2,500

That's maximum capacity at Splash water park here in Amarillo. Why does that matter you ask? Well, we were invited to a birthday party last night that was held at Splash. Now, we as a family go there several times per week thanks to season passes. Normally it isn't crowded at all and very easy going. When we arrived at Splash for the party, people were parking in the grassy areas near I-40 because the huge parking lot just wasn't big enough. The owners of the water park decided to have a special deal and let everyone in for $3 a person, instead of the normal $17, from 7:30-10pm. I think 1/2 of Amarillo decided that was a terrific deal and decided to go out there. I had to park in the RV park across the street (I'm very sneaky--I parked in a public area that no one else thought of) and had to hike over to Splash. When I got there, the waiting line to get in wrapped all the way around the park and up to the access road of I-40!!! Anyway, we got in because we were invited to the party--but there were probably 500+ angry people that were denied access when the maximum capacity was reached sometime around 8pm. At one point there were fist fights and shouting matches because people were cutting in line. Once inside, we attempted to let the kiddos play. The lazy river, a very popular part of the park, was so full that you couldn't even move around! The party was a blast though--happy birthday to Jake!--but I couldn't believe the madhouse that was taking place around us. Wonder if the owner of Splash will think twice about doing a promotion like that again. :)