Cover Page
Cover Page - shares | 9 Months Ended | |
Sep. 24, 2023 | Oct. 27, 2023 | |
Cover [Abstract] | ||
Document Type | 10-Q | |
Document Quarterly Report | true | |
Document Period End Date | Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Document Transition Report | false | |
Entity File Number | 1-9444 | |
Entity Registrant Name | CEDAR FAIR, L.P. | |
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
Entity Tax Identification Number | 34-1560655 | |
Entity Address, Address Line One | One Cedar Point Drive | |
Entity Address, City or Town | Sandusky | |
Entity Address, State or Province | OH | |
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 44870-5259 | |
City Area Code | 419 | |
Local Phone Number | 626-0830 | |
Title of 12(b) Security | Depositary Units (Representing Limited Partner Interests) | |
Trading Symbol | FUN | |
Security Exchange Name | NYSE | |
Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | |
Entity Interactive Data Current | Yes | |
Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | |
Entity Small Business | false | |
Entity Emerging Growth Company | false | |
Entity Shell Company | false | |
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 51,015,226 | |
Amendment Flag | false | |
Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2023 | |
Document Fiscal Period Focus | Q3 | |
Entity Central Index Key | 0000811532 | |
Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATE
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Sep. 24, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 |
Current Assets: | |||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ 134,394 | $ 101,189 | $ 288,380 |
Receivables | 88,256 | 70,926 | 77,851 |
Inventories | 54,932 | 45,297 | 49,669 |
Prepaid insurance | 2,272 | 12,570 | 2,272 |
Other current assets | 25,454 | 13,777 | 20,776 |
Total current assets | 305,308 | 243,759 | 438,948 |
Property and Equipment: | |||
Land | 287,353 | 287,968 | 287,839 |
Land improvements | 518,365 | 492,324 | 488,533 |
Buildings | 985,545 | 930,850 | 933,053 |
Rides and equipment | 2,111,057 | 2,030,640 | 2,022,168 |
Construction in progress | 53,759 | 75,377 | 45,938 |
Total property and equipment, gross | 3,956,079 | 3,817,159 | 3,777,531 |
Less accumulated depreciation | (2,342,275) | (2,234,800) | (2,215,840) |
Total property and equipment, net | 1,613,804 | 1,582,359 | 1,561,691 |
Goodwill | 263,557 | 263,206 | 263,094 |
Other Intangibles, net | 48,883 | 48,950 | 48,979 |
Right-of-Use Asset | 84,799 | 92,966 | 96,809 |
Other Assets | 2,252 | 4,657 | 4,935 |
Total Assets | 2,318,603 | 2,235,897 | 2,414,456 |
Current Liabilities: | |||
Accounts payable | 56,145 | 54,983 | 63,272 |
Deferred revenue | 186,175 | 162,711 | 170,905 |
Accrued interest | 49,268 | 32,173 | 49,316 |
Accrued taxes | 44,867 | 35,329 | 58,710 |
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits | 38,167 | 53,332 | 56,682 |
Self-insurance reserves | 29,176 | 27,766 | 27,121 |
Other accrued liabilities | 42,659 | 30,678 | 35,426 |
Total current liabilities | 446,457 | 396,972 | 461,432 |
Deferred Tax Liability | 66,167 | 69,412 | 55,540 |
Lease Liability | 74,957 | 81,757 | 84,749 |
Other Liabilities | 23,830 | 11,203 | 18,032 |
Long-Term Debt: | |||
Notes | 2,272,961 | 2,268,155 | 2,265,490 |
Total long-term debt | 2,272,961 | 2,268,155 | 2,265,490 |
Partners’ Deficit | |||
Special L.P. interests | 5,290 | 5,290 | 5,290 |
General partner | (6) | (4) | (4) |
Limited partners, 51,017, 52,563 and 55,571 units outstanding as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022 and September 25, 2022, respectively | (586,074) | (612,497) | (492,526) |
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 15,021 | 15,609 | 16,453 |
Total partners' equity | (565,769) | (591,602) | (470,787) |
Total Liabilities and Partners' Equity | $ 2,318,603 | $ 2,235,897 | $ 2,414,456 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDA_2
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - shares shares in Thousands | Sep. 24, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 |
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] | |||
Limited partners, units outstanding (in shares) | 51,017 | 52,563 | 55,571 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDA_3
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Net revenues: | ||||
Net revenues | $ 842,009 | $ 843,063 | $ 1,427,545 | $ 1,451,389 |
Costs and expenses: | ||||
Cost of food, merchandise, and games revenues | 70,072 | 73,072 | 129,085 | 133,058 |
Operating expenses | 301,473 | 323,441 | 671,223 | 675,712 |
Selling, general and administrative | 95,885 | 88,160 | 209,398 | 194,547 |
Depreciation and amortization | 65,936 | 67,805 | 127,711 | 126,441 |
Loss on impairment / retirement of fixed assets, net | 2,018 | 3,632 | 12,779 | 6,379 |
Gain on sale of land | 0 | (155,251) | 0 | (155,251) |
Total costs and expenses | 535,384 | 400,859 | 1,150,196 | 980,886 |
Operating income | 306,625 | 442,204 | 277,349 | 470,503 |
Interest expense | 36,125 | 37,049 | 105,620 | 115,386 |
Net effect of swaps | 0 | (3,700) | 0 | (25,641) |
Loss on early debt extinguishment | 0 | 1,810 | 0 | 1,810 |
Loss (gain) on foreign currency | 5,071 | 14,376 | (1,613) | 24,236 |
Other income | (738) | (1,532) | (1,416) | (1,975) |
Income before taxes | 266,167 | 394,201 | 174,758 | 356,687 |
Provision for taxes | 50,673 | 61,151 | 40,246 | 61,374 |
Net income | 215,494 | 333,050 | 134,512 | 295,313 |
Net income allocated to general partner | 2 | 3 | 1 | 3 |
Net income allocated to limited partners | 215,492 | 333,047 | 134,511 | 295,310 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), (net of tax): | ||||
Foreign currency translation | 584 | 1,838 | (588) | 7,510 |
Other comprehensive income (loss), (net of tax) | 584 | 1,838 | (588) | 7,510 |
Total comprehensive income | $ 216,078 | $ 334,888 | $ 133,924 | $ 302,823 |
Basic income per limited partner unit: | ||||
Weighted average limited partner units outstanding (in shares) | 50,668 | 56,384 | 51,064 | 56,606 |
Net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per share) | $ 4.25 | $ 5.91 | $ 2.63 | $ 5.22 |
Diluted income per limited partner unit: | ||||
Weighted average limited partner units outstanding (in shares) | 51,150 | 56,796 | 51,587 | 57,055 |
Net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per share) | $ 4.21 | $ 5.86 | $ 2.61 | $ 5.18 |
Admissions | ||||
Net revenues: | ||||
Net revenues | $ 417,923 | $ 425,616 | $ 700,001 | $ 728,546 |
Food, merchandise and games | ||||
Net revenues: | ||||
Net revenues | 281,546 | 272,940 | 493,274 | 486,808 |
Accommodations, extra-charge products and other | ||||
Net revenues: | ||||
Net revenues | $ 142,540 | $ 144,507 | $ 234,270 | $ 236,035 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDA_4
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS’ DEFICIT - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] | ||||
Beginning balance | $ (762,658) | $ (725,782) | $ (591,602) | $ (698,488) |
Net income | 215,494 | 333,050 | 134,512 | 295,313 |
Repurchase of limited partnership units | (12,038) | (65,958) | (74,537) | (65,958) |
Partnership distribution declared | (15,305) | (17,130) | (46,275) | (17,130) |
Limited partnership units related to equity-based compensation | 8,154 | 3,196 | 12,976 | 9,956 |
Tax effect of units involved in treasury unit transactions | (1) | (255) | (1,990) | |
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax | 584 | 1,838 | (588) | 7,510 |
Ending balance | $ (565,769) | $ (470,787) | $ (565,769) | $ (470,787) |
Limited Partners’ Deficit | ||||
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] | ||||
Beginning balance (in shares) | 51,330 | 57,040 | 52,563 | 56,854 |
Beginning balance | $ (782,377) | $ (745,680) | $ (612,497) | $ (712,714) |
Net income | $ 215,492 | $ 333,047 | $ 134,511 | $ 295,310 |
Repurchase of limited partnership units (in shares) | (315) | (1,523) | (1,735) | (1,523) |
Repurchase of limited partnership units | $ (12,038) | $ (65,958) | $ (74,534) | $ (65,958) |
Partnership distribution declared | $ (15,305) | $ (17,130) | $ (46,275) | $ (17,130) |
Limited partnership units related to equity-based compensation (in shares) | 2 | 54 | 189 | 240 |
Limited partnership units related to equity-based compensation | $ 8,154 | $ 3,196 | $ 12,976 | $ 9,956 |
Tax effect of units involved in treasury unit transactions | $ (1) | $ (255) | $ (1,990) | |
Ending balance (in shares) | 51,017 | 55,571 | 51,017 | 55,571 |
Ending balance | $ (586,074) | $ (492,526) | $ (586,074) | $ (492,526) |
General Partner’s Deficit | ||||
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] | ||||
Beginning balance | (8) | (7) | (4) | (7) |
Net income | 2 | 3 | 1 | 3 |
Repurchase of limited partnership units | (3) | |||
Ending balance | (6) | (4) | (6) | (4) |
Special L.P. Interests | ||||
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] | ||||
Beginning balance | 5,290 | 5,290 | 5,290 | 5,290 |
Ending balance | 5,290 | 5,290 | 5,290 | 5,290 |
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income | ||||
Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] | ||||
Beginning balance | 14,437 | 14,615 | 15,609 | 8,943 |
Foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax | 584 | 1,838 | (588) | 7,510 |
Ending balance | $ 15,021 | $ 16,453 | $ 15,021 | $ 16,453 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDA_5
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF PARTNERS’ DEFICIT (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Statement of Partners' Capital [Abstract] | ||||
Partnership distribution declared, per unit (in dollars per share) | $ 0.300 | $ 0.300 | $ 0.900 | $ 0.300 |
Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax | $ 637 | $ 1,609 | $ 62 | $ 2,166 |
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDA_6
UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 9 Months Ended | |
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | ||
Net income | $ 134,512 | $ 295,313 |
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities: | ||
Depreciation and amortization | 127,711 | 126,441 |
Loss on early debt extinguishment | 0 | 1,810 |
Non-cash foreign currency (gain) loss on USD notes | (1,950) | 23,870 |
Non-cash equity based compensation expense | 15,841 | 15,087 |
Non-cash deferred income tax benefit | (3,245) | (7,984) |
Net effect of swaps | 0 | (25,641) |
Gain on sale of land before cash closing costs | 0 | (159,405) |
Other non-cash expenses | 16,442 | 13,658 |
Changes in assets and liabilities: | ||
(Increase) decrease in receivables | (17,287) | (16,137) |
(Increase) decrease in inventories | (9,615) | (17,766) |
(Increase) decrease in tax receivable/payable | 8,682 | 133,503 |
(Increase) decrease in other assets | 4,049 | 7,684 |
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable | 4,559 | 2,616 |
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenue | 35,359 | (8,442) |
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest | 17,095 | 17,305 |
Increase (decrease) in accrued salaries, wages and benefits | (15,184) | 3,084 |
Increase (decrease) in other liabilities | 13,049 | 7,437 |
Net cash from operating activities | 330,018 | 412,433 |
CASH FLOWS (FOR) FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | ||
Capital expenditures | (169,579) | (138,046) |
Proceeds from sale of land | 0 | 310,000 |
Net cash (for) from investing activities | (169,579) | 171,954 |
CASH FLOWS FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||
Term debt payments | 0 | (264,250) |
Repurchase of limited partnership units | (74,537) | (63,933) |
Distributions paid to partners | (46,275) | (17,130) |
Payment of debt issuance costs | (2,643) | 0 |
Payments related to tax withholding for equity compensation | (2,865) | (5,131) |
Other | (255) | (1,990) |
Net cash for financing activities | (126,575) | (352,434) |
EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | (659) | (4,692) |
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS | ||
Net increase for the period | 33,205 | 227,261 |
Balance, beginning of period | 101,189 | 61,119 |
Balance, end of period | 134,394 | 288,380 |
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION | ||
Net cash payments for interest | 84,094 | 85,967 |
Interest capitalized | 3,017 | 2,132 |
Net cash payments (refunds) for income taxes | 39,308 | (55,117) |
Capital expenditures in accounts payable | $ 11,545 | $ 12,016 |
Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |
Significant Accounting Policies | Significant Accounting Policies:Our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q report have been prepared in accordance with the accounting policies described in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2022, which were included in the Form 10-K filed on February 17, 2023. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and the notes included in the Form 10-K referred to above. |
Interim Reporting
Interim Reporting | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Interim Reporting | Interim Reporting: We are one of the largest regional amusement park operators in the world with 13 properties in our portfolio consisting of amusement parks, water parks and complementary resort facilities. Our parks operate seasonally except for Knott's Berry Farm, which is open daily on a year-round basis. Our seasonal parks are generally open daily from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Outside of daily operations, our seasonal parks are open during select weekends, including at most properties in the fourth quarter for Halloween and winter events. As a result, a substantial portion of our revenues from these seasonal parks are generated from Memorial Day through Labor Day with the major portion concentrated during the peak vacation months of July and August. To assure that these highly seasonal operations will not result in misleading comparisons of current and subsequent interim periods, we have adopted the following accounting procedures: (a) revenues from multi-use products are recognized over the estimated number of uses expected for each type of product; and the estimated number of uses is reviewed and may be updated periodically during the operating season prior to the ticket or product expiration, which generally occurs no later than the close of the operating season associated with each product; (b) depreciation, certain advertising and certain seasonal operating costs are expensed over each park’s operating season, including some costs incurred prior to the season, which are deferred and amortized over the season; and (c) all other costs are expensed as incurred or ratably over the entire year. For those operating costs that are expensed over each park's operating season, we recognize expense over each park's planned operating days. |
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Revenue Recognition | Revenue Recognition: As disclosed within the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income, revenues are generated from sales of (1) admission to our amusement parks and water parks, (2) food, merchandise and games both inside and outside the parks, and (3) accommodations, extra-charge products, and other revenue sources. Admission revenues include amounts paid to gain admission into our parks, including parking fees. Revenues related to extra-charge products, including premium benefit offerings such as front-of-line products, and online transaction fees charged to customers are included in "Accommodations, extra-charge products and other". The following table presents net revenues disaggregated by revenues generated within the parks and revenues generated from out-of-park operations less amounts remitted to outside parties under concessionaire arrangements for the periods presented. Three months ended Nine months ended (In thousands) September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 In-park revenues $ 766,503 $ 770,428 $ 1,289,357 $ 1,322,950 Out-of-park revenues 99,024 97,302 180,732 173,416 Concessionaire remittance (23,518) (24,667) (42,544) (44,977) Net revenues $ 842,009 $ 843,063 $ 1,427,545 $ 1,451,389 Due to our highly seasonal operations, a substantial portion of our revenues are generated from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Most revenues are recognized on a daily basis based on actual guest spend at our properties. Revenues from multi-use products, including season-long products for admission, dining, beverage and other products, are recognized over the estimated number of uses expected for each type of product. The estimated number of uses is reviewed and may be updated periodically during the operating season prior to the ticket or product expiration, which generally occurs no later than the close of the operating season associated with that product. The number of uses is estimated based on historical usage adjusted for current period trends. For any bundled products that include multiple performance obligations, revenue is allocated using the retail price of each distinct performance obligation and any inherent discounts are allocated based on the gross margin and expected redemption of each performance obligation. We do not typically provide for refunds or returns. Many products, including season-long products, are sold to customers in advance, resulting in a contract liability ("deferred revenue"). Deferred revenue is typically at its highest immediately prior to the peak summer season, and at its lowest at the beginning of the calendar year following the close of our parks' operating seasons. Season-long products represent most of the deferred revenue balance in any given period. Due to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure our passholders received a full season of access, Knott's Berry Farm offered a day-for-day extension of the validity of its 2020 and 2021 season-long products into calendar year 2022 for every day the park was closed in 2021. The extension for the 2020 and 2021 season-long products at Knott's Berry Farm concluded and all related revenue was recognized by the end of the second quarter of 2022. Canada's Wonderland also extended the validity of its 2020 and 2021 season-long products into calendar year 2022, specifically through Labour Day, or September 5, 2022. All Canada's Wonderland 2020 and 2021 season-long product revenue was recognized by the end of the third quarter of 2022. In order to calculate revenue recognized on these extended season-long products, management made significant estimates regarding the estimated number of uses expected for these season-long products for admission, dining, beverage and other products, including during interim periods. Of the $162.7 million of current deferred revenue recorded as of January 1, 2023, 89% was related to season-long products. The remainder was related to deferred online transaction fees charged to customers, advanced resort reservations, advanced ticket sales, prepaid games cards, marina deposits and other deferred revenue. Approximately $131 million of the current deferred revenue balance as of January 1, 2023 was recognized during the nine months ended September 24, 2023. Most deferred revenue is classified as current within the balance sheet. However, a portion of deferred revenue is typically classified as non-current during the third quarter related to season-long products sold in the current season for use in the subsequent season. Season-long products are typically sold beginning in August of the year preceding the operating season. Season-long products may subsequently be recognized 12 to 16 months after purchase depending on the date of sale. We estimate the number of uses expected outside of the next twelve months for each type of product and classify the related deferred revenue as non-current within "Other Liabilities" in the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets. As of September 24, 2023 and September 25, 2022, we had recorded $22.0 million and $16.8 million of non-current deferred revenue, respectively. Of the non-current deferred revenue balances, $13.6 million and $8.5 million as of September 24, 2023 and September 25, 2022, respectively, related to the non-current portion of season-long products purchased for the subsequent operating season. The remaining non-current deferred revenue balances in both periods represented prepaid lease payments for a portion of the California's Great America parking lot. The prepaid lease payments are being recognized through 2027 following the sale of the land under California's Great America; see Note 4 . Prior to the sale, the prepaid lease payments were being recognized through 2039. Payment is due immediately on the transaction date for most products. Our receivable balance includes outstanding amounts on installment purchase plans which are offered for season-long products, and includes sales to retailers, group sales and catering activities which are billed. Installment purchase plans vary in length from three monthly installments to 12 monthly installments. Payment terms for billings are typically net 30 days. Receivables in a typical operating year are highest in the peak summer months and lowest in the winter months. We are not exposed to a significant concentration of customer credit risk. As of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022 and September 25, 2022, we recorded a $18.3 million, $5.8 million and $19.7 million allowance for doubtful accounts, respectively, representing estimated defaults on installment purchase plans. The default estimate is calculated using historical default rates adjusted for current period trends. The allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded as a reduction of deferred revenue to the extent revenue has not been recognized on the corresponding season-long products. |
Long-Lived Assets
Long-Lived Assets | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | |
Long-Lived Assets | Long-Lived Assets: Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. In order to determine if an asset has been impaired, assets are grouped and tested at the lowest level for which identifiable, independent cash flows are available. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include, among others: a significant decrease in the market price of a long-lived asset; a significant adverse change in the extent or manner in which a long-lived asset is being used or in its physical condition; a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate; an accumulation of costs significantly in excess of the amount originally expected for the acquisition or construction of a long-lived asset; past, current or future operating or cash flow losses that demonstrate continuing losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset; and a current expectation that a long-lived asset will be sold or disposed significantly before the end of its previously estimated useful life. Any adverse change in these factors could have a significant impact on the recoverability of these assets and could have a material impact on the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements. We concluded no indicators of impairment existed during the first nine months of 2023. We based our conclusions on our financial performance projections, as well as an updated analysis of macroeconomic and industry-specific conditions. On June 27, 2022, the Partnership sold the land at California's Great America for a cash purchase price of $310 million, subject to customary prorations, which resulted in a $155.3 million gain recorded, net of transaction costs, within "Gain on sale of land" in |
Goodwill and Other Intangible A
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets | Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets: Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets, including trade names, are reviewed for impairment annually, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist. We concluded no indicators of impairment existed during the first nine months of 2023. We based our conclusions on our financial performance projections, as well as an updated analysis of macroeconomic and industry-specific conditions. During the second quarter of 2022, we concluded the useful life of the trade name, California's Great America, was no longer indefinite due to the then-anticipated sale of the land and the eventual disposal of the remaining assets; see Note 4 . As a result, we tested the California's Great America trade name totaling $0.7 million for impairment during the second quarter of 2022 resulting in no impairment. The fair value of the trade name was calculated using a relief-from-royalty model. We are amortizing the trade name over an approximate 5.5-year period, or through December 31, 2027. There were no other indicators of impairment during the first nine months of 2022. Changes in the carrying value of goodwill for the nine months ended September 24, 2023 and September 25, 2022 were: (In thousands) Goodwill Balance as of December 31, 2022 $ 263,206 Foreign currency translation 351 Balance as of September 24, 2023 $ 263,557 Balance as of December 31, 2021 $ 267,232 Foreign currency translation (4,138) Balance as of September 25, 2022 $ 263,094 As of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022, other intangible assets consisted of the following: (In thousands) Gross Accumulated Net September 24, 2023 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,697 $ (162) $ 48,535 License / franchise agreements 1,248 (900) 348 Total other intangible assets $ 49,945 $ (1,062) $ 48,883 December 31, 2022 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,619 $ (63) $ 48,556 License / franchise agreements 4,293 (3,899) 394 Total other intangible assets $ 52,912 $ (3,962) $ 48,950 September 25, 2022 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,594 $ (38) $ 48,556 License / franchise agreements 4,293 (3,870) 423 Total other intangible assets $ 52,887 $ (3,908) $ 48,979 (1) Trade name amortization represents amortization of the California's Great America trade name totaling $0.7 million. Our other trade names are indefinite-lived. |
Long-Term Debt
Long-Term Debt | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Long-Term Debt | Long-Term Debt: Long-term debt as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022 consisted of the following: (In thousands) September 24, 2023 December 31, 2022 September 25, 2022 2025 U.S. fixed rate senior secured notes at 5.500% $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 2027 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.375% 500,000 500,000 500,000 2028 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 6.500% 300,000 300,000 300,000 2029 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.250% 500,000 500,000 500,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 Less current portion — — — 2,300,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 Less debt issuance costs and original issue discount (27,039) (31,845) (34,510) $ 2,272,961 $ 2,268,155 $ 2,265,490 Term Debt and Revolving Credit Facilities In April 2017, we amended and restated our credit agreement (the "2017 Credit Agreement") which includes our senior secured revolving credit facility and which included a senior secured term loan facility. During 2022, we made the remaining $264.3 million of principal payments on the senior secured term loan facility, fully repaying the term loan facility. Prior to repayment, the term loan facility was scheduled to mature on April 15, 2024 and bore interest at London InterBank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") plus 175 bps. As of September 24, 2023, our total senior secured revolving credit facility capacity under the 2017 Credit Agreement, as amended, was $300 million with a Canadian sub-limit of $15 million. The senior secured revolving credit facility bears interest at Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR") plus 350 basis points ("bps") with a SOFR adjustment of 10 bps per annum and a floor of zero, requires the payment of a 62.5 bps commitment fee per annum on the unused portion of the revolving credit facility, in each case without any step-downs, and is collateralized by substantially all of the assets of the Partnership. The senior secured revolving credit facility matures on February 10, 2028, provided that the maturity date will be (x) January 30, 2025 if at least $200 million of the 2025 senior notes remain outstanding as of that date, or (y) January 14, 2027 if at least $200 million of the 2027 senior notes remain outstanding as of that date. Prior to an amendment entered into on February 10, 2023, borrowings under the senior secured revolving credit facility bore interest at LIBOR plus 350 bps or Canadian Dollar Offered Rate ("CDOR") plus 250 bps and matured in December 2023. The maximum outstanding revolving credit facility balance during the first nine months of 2023 was $246.0 million, and there were no outstanding borrowings under the revolving credit facility as of September 24, 2023. The 2017 Credit Agreement, as amended, also provides for the issuance of documentary and standby letters of credit. After letters of credit of $19.9 million, we had $280.1 million of availability under our revolving credit facility as of September 24, 2023. In April 2022, $75 million of the senior secured revolving credit facility capacity under the 2017 Credit Agreement matured, and the outstanding borrowings were repaid. While such $75 million of senior secured revolving credit facility capacity was available, borrowings under this portion of the revolver capacity bore interest at LIBOR plus 300 bps or CDOR plus 200 bps, and the unused portion of this revolving credit facility capacity required the payment of a 37.5 bps commitment fee per annum. Notes In April 2020, as a result of the anticipated effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, we issued $1.0 billion of 5.500% senior secured notes due 2025 ("2025 senior notes") in a private placement. The 2025 senior notes and the related guarantees are secured by first-priority liens on the issuers' and the guarantors' assets that secure all the obligations under our credit facilities. The net proceeds from the offering of the 2025 senior notes were used to repay $463.3 million of our then-outstanding senior secured term loan facility. The remaining amount was for general corporate and working capital purposes, including fees and expenses related to the transaction. The 2025 senior notes pay interest semi-annually in May and November, with the principal due in full on May 1, 2025. The 2025 senior notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at various prices depending on the date redeemed. In April 2017, we issued $500 million of 5.375% senior unsecured notes due 2027 ("2027 senior notes"). The 2027 senior notes pay interest semi-annually in April and October, with the principal due in full on April 15, 2027. The 2027 senior notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at various prices depending on the date redeemed. In June 2019, we issued $500 million of 5.250% senior unsecured notes due 2029 ("2029 senior notes"). The 2029 senior notes pay interest semi-annually in January and July, with the principal due in full on July 15, 2029. The 2029 senior notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at any time prior to July 15, 2024 at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the notes redeemed plus a "make-whole" premium together with accrued and unpaid interest and additional interest, if any, to the redemption date. Thereafter, the 2029 senior notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at various prices depending on the date redeemed. In October 2020, in response to the continuing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, we issued $300 million of 6.500% senior unsecured notes due 2028 ("2028 senior notes"). The net proceeds from the offering of the 2028 senior notes were for general corporate and working capital purposes, including fees and expenses related to the transaction. The 2028 senior notes pay interest semi-annually in April and October with the principal due in full on October 1, 2028. The 2028 senior notes may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at various prices depending on the date redeemed. As market conditions warrant, we may from time to time repurchase our outstanding debt securities in privately negotiated or open market transactions, by tender offer, exchange offer or otherwise. Covenants The 2017 Credit Agreement, as amended, includes a Senior Secured Leverage Ratio of 3.75x Total First Lien Senior Secured Debt-to-Consolidated EBITDA. This financial covenant is only required to be tested at the end of any fiscal quarter in which revolving credit facility borrowings are outstanding. We were in compliance with the applicable financial covenants under our credit agreement during the nine months ended September 24, 2023. Our credit agreement and fixed rate note agreements include Restricted Payment provisions, which could limit our ability to pay partnership distributions. Pursuant to the terms of the indenture governing the 2027 senior notes, which includes the most restrictive of these Restricted Payments provisions, if our pro forma Total-Indebtedness-to-Consolidated-Cash-Flow Ratio is greater than 5.25x, we can still make Restricted Payments of $100 million annually so long as no default or event of default has occurred and is continuing. If our pro forma Total-Indebtedness-to-Consolidated-Cash-Flow Ratio is less than or equal to 5.25x, we can make Restricted Payments up to our Restricted Payment pool. Our pro forma Total-Indebtedness-to-Consolidated-Cash-Flow Ratio was less than 5.25x as of September 24, 2023. |
Fair Value Measurements
Fair Value Measurements | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Fair Value Measurements | Fair Value Measurements: The table below presents the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022 on a recurring basis as well as the fair values of other financial instruments, including their locations within the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets: (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Hierarchy Level September 24, 2023 December 31, 2022 September 25, 2022 Carrying Value Fair Carrying Value Fair Carrying Value Fair Financial assets (liabilities) measured on a recurring basis: Short-term investments Other current assets Level 1 $ 338 $ 338 $ 432 $ 432 $ 279 $ 279 Other financial assets (liabilities): 2025 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 2 $ (1,000,000) $ (980,000) $ (1,000,000) $ (985,000) $ (1,000,000) $ (975,000) 2027 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (500,000) $ (470,000) $ (500,000) $ (476,250) $ (500,000) $ (460,000) 2028 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (300,000) $ (286,500) $ (300,000) $ (291,000) $ (300,000) $ (283,500) 2029 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (500,000) $ (440,000) $ (500,000) $ (446,250) $ (500,000) $ (441,250) (1) Carrying values of long-term debt balances are before reductions for debt issuance costs and original issue discount of $27.0 million, $31.8 million and $34.5 million as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022 and September 25, 2022, respectively. The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, revolving credit loans, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and accrued liabilities approximates fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments. There were no assets measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022 or September 25, 2022. |
Income per Unit
Income per Unit | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Unit [Abstract] | |
Income per Unit | Income per Unit: Net income per limited partner unit was calculated based on the following unit amounts: Three months ended Nine months ended (In thousands, except per unit amounts) September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 Basic weighted average units outstanding 50,668 56,384 51,064 56,606 Effect of dilutive units: Deferred units 51 57 50 57 Performance units — — — 29 Restricted units 431 343 473 340 Unit options — 12 — 23 Diluted weighted average units outstanding 51,150 56,796 51,587 57,055 Net income per unit - basic $ 4.25 $ 5.91 $ 2.63 $ 5.22 Net income per unit - diluted $ 4.21 $ 5.86 $ 2.61 $ 5.18 |
Income and Partnership Taxes
Income and Partnership Taxes | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Income and Partnership Taxes | Income and Partnership Taxes: We are subject to publicly traded partnership tax ("PTP tax") on certain partnership level gross income (net revenues less cost of food, merchandise, and games revenues), state and local income taxes on partnership income, U.S. federal, state and local income taxes on income from our corporate subsidiaries and foreign income taxes on our foreign subsidiary. As such, the total provision (benefit) for taxes includes amounts for the PTP gross income tax and federal, state, local and foreign income taxes. Under applicable accounting rules, the total provision (benefit) for income taxes includes the amount of taxes payable for the current year and the impact of deferred tax assets and liabilities, which represents future tax consequences of events that are recognized in different periods in the financial statements than for tax purposes. The total tax provision (benefit) for interim periods is determined by applying an estimated annual effective tax rate to the applicable quarterly income (loss). Our consolidated estimated annual effective tax rate differs from the statutory federal income tax rate primarily due to state, local and foreign income taxes, and certain partnership level income not being subject to federal tax. During the second quarter of 2022, we received $77.1 million in tax refunds attributable to the net operating loss in tax year 2020 being carried back to prior years in the United States. We received $11.1 million in tax refunds attributable to the net operating loss of our Canadian corporate subsidiary being carried back to prior years in Canada during the first quarter of 2022. Additional benefits from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act included an $8.2 million deferral of the employer's share of Social Security taxes due in 50% increments in the fourth quarter of 2021 and the fourth quarter of 2022. As of September 25, 2022, the current portion of the deferral was recorded in "Accrued salaries, wages and benefits" within the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet. Unrecognized tax benefits, including accrued interest and penalties, were not material in any period presented. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense. The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on August 16, 2022 and created a new 15% corporate alternative minimum tax ("CAMT") based on adjusted financial statement income. The effective date of the provision was January 1, 2023. We will not be subject to CAMT as our reported earnings for each of the past three years did not exceed $1 billion. |
Partners' Equity
Partners' Equity | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Equity [Abstract] | |
Partners' Equity | Partners' Equity: On August 3, 2022, we announced that our Board of Directors approved a unit repurchase program authorizing the Partnership to repurchase units for an aggregate amount of not more than $250 million. There were 1.5 million limited partnership units repurchased under the August 2022 repurchase program during the three and nine months ended September 25, 2022 at an average price of $43.30 per limited partner unit for an aggregate amount of $66.0 million. There were 1.4 million limited partnership units repurchased under the August 2022 repurchase program during the nine months ended September 24, 2023 at an average price of $44.00 per limited partner unit for an aggregate amount of $62.5 million. There was no remaining availability under the August 2022 repurchase program as of September 24, 2023. Accordingly, there were no limited partnership units repurchased under the August 2022 repurchase program during the three months ended September 24, 2023. On May 4, 2023, we announced that our Board of Directors authorized the Partnership to repurchase additional units for an aggregate amount of not more than $250 million. There were 0.3 million units repurchased under the May 2023 repurchase program during the three and nine months ended September 24, 2023 at an average price of $38.27 per limited partner unit for an aggregate amount of $12.0 million. Accordingly, there was a total of 1.7 million units repurchased under the August 2022 and May 2023 repurchase programs during the nine months ended September 24, 2023 at an average price of $42.97 per limited partner unit for an aggregate amount of $74.5 million. There was $238.0 million of remaining availability under the May 2023 repurchase program as of September 24, 2023. |
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Event | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Subsequent Events [Abstract] | |
Subsequent Event | Subsequent Event:On November 2, 2023, we announced that we entered into a definitive merger agreement to combine with Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (“Six Flags”) (NYSE: SIX). Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the merger agreement, each issued and outstanding unit of limited partnership interest in Cedar Fair will be converted into the right to receive one (1) share of common stock of the new combined entity (subject to certain exceptions and as the same may be adjusted). Following the close of the transaction, the holders of units of Cedar Fair limited partnership interest will own approximately 51.2% of the outstanding shares of the combined company and the holders of Six Flags common stock will own approximately 48.8% of the outstanding shares of the combined company. The merger is expected to close in the first half of 2024, following receipt of Six Flags' stockholder approval, regulatory approvals, and satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure
Pay vs Performance Disclosure - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Pay vs Performance Disclosure | ||||
Net income | $ 215,494 | $ 333,050 | $ 134,512 | $ 295,313 |
Insider Trading Arrangements
Insider Trading Arrangements | 3 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Trading Arrangements, by Individual | |
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted | false |
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Adopted | false |
Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated | false |
Non-Rule 10b5-1 Arrangement Terminated | false |
Revenue Recognition (Tables)
Revenue Recognition (Tables) | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue | The following table presents net revenues disaggregated by revenues generated within the parks and revenues generated from out-of-park operations less amounts remitted to outside parties under concessionaire arrangements for the periods presented. Three months ended Nine months ended (In thousands) September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 In-park revenues $ 766,503 $ 770,428 $ 1,289,357 $ 1,322,950 Out-of-park revenues 99,024 97,302 180,732 173,416 Concessionaire remittance (23,518) (24,667) (42,544) (44,977) Net revenues $ 842,009 $ 843,063 $ 1,427,545 $ 1,451,389 |
Goodwill and Other Intangible_2
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables) | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Changes in Partnership's Carrying Value of Goodwill | Changes in the carrying value of goodwill for the nine months ended September 24, 2023 and September 25, 2022 were: (In thousands) Goodwill Balance as of December 31, 2022 $ 263,206 Foreign currency translation 351 Balance as of September 24, 2023 $ 263,557 Balance as of December 31, 2021 $ 267,232 Foreign currency translation (4,138) Balance as of September 25, 2022 $ 263,094 |
Schedule of Partnership's Other Intangible Assets | As of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022, other intangible assets consisted of the following: (In thousands) Gross Accumulated Net September 24, 2023 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,697 $ (162) $ 48,535 License / franchise agreements 1,248 (900) 348 Total other intangible assets $ 49,945 $ (1,062) $ 48,883 December 31, 2022 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,619 $ (63) $ 48,556 License / franchise agreements 4,293 (3,899) 394 Total other intangible assets $ 52,912 $ (3,962) $ 48,950 September 25, 2022 Other intangible assets: Trade names (1) $ 48,594 $ (38) $ 48,556 License / franchise agreements 4,293 (3,870) 423 Total other intangible assets $ 52,887 $ (3,908) $ 48,979 (1) Trade name amortization represents amortization of the California's Great America trade name totaling $0.7 million. Our other trade names are indefinite-lived. |
Long-Term Debt (Tables)
Long-Term Debt (Tables) | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Debt Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments | Long-term debt as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022 consisted of the following: (In thousands) September 24, 2023 December 31, 2022 September 25, 2022 2025 U.S. fixed rate senior secured notes at 5.500% $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 $ 1,000,000 2027 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.375% 500,000 500,000 500,000 2028 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 6.500% 300,000 300,000 300,000 2029 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.250% 500,000 500,000 500,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 Less current portion — — — 2,300,000 2,300,000 2,300,000 Less debt issuance costs and original issue discount (27,039) (31,845) (34,510) $ 2,272,961 $ 2,268,155 $ 2,265,490 |
Fair Value Measurements (Tables
Fair Value Measurements (Tables) | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis | The table below presents the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022, and September 25, 2022 on a recurring basis as well as the fair values of other financial instruments, including their locations within the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets: (In thousands) Balance Sheet Location Fair Value Hierarchy Level September 24, 2023 December 31, 2022 September 25, 2022 Carrying Value Fair Carrying Value Fair Carrying Value Fair Financial assets (liabilities) measured on a recurring basis: Short-term investments Other current assets Level 1 $ 338 $ 338 $ 432 $ 432 $ 279 $ 279 Other financial assets (liabilities): 2025 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 2 $ (1,000,000) $ (980,000) $ (1,000,000) $ (985,000) $ (1,000,000) $ (975,000) 2027 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (500,000) $ (470,000) $ (500,000) $ (476,250) $ (500,000) $ (460,000) 2028 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (300,000) $ (286,500) $ (300,000) $ (291,000) $ (300,000) $ (283,500) 2029 senior notes Long-Term Debt (1) Level 1 $ (500,000) $ (440,000) $ (500,000) $ (446,250) $ (500,000) $ (441,250) (1) Carrying values of long-term debt balances are before reductions for debt issuance costs and original issue discount of $27.0 million, $31.8 million and $34.5 million as of September 24, 2023, December 31, 2022 and September 25, 2022, respectively. |
Income per Unit (Tables)
Income per Unit (Tables) | 9 Months Ended |
Sep. 24, 2023 | |
Earnings Per Unit [Abstract] | |
Schedule of Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit | Net income per limited partner unit was calculated based on the following unit amounts: Three months ended Nine months ended (In thousands, except per unit amounts) September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 September 24, 2023 September 25, 2022 Basic weighted average units outstanding 50,668 56,384 51,064 56,606 Effect of dilutive units: Deferred units 51 57 50 57 Performance units — — — 29 Restricted units 431 343 473 340 Unit options — 12 — 23 Diluted weighted average units outstanding 51,150 56,796 51,587 57,055 Net income per unit - basic $ 4.25 $ 5.91 $ 2.63 $ 5.22 Net income per unit - diluted $ 4.21 $ 5.86 $ 2.61 $ 5.18 |
Interim Reporting (Details)
Interim Reporting (Details) | Sep. 24, 2023 property |
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] | |
Number of properties owned and operated | 13 |
Revenue Recognition - Schedule
Revenue Recognition - Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Concessionaire remittance | $ (23,518) | $ (24,667) | $ (42,544) | $ (44,977) |
Net revenues | 842,009 | 843,063 | 1,427,545 | 1,451,389 |
In-park revenues | ||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Revenue from contract with customer | 766,503 | 770,428 | 1,289,357 | 1,322,950 |
Out-of-park revenues | ||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Revenue from contract with customer | $ 99,024 | $ 97,302 | $ 180,732 | $ 173,416 |
Revenue Recognition - Narrative
Revenue Recognition - Narrative (Details) $ in Thousands | 9 Months Ended | |||
Jan. 01, 2023 USD ($) | Sep. 24, 2023 USD ($) monthlyInstallment | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Sep. 25, 2022 USD ($) | |
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Deferred revenue | $ 162,700 | $ 186,175 | $ 162,711 | $ 170,905 |
Deferred revenue, season-long products (as a percent) | 89% | |||
Revenue from contract with customer | $ 131,000 | |||
Payment terms for billing | 30 days | |||
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable | $ 18,300 | $ 5,800 | 19,700 | |
Minimum | ||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Revenue recognized (in months) | 12 months | |||
Number of monthly installments | monthlyInstallment | 3 | |||
Maximum | ||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Revenue recognized (in months) | 16 months | |||
Number of monthly installments | monthlyInstallment | 12 | |||
Non-current deferred revenue | ||||
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] | ||||
Non-current deferred revenues specific to next year products | $ 22,000 | 16,800 | ||
Non-current deferred revenue | $ 13,600 | $ 8,500 |
Long-Lived Assets (Details)
Long-Lived Assets (Details) $ in Millions | Jun. 27, 2022 USD ($) |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |
Gain on sale of assets | $ 155.3 |
Term of contract (in years) | 6 years |
Annual increase (decrease) in depreciation | $ 8 |
Other machinery and equipment | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |
Useful lives (in years) | 5 years 6 months |
Park | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |
Term of contract (in years) | 6 years |
Option to renewal term (in years) | 5 years |
Early termination with prior notice (in years) | 2 years |
Annual base rent | $ 12.2 |
Increase annual base rent (as a percent) | 2.50% |
Estimated costs | $ 12.8 |
California's Great America | |
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |
Cash purchase price | $ 310 |
Goodwill and Other Intangible_3
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Narrative (Details) | 3 Months Ended |
Jun. 26, 2022 USD ($) | |
Trade names | |
Goodwill [Line Items] | |
Useful lives (in years) | 5 years 6 months |
Trade names | California's Great America | |
Goodwill [Line Items] | |
Indefinite-lived intangible assets | $ 700,000 |
Impairment of intangible assets | $ 0 |
Goodwill and Other Intangible_4
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Schedule of Changes in Partnership's Carrying Value of Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | 9 Months Ended | |
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Goodwill [Roll Forward] | ||
Goodwill beginning of period | $ 263,206 | $ 267,232 |
Foreign currency translation | 351 | (4,138) |
Goodwill end of period | $ 263,557 | $ 263,094 |
Goodwill and Other Intangible_5
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Other Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Sep. 24, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 |
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] | |||
Gross Carrying Amount | $ 49,945 | $ 52,912 | $ 52,887 |
Accumulated Amortization | (1,062) | (3,962) | (3,908) |
Net Carrying Value | 48,883 | 48,950 | 48,979 |
Trade names | |||
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] | |||
Gross Carrying Amount | 48,697 | 48,619 | 48,594 |
Accumulated Amortization | (162) | (63) | (38) |
Net Carrying Value | 48,535 | 48,556 | 48,556 |
License / franchise agreements | |||
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract] | |||
Gross Carrying Amount | 1,248 | 4,293 | 4,293 |
Accumulated Amortization | (900) | (3,899) | (3,870) |
Net Carrying Value | $ 348 | $ 394 | $ 423 |
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Lo
Long-Term Debt - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Sep. 24, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Long-term debt, gross | $ 2,300,000 | $ 2,300,000 | $ 2,300,000 |
Less current portion | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Long-term debt, excluding current maturities, gross | 2,300,000 | 2,300,000 | 2,300,000 |
Less debt issuance costs and original issue discount | (27,039) | (31,845) | (34,510) |
Total long-term debt | $ 2,272,961 | 2,268,155 | 2,265,490 |
Secured debt | 2025 U.S. fixed rate senior secured notes at 5.500% | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.50% | ||
Long-term debt, gross | $ 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 |
Secured debt | 2027 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.375% | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.375% | ||
Long-term debt, gross | $ 500,000 | 500,000 | 500,000 |
Secured debt | 2028 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 6.500% | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 6.50% | ||
Long-term debt, gross | $ 300,000 | 300,000 | 300,000 |
Secured debt | 2029 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.250% | |||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.25% | ||
Long-term debt, gross | $ 500,000 | $ 500,000 | $ 500,000 |
Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Det
Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) | 1 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||
Apr. 30, 2022 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2020 USD ($) | Jun. 30, 2019 USD ($) | Sep. 24, 2023 USD ($) | Dec. 31, 2022 USD ($) | Oct. 31, 2020 USD ($) | Apr. 30, 2017 USD ($) | |
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Maximum outstanding balance | $ 246,000,000 | ||||||
Revolving credit facility | 0 | ||||||
Available borrowings under revolving credit facility | $ 280,100,000 | ||||||
Line of credit facility, increase (decrease), net | $ 75,000,000 | ||||||
Restricted payments | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument consolidated leverage ratio | 5.25 | ||||||
Restricted payment | $ 100,000,000 | ||||||
SOFR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 0.10% | ||||||
Term debt | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Repayments of secured debt | $ 264,300,000 | ||||||
Term debt | Secured debt | LIBOR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Effective interest rate (as a percent) | 1.75% | ||||||
Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | SOFR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 3.50% | ||||||
Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | LIBOR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 3.50% | ||||||
Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | CDOR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 2.50% | ||||||
Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin floor | 0 | ||||||
Commitment fee (as a percent) | 0.625% | ||||||
Second Amended 2017 Credit Agreement | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 3% | ||||||
Second Amended 2017 Credit Agreement | CDOR | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate margin over LIBOR | 2% | ||||||
Second Amended 2017 Credit Agreement | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Commitment fee (as a percent) | 0.375% | ||||||
2025 Senior Notes | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument amended outstanding amount | $ 200,000,000 | ||||||
Debt instrument, face amount | $ 1,000,000,000 | ||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.50% | ||||||
2027 Senior Notes | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument amended outstanding amount | 200,000,000 | ||||||
Standby Letters of Credit | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Standby letters of credit outstanding, amount | $ 19,900,000 | ||||||
2027 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.375% | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.375% | ||||||
2027 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.375% | Senior unsecured notes | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument, face amount | $ 500,000,000 | ||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.375% | ||||||
2029 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.250% | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.25% | ||||||
2029 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 5.250% | Senior unsecured notes | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument, face amount | $ 500,000,000 | ||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 5.25% | ||||||
Redemption of original face amount (as a percent) | 100% | ||||||
2028 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 6.500% | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 6.50% | ||||||
2028 U.S. fixed rate senior unsecured notes at 6.500% | Senior unsecured notes | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Debt instrument, face amount | $ 300,000,000 | ||||||
Interest rate (as a percent) | 6.50% | ||||||
Revolving credit facility | Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | Secured debt | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Maximum borrowing capacity | $ 300,000,000 | ||||||
Bridge loan | Second Amended 2017 Credit Agreement | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Maximum borrowing capacity | $ 15,000,000 | ||||||
Secured debt | Term debt | Senior notes | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Repayments of secured debt | $ 463,300,000 | ||||||
Secured debt | Third Amendment, 2017 Credit Agreement | Period three | |||||||
Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||
Total indebtedness to consolidated cash flow ratio requirement | 3.75 |
Fair Value Measurements - Sched
Fair Value Measurements - Schedule of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands | Sep. 24, 2023 | Dec. 31, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 |
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Debt issuance costs | $ 27,000 | $ 31,800 | $ 34,500 |
Other current assets | Level 1 | Fair value, recurring | Short-term investments | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Short-term investments | 338 | 432 | 279 |
Other current assets | Level 1 | Carrying Value | Fair value, recurring | Short-term investments | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Short-term investments | 338 | 432 | 279 |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Fair value, recurring | 2027 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (470,000) | (476,250) | (460,000) |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Fair value, recurring | 2028 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (286,500) | (291,000) | (283,500) |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Fair value, recurring | 2029 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (440,000) | (446,250) | (441,250) |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Carrying Value | Fair value, recurring | 2027 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (500,000) | (500,000) | (500,000) |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Carrying Value | Fair value, recurring | 2028 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (300,000) | (300,000) | (300,000) |
Long-term debt | Level 1 | Carrying Value | Fair value, recurring | 2029 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (500,000) | (500,000) | (500,000) |
Long-term debt | Level 2 | Fair value, recurring | 2025 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | (980,000) | (985,000) | (975,000) |
Long-term debt | Level 2 | Carrying Value | Fair value, recurring | 2025 senior notes | |||
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] | |||
Fair value of notes | $ (1,000,000) | $ (1,000,000) | $ (1,000,000) |
Income per Unit - Schedule of N
Income per Unit - Schedule of Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit (Details) - $ / shares shares in Thousands | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | |
Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] | ||||
Basic weighted average units outstanding (in shares) | 50,668 | 56,384 | 51,064 | 56,606 |
Effect of dilutive units: | ||||
Diluted weighted average units outstanding (in shares) | 51,150 | 56,796 | 51,587 | 57,055 |
Net income per unit - basic (in dollars per share) | $ 4.25 | $ 5.91 | $ 2.63 | $ 5.22 |
Net income per unit - diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 4.21 | $ 5.86 | $ 2.61 | $ 5.18 |
Deferred units | ||||
Effect of dilutive units: | ||||
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of share-based payment arrangements (in shares) | 51 | 57 | 50 | 57 |
Performance units | ||||
Effect of dilutive units: | ||||
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of share-based payment arrangements (in shares) | 0 | 0 | 0 | 29 |
Restricted units | ||||
Effect of dilutive units: | ||||
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of share-based payment arrangements (in shares) | 431 | 343 | 473 | 340 |
Unit options | ||||
Effect of dilutive units: | ||||
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive effect of share-based payment arrangements (in shares) | 0 | 12 | 0 | 23 |
Income and Partnership Taxes (D
Income and Partnership Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | |
Mar. 27, 2022 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Jun. 26, 2022 | |
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] | |||
Income taxes receivable, CARES Act | $ 77.1 | ||
Additional income taxes receivable | $ 11.1 | ||
Deferred employer's share of social security taxes due to CARES Act | $ 8.2 | ||
Taxes due in increments (as a percent) | 50% |
Partners' Equity (Details)
Partners' Equity (Details) - USD ($) | 3 Months Ended | 9 Months Ended | ||||
Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | Sep. 24, 2023 | Sep. 25, 2022 | May 04, 2023 | Aug. 03, 2022 | |
August 2022 and May 2023 Repurchase Programs | ||||||
Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] | ||||||
Repurchase of limited partnership (in shares) | 1,700,000 | |||||
Repurchase average price (in dollars per share) | $ 42.97 | |||||
Repurchase of limited partnership amount | $ 74,500,000 | |||||
August 2022 Repurchase Program | ||||||
Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] | ||||||
Stock repurchase program, authorized | $ 250,000,000 | |||||
Repurchase of limited partnership (in shares) | 0 | 1,500,000 | 1,400,000 | 1,500,000 | ||
Repurchase average price (in dollars per share) | $ 43.30 | $ 44 | $ 43.30 | |||
Repurchase of limited partnership amount | $ 66,000,000 | $ 62,500,000 | $ 66,000,000 | |||
Remaining authorized repurchase amount | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||
May 2023 Repurchase Program | ||||||
Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee [Line Items] | ||||||
Stock repurchase program, authorized | $ 250,000,000 | |||||
Repurchase of limited partnership (in shares) | 300,000 | 300,000 | ||||
Repurchase average price (in dollars per share) | $ 38.27 | $ 38.27 | ||||
Repurchase of limited partnership amount | $ 12,000,000 | $ 12,000,000 | ||||
Remaining authorized repurchase amount | $ 238,000,000 | $ 238,000,000 |
Subsequent Event (Details)
Subsequent Event (Details) - Subsequent event | Nov. 02, 2023 |
Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |
Ownership percentage of both Cedar Fair limited partnership and Six Flags | 51.20% |
Ownership percentage of shares of Six Flags | 48.80% |