own the entities that have purchased and will purchase limited partnership units of the Partnership Parks, and we received an assignment from Time Warner of all cash flow received on such limited partnership units, and we otherwise control such entities. In addition, we issued preferred stock of the managing partner of the partnerships to Time Warner. In the event of a default by us under the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement or of our obligations to our partners in the Partnership Parks, these arrangements would permit Time Warner to take full control of both the entities that own limited partnership units and the managing partner. If we satisfy all such obligations, Time Warner is required to transfer to us the entire equity interests of these entities. We incurred $24.7 million of capital expenditures at these parks during the 2017 season and intend to incur approximately $15.6 million of capital expenditures at these parks for the 2018 season, an amount in excess of the minimum required expenditure. Cash flows from operations at the Partnership Parks will be used to satisfy the annual distribution and capital expenditure requirements, before any funds are required from us. The Partnership Parks generated approximately $77.3 million of cash in 2017 from operating activities after deduction of capital expenditures and excluding the impact of short-term intercompany advances from or payments to Holdings. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had total loans receivable outstanding of $239.3 million from the partnerships that own the Partnership Parks, primarily to fund the acquisition of Six Flags White Water Atlanta, and to make capital improvements and distributions to the limited partners in prior years. Operating Leases We lease under long-term leases the sites of Six Flags Mexico, Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Oaxtepec, La Ronde, Waterworld Concord and a small parcel near Six Flags New England. In certain cases, rent is based upon a percentage of the revenues earned by the applicable park. Under these rent agreements, we recognized rental expense of approximately $5.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $5.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . Total rental expense from continuing operations, including office space and park sites, was approximately $16.1 million , $12.9 million and $11.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , respectively. Future minimum obligations under non-cancelable operating leases, including site leases, as of December 31, 2017 , are summarized as follows: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ 9,978 2019 9,657 2020 9,201 2021 8,036 2022 8,123 2023 and thereafter 134,390 $ 179,385 License Agreements We are party to a license agreement pursuant to which we have the exclusive right on a long term basis to theme park use in the United States and Canada (excluding the Las Vegas, Nevada metropolitan area) of all animated, cartoon and comic book characters that Warner Bros. and DC Comics have the right to license for such use. The license fee is subject to periodic scheduled increases and is payable on a per-theme park basis. In November 1999, we entered into license agreements (collectively, the "International License Agreements") pursuant to which we have the exclusive right on a long term basis to theme parks use in Europe, Central and South America of all animated, cartoon and comic book characters that Warner Bros., DC Comics and the Cartoon Network have the right to license for such use. Under the International License Agreements, the license fee is based on specified percentages of the gross revenues of the applicable parks. Insurance We maintain insurance of the types and in amounts that we believe are commercially reasonable and that are available to businesses in our industry. We maintain multi-layered general liability policies that provide for excess liability coverage of up to $100.0 million per occurrence. For incidents arising after November 15, 2003 but prior to December 31, 2008 , our self-insured retention is $2.5 million per occurrence ( $2.0 million per occurrence for the twelve months ended November 15, 2003 and $1.0 million per occurrence for the twelve months ended November 15, 2002 ) for our domestic parks and a nominal amount per occurrence for our international parks. For incidents arising after November 1, 2004 but prior to December 31, 2008 , we have a one-time additional $0.5 million self-insured retention, in the aggregate, applicable to all claims in the policy year. For incidents arising on or after December 31, 2008 , our self-insured retention is $2.0 million , followed by a $0.5 million deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year for our domestic parks and our park in Canada and a nominal amount per occurrence for our parks in Mexico. Defense costs are in addition to these retentions. Our general liability policies cover the cost of punitive damages only in certain jurisdictions. Based upon reported claims and an estimate for incurred, but not reported claims, we accrue a liability for our self-insured retention contingencies. For workers' compensation claims arising after November 15, 2003 , our deductible is $0.75 million ( $0.5 million deductible for the period from November 15, 2001 to November 15, 2003 ). We also maintain fire and extended coverage, business interruption, terrorism and other forms of insurance typical to businesses in this industry. The all peril property coverage policies insure our real and personal properties (other than land) against physical damage resulting from a variety of hazards. Additionally, we maintain information security and privacy liability insurance in the amount of $10.0 million with a $0.25 million self-insured retention per event. We generally renegotiate our insurance policies on an annual basis. The majority of our current insurance policies expire on December 31, 2018 . We cannot predict the level of the premiums that we may be required to pay for subsequent insurance coverage, the level of any self-insurance retention applicable thereto, the level of aggregate coverage available or the availability of coverage for specific risks. Capital Expenditures We currently plan on spending approximately 9% of annual revenues on capital expenditures during the 2018 calendar year. Litigation We are party to various legal actions arising in the normal course of business, including the cases discussed below. Matters that are probable of unfavorable outcome to us and which can be reasonably estimated are accrued. Such accruals are based on information known about the matters, our estimate of the outcomes of such matters and our experience in contesting, litigating and settling similar matters. None of the actions are believed by management to involve amounts that would be material to our consolidated balance sheets, results of operations or liquidity after consideration of recorded accruals. On January 6, 2009, a civil action against us was commenced in the State Court of Cobb County, Georgia. The plaintiff sought damages for personal injuries, including an alleged brain injury, as a result of an altercation with a group of individuals on property adjacent to SFOG on July 3, 2007. Certain of the individuals were employees of the park, but were off-duty and not acting within the course or scope of their employment with SFOG at the time the altercation occurred. The plaintiff, who had exited the park, claimed that we were negligent in our security of the premises. Four of the individuals who allegedly participated in the altercation were also named as defendants in the litigation. Our motion for summary judgment was denied by the trial court on May 19, 2011. Pursuant to the trial that concluded on November 20, 2013, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff for $35.0 million . The jury allocated 92% of the verdict against Six Flags and the judgment was entered on February 11, 2014. A notice of appeal was filed on September 19, 2014, which our insurers pursued on Six Flags' and the insurers' behalf, and on October 2, 2014, the plaintiff filed a notice of cross appeal. On November 20, 2015, the Georgia Court of Appeals reversed the jury verdict and remanded for a new trial on both liability and damages. On December 16, 2015, the Georgia Court of Appeals denied the parties’ various motions for reconsideration. A petition for writ of certiorari in the Georgia Supreme Court was filed on behalf of Six Flags on January 19, 2016. The Six Flags petition asked the Georgia Supreme Court to grant further review and rule that Six Flags is entitled to judgment as a matter of law without the need for a new trial. On January 19, 2016, the plaintiff also filed a petition for writ of certiorari asking the Georgia Supreme Court to review the Court of Appeals’ reversal of the jury verdict. We paid the full amount of our $2.5 million self-insurance retention to our insurers. On September 6, 2016, the Georgia Supreme Court granted both parties' certiorari petitions and oral arguments were heard on February 13, 2017. On June 5, 2017, the Georgia Supreme Court affirmed in part and reversed in part the decision of the Court of Appeals and remanded the case for further proceedings consistent with the Georgia Supreme Court’s decision. The Georgia Supreme Court held that we were entitled to a new trial to determine apportionment of damages among various tortfeasors. On June 5, 2017, the trial court entered an order approving a confidential settlement agreement reached by the parties. The amount set forth in the settlement agreement will be paid by our insurance carriers. On June 27, 2012, Wishtoyo Foundation and its Ventura Coastkeeper program, Los Angeles Coastkeeper d/b/a Santa Monica Baykeeper, and Friends of the Santa Clara River, all non-profit corporations, filed a complaint against Holdings, SFTP and Magic Mountain LLC in the United States District Court for the Central District of California seeking declaratory and injunctive relief and civil penalties under, among others, the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (more commonly known as the Clean Water Act). The plaintiffs allege that Six Flags Magic Mountain discharged water in violation of its water discharge permits into the Santa Clara River. In January 2015, the parties to the lawsuit entered into a consent decree to settle the lawsuit, and on March 26, 2015, the consent decree was approved and entered by the District Court. In connection with settlement of the lawsuit, we intend to install at Six Flags Magic Mountain an on-site infiltration basin to retain, manage and infiltrate stormwater runoff from the park in certain instances. On July 3, 2012, a civil action was commenced against us in the Superior Court of Solano County, California. The plaintiffs sought damages for personal injuries when a guest at Six Flags Discovery Kingdom jumped on a swinging gate arm that entered a passing tram carrying the plaintiffs on July 3, 2010. On October 24, 2014, the litigation was dismissed, without prejudice, with respect to one of the plaintiffs, a minor, who may reinstate the lawsuit at any time prior to two years following the date such plaintiff reaches the age of majority. In January 2015, an agreement was reached to settle the lawsuit with the remaining plaintiffs. We previously expensed the full amount of our $2.5 million self-insurance retention plus litigation costs in connection with this incident. Based on the passage of time without ongoing litigation and the advice of counsel, the accrual was reduced. On September 12, 2014, a civil action against us was commenced in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois. The plaintiff sought damages for personal injuries after riding a water slide at Six Flags Great America. In 2015, the venue for the action was transferred to Lake County. Pursuant to the trial that concluded on April 26, 2016, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the plaintiff for $1.5 million . In May 2016 we filed a post-trial motion to vacate the jury verdict, however, on May 31, 2017, the Appellate Court of the Second District denied our appeal and we paid the judgment amount plus interest. On January 7, 2016, a potential class action complaint was filed against Six Flags Entertainment Corporation in the Circuit Court of Lake County, Illinois. On April 22, 2016, Great America, LLC was added as a defendant. The complaint asserts that we violated the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act ("BIPA") in connection with the admission of season pass holders and members through the finger scan program at Six Flags Great America in Gurnee, Illinois, and seeks statutory damages, attorney's fees and an injunction. An aggrieved party under BIPA may recover (i) $1,000 if a company is found to have negligently violated BIPA or (ii) $5,000 if found to have intentionally or recklessly violated BIPA, plus reasonable attorneys' fees in each case. The program commenced at the park in the 2014 operating season. The complaint does not allege that any information was misused or disseminated. On April 7, 2017, the court certified two questions for consideration by the Illinois Appellate Court of the Second District. On June 7, 2017, the Illinois Appellate Court granted our motion to appeal. Accordingly, two questions regarding the interpretation of BIPA were certified for consideration by the Appellate Court. On December 21, 2017, the Appellate Court found in our favor, holding that the plaintiff had to allege more than a technical violation of BIPA and had to be injured in some way. We expect that the plaintiff will be filing a petition for leave to appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court by March 1, 2018. We intend to continue to vigorously defend ourselves against this litigation. Since this litigation is still in an early stage, the outcome is currently not determinable and a reasonable estimate of loss or range of loss in excess of the immaterial amount that we have recorded for this litigation cannot be made. During 2017, four potential class action complaints were filed against Six Flags Entertainment Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. Complaints were filed on August 11, 2017 in the Circuit Court of Lake County, Illinois, on September 1, 2017 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, on September 11, 2017 in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California, and on November 30, 2017 in the Superior Court of Ocean County, New Jersey. The complaints allege that we, in violation of federal law, printed more than the last five digits of a credit or debit card number on customers’ receipts, and/or the expiration dates of those cards. A willful violation may subject a company to liability for actual damages or statutory damages between $100 and $1,000 per person, punitive damages in an amount determined by a court, and reasonable attorneys’ fees, all of which are being sought by plaintiffs. The complaints do not allege that any information was misused. We intend to vigorously defend ourselves against this litigation. Since this litigation is in an early stage, the outcome is currently not determinable and a reasonable estimate of loss or range of loss cannot be made. Tax and other contingencies As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had a nominal amount of accrued liabilities for tax and other indemnification contingencies related to certain parks sold in previous years that could be recognized as recovery losses from discontinued operations in the future if such liabilities are not requested to be paid.

Business Segments

Business Segments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Business Segments	Business Segments We manage our operations on an individual park location basis, including operations from parks owned, managed and branded. Discrete financial information is maintained for each park and provided to our corporate management for review and as a basis for decision making. The primary performance measures used to allocate resources is Park EBITDA (defined as park-related operating earnings, excluding the impact of interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and any other non-cash income or expenditures). Primarily all of our parks provide similar products and services through a similar process to the same class of customer through a consistent method. We also believe that the parks share common economic characteristics. Based on these factors, we have only one reportable segment—theme parks. The following table presents segment financial information and a reconciliation of net income to Park EBITDA. Park level expenses exclude all non-cash operating expenses, principally depreciation and amortization and all non-operating expenses. Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Net income $ 313,026 $ 156,727 $ 192,855 Interest expense, net 99,010 81,872 75,903 Income tax expense 16,026 76,539 70,369 Depreciation and amortization 111,671 106,893 107,411 Corporate expenses 52,105 51,435 59,167 Stock-based compensation (22,697 ) 116,339 56,233 Non-operating park level expense, net: Loss on disposal of assets 3,959 1,968 9,882 Loss on debt extinguishment, net 37,116 2,935 6,557 Other expense, net 271 1,684 223 Park EBITDA $ 610,487 $ 596,392 $ 578,600 All of our owned or managed parks are located in the United States with the exception of two parks in Mexico and one park in Montreal, Canada. We also have revenue and expenses related to the development of Six Flags-branded theme parks outside of North America. The following information reflects our long-lived assets (which consists of property and equipment and intangible assets), revenues and income from continuing operations by domestic and foreign categories as of or for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : (Amounts in thousands) Domestic Foreign Total As of or for the year ended December 31, 2017 Long-lived assets $ 2,121,157 $ 98,635 $ 2,219,792 Revenues 1,240,018 119,056 1,359,074 Income before income taxes 301,322 27,730 329,052 As of or for the year ended December 31, 2016 Long-lived assets $ 2,111,839 $ 83,636 $ 2,195,475 Revenues 1,205,235 114,163 1,319,398 Income before income taxes 216,205 17,061 233,266 As of or for the year ended December 31, 2015 Long-lived assets $ 2,105,547 $ 79,283 $ 2,184,830 Revenues 1,144,917 119,021 1,263,938 Income before income taxes 238,416 24,808 263,224

Quarterly Financial Information

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) Following is a summary of the unaudited interim results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 99,528 $ 422,372 $ 580,418 $ 256,756 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (57,548 ) 52,026 181,325 98,013 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.63 ) $ 0.60 $ 2.15 $ 1.16 Diluted (0.63 ) 0.59 2.11 1.14 Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 115,419 $ 407,066 $ 557,599 $ 239,314 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (46,935 ) 60,887 102,482 1,868 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.51 ) $ 0.65 $ 1.11 $ 0.02 Diluted (0.51 ) 0.64 1.09 0.02 Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 85,155 $ 386,065 $ 575,261 $ 217,457 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (70,326 ) 65,532 157,300 2,184 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.75 ) $ 0.69 $ 1.67 $ 0.02 Diluted (0.75 ) 0.67 1.64 0.02 We operate a seasonal business. In particular, our theme park operations contribute most of their annual revenue during the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year. During the second and third quarter of 2017, it was determined that achieving the Modified EBITDA performance target related to the 2017 Performance Award would be difficult due to adverse weather and natural disasters experienced during the summer months of 2017. However, late achievement of the Modified EBITDA performance target related to the 2017 Performance Award will be probable by the end of 2018. As a result, we recorded a reversal to stock-based compensation expense related to this award in the second and third quarters of 2017 of $27.9 million and $45.0 million , respectively, to reflect partial achievement of the 2017 Performance Award. Refer to Note 9 for further discussion.

Summary of Significant Accoun27

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and the accounts of our wholly owned subsidiaries. We also consolidate the partnerships that own Six Flags Over Texas ("SFOT") and Six Flags Over Georgia (including Six Flags White Water Atlanta) ("SFOG", and together with SFOT, the "Partnership Parks") as subsidiaries in our consolidated financial statements as we have determined that we have the power to direct the activities of those entities that most significantly impact the entities' economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses and receive benefits from the entities that can be potentially significant to these entities. The equity interests owned by non-affiliated parties in the Partnership Parks are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. The portion of earnings or loss attributable to non-affiliated parties in the Partnership Parks is reflected as net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations. See Note 5 for further discussion. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We evaluate our estimates and assumptions on an ongoing basis using historical experience and other factors, including the current economic environment, which we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. We adjust such estimates and assumptions when facts and circumstances dictate. As future events and their effects cannot be determined with precision, actual results could differ significantly from these estimates. Changes in those estimates resulting from continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods.
Fair Value Measurement	Fair Value Measurement Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , defines fair value as the exchange prices that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal or most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. The guidance also specifies a hierarchy of valuation techniques based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our market assumptions. In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , these two types of inputs have created the following fair value hierarchy: • Level 1: quoted prices in active markets for identical assets; • Level 2: inputs to the valuation methodology include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, and inputs that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the instrument; and • Level 3: inputs to the valuation methodology are unobservable for the asset or liability. This hierarchy requires the use of observable market data when available. See Note 10 for disclosure of methods and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of financial instruments by classification.
Cash Equivalents	Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consists of short-term highly liquid investments with a remaining maturity as of the date of purchase of three months or less, which are readily convertible into cash. For purposes of the consolidated statements of cash flows, we consider all highly liquid debt instruments with remaining maturities as of their date of purchase of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Cash equivalents were not significant as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 .
Inventories	Inventories Inventories are stated at lower of weighted average cost or net realizable value and primarily consist of products purchased for resale, including merchandise, food and miscellaneous supplies. Products are removed from inventory at weighted average cost. We have recorded a valuation allowance for slow moving inventory of $0.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 .
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets	Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets Prepaid expenses and other current assets include $21.1 million and $21.4 million of spare parts inventory for existing rides and attractions as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively. These items are expensed as the repair or maintenance of rides and attractions occur.
Advertising Costs	Advertising Costs Production costs of commercials and programming are charged to operations in the year first aired. The costs of other advertising, promotion, and marketing programs are charged to operations when incurred with the exception of direct-response advertising which is charged to the period it will benefit. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had $1.9 million and $1.8 million in prepaid advertising, respectively. The amounts capitalized are included in prepaid expenses. Advertising and promotions expense was $63.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 , and $62.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 , and 2015 .
Debt Issuance Costs	Debt Issuance Costs We capitalize costs related to the issuance of debt. Debt issuance costs directly related to our Revolving Loan are presented within other assets as debt issuance costs in our consolidated balance sheets. Debt issuance costs directly related to our Amended and Restated Term Loam B and our senior unsecured notes are presented within noncurrent liabilities as a reduction of long-term debt in our consolidated balance sheets. The amortization of such costs is recognized as interest expense using the interest method over the term of the respective debt issue. Amortization related to deferred debt issuance costs was $4.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and $4.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 . See Note 7 for further discussion.
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment additions are recorded at cost and the carrying value is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Maintenance and repair costs that do not improve service potential or extend economic life are charged directly to expense as incurred, while betterments and renewals are generally capitalized as property and equipment. When an item is retired or otherwise disposed of, the cost and applicable accumulated depreciation are removed and the resulting gain or loss is recognized. See Note 3 for further detail of the components of our property and equipment. The estimated useful lives of the assets are as follows: Rides and attractions 5 - 25 years Land improvements 10 - 15 years Buildings and improvements Approximately 30 years Furniture and equipment 5 - 10 years
Goodwill and Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that the assets might be impaired. We identify our reporting unit and determine the carrying value of the reporting unit by assigning the assets and liabilities, including the existing goodwill and intangible assets, to the reporting unit. We then determine the fair value of the reporting unit and compare it to the carrying amount of the reporting unit. All of our parks are operated in a similar manner and have comparable characteristics in that they produce and distribute similar services and products using similar processes, have similar types of customers, are subject to similar regulations and exhibit similar economic characteristics. As such, we are a single reporting unit. For each year, the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded our carrying amount (provided that we have one reporting unit at the same level for which our Holdings common stock is traded, we believe our market capitalization is the best indicator of our reporting unit's fair value). In September 2012, the FASB amended FASB ASC Topic 350, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other , which permits entities to perform a qualitative analysis on indefinite-lived intangible assets to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of the intangible asset was less than its carrying amount as a basis for determining whether it was necessary to perform a quantitative impairment test. We adopted this amendment in September 2012 and have performed a qualitative analysis on our indefinite-lived intangible assets during the fourth quarter of each year. The fair value of indefinite-lived intangible assets is generally determined based on a discounted cash flow analysis. An impairment loss occurs to the extent that the carrying value exceeds the fair value. For goodwill, if the fair value of the reporting unit were to be less than the carrying amount, an impairment loss would be recognized to the extent that the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value.
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets	Valuation of Long-Lived Assets We review long-lived assets, including finite-lived intangible assets subject to amortization, for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the carrying value of the asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset or group of assets to the future net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset or group of assets. If such assets are not considered to be fully recoverable, any impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset or group of assets exceeds its respective fair value. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell.
Revenue Recognition	Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue upon admission into our parks, provision of our services or when products are delivered to our guests. Revenues are presented in the accompanying consolidated statements of operations net of sales taxes collected from our guests and remitted or payable to government taxing authorities. In contrast to our season pass and other multi-use offerings (such as our all-season dining pass program, which enables season pass holders and members to eat meals and snacks any day they visit the park for one upfront payment) that expire at the end of each operating season, the membership program continues on a month-to-month basis after the initial twelve-month membership term and can be canceled any time after the initial term pursuant to the terms of the membership program. Guests enrolled in the membership program can visit our parks an unlimited number of times anytime they are open as long as the guest remains enrolled in the membership program. For season passes, memberships in the initial twelve-month term and other multi-use admissions, we estimate a redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable and recognize a pro-rata portion of the revenue as the guest attends our parks. We review the estimated redemption rate regularly and on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Amounts received for multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in deferred revenue. For active memberships after the initial twelve-month term, we recognize revenue monthly as payments are received. As of December 31, 2017 , deferred revenue was primarily comprised of (i) advance sales of season passes, all season dining passes and other admissions for the 2018 operating season, (ii) unredeemed portions of the membership program that will be recognized in 2018, (iii) sponsorship, licensing and other fee-based revenue that will be recognized in 2018 and (iv) a nominal amount for the remaining unredeemed season pass revenue and pre-sold single day admissions revenue for the 2017 operating season that was redeemed during the completion of the 2017 operating season, which ended the first week of 2018. We have entered into multiple agreements to assist third parties in the planning, design, development and operation of Six Flags-branded theme parks outside of North America. Pursuant to these agreements, we provide exclusivity, brand licensing, and other services to assist in the design, development and project management of Six Flags-branded theme parks, as well as initial and ongoing management services. Each significant deliverable qualifies as a separate unit of accounting. We recognize revenue under these agreements over the relevant service period of each unit of accounting based on its relative selling price, as determined by our best estimate of selling price. Our best estimate of selling price is established consistent with our overall pricing strategy and includes, but is not limited to, consideration of current market conditions, various risk factors and our required return and profit objectives. We review the service period of each unit of accounting on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Revisions to the relevant service periods of the units of accounting may result in revisions to revenue in future periods and are recognized in the period in which the change is identified.
Accounts Receivable, Net	Accounts Receivable, Net Accounts receivable are reported at net realizable value and consist primarily of amounts due from guests for the sale of group outings and multi-use admission products, including season passes and the membership program. We are not exposed to a significant concentration of credit risk, however, based on the age of the receivables, our historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable, we do record an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we have recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $4.2 million and $3.0 million , respectively. The allowance for doubtful accounts is primarily comprised of estimated defaults under our membership plans.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities We account for derivatives and hedging activities in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging . This accounting guidance establishes accounting and reporting standards for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities. It requires an entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and measure those instruments at fair value. If certain conditions are met, a derivative may be specifically designated as a hedge for accounting purposes. The accounting for changes in the fair value of a derivative (e.g., gains and losses) depends on the intended use of the derivative and the resulting designation. We formally document all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as our risk-management objective and our strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. This process includes linking all derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges to forecasted transactions. We also assess, both at the hedge's inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in cash flows of hedged items. Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is effective and that is designated and qualifies as a cash-flow hedge are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss) until operations are affected by the variability in cash flows of the designated hedged item, at which point they are reclassified to interest expense. Changes in fair value of a derivative that is not designated as a hedge are recorded in other income (expense), net in the consolidated statements of operations on a current basis. See Note 6 for further discussion.
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies We are involved in various lawsuits and claims that arise in the normal course of business. Amounts associated with lawsuits or claims are reserved for matters in which it is believed that losses are probable and can be reasonably estimated. In addition to matters in which it is believed that losses are probable, disclosure is also provided for matters in which the likelihood of an unfavorable outcome is at least reasonably possible but for which a reasonable estimate of loss or range of loss is not possible. Legal fees are expensed as incurred. See Note 15 for further discussion.
Income Taxes	Income Taxes Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, including net operating loss and other tax carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in operations in the period that includes the enactment date. We have a valuation allowance of $113.5 million and $92.3 million as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to utilize some of our deferred tax assets, primarily consisting of certain state net operating loss and other tax carryforwards, before they expire. The valuation allowance was based on our estimates of taxable income by jurisdiction in which we operate and the period over which our deferred tax assets were recoverable. For the foreseeable future, we project taxable income that will allow for the utilization of all of our federal net operating loss carryforwards before they expire. Our liability for income taxes is finalized as auditable tax years pass their respective statutes of limitations in the various jurisdictions in which we are subject to tax. However, these jurisdictions may audit prior years for which the statute of limitations is closed for the purpose of making an adjustment to our taxable income in a year for which the statute of limitations has not closed. Accordingly, taxing authorities of these jurisdictions may audit prior years of the group and its predecessors for the purpose of adjusting net operating loss carryforwards to years for which the statute of limitations has not closed. We classify interest and penalties attributable to income taxes as part of income tax expense. As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we had no accrued interest and penalties liability. Because we do not permanently reinvest foreign earnings, United States deferred income taxes have been provided on unremitted foreign earnings to the extent that such foreign earnings are expected to be taxable upon repatriation. On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (H.R. 1) ("the Act") was signed into law by President Donald Trump. The Act contains significant changes to corporate taxation, including reduction of the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21% effective January 1, 2018, limitation of the tax deduction for interest expense, limitation of the deduction for net operating losses and elimination of net operating loss carrybacks, one time taxation of offshore earnings at reduced, elimination of U.S. tax on foreign earnings (subject to certain important exceptions), new taxes concerning global intangible low-tax income (GILTI), immediate deductions for certain new investments instead of deductions for depreciation expense over time, and modifying or repealing many business deductions and credits including the limitation on deductions for certain executive compensation arrangements under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code. All corporation taxation aspects of the Act are included in our year ended December 31, 2017 tax provision. See footnote 11 for further discussion.
Earnings Per Common Share	Earnings Per Common Share Basic earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per common share is computed by dividing net income attributable to Holdings' common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period including the effect of all dilutive common stock equivalents using the treasury stock method. In periods for which there is a net loss, diluted loss per common share is equal to basic loss per common share, since the effect of including any common stock equivalents would be antidilutive.
Stock-Based Compensation	Stock-Based Compensation Pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "Long-Term Incentive Plan"), Holdings may grant stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, unrestricted stock, deferred stock units, performance and cash-settled awards and dividend equivalents to select employees, officers, directors and consultants of Holdings and its affiliates. We recognize the fair value of each grant as compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the vesting period using the graded vesting terms of the respective grant. The fair value of stock option grants is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model. The fair value of stock, restricted stock units and restricted stock awards is the quoted market price of Holdings' stock on the date of grant. See Note 9 for further discussion of stock-based compensation and related disclosures.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income consists of net income, changes in the foreign currency translation adjustment, changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated as hedges and changes in the net actuarial gains (losses) and amortization of prior service costs on our defined benefit retirement plan.
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest We record the carrying amount of our redeemable noncontrolling interests at their fair value at the date of issuance. We recognize the changes in their redemption value immediately as they occur and adjust the carrying value of these redeemable noncontrolling interests to equal the redemption value at the end of each reporting period, if greater than the redeemable noncontrolling interest carrying value. This method would view the end of the reporting period as if it were also the redemption date for the redeemable noncontrolling interests. We conduct an annual review to determine if the fair value of the redeemable units is less than the redemption amount. If the fair value of the redeemable units is less than the redemption amount, there would be a charge to earnings per share allocable to common stockholders. The redemption amount at the end of each reporting period did not exceed the fair value of the redeemable units.
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles	Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In March 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting (“ASU 2016-09”) to simplify the accounting for employee share-based payments. Upon the adoption of ASU 2016-09, all excess tax benefits and tax deficiencies are to be recognized within income tax expense when the awards vest or are settled. We adopted the new guidance in ASU 2016-09 on January 1, 2017. As a result, we recognized $13.8 million in excess tax benefits related to employee share-based payments during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Additionally, we recorded a cumulative effect adjustment to opening retained earnings of $98.7 million to recognize U.S. net operating loss carryforwards attributable to income tax deductions taken in prior periods related to employee share-based payments that were in excess of amounts recognized in our financial statements. Prior to the adoption of ASU 2016-09, we used the "with and without" method when determining when excess tax benefits had been realized, and as a result of our utilization of U.S. net operating loss carryforwards, any excess tax benefits generated to date have not reduced any taxes that would have otherwise been required to be paid. As such, no excess tax benefits had been previously recognized in our financial statements. In January 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment ("ASU 2017-04"), which eliminates the requirements to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill to measure goodwill impairment charge. Instead, entities will record an impairment charge based on the excess of a reporting unit’s carrying amount over its fair value. This standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2019 and should be applied on a prospective basis. Early adoption is permitted for any goodwill impairment tests performed in the first quarter of 2017 or later. We elected to adopt this accounting standards update in the fourth quarter of 2017. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated balance sheets, results of operations, cash flows or financial disclosures; however, this standard did change our policy for our annual goodwill impairment assessment by eliminating the requirement to calculate the implied fair value of goodwill. In May 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Scope of Modification Accounting ("ASU 2017-09"). The amendments in ASU 2017-09 provide guidance about which changes to the terms or conditions of a share-based payment award require an entity to apply modification accounting under Topic 718. Entities will be required to apply modification accounting unless the fair value, vesting conditions and classification of the modified award are the same immediately before and after a modification of the award has occurred. ASU 2017-09 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2017-09 on a prospective basis. We elected to adopt this accounting standards update in the fourth quarter of 2017. The adoption did not have an impact on our consolidated results of operations, balance sheets, cash flows or financial disclosures.
Description of New Accounting Pronouncements Not yet Adopted	Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In May 2014, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers ("ASU 2014-09"). The amendments in ASU 2014-09 provide for a single, principles-based model for revenue recognition that replaces the existing revenue recognition guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Updated 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers - Deferral of the Effective Date , to defer the effective date of ASU 2014-09 for one year. Therefore, the new guidance will be effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance under U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. In March and April 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-08 and No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) and Principal versus Agent Considerations and Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing , respectively (together, “ASU 2016-08/10”). The amendments in ASU 2016-08/10 state that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The effective date and transition requirements for the amendments in ASU 2016-08/10 are the same as the effective date and transition requirements in ASU 2015-14. It permits the use of either a retrospective or cumulative effect transition method and early adoption is permitted only as of annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim reporting periods within that reporting period. We have undertaken a review of the Company’s key revenue drivers as it relates to ASU 2014-9. The Company has adopted these standards as of January 1, 2018 and has selected a modified retrospective transition method for the adoption. Based on our evaluation of our revenue streams, the Company has determined that there will not be a material impact as of the date of adoption between the new revenue standard and how we previously recognized revenue, and will not have a material effect on our consolidated results of operations, balance sheets, and cash flows. The Company has finalized what additional information will be disclosed and determined the overall level of disclosure related to revenue recognition will increase. In February 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02 , Leases (Topic 842) (“ASU 2016-02”). The main amendments in ASU 2016-02 require recognition on the balance sheet of lease assets and lease liabilities by lessees for those leases classified as operating leases. ASU 2016-02 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods within those fiscal years, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2016-02 using a modified retrospective approach for leases that exist or are entered into after the beginning of the earliest comparative period in the financial statements, and early adoption is permitted; however, the FASB recently proposed an optional transition method for which entities would still adopt ASU 2016-02 using a modified retrospective transition method, but would recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption rather than in the earliest period presented. We note that with the adoption of the amendments in ASU 2016-02, operating leases related to certain of our land leases with durations greater than twelve months will require recognition in our consolidated balance sheet under ASU 2016-02. This could have a material effect on our consolidated balance sheets, but we do not anticipate this will have a material effect on our results of operations or cash flows. In August 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments ("ASU 2016-15"). The amendments in ASU 2016-15 address eight classification issues related to the statement of cash flows: • debt prepayment or debt extinguishment costs; • settlement of zero-coupon bonds; • contingent consideration payments made after a business combination; • proceeds from the settlement of insurance claims; • proceeds from the settlement of corporate-owned life insurance policies, including bank-owned life insurance policies; • distributions received from equity method investees; • beneficial interests in securitization transactions; and • separately identifiable cash flows and application of the predominance principle. ASU 2016-15 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2016-15 using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this pronouncement will result in a material impact to the presentation of our statement of cash flows. In November 2016, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash ("ASU 2016-18"). The amendments in ASU 2016-18 require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. ASU 2016-18 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods, with early adoption permitted. An entity should apply ASU 2016-18 using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this pronouncement will result in a material impact to the presentation of our statement of cash flows. In March 2017, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2017-07, Compensation-Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): “Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost” ("ASU 2017-07"). The amendments in ASU 2017-07 require that an employer report the service cost component in the same line item or items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The amendments in ASU 2017-07 also require that an employer disaggregate the service cost component from the other components of net benefit cost. ASU 2017-07 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those annual periods. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statements, interim or annual, have not been issued or made available for issuance. That is, early adoption should be within the first interim period if an employer issues interim financial statements. The amendments in ASU 2017-07 should be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the income statement and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit in assets. We do not anticipate that the adoption of this pronouncement will result in a material impact to the presentation of our net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost. In February 2018, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-02, Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): "Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income" ("ASU 2018-02"). The amendments in ASU 2018-02 allow entities to reclassify from accumulated other comprehensive income (AOCI) to retained earnings "stranded" tax effects resulting from passage of the Act. An entity that elects to reclassify these amounts must reclassify stranded tax effects related to the change in federal tax rate for all items accounted for in other comprehensive income (e.g., employee benefits, cumulative translation adjustments). Entities may also elect to reclassify other stranded tax effects that relate to the Act but do not directly relate to the change in the federal rate (e.g., state taxes). However, because the amendments only relate to the reclassification of the income tax effects of the Act, the underlying guidance requiring the effect of a change in tax laws or rates be included in income from operations is not affected. Upon adoption of ASU 2018-02, entities will be required to disclose their policy for releasing the income tax effects from AOCI. Entities that elect to reclassify the income tax effects of the Act from AOCI to retained earnings must disclose that such an election was made, including a description of reclassified tax effects. ASU 2018-02 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2018, and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statements, interim or annual, have not been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments in 2018-02 may be applied retrospectively to each period in which the effect of the Act is recognized or an entity may elect to apply the amendments in the period of adoption. The Company anticipates early adoption of these standards in first quarter of 2018, and has not selected an adoption method. We are still evaluating the effects of adopting ASU 2018-02, and this could have a material impact resulting from a reclassification from AOCI to retained earnings on our consolidated balance sheets, comprehensive income, and equity. However, we do not anticipate an impact to our consolidated statement of operations and cash flows.

Summary of Significant Accoun28

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Schedule of estimated useful lives of property and equipment	The estimated useful lives of the assets are as follows: Rides and attractions 5 - 25 years Land improvements 10 - 15 years Buildings and improvements Approximately 30 years Furniture and equipment 5 - 10 years

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Summary of property and equipment	As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , property and equipment was classified as follows: December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Land $ 221,345 $ 221,468 Land improvements 236,135 215,112 Buildings and improvements 295,124 279,052 Rides and attractions 1,059,720 985,406 Equipment and other 283,563 267,527 Property and equipment, at cost 2,095,887 1,968,565 Accumulated depreciation (857,930 ) (757,310 ) Property and equipment, net $ 1,237,957 $ 1,211,255

Goodwill and Intangible Asset30

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets	As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , intangible assets, net consisted of the following: As of December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Remaining Amortization Period (Years) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names, trademarks and other $ 344,075 $ — $ 344,075 Finite-lived intangible assets: Third party licensing rights 2.5 24,361 (18,419 ) 5,942 Other 30.0 2,735 (1,165 ) 1,570 Total intangible assets, net $ 371,171 $ (19,584 ) $ 351,587 As of December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands, except years) Weighted-Average Remaining Amortization Period (Years) Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Indefinite-lived intangible assets: Trade names, trademarks and other $ 344,075 $ — $ 344,075 Finite-lived intangible assets: Third party licensing rights 3.5 24,461 (16,091 ) 8,370 Other 30.6 2,571 (1,044 ) 1,527 Total intangible assets, net $ 371,107 $ (17,135 ) $ 353,972
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense	We expect that amortization expense on our existing intangible assets subject to amortization for the succeeding five years and thereafter will approximate the following: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ 2,445 2019 2,439 2020 1,051 2021 59 2022 59 2023 and thereafter 1,459 $ 7,512

Noncontrolling Interests, Par31

Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures
Schedule of changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests	The following table presents a rollforward of redeemable noncontrolling interests in the Partnership Parks: (Amounts in thousands) SFOT SFOG Total Balance at December 31, 2015 $ 227,620 $ 208,101 $ 435,721 Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units — (36 ) (36 ) Purchases of redeemable units of SFOG — (223 ) (223 ) Change in redemption value of partnership units — 50,414 50,414 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 19,312 19,113 38,425 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (19,312 ) (19,113 ) (38,425 ) Balance at December 31, 2016 227,620 258,256 485,876 Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units (32 ) — (32 ) Purchases of redeemable units of SFOT (128 ) — (128 ) Change in redemption value of partnership units 133 8,582 8,715 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests 19,701 19,509 39,210 Distributions to noncontrolling interests (19,701 ) (19,509 ) (39,210 ) Balance at December 31, 2017 $ 227,593 $ 266,838 $ 494,431

Derivative Financial Instrume32

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss)	Gains and losses before tax on derivatives that were designated as cash flow hedges included in our consolidated statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 were as follows: Gain / (Loss) Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion) Loss Reclassified from AOCI into Operations (Effective Portion) Gain / (Loss) Recognized in Operations on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing) (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 2017 2016 2015 Interest Rate Swap Agreements 57 (944 ) (2,671 ) (769 ) (1,716 ) (1,799 ) 30 (45 ) — Total $ 57 $ (944 ) $ (2,671 ) $ (769 ) $ (1,716 ) $ (1,799 ) $ 30 $ (45 ) $ —

Long-Term Indebtedness (Tables)

Long-Term Indebtedness (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of long-term debt	As of December 31, 2017 and 2016 , long-term debt consisted of the following: December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Amended and Restated Term Loan B $ 544,750 $ 544,750 2027 Notes 500,000 — 2024 Notes 1,000,000 300,000 2021 Notes — 800,000 HWP Refinance Loan — 29,161 Net discount (8,137 ) (2,192 ) Deferred financing costs (15,435 ) (18,072 ) Long-term debt 2,021,178 1,653,647 Less current portion — (29,161 ) Total long-term debt $ 2,021,178 $ 1,624,486
Schedule of annual maturities of long-term debt	As of December 31, 2017 , annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities, were as follows: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ — 2019 — 2020 — 2021 — 2022 544,750 2023 and thereafter 1,500,000 $ 2,044,750

Selling, General and Administ34

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Summary of selling, general and administrative expenses	Selling, general and administrative expenses comprised the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Park $ 129,090 $ 124,019 $ 119,411 Corporate 29,408 167,775 115,399 Total selling, general and administrative expenses $ 158,498 $ 291,794 $ 234,810

Stock Benefit Plans (Tables)

Stock Benefit Plans (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions	The following weighted-average assumptions were utilized in the Black-Scholes model to value the stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 December 31, 2015 CEO Employees CEO Employees CEO Employees Risk-free interest rate 1.64 % 1.56 % 1.05 % 1.00 % 1.80 % 1.13 % Expected life (in years) 3.85 3.85 3.85 3.85 6.25 3.91 Expected volatility 21.89 % 22.70 % 24.30 % 23.17 % 36.04 % 24.85 % Expected dividend yield 4.22 % 4.42 % 4.47 % 4.15 % 4.28 % 4.46 %
Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity	The following table summarizes stock option activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) Shares Weighted Avg. Exercise Price ($) Weighted Avg. Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value ($) Balance at December 31, 2016 5,679 $ 36.63 Granted 1,869 $ 55.68 Exercised (1,864 ) $ 32.50 Canceled or exchanged (4 ) $ 34.98 Forfeited (495 ) $ 49.25 Expired — $ — Balance at December 31, 2017 5,185 $ 43.78 7.57 $ 118,178 Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2017 4,972 $ 43.45 7.51 $ 114,964 Options exercisable at December 31, 2017 1,907 $ 31.78 5.64 $ 66,343
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Weighted-Average Information	The following table presents the weighted average grant date fair value per share of the options granted, the total intrinsic value of options exercised, the total fair value of options that have vested, and the total cash received from the exercise of stock options during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted $ 6.26 $ 5.84 $ 6.14 Total intrinsic value of options exercised $ 52,955 $ 37,847 $ 51,059 Total fair value of options that have vested $ 8,436 $ 10,701 $ 13,897 Total cash received from the exercise of stock options $ 60,583 $ 34,680 $ 39,018
Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award	In accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718, Stock Compensation, we have accrued the following amounts for stock-based compensation expense related to the 2017 Performance Awards and related DERs for the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 : December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Project 600 Performance Award $ 54,877 $ 91,408 Project 600 Performance Award - DERs 7,635 $ 11,039 Total Project 600 Performance Award Accrued Expense $ 62,512 $ 102,447
Schedule of Nonvested Share Activity	The following table summarizes stock, restricted stock and restricted stock unit activity for the year ended December 31, 2017 : (Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts ) Shares Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Per Share ($) Non-vested balance at December 31, 2016 10 $ 58.46 Granted 12 $ 61.74 Vested (10 ) $ 58.46 Forfeited — $ — Canceled — $ — Non-vested balance at December 31, 2017 12 $ 61.74
Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Other than Stock Options, Weighted-Average Information	The following table presents the weighted average grant date fair value per share of stock awards granted, the total grant date fair value of stock awards granted, and the total fair value of stock awards that have vested during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, expect per share data) 2017 2016 2015 Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards granted $ 61.74 $ 51.46 $ 46.31 Total grant date fair value of stock awards granted $ 750 $ 68,207 $ 70,654 Total fair value of stock awards that have vested $ 560 $ 68,341 $ 70,635
Schedule of Compensation Cost for Share-based Payment Arrangements, Allocation of Share-based Compensation Costs by Plan	Stock-based compensation (reversal) and expense consisted of the following for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan $ (23,025 ) $ 116,028 $ 55,862 Employee Stock Purchase Plan 328 311 371 Total stock-based compensation $ (22,697 ) $ 116,339 $ 56,233

Fair Value of Financial Instr36

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Schedule of estimated fair values of the entity's financial instruments and classification of such instruments	The following table and accompanying information present the estimated fair values and classifications of our financial instruments in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement , as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : As of December 31, 2017 December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) Carrying Value Fair Value Carrying Value Fair Value Financial assets (liabilities): Restricted-use investment securities $ — $ — $ 3,926 $ 3,926 Interest Rate Swap Agreements — — (871 ) (871 ) Long-term debt (including current portion) (2,021,178 ) (2,057,083 ) (1,653,647 ) (1,679,525 )

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign	The following table summarizes the domestic and foreign components of our income before income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Domestic $ 301,322 $ 216,205 $ 238,416 Foreign 27,730 17,061 24,808 Income before income taxes $ 329,052 $ 233,266 $ 263,224
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	The following table summarizes the components of income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : (Amounts in thousands) Current Deferred Total 2017: U.S. federal $ (72 ) $ (6,774 ) $ (6,846 ) Foreign 11,840 (2,231 ) 9,609 State and local 5,829 7,434 13,263 Income tax expense (benefit) $ 17,597 $ (1,571 ) $ 16,026 2016: U.S. federal $ (41 ) $ 57,950 $ 57,909 Foreign 6,206 (427 ) 5,779 State and local 7,088 5,763 12,851 Income tax expense $ 13,253 $ 63,286 $ 76,539 2015: U.S. federal $ (119 ) $ 61,583 $ 61,464 Foreign 9,656 (2,399 ) 7,257 State and local 6,336 (4,688 ) 1,648 Income tax expense $ 15,873 $ 54,496 $ 70,369
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation	Recorded income tax expense differed from amounts computed by applying the U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% to income before income taxes as a result of the following: Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Computed "expected" federal income tax expense $ 115,168 $ 81,643 $ 92,128 Effect of noncontrolling interest income distribution (13,724 ) (13,449 ) (13,358 ) Change in valuation allowance 413 648 896 Effect of state and local income taxes, net of federal tax benefit 10,767 8,353 1,072 Deductible compensation in excess of book (13,757 ) — — Nondeductible compensation 2,201 2,127 435 Effect of foreign income taxes 2,367 380 741 Effect of foreign earnings earned and remitted in the same year 4,402 6,000 5,155 Effect of foreign tax credits (5,357 ) (9,405 ) (4,432 ) Effect of change in accounting method related to recoverable bankruptcy costs — — (9,603 ) Effect of Tax Reform, including change in valuation allowance of $20,824 (84,599 ) — — Other, net (1,855 ) 242 (2,665 ) Income tax expense $ 16,026 $ 76,539 $ 70,369
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities	The following table summarizes the components of deferred income tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of December 31, 2017 and 2016 : December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets $ 296,132 $ 312,349 Less: Valuation allowance 113,509 92,272 Net deferred tax assets 182,623 220,077 Deferred tax liabilities 289,474 419,357 Net deferred tax liability $ 106,851 $ 199,280 December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 Deferred tax assets: Federal net operating loss carryforwards $ 49,543 $ 40,352 State net operating loss carryforwards 119,837 96,356 Deferred compensation 21,464 50,067 Foreign tax credits 52,152 46,795 Alternative minimum tax credits 6,591 6,591 Accrued insurance, pension liability and other 46,545 72,188 Total deferred tax assets $ 296,132 $ 312,349 Deferred tax liabilities: Property and equipment $ 200,008 $ 294,050 Intangible assets and other 89,466 125,307 Total deferred tax liabilities $ 289,474 $ 419,357

Preferred Stock, Common Stock38

Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of quarterly cash dividends per share of common stock declared and paid	During the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 , Holdings' Board of Directors declared and paid quarterly cash dividends per share of common stock as follows: Dividends Paid Per Share 2017: Fourth Quarter $ 0.70 Third Quarter $ 0.64 Second Quarter $ 0.64 First Quarter $ 0.64 2016: Fourth Quarter $ 0.64 Third Quarter $ 0.58 Second Quarter $ 0.58 First Quarter $ 0.58 2015: Fourth Quarter $ 0.58 Third Quarter $ 0.52 Second Quarter $ 0.52 First Quarter $ 0.52
Schedule of balances for each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income	The balances for each component of accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income are as follows: Currency Translation Adjustment Cash Flow Hedges Defined Benefit Plans Income Taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Balance as of December 31, 2014 $ (12,198 ) $ (726 ) $ (52,585 ) $ 5,880 $ (59,629 ) Net current period change (12,602 ) (2,671 ) 1,934 4,819 (8,520 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,799 879 (1,087 ) 1,591 Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ (24,800 ) $ (1,598 ) $ (49,772 ) $ 9,612 $ (66,558 ) Net current period change (7,142 ) (944 ) 4,881 965 (2,240 ) Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 1,716 931 (1,033 ) 1,614 Balance as of December 31, 2016 $ (31,942 ) $ (826 ) $ (43,960 ) $ 9,544 $ (67,184 ) Net current period change 3,120 57 1,136 (2,106 ) 2,207 Amounts reclassified from AOCI — 769 865 (538 ) 1,096 Balance as of December 31, 2017 $ (28,822 ) $ — $ (41,959 ) $ 6,900 $ (63,881 )
Schedule of Reclassifications out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The Company had the following reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) during the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Location of Amount of Reclassification from AOCI Reclassification Year Ended December 31, Component of AOCI into Income 2017 2016 2015 (Amounts in thousands) Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge Interest expense $ 769 $ 1,716 $ 1,799 Income tax benefit (279 ) (669 ) (761 ) Net of tax $ 490 $ 1,047 $ 1,038 Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost Operating expenses $ 865 $ 931 $ 879 Income tax benefit (259 ) (364 ) (326 ) Net of tax $ 606 $ 567 $ 553 Total reclassifications $ 1,096 $ 1,614 $ 1,591

Pension Benefits (Tables)

Pension Benefits (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Schedule of changes in benefit plan obligation and fair value of plan assets	The following table sets forth the change in our benefit plan obligation and fair value of plan assets: Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Change in benefit obligation: Beginning balance $ 216,571 $ 223,389 $ 246,653 Interest cost 8,283 8,901 9,116 Actuarial loss (gain) 11,402 (828 ) (17,869 ) Benefits paid (17,510 ) (14,891 ) (14,511 ) Benefit obligation at end of period $ 218,746 $ 216,571 $ 223,389 Change in fair value of plan assets: Beginning balance $ 178,375 $ 173,123 $ 186,131 Actual return on assets 25,240 15,949 (2,767 ) Employer contributions 6,000 6,000 6,000 Administrative fees (1,571 ) (1,806 ) (1,730 ) Benefits paid (17,510 ) (14,891 ) (14,511 ) Fair value of plan assets at end of period $ 190,534 $ 178,375 $ 173,123
Schedule of weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations	The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations are as follows: December 31, 2017 2016 Discount rate 3.45 % 3.90 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A
Schedule of components of net periodic benefit cost and amounts recognized in other comprehensive income (loss)	The following table sets forth the components of net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income (loss): Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Net periodic benefit cost: Service cost $ 1,700 $ 2,400 $ 2,000 Interest cost 8,283 8,901 9,116 Expected return on plan assets (12,831 ) (12,490 ) (13,438 ) Amortization of net actuarial loss 865 931 879 Total net periodic benefit $ (1,983 ) $ (258 ) $ (1,443 ) Other comprehensive income: Current year actuarial gain $ 1,136 $ 4,881 $ 1,934 Recognized net actuarial loss 865 931 879 Total other comprehensive gain $ 2,001 $ 5,812 $ 2,813
Schedule of weighted average assumptions used to determine net costs	The weighted average assumptions used to determine net costs are as follows: Year Ended December 31, 2017 2016 2015 Discount rate 3.90 % 4.10 % 3.80 % Rate of compensation increase N/A N/A N/A Expected return on plan assets 7.25 % 7.25 % 7.25 % Corridor 10.00 % 10.00 % 10.00 % Average future life expectancy (in years) 26.33 27.79 29.39
Schedule of fair value of plan assets	The following table presents the categories of our plan assets and the related levels of inputs in the fair value hierarchy used to determine the fair value, as defined in Note 2 (c): Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) ASSET CATEGORY: Equity Securities: Large-Cap Disciplined Equity (a) $ 27,765 $ 27,765 $ — $ — Small/Mid-Cap Equity (a) 3,433 3,433 — — International Equity (b) 24,383 24,383 — — Fixed Income: Long Duration Fixed Income (c) 95,650 95,650 — — High Yield (d) 8,559 8,559 — — Emerging Markets Debt (e) 5,001 5,001 — — Alternatives: Other Investments (g) (h) 25,743 — — — Fair Value of Plan Assets $ 190,534 $ 164,791 $ — $ — Fair Value Measurements as of December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) Total Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2) Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) ASSET CATEGORY: Equity Securities: Large-Cap Disciplined Equity (a) $ 32,365 $ 32,365 $ — $ — Small/Mid-Cap Equity (a) 5,425 5,425 — — International Equity (b) 22,598 22,598 — — Fixed Income: Long Duration Fixed Income (c) 69,583 69,583 — — High Yield (d) 8,918 8,918 — — Emerging Markets Debt (e) 6,360 6,360 — — Alternatives: Hedge Fund of Funds (f) 9,967 — — 9,967 Other Investments (g) (h) 23,159 — — — Fair Value of Plan Assets $ 178,375 $ 145,249 $ — $ 9,967 ________________________________________ (a) These categories are comprised of mutual funds actively traded on the registered exchanges or over the counter markets. The mutual funds are invested in equity securities of U.S. issuers. (b) This category consists of mutual funds invested primarily in equity securities (common stocks, securities that are convertible into common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants and rights to subscribe to common stocks) of non-U.S. issuers purchased in foreign markets. The mutual funds are actively traded on U.S. or foreign registered exchanges, or the over-the-counter markets. (c) The assets are comprised of U.S. Treasury Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities ("U.S. Treasury STRIPS") and mutual funds which are actively traded on the registered exchanges. The mutual funds are invested primarily in high quality government and corporate fixed income securities, as well as synthetic instruments or derivatives having economic characteristics similar to fixed income securities. (d) The high yield portion of the fixed income portfolio consists of mutual funds invested primarily in fixed income securities that are rated below investment grade. The mutual funds are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (e) The emerging debt portion of the portfolio consists of mutual funds primarily invested in the debt securities of government, government-related and corporate issuers in emerging market countries and of entities organized to restructure outstanding debt of such issuers. The mutual funds are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (f) Hedge Fund of Funds consists primarily of investments in underlying hedge funds. Management of the hedge funds has the ability to choose and combine hedge funds in order to target the fund's return objectives. Individual hedge funds hold their assets primarily in investment funds and engage in investment strategies that include temporary or dedicated directional market exposures. (g) This category is comprised of investments in common collective trusts with the underlying assets invested in asset-backed securities, money market funds, corporate bonds and bank notes. The underlying assets are actively traded on the registered exchanges. (h) Common/collective trust investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share practical expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in this table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the total fair value of plan assets. The Company has participant redemptions restricted to the last business day of the quarter, with either a 65 or 90 day period redemption notice.
Schedule of rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using Level 3 inputs	The following table represents a rollforward of the December 31, 2017 and 2016 balances of our plan assets that are valued using Level 3 inputs: (Amounts in thousands) Hedge Fund of Funds Balance as of December 31, 2015 $ 9,987 Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date (20 ) Relating to assets sold during the period — Purchases, sales and settlements, net — Balance as of December 31, 2016 9,967 Actual return on plan assets: Relating to assets still held at the reporting date — Relating to assets sold during the period (9,967 ) Purchases, sales and settlements, net — Balance as of December 31, 2017 $ —
Summary of expected employer contributions and future benefit payments	The following table summarizes expected employer contributions and future benefit payments: (Amounts in thousands) Expected contributions to plan trusts 2018 $ 6,000 Total expected contributions $ 6,000 Expected benefit payments: 2018 $ 9,427 2019 9,960 2020 10,308 2021 10,702 2022 11,212 2023 through 2026 60,401 Total expected benefit payments $ 112,010

Earnings Per Common Share (Tabl

Earnings Per Common Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of calculation of earnings per common share	Earnings per common share for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 was calculated as follows: For the year ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts) 2017 2016 2015 Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders $ 273,816 $ 118,302 $ 154,690 Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic 86,802 92,349 93,580 Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock units 1,692 2,049 4,401 Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted 88,494 94,398 97,981 Earnings per share—basic $ 3.15 $ 1.28 $ 1.65 Earnings per share—diluted $ 3.09 $ 1.25 $ 1.58

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of future minimum obligations under non-cancellable operating leases	Future minimum obligations under non-cancelable operating leases, including site leases, as of December 31, 2017 , are summarized as follows: (Amounts in thousands) For the year ending December 31: 2018 $ 9,978 2019 9,657 2020 9,201 2021 8,036 2022 8,123 2023 and thereafter 134,390 $ 179,385

Business Segments (Tables)

Business Segments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Segment Financial Information, Net Income to Park EBITDA Reconciliation	The following table presents segment financial information and a reconciliation of net income to Park EBITDA. Park level expenses exclude all non-cash operating expenses, principally depreciation and amortization and all non-operating expenses. Year Ended December 31, (Amounts in thousands) 2017 2016 2015 Net income $ 313,026 $ 156,727 $ 192,855 Interest expense, net 99,010 81,872 75,903 Income tax expense 16,026 76,539 70,369 Depreciation and amortization 111,671 106,893 107,411 Corporate expenses 52,105 51,435 59,167 Stock-based compensation (22,697 ) 116,339 56,233 Non-operating park level expense, net: Loss on disposal of assets 3,959 1,968 9,882 Loss on debt extinguishment, net 37,116 2,935 6,557 Other expense, net 271 1,684 223 Park EBITDA $ 610,487 $ 596,392 $ 578,600
Schedule of Segment Information, Long-Lived Assets, Revenues and Income Before Income Taxes	The following information reflects our long-lived assets (which consists of property and equipment and intangible assets), revenues and income from continuing operations by domestic and foreign categories as of or for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : (Amounts in thousands) Domestic Foreign Total As of or for the year ended December 31, 2017 Long-lived assets $ 2,121,157 $ 98,635 $ 2,219,792 Revenues 1,240,018 119,056 1,359,074 Income before income taxes 301,322 27,730 329,052 As of or for the year ended December 31, 2016 Long-lived assets $ 2,111,839 $ 83,636 $ 2,195,475 Revenues 1,205,235 114,163 1,319,398 Income before income taxes 216,205 17,061 233,266 As of or for the year ended December 31, 2015 Long-lived assets $ 2,105,547 $ 79,283 $ 2,184,830 Revenues 1,144,917 119,021 1,263,938 Income before income taxes 238,416 24,808 263,224

Quarterly Financial Informati43

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Financial Information	Following is a summary of the unaudited interim results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2017 , 2016 and 2015 : Year Ended December 31, 2017 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 99,528 $ 422,372 $ 580,418 $ 256,756 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (57,548 ) 52,026 181,325 98,013 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.63 ) $ 0.60 $ 2.15 $ 1.16 Diluted (0.63 ) 0.59 2.11 1.14 Year Ended December 31, 2016 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 115,419 $ 407,066 $ 557,599 $ 239,314 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (46,935 ) 60,887 102,482 1,868 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.51 ) $ 0.65 $ 1.11 $ 0.02 Diluted (0.51 ) 0.64 1.09 0.02 Year Ended December 31, 2015 (Amounts in thousands) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter Total revenue $ 85,155 $ 386,065 $ 575,261 $ 217,457 Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders (70,326 ) 65,532 157,300 2,184 Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding: Basic $ (0.75 ) $ 0.69 $ 1.67 $ 0.02 Diluted (0.75 ) 0.67 1.64 0.02

Description of Business (Detail

Description of Business (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017park
Entity Location
Number of parks owned or operated	20
Period of operation of theme parks by the former SFEC under Six Flags name (in years)	40 years
Number of parks branded as "Six Flags" parks	17
United States
Entity Location
Number of parks owned or operated	17
Mexico
Entity Location
Number of parks owned or operated	2
Canada
Entity Location
Number of parks owned or operated	1

Summary of Significant Accoun45

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Cash Equivalents
Maximum remaining maturity period of highly liquid investments as of purchase date to be considered cash equivalents	3 months
Inventories
Valuation allowance for slow moving inventory	$ 300,000	$ 299,000
Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets
Spare parts inventory for existing rides and attractions included in prepaid expenses and other current assets	21,100,000	21,400,000
Advertising Costs
Prepaid advertising	1,900,000	1,800,000
Advertising and promotions expense	63,700,000	62,800,000	$ 62,782,000
Debt Issuance Costs
Amortization of debt issuance costs	4,061,000	4,503,000	4,518,000
Accounts Receivable, Net
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	4,200,000	3,000,000
Income Taxes
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance	113,509,000	92,272,000
Liability of accrued interest and penalties attributable to income taxes	0	0
New Accounting Pronouncements
Excess Tax Benefits	$ (13,757,000)	0	$ 0
New Accounting Pronouncement or Change in Accounting Principle, Cumulative Effect of Change on Equity or Net Assets		$ 98,657,000
Minimum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	20 years
Maximum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	25 years
Rides and attractions | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Rides and attractions | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	25 years
Land improvements | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years
Land improvements | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	15 years
Buildings and improvements
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	30 years
Furniture and Equipment | Minimum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	5 years
Furniture and Equipment | Maximum
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life	10 years

Property and Equipment (Details

Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 2,095,887	$ 1,968,565
Accumulated depreciation	(857,930)	(757,310)
Total property and equipment, net	1,237,957	1,211,255
Land
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	221,345	221,468
Land improvements
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	236,135	215,112
Buildings and improvements
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	295,124	279,052
Rides and attractions
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	1,059,720	985,406
Equipment and other
Summary of property and equipment
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 283,563	$ 267,527

Goodwill and Intangible Asset47

Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	$ 630,248	$ 630,248
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	344,075	344,075
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Accumulated Amortization	(19,584)	(17,135)
Net Carrying Value	7,512
Intangible assets, gross	371,171	371,107
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization	351,587	353,972
Amortization of Intangible Assets	2,465	$ 2,603	$ 2,623
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Maturity Schedule
2,018	2,445
2,019	2,439
2,020	1,051
2,021	59
2,022	59
2023 and thereafter	$ 1,459
Licensing Agreements
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period	2 years 6 months	3 years 6 months
Gross Carrying Value	$ 24,361	$ 24,461
Accumulated Amortization	(18,419)	(16,091)
Net Carrying Value	$ 5,942	$ 8,370
Other Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Remaining Amortization Period	30 years	30 years 7 months 6 days
Gross Carrying Value	$ 2,735	$ 2,571
Accumulated Amortization	(1,165)	(1,044)
Net Carrying Value	$ 1,570	$ 1,527

Noncontrolling Interests, Par48

Noncontrolling Interests, Partnership and Joint Ventures (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value	$ 494,400
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning	485,876	$ 435,721
Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units	(32)	(36)
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	(128)	(223)	$ (1,552)
Change in redemption value of partnership units	8,715	50,414
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	39,210	38,425
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest	(39,210)	(38,425)	(38,165)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending	494,431	485,876	435,721
Six Flags over Georgia
Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value	266,800
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning	258,256	208,101
Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units	0	(36)
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	0	(223)
Change in redemption value of partnership units	8,582	50,414
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	19,509	19,113
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest	(19,509)	(19,113)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending	266,838	258,256	208,101
Six Flags over Texas
Noncontrolling Interest
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value	227,600
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, beginning	227,620	227,620
Fresh start accounting fair market value adjustment for purchased units	(32)	0
Payments for Repurchase of Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest	(128)	0
Change in redemption value of partnership units	133	0
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	19,701	19,312
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest	(19,701)	(19,312)
Redeemable noncontrolling interests, ending	$ 227,593	$ 227,620	$ 227,620

Derivative Financial Instrume49

Derivative Financial Instruments (Details)	Jun. 21, 2017	Dec. 23, 2013	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2014USD ($)
Interest Rate Swap
Derivatives
Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held						3
Derivative, Notional Amount						$ 200,000,000
Derivative Liability, Current			$ 0	$ 900,000
Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net			(100,000)	0	$ 0
Gain / (Loss) Recognized in AOCI (Effective Portion)			57,000	(944,000)	(2,671,000)
Loss Reclassified from AOCI into Operations (Effective Portion)			(769,000)	(1,716,000)	(1,799,000)
Gain / (Loss) Recognized in Operations on Derivatives (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)			30,000	$ (45,000)	$ 0
Loss to be reclassified from AOCI to operations during the next twelve months			$ 0
Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2017
Derivatives
Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis	LIBOR	LIBOR
Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis Floor	0.75%

Long-Term Indebtedness (Details

Long-Term Indebtedness (Details) - USD ($)

Oct. 15, 2017

Jun. 21, 2017

Apr. 13, 2017

Jan. 31, 2017

Dec. 20, 2016

Jun. 16, 2016

Dec. 23, 2013

Jul. 15, 2013

Dec. 21, 2012

Dec. 20, 2011

Dec. 31, 2017

Dec. 31, 2016

Dec. 31, 2015

Jun. 30, 2015

Apr. 30, 2014

Nov. 05, 2007

Summary of Long-term debt

Cash used to retire debt

$ 15,000,000

Debt issuance costs

$ 37,336,000

$ 6,278,000

$ 11,916,000

Loss on debt extinguishment

37,116,000

2,935,000

$ 6,557,000

Long-term debt, gross

2,044,750,000

Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current

0

3,926,000

Interest Rate Swap

Summary of Long-term debt

Derivative, Notional Amount

$ 200,000,000

Credit Facility Amendment 2013

Summary of Long-term debt

Excess Cash Available for General Corporate Purposes

$ 200,000,000

Credit Facility Amendment 2016 June

Summary of Long-term debt

Loss on debt extinguishment

$ 2,400,000

Credit Facility Amendment 2016 December

Summary of Long-term debt

Loss on debt extinguishment

$ 500,000

Credit Facility 2011

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 1,135,000,000

Credit Facility 2011 - Revolving Loan

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Term

5 years

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

$ 200,000,000

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loans

Summary of Long-term debt

Proceeds utilized for repayment of existing debt

935,000,000

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan A

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 75,000,000

Debt Instrument, Term

5 years

Repayment of debt

$ 72,200,000

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 860,000,000

Debt Instrument, Term

7 years

Line of Credit Facility, Additional Contingent Borrowing Capacity

$ 300,000,000

Repayment of debt

$ 277,800,000

Spread over variable rate (as a percent)

3.00%

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis Floor

1.00%

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B | Credit Facility Amendment 2012

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B, As Amended 2013

Summary of Long-term debt

Spread over variable rate (as a percent)

2.75%

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis Floor

0.75%

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B, As Amended 2013 | Credit Facility Amendment 2013

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.50%

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B, As Amended 2013 | Credit Facility Amendment 2013 | Variable Rate Basis Spread

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Credit Facility 2011 - Term Loan B, As Amended 2013 | Credit Facility Amendment 2013 | LIBOR

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Old Debt - First Lien Amendment

Summary of Long-term debt

Repayment of debt

$ 950,000,000

Amended and Restated Revolving Loan

Summary of Long-term debt

Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity

$ 250,000,000

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

Long-term Line of Credit

0

0

Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount

$ 18,700,000

$ 19,700,000

Frequency of periodic payment of interest

annual

Commitment fee (as a percent)

0.375%

0.375%

Amended and Restated Term Loan B

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

700,000,000

Line of Credit Facility, Additional Contingent Borrowing Capacity

$ 350,000,000

$ 350,000,000

Repayment of debt

$ 150,000,000

Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment

$ 1,800,000

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2016

Summary of Long-term debt

Spread over variable rate (as a percent)

2.50%

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

Debt issuance costs

$ 1,000,000

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2016 | Credit Facility Amendment 2016 June | Variable Rate Basis Spread

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended December 2016

Summary of Long-term debt

Spread over variable rate (as a percent)

2.25%

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

3.16%

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended December 2016 | Credit Facility Amendment 2016 December | Variable Rate Basis Spread

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2017

Summary of Long-term debt

Spread over variable rate (as a percent)

2.00%

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis

LIBOR

LIBOR

Interest Rate, Variable Rate Basis Floor

0.75%

Debt issuance costs

$ 500,000

Loss on debt extinguishment

$ 200,000

Frequency of periodic payment of interest

annual

Long-term debt, gross

$ 544,750,000

$ 544,750,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage

3.36%

Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2017 | Credit Facility Amendment 2017 | Variable Rate Basis Spread

Summary of Long-term debt

Reduction in interest rate (as a percent)

0.25%

Senior Unsecured 2021 Notes

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 800,000,000

Proceeds utilized for repayment of existing debt

350,000,000

Remaining proceeds utilized for share repurchases and other corporate matters

$ 450,000,000

Loss on debt extinguishment

$ 36,900,000

Frequency of periodic payment of interest

semi-annually

Long-term debt, gross

$ 0

800,000,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

5.25%

Periodic payment of interest

$ 22,300,000

$ 21,000,000

Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 300,000,000

Repayment of debt

150,000,000

Debt issuance costs

$ 4,700,000

Frequency of periodic payment of interest

semi-annually

Long-term debt, gross

1,000,000,000

300,000,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

4.875%

Periodic payment of interest

24,400,000

$ 9,100,000

Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes Add-on

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

700,000,000

Debt issuance costs

$ 3,900,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

4.875%

Senior Unsecured 2027 Notes

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 500,000,000

Debt issuance costs

$ 2,600,000

Frequency of periodic payment of interest

semi-annually

Long-term debt, gross

500,000,000

0

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

5.50%

Periodic payment of interest

$ 13,900,000

$ 13,800,000

HWP Refinance Loan

Summary of Long-term debt

Debt Instrument, Face Amount

$ 33,000,000

Long-term debt, gross

$ 0

29,161,000

Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage

6.72%

Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current

$ 3,900,000

Long-Term Indebtedness (Detai51

Long-Term Indebtedness (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	$ 2,044,750
Net discount	(8,137)	$ (2,192)
Deferred financing costs	(2,991)	(4,188)
Long-term debt	2,021,178	1,653,647
Less current portion	0	(29,161)
Long-term debt, net	2,021,178	1,624,486
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
2,018	0
2,019	0
2,020	0
2,021	0
2,022	544,750
2023 and thereafter	1,500,000
Long-term debt, gross	2,044,750
Amended and Restated Term Loan B, As Amended June 2017
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	544,750	544,750
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
Long-term debt, gross	544,750	544,750
Senior Unsecured 2027 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	500,000	0
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
Long-term debt, gross	500,000	0
Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	1,000,000	300,000
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
Long-term debt, gross	1,000,000	300,000
Senior Unsecured 2021 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	0	800,000
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
Long-term debt, gross	0	800,000
HWP Refinance Loan
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt, gross	0	29,161
Annual maturities of long-term debt, assuming no acceleration of maturities
Long-term debt, gross	0	29,161
Amended and Restated Term Loan B, 2024 Notes, 2027 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Deferred financing costs	$ (15,435)	$ (18,072)

Selling, General and Administ52

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expense	$ 158,498	$ 291,794	$ 234,810
Stock-based compensation	(22,697)	116,339	56,233
Park
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expense	129,090	124,019	119,411
Corporate
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expense	$ 29,408	$ 167,775	$ 115,399

Stock Benefit Plans (Details)

Stock Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended				3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2017	Feb. 29, 2016	May 31, 2015	Feb. 28, 2015	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2017
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation							$ (22,697,000)	$ 116,339,000	$ 56,233,000
Long Term Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Number of additional shares authorized	4,000,000		5,000,000
Stock-based compensation							$ (23,025,000)	$ 116,028,000	$ 55,862,000
Shares available for future grant (in shares)												5,498,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Options to purchase common stock outstanding (in shares)							5,679,000	5,679,000				5,185,000
Award vesting period							4 years
Expiration period							10 years
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding
Options outstanding at the beginning of the period (in shares)							5,679,000
Granted (in shares)							1,869,000	1,324,000	1,190,000
Exercised (in shares)							(1,864,000)
Canceled or exchanged (in shares)							(4,000)
Forfeited (in shares)							(495,000)
Options outstanding at the end of the period (in shares)							5,185,000	5,679,000
Vested and expected to vest at the end of the period (in shares)												4,972,000
Options exercisable at end of the period (in shares)												1,907,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, Weighted average exercise price at the beginning of the period (in dollars per share)							$ 36.63
Grants in period, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)							55.68
Exercised, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)							32.50
Canceled or exchanged, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)							34.98
Forfeited, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)							49.25
Outstanding, Weighted average exercise price at the end of the period (in dollars per share)							$ 43.78	$ 36.63
Vested and expected to vest, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)												$ 43.45
Options exercisable at period end, Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)												$ 31.78
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term
Balance at the end of the period, Weighted average remaining contractual term							7 years 6 months 25 days
Vested and expected to vest at the end of the period, Weighted average remaining contractual term							7 years 6 months 3 days
Options exercisable at the end of the period. Weighted average remaining contractual term							5 years 7 months 21 days
Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Options, Intrinsic Value
Balance at the end of the period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value												$ 118,178,000
Vested and expected to vest at the end of the period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value												114,964,000
Options exercisable at the end of the period, Aggregate Intrinsic Value												66,343,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Weighted average grant date fair value of options granted							$ 6.26	$ 5.84	$ 6.14
Total intrinsic value of options exercised							$ 52,955,000	$ 37,847,000	$ 51,059,000
Total fair value of options that have vested							8,436,000	10,701,000	13,897,000
Total cash received from the exercise of stock options							$ 60,583,000	$ 34,680,000	$ 39,018,000
Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized												11,600,000
Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition							3 years 1 month 6 days
Long Term Incentive Plan | Stock Options | Chief Executive Officer
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Weighted Avergae Fair Value Assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (percent)							1.64%	1.05%	1.80%
Expected life (in years)							3 years 10 months 6 days	3 years 10 months 6 days	6 years 3 months
Expected volatility (percent)							21.89%	24.30%	36.04%
Expected dividend yield (percent)							4.22%	4.47%	4.28%
Long Term Incentive Plan | Stock Options | Key Employees
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Weighted Avergae Fair Value Assumptions
Risk-free interest rate (percent)							1.56%	1.00%	1.13%
Expected life (in years)							3 years 10 months 6 days	3 years 10 months 6 days	3 years 10 months 28 days
Expected volatility (percent)							22.70%	23.17%	24.85%
Expected dividend yield (percent)							4.42%	4.15%	4.46%
Long Term Incentive Plan | 2015 Performance Award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation								$ (1,600,000)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Modified EBITDA for Additional Performance Award											$ 500,000,000
Shares Issued in Period		1,314,000		1,511,100
Long Term Incentive Plan | 2017 Performance Award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation							$ 62,512,000	102,447,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized												24,400,000
Modified EBITDA for Additional Performance Award							601,100,000			$ 600,000,000
Modified EBITDA For Additional Performance Award Target Increase							1,100,000
Cumulative Adjustment to Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense					$ 45,000,000	$ 27,900,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | 2017 Performance Award, Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation							54,877,000	91,408,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Potential Grants Based on Performance Criteria										2,300,000
Cumulative Adjustment to Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense							66,700,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | 2017 Performance Award, Dividend Equivalents
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation							7,635,000	$ 11,039,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Cumulative Adjustment to Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense							6,200,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | 2020 Performance Award
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized												59,900,000
Modified EBITDA for Additional Performance Award							$ 750,000,000
Potential Grants Based on Performance Criteria							900,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized												300,000
Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition							4 months 2 days
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Non-vested balance at the beginning of the period							10,000
Granted (in shares)							12,000
Vested (in shares)							10,000
Forfeited (in shares)							0
Non-vested balance at the end of the period							12,000	10,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested balance at the beginning of the period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							$ 58.46
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							61.74	$ 51.46	$ 46.31
Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							58.46
Forfeited, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							0
Non-vested balance at the end of the period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							61.74	58.46
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures
Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards granted							$ 61.74	$ 51.46	$ 46.31
Total grant date fair value of stock awards granted							$ 750,000	$ 68,207,000	$ 70,654,000
Total fair value of stock awards that have vested							$ 560,000	$ 68,341,000	$ 70,635,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | Deferred Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures
Compensation Cost Not Yet Recognized												$ 0
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares
Granted (in shares)							3,000	3,000	3,000
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Granted, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share)							$ 56.32	$ 54.16	$ 46.60
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures
Weighted average grant date fair value of stock awards granted							$ 56.32	$ 54.16	$ 46.60
Total grant date fair value of stock awards granted							$ 200,000	$ 159,000	$ 100,000
Number of Shares to be Issued for each Award												1
Period after which Shares are to be Delivered							30 days

Stock Benefit Plans (Details 2)

Stock Benefit Plans (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Feb. 08, 2012
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation	$ (22,697)	$ 116,339	$ 56,233
Long Term Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation	$ (23,025)	$ 116,028	$ 55,862
Shares available for future grant (in shares)	5,498,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Unvested stock options outstanding (in shares)				10,000,000
Dividend Equivalent Rights Threshold for Accumulated Accrued Dividend Distribution To Receive Cash Dividends	1,000
Dividend Equivalent Rights Threshold for Accumulated Accrued Dividend Distribution To Receive Stock Dividends	1,000
Granted (in shares)	1,869,000	1,324,000	1,190,000
Long Term Incentive Plan | Dividend Equivalent Rights
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation	$ 4,200	$ 5,100	$ 4,500
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Stock-based compensation	$ 328	$ 311	$ 371
Percentage of the market value of common stock at beginning or end of the offering period for shares eligible to be purchased	90.00%
Number of shares of common stock that may be issued under the Plan	2,000,000

Fair Value of Financial Instr55

Fair Value of Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Reported Value Measurement
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Restricted-use investment securities	$ 0	$ 3,926
Interest Rate Swap Agreements	0	(871)
Long-term debt (including current portion)	(2,021,178)	(1,653,647)
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Restricted-use investment securities	0	3,926
Interest Rate Swap Agreements	0	(871)
Long-term debt (including current portion)	$ (2,057,083)	$ (1,679,525)

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	May 01, 2010	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Income Before Income Taxes
Income before Income Taxes, Domestic		$ 301,322	$ 216,205	$ 238,416
Income before Income Taxes, Foreign		27,730	17,061	24,808
Total Income before Income Taxes		329,052	233,266	263,224
Current Income Tax Expense
U.S. Federal Current Income Tax Benefit		(72)	(41)	(119)
Foreign Current Income Tax Expense		11,840	6,206	9,656
State and Local Current Income Tax Expense		5,829	7,088	6,336
Total Current Income Tax Expense		17,597	13,253	15,873
Deferred Income Tax Expense
U.S. Federal Deferred Income Tax (Benefit) Expense		(6,774)	57,950	61,583
Foreign Deferred Income Tax Benefit		(2,231)	(427)	(2,399)
State and Local Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)		7,434	5,763	(4,688)
Total Deferred Income Tax (Benefit) Expense		(1,571)	63,286	54,496
Total Income Tax Expense
U.S. Federal Income Tax (Benefit) Expense		(6,846)	57,909	61,464
Foreign Income Tax Expense		9,609	5,779	7,257
State and Local Income Tax Expense		13,263	12,851	1,648
Total Income Tax Expense		$ 16,026	76,539	70,369
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation
U.S. federal income tax rate (as a percent)		35.00%
Computed "expected" federal income tax expense (benefit)		$ 115,168	81,643	92,128
Effect of noncontrolling interest income distribution		(13,724)	(13,449)	(13,358)
Change in valuation allowance		413	648	896
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount		10,767	8,353	1,072
Excess Tax Benefits		(13,757)	0	0
Nondeductible compensation		2,201	2,127	435
Effect of foreign income taxes		2,367	380	741
Effect of foreign earnings earned and remitted in the same year		4,402	6,000	5,155
Effect of foreign tax credits		(5,357)	(9,405)	(4,432)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount		0	0	(9,603)
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount		(84,599)	0	0
Other, net		(1,855)	242	(2,665)
Total Income Tax Expense		16,026	$ 76,539	$ 70,369
Net operating loss carryforwards disclosure
Reduction in net operating loss as a result of emergence from chapter 11	$ 804,800
Estimated annual limitation		32,500
Estimated built in gains		$ 696,000
Minimum
Summary of property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		20 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Tax		7 years
Maximum
Summary of property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life		25 years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Tax		12 years

Income Taxes (Details 2)

Income Taxes (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Deferred Tax Assets:
Federal net operating loss carryforwards	$ 49,543	$ 40,352
State net operating loss carryforwards	119,837	96,356
Deferred Compensation	21,464	50,067
Foreign tax credits	52,152	46,795
Alternative minimum tax credits	6,591	6,591
Accrued insurance, pension liability and other	46,545	72,188
Total deferred tax asset	296,132	312,349
Less: Valuation allowance	113,509	92,272
Net deferred tax assets	182,623	220,077
Deferred Tax Liabilities:
Property and equipment	200,008	294,050
Intangible assets and other	89,466	125,307
Total deferred tax liabilities	289,474	419,357
Net Deferred Tax Liability	106,851	199,280
Details of net operating loss carryforwards
Unrecognized tax benefit	25,700	$ 44,600
U.S. Federal
Details of net operating loss carryforwards
Net operating loss carryforwards	300,000
State
Details of net operating loss carryforwards
Net operating loss carryforwards	$ 5,600,000

Preferred Stock, Common Stock58

Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Details) - USD ($)	Nov. 20, 2013	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Feb. 15, 2018	Apr. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Aug. 31, 2016	Mar. 30, 2017	Jun. 07, 2016
Common Stock
Number of authorized shares of common stock		140,000,000				140,000,000										140,000,000	140,000,000
Number of shares outstanding		84,488,433				90,849,428										84,488,433	90,849,428
Stock repurchase program
Value of shares repurchased																$ 499,442,000	$ 211,751,000	$ 245,114,000
Cash dividends per share of common stock paid		$ 0.7	$ 0.64	$ 0.64	$ 0.64	$ 0.64	$ 0.58	$ 0.58	$ 0.58	$ 0.58	$ 0.52	$ 0.52	$ 0.52
Preferred Stock
Number of authorized shares of preferred stock		5,000,000														5,000,000
November 2013 Stock Repurchase Plan
Stock repurchase program
Amount of shares authorized to be repurchased under Stock Repurchase Program	$ 500,000,000
Period over which shares are authorized to be repurchased (in years)	4 years
Aggregate shares repurchased																			11,428,000
Value of shares repurchased																			$ 500,000,000
Average price (in dollars per share)																			$ 43.75
June 2016 Stock Repurchase Plan
Stock repurchase program
Amount of shares authorized to be repurchased under Stock Repurchase Program																					$ 500,000,000
Aggregate shares repurchased															8,392,000
Value of shares repurchased															$ 500,000,000
Average price (in dollars per share)															$ 59.58
March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan
Stock repurchase program
Amount of shares authorized to be repurchased under Stock Repurchase Program																				$ 500,000,000
March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan | Subsequent Event
Stock repurchase program
Aggregate shares repurchased														2,775,000
Value of shares repurchased														$ 157,200,000
Average price (in dollars per share)														$ 56.65
Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount														$ 342,800,000
Long Term Incentive Plan
Common Stock
Shares available for future grant (in shares)		5,498,000														5,498,000
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Common Stock
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), Shares in ESOP		1,739,000														1,739,000

Preferred Stock, Common Stock59

Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period	$ (67,184)	$ (66,558)	$ (59,629)
Net current period change	2,207	(2,240)	(8,520)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	1,096	1,614	1,591
Balance at the end of the period	(63,881)	(67,184)	(66,558)
Currency Translation Adjustment
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period	(31,942)	(24,800)	(12,198)
Net current period change	3,120	(7,142)	(12,602)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	0	0	0
Balance at the end of the period	(28,822)	(31,942)	(24,800)
Cash Flow Hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period	(826)	(1,598)	(726)
Net current period change	57	(944)	(2,671)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	769	1,716	1,799
Balance at the end of the period	0	(826)	(1,598)
Defined Benefit Plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period	(43,960)	(49,772)	(52,585)
Net current period change	1,136	4,881	1,934
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	865	931	879
Balance at the end of the period	(41,959)	(43,960)	(49,772)
Income Taxes
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Balance at the beginning of the period	9,544	9,612	5,880
Net current period change	(2,106)	965	4,819
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(538)	(1,033)	(1,087)
Balance at the end of the period	$ 6,900	$ 9,544	$ 9,612

Preferred Stock, Common Stock60

Preferred Stock, Common Stock and Other Stockholders' Equity (Deficit) (Details 3) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Interest expense	$ 99,766	$ 82,377	$ 76,205
Income tax expense	16,026	76,539	70,369
Total reclassifications, net of tax	313,026	156,727	192,855
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Total reclassifications, net of tax	1,096	1,614	1,591
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Interest expense	769	1,716	1,799
Income tax expense	(279)	(669)	(761)
Total reclassifications, net of tax	490	1,047	1,038
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Operating expenses	865	931	879
Income tax expense	(259)	(364)	(326)
Total reclassifications, net of tax	$ 606	$ 567	$ 553

Pension Benefits (Details)

Pension Benefits (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)bond	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Change in benefit obligation:
Benefit obligation at beginning of period	$ 216,571	$ 223,389	$ 246,653
Interest cost	8,283	8,901	9,116
Actuarial (gain) loss	11,402	(828)	(17,869)
Benefits paid	(17,510)	(14,891)	(14,511)
Benefit obligation at end of period	218,746	216,571	223,389
Change in fair value of plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	178,375	173,123	186,131
Actual return on assets	25,240	15,949	(2,767)
Employer contributions	6,000	6,000	6,000
Administrative fees	(1,571)	(1,806)	(1,730)
Benefits paid	(17,510)	(14,891)	(14,511)
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	190,534	178,375	173,123
Reconciliation of benefit plan funded status to the amounts recognized in the entity's consolidated balance sheets
Fair value of plan assets	178,375	173,123	186,131	$ 190,534	$ 178,375
Benefit obligation	(216,571)	(223,389)	(246,653)	(218,746)	(216,571)
Funded status (deficit)				$ (28,200)	$ (38,200)
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations
Discount rate (as a percent)				3.45%	3.90%
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	1,700	2,400	2,000
Interest cost	8,283	8,901	9,116
Expected return on plan assets	(12,831)	(12,490)	(13,438)
Amortization of net actuarial loss	865	931	879
Total net periodic benefit cost	(1,983)	(258)	(1,443)
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Current year actuarial (loss) gain	1,136	4,881	1,934
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Defined Benefit Plan, Gain (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Tax	865	931	879
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	$ 2,001	$ 5,812	$ 2,813
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Defined Benefit Plan, after Tax				$ 42,200	$ 43,600
DefinedBenefitPlanAccumulatedOtherComprehensiveIncomeTax				300	$ (300)
Estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into net periodic benefit cost
Estimated amount to be amortized from AOCI				$ 800
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net costs
Discount rate (as a percent)	3.90%	4.10%	3.80%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Expected Long-term Rate of Return on Plan Assets	7.25%	7.25%	7.25%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Corridor	10.00%	10.00%	10.00%
Defined Benefit Plan, Assumptions Used Calculating Net Periodic Benefit Cost, Average Life Expectancy	26 years 4 months	27 years 9 months 15 days	29.39
Number of a high grade bonds considered when selecting discount rate | bond				500
SFTP Benefit Plan
Pension Benefits
Normal retirement age (in years)	65 years
Early retirement age, low end of range (in years)	55 years
Early retirement age, high end of range (in years)	64 years
Attainment of credited service (in years)	10 years
Threshold age for reduction in early retirement benefit (in years)	62 years
Number of highest consecutive period of average compensation, used in plan benefit calculation (in years)	5 years
Period of average compensation, used in plan benefit calculation (in years)	10 years

Pension Benefits (Details 2)

Pension Benefits (Details 2) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2014
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	$ 178,375	$ 173,123	$ 190,534	$ 186,131
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	178,375	173,123
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	190,534	178,375
Estimated Future Employer Contributions
2,018			6,000
Expected benefit payments:
2,018			9,427
2,019			9,960
2,020			10,308
2,021			10,702
2,022			11,212
2023 through 2026			60,401
Total expected benefit payments			112,010
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	145,249	145,249	164,791
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	145,249
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	164,791	145,249
Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	9,967	9,967	$ 0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	9,967
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	9,967
Domestic equity securities
Pension plan
Target allocation (as a percent)			13.00%
Fixed income securities
Pension plan
Target allocation (as a percent)			57.00%
International equity
Pension plan
Target allocation (as a percent)			13.00%
Assets measured at fair value	22,598	22,598	$ 24,383
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	22,598
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	24,383	22,598
International equity | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	22,598	22,598	24,383
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	22,598
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	24,383	22,598
International equity | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
International equity | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	$ 0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Alternatives
Pension plan
Target allocation (as a percent)			17.00%
Large-Cap Disciplined Equity
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	32,365	32,365	$ 27,765
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	32,365
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	27,765	32,365
Large-Cap Disciplined Equity | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	32,365	32,365	27,765
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	32,365
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	27,765	32,365
Large-Cap Disciplined Equity | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Large-Cap Disciplined Equity | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Small/Mid-Cap Equity
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	5,425	5,425	3,433
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	5,425
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	3,433	5,425
Small/Mid-Cap Equity | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	5,425	5,425	3,433
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	5,425
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	3,433	5,425
Small/Mid-Cap Equity | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Small/Mid-Cap Equity | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Long Duration Fixed Income
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	69,583	69,583	95,650
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	69,583
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	95,650	69,583
Long Duration Fixed Income | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	69,583	69,583	95,650
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	69,583
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	95,650	69,583
Long Duration Fixed Income | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Long Duration Fixed Income | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
High Yield
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	8,918	8,918	8,559
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	8,918
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	8,559	8,918
High Yield | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	8,918	8,918	8,559
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	8,918
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	8,559	8,918
High Yield | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
High Yield | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Emerging Markets Debt
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	6,360	6,360	5,001
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	6,360
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	5,001	6,360
Emerging Markets Debt | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	6,360	6,360	5,001
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	6,360
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	5,001	6,360
Emerging Markets Debt | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Emerging Markets Debt | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Hedge Fund of Funds
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	9,967	9,967
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	9,967
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period		9,967
Hedge Fund of Funds | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period		0
Hedge Fund of Funds | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period		0
Hedge Fund of Funds | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	9,967	9,987	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	9,967	9,987
Actual return on plan assets:
Relating to assets still held at the reporting date	0	(20)
Relating to assets sold during the period	(9,967)	0
Purchases, sales and settlements, net	0	0
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	9,967
Other Investments
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	23,159	23,159	25,743
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	23,159
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	25,743	23,159
Other Investments | Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Other Investments | Significant Observable Inputs (Level 2)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	0	0
Other Investments | Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)
Pension plan
Assets measured at fair value	0	0	$ 0
Rollforward of the balances of plan assets that are valued using level 3 inputs (in thousands)
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of period	0
Actual return on plan assets:
Fair value of plan assets at end of period	$ 0	$ 0

Earnings Per Common Share (Deta

Earnings Per Common Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Calculation of earnings per common share
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders	$ 98,013	$ 181,325	$ 52,026	$ (57,548)	$ 1,868	$ 102,482	$ 60,887	$ (46,935)	$ 2,184	$ 157,300	$ 65,532	$ (70,326)	$ 273,816	$ 118,302	$ 154,690
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—basic													86,802	92,349	93,580
Effect of dilutive stock options and restricted stock units													1,692	2,049	4,401
Weighted-average common shares outstanding—diluted													88,494	94,398	97,981
Earnings per share - basic (usd per share)	$ 1.16	$ 2.15	$ 0.60	$ (0.63)	$ 0.02	$ 1.11	$ 0.65	$ (0.51)	$ 0.02	$ 1.67	$ 0.69	$ (0.75)	$ 3.15	$ 1.28	$ 1.65
Earnings per share - diluted (usd per share)	$ 1.14	$ 2.11	$ 0.59	$ (0.63)	$ 0.02	$ 1.09	$ 0.64	$ (0.51)	$ 0.02	$ 1.64	$ 0.67	$ (0.75)	$ 3.09	$ 1.25	$ 1.58
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of diluted earnings per share (in shares)													400	400	200

Commitments and Contingencies64

Commitments and Contingencies (Details)	Apr. 01, 1998USD ($)	May 31, 2016USD ($)shares	May 31, 2015USD ($)shares	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)multiplier	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 20, 2011USD ($)
Details of Commitments and Contingencies, Partnership Parks
Acquisition of capital stock of the former Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, paid in cash	$ 976,000,000
Percentage of capital expenditures to Partnership Parks' revenues					6.00%
Weighted average period of the park's EBITDA for calculation of value of purchase price (in years)					4 years
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value					$ 494,400,000
Capital expenditures incurred on parks					24,700,000
Cash generated from operating activities by partnerships, after deduction of capital expenditures and excluding the impact of short-term intercompany advances					77,300,000
Total loans receivable from the partnerships that own partnership parks					239,300,000	$ 239,300,000
Operating Leases
Rental expense under the rent agreements					5,900,000	5,100,000	$ 5,100,000
Total rental expense from continuing operations					16,100,000	$ 12,900,000	$ 11,900,000
Future minimum obligations under non-cancellable operating leases
2,018					9,978,000
2,019					9,657,000
2,020					9,201,000
2,021					8,036,000
2,022					8,123,000
2023 and thereafter					134,390,000
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due					$ 179,385,000
Scenario, Forecast
Details of Commitments and Contingencies, Partnership Parks
Annual distributions by general partners to limited partners in partnership parks				$ 71,100,000
Share of Partnership Parks' annual distributions paid to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation				31,100,000
Estimated capital expenditures on partnership parks in the next fiscal year				$ 15,600,000
Amended and Restated Term Loan B
Details of Commitments and Contingencies, Partnership Parks
Line of Credit Facility, Additional Contingent Borrowing Capacity								$ 350,000,000	$ 350,000,000
Six Flags over Georgia
Details of Commitments and Contingencies, Partnership Parks
Specified multiple for purchase price valuation (in multipliers) | multiplier					8
Specified price for purchase of partnership parks					$ 387,000,000
Limited partner interests owned (as a percent)					31.00%
Units purchased in partnership parks (in shares) | shares			0.0650
Units purchased pursuant to annual offer			$ 200,000
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value					$ 266,800,000
Remaining redeemable units (as a percent)					69.00%
Six Flags over Texas
Details of Commitments and Contingencies, Partnership Parks
Specified multiple for purchase price valuation (in multipliers) | multiplier					8.5
Specified price for purchase of partnership parks					$ 485,200,000
Limited partner interests owned (as a percent)					53.10%
Units purchased in partnership parks (in shares) | shares		0.0708
Units purchased pursuant to annual offer		$ 100,000
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Redemption Value					$ 227,600,000
Remaining redeemable units (as a percent)					46.90%

Commitments and Contingencies65

Commitments and Contingencies (Details 2)	Nov. 20, 2013USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)individual
Multi-layered general liability policies
Insurance
Excess liability coverage per occurrence			$ 100,000,000
Self-insured retention per occurrence			2,000,000
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year			500,000
Workers' compensation claims
Insurance
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year			750,000
Information security and privacy liability insurance policy
Insurance
Self-insured retention per occurrence			250,000
Insurance value maintained			$ 10,000,000
Personal Injury Due to SFOG Altercation
Litigation
Numbers of individuals who allegedly participated in the altercation | individual			4
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value	$ 35,000,000
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Percentage Allocated	92.00%
Self Insurance Reserve			$ 2,500,000
Personal Injury Due to SFDK Accident
Litigation
Self Insurance Reserve			2,500,000
Personal Injury Due to Six Flags Great America Accident
Litigation
Loss Contingency, Damages Awarded, Value	$ 1,500,000
November 16, 2001 - November 15, 2002 | Multi-layered general liability policies
Insurance
Self-insured retention per occurrence			1,000,000
November 16, 2001 - November 15, 2003 | Workers' compensation claims
Insurance
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year			500,000
November 16, 2002 - November 15, 2003 | Multi-layered general liability policies
Insurance
Self-insured retention per occurrence			2,000,000
November 16, 2003 - December 30, 2008 | Multi-layered general liability policies
Insurance
Self-insured retention per occurrence			2,500,000
November 2, 2004 - December 30, 2008 | Multi-layered general liability policies
Insurance
Additional one time self-insured retention			$ 500,000
Scenario, Forecast
Insurance
Planned Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment, Percent of Revenue		9.00%

Business Segments (Details)

Business Segments (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)segment	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | segment	1
Net income	$ 313,026	$ 156,727	$ 192,855
Interest expense, net	99,010	81,872	75,903
Income tax expense	16,026	76,539	70,369
Depreciation and amortization	(111,671)	(106,893)	(107,411)
Corporate expenses	52,105	51,435	59,167
Stock-based compensation	(22,697)	116,339	56,233
Loss on disposal of assets	3,959	1,968	9,882
Loss on debt extinguishment	37,116	2,935	6,557
Other expense, net	271	1,684	223
Park EBITDA	$ 610,487	$ 596,392	$ 578,600

Business Segments (Details 2)

Business Segments (Details 2) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended												12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2016USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2015USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2014USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2014USD ($)	Jun. 30, 2014USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2014USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)park	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2015USD ($)
Geographical Information
Number of parks owned or operated | park													20
Long-lived assets	$ 2,195,475				$ 2,184,830								$ 2,219,792	$ 2,195,475	$ 2,184,830
Total revenue	256,756	$ 580,418	$ 422,372	$ 99,528	239,314	$ 557,599	$ 407,066	$ 115,419	$ 217,457	$ 575,261	$ 386,065	$ 85,155	1,359,074	1,319,398	1,263,938
Income before income taxes													329,052	233,266	263,224
Domestic
Geographical Information
Long-lived assets	2,111,839				2,105,547								2,121,157	2,111,839	2,105,547
Total revenue													1,240,018	1,205,235	1,144,917
Income before income taxes													301,322	216,205	238,416
Foreign
Geographical Information
Long-lived assets	$ 83,636				$ 79,283								98,635	83,636	79,283
Total revenue													119,056	114,163	119,021
Income before income taxes													$ 27,730	$ 17,061	$ 24,808
Mexico
Geographical Information
Number of parks owned or operated | park													2
Canada
Geographical Information
Number of parks owned or operated | park													1

Quarterly Financial Informati68

Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended														12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Sep. 30, 2016	Jun. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015	Jun. 30, 2015	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Total revenue			$ 256,756	$ 580,418	$ 422,372	$ 99,528	$ 239,314	$ 557,599	$ 407,066	$ 115,419	$ 217,457	$ 575,261	$ 386,065	$ 85,155	$ 1,359,074	$ 1,319,398	$ 1,263,938
Net income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation common stockholders			$ 98,013	$ 181,325	$ 52,026	$ (57,548)	$ 1,868	$ 102,482	$ 60,887	$ (46,935)	$ 2,184	$ 157,300	$ 65,532	$ (70,326)	$ 273,816	$ 118,302	$ 154,690
Net (loss) income per weighted average common share outstanding:
Earnings per share - basic (usd per share)			$ 1.16	$ 2.15	$ 0.60	$ (0.63)	$ 0.02	$ 1.11	$ 0.65	$ (0.51)	$ 0.02	$ 1.67	$ 0.69	$ (0.75)	$ 3.15	$ 1.28	$ 1.65
Earnings per share - diluted (usd per share)			$ 1.14	$ 2.11	$ 0.59	$ (0.63)	$ 0.02	$ 1.09	$ 0.64	$ (0.51)	$ 0.02	$ 1.64	$ 0.67	$ (0.75)	$ 3.09	$ 1.25	$ 1.58
2017 Performance Award | Long Term Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award
Cumulative Adjustment to Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense	$ 45,000	$ 27,900