SANTA CLAUS, IN. (ThrillNetwork.com) -- Following two seasons of strong attendance growth, Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, located in Santa Claus, Indiana, will add a jungle-themed area as well as two new attractions to its Splashin' Safari water park for 2004.

“When planning for the 2004 season, we again looked for high-capacity water rides and activities,” says Will Koch, the president of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari. “We want families to know they can spend the day here having fun—not standing in line.”

Koch says the $3.2 million expansion project features Jungle Racer, a five-story-tall complex of 10 racing water slides. Racers will ride on mats in individual lanes and compete to be the first to cross the finish line.

“I’ve been assured the Dads always win,” says Koch, the father of three children. “How could I resist?”

Located next to Jungle Racer will be Jungle Jets, a huge water “sprayground.” With more than 160 water jets, spray arches, and other squirting features, Jungle Jets will offer families a place to play and cool off. The “jungle” area will also include a new restaurant, restrooms, and deck area.

Additionally, Koch says the following additions are a direct result of visitor feedback:

The park plans to hire an additional 50 seasonal staff members for the 2004 season, totaling 1,100 employees. Koch expects the new ride package to increase the parks’ attendance an additional 50,000 guests in ’04.

Holiday World’s 59th season opens May 1, 2004. Splashin' Safari opens for the season on May 15. For more information, visit www.holidayworld.com or call 1-877-Go-FAMILY.