10-Q

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-Q

☒ Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the quarterly period ended April 4, 2021 or

☐ Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

for the transition period from to

Commission file number: 1-13703

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Delaware (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)	13-3995059 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1000 Ballpark Way Suite 400, Arlington, TX  76011 (Address of Principal Executive Offices, Including Zip Code)	(972) 595-5000 (Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each class	Trading Symbol(s)	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, $0.025 par value per share	SIX	New York Stock Exchange

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ⌧  No ◻

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files). Yes ⌧  No ◻

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See definition of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer", "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large Accelerated Filer¹ ⌧ Accelerated Filer ◻ Non-accelerated Filer ◻ Smaller Reporting Company ☐ Emerging Growth Company ☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ◻

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐  No ☒

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:  At April 23, 2021, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation had 85,391,767 outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.025 per share.

SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

FORM 10-Q

INDEX

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements		1
PART I.	FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of April 4, 2021 (unaudited), December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020 (unaudited)	3
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020	4
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020	5
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020	6
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited) for the Three Months Ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020	7
	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	8
Item 2.	Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	33
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	40
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	40
PART II.	OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	40
Item 1A.	Risk Factors	41
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	41
Item 5.	Other Information	41
Item 6.	Exhibits	42
Signatures		43

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (this "Quarterly Report") and the documents incorporated herein by reference contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements regarding (i) the timing and conditions under which we may reopen our closed parks and our expectations regarding the continued operations of our reopened parks, (ii) the operation of our parks in light of the global coronavirus pandemic (“COVID-19”) following their anticipated reopening including, among other things, the effectiveness of cost-saving and health and safety measures implemented in response to COVID-19, (iii) the adequacy of our cash flows from operations, available cash and available amounts under our credit facilities to meet our liquidity needs, including in the event of a prolonged closure of one or more of our parks, (iv) our ability to improve operating results, profitability and resilience by adopting and implementing a new strategic plan, (v) our plans and ability to roll out our capital enhancements and planned initiatives in a timely and cost effective manner, and our expectations regarding the anticipated costs, benefits and results of such enhancements and initiatives, (vi) the extent to which having parks in many geographical locations protects our consolidated results against the effects of adverse weather and other events, (vii) our ongoing compliance with laws and regulations, and the effect of and cost and timing of compliance with newly enacted laws, regulations and accounting policies, (viii) our ability to obtain additional financing, (ix) our expectations regarding future interest payments, (x) our expectations regarding the effect of certain accounting pronouncements, (xi) our expectations regarding the cost or outcome of any litigation or other disputes, (xii) our annual income tax liability and the availability and effect of net operating loss carryforwards and other tax benefits, (xiii) our expectations regarding uncertain tax positions, (xiv) our expectations regarding our deferred revenue growth, (xv) our expectations regarding incremental benefits, including increased Adjusted EBITDA, from our transformation plan, and (xvi) our expectations regarding reclassification of net losses. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts and can be identified by words such as "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "seeks," "believes," "estimates," "expects," "may," "should," "could" and variations of such words or similar expressions.

Forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and assumptions regarding our business, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are by their nature, subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict. Our actual results may differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, we caution you that you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements as statements of historical fact or as guarantees or assurances of future performance. These statements may involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among others, the following:

• factors impacting attendance, such as local conditions, contagious diseases, including COVID-19, or the perceived threat of contagious diseases, events, disturbances and terrorist activities;

• regulations and guidance of federal, state and local governments and health officials regarding the response to COVID-19, including with respect to business operations, safety protocols and public gatherings (such as voluntary and in some cases, mandatory, quarantines as well as shut downs and other restrictions on travel and commercial, social and other activities);

• political or military events;

• recall of food, toys and other retail products sold at our parks;

• accidents, injuries involving the safety of guests and employees, or contagious disease outbreaks at our parks or other parks in our industry, and negative publicity about us or our industry;

• availability of commercially reasonable insurance policies at reasonable rates;

• inability to achieve desired improvements and financial performance targets;

• adverse weather conditions such as excess heat or cold, rain and storms;

• general financial and credit market conditions, including our ability to access credit or raise capital;

• economic conditions (including customer spending patterns);

• changes in public and consumer tastes;

• construction delays in capital improvements or ride downtime;

• competition with other theme parks and entertainment alternatives;

• dependence on a seasonal workforce;

• unionization activities and labor disputes;

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• laws and regulations affecting labor and employee benefit costs, including increases in state and federally mandated minimum wages, and healthcare reform;

• environmental laws and regulations;

• laws and regulations affecting corporate taxation;

• pending, threatened or future legal proceedings and the significant expenses associated with litigation;

• cyber security risks; and

• other factors or uncertainties described in "Item 1A. Risk Factors" set forth in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "2020 Annual Report") and in this Quarterly Report.

A more complete discussion of these factors and other risks applicable to our business is contained in "Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors" of the 2020 Annual Report and in this Quarterly Report. All forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report, or that are made on our behalf by our directors, officers or employees related to the information contained herein, apply only as of the date of this Quarterly Report or as of the date they were made. While we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, we make no assurance that such expectations will be realized and actual results could vary materially. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation, except as required by applicable law, to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise. Additionally, the continued impact of COVID-19 could heighten many of the risk factors described herein.

Available Information

Copies of our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports, are available free of charge through our website at investors.sixflags.com. References to our website in this Quarterly Report are provided as a convenience and do not constitute an incorporation by reference of the information contained on, or accessible through, the website. Therefore, such information should not be considered part of this Quarterly Report. These reports, and any amendments to these reports, are made available on our website as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such reports with, or furnish them to, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Copies are also available, without charge, by sending a written request to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, 1000 Ballpark Way Suite 400, Arlington, TX 76011, Attn: Investor Relations.

*             *             *             *             *

As used herein, unless the context requires otherwise, the terms "we," "our," "Company" and "Six Flags" refer collectively to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries, and "Holdings" refers only to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, without regard to its consolidated subsidiaries.

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PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)

	As of
	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)	(unaudited)				(unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	62,905	$	157,760	$	22,811
Accounts receivable, net		46,420		36,610		71,558
Inventories		39,057		39,191		42,397
Prepaid expenses and other current assets		69,166		73,179		79,496
Total current assets		217,548		306,740		216,262
Property and equipment, net:
Property and equipment, at cost		2,427,318		2,408,690		2,364,872
Accumulated depreciation		(1,182,641)		(1,157,403)		(1,073,198)
Total property and equipment, net		1,244,677		1,251,287		1,291,674
Other assets:
Right-of-use operating leases, net		194,768		196,711		194,519
Debt issuance costs		6,501		7,034		3,413
Deposits and other assets		6,661		7,103		10,452
Goodwill		659,618		659,618		659,618
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $244, $238 and $23,824 as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively		344,192		344,198		344,611
Total other assets		1,211,740		1,214,664		1,212,613
Total assets	$	2,673,965	$	2,772,691	$	2,720,549
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	31,771	$	26,582	$	48,994
Accrued compensation, payroll taxes and benefits		25,674		22,031		11,660
Accrued insurance reserves		27,568		31,060		33,223
Accrued interest payable		33,290		60,184		20,413
Other accrued liabilities		91,848		93,369		63,114
Deferred revenue		245,310		205,125		149,111
Short-term borrowings		—		—		40,000
Current portion of long-term debt		—		—		8,000
Short-term lease liabilities		10,547		14,054		10,490
Total current liabilities		466,008		452,405		385,005
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt		2,624,361		2,622,641		2,215,794
Long-term lease liabilities		190,362		187,432		186,062
Other long-term liabilities		35,337		43,553		43,238
Deferred income taxes		70,985		101,831		214,038
Total noncurrent liabilities		2,921,045		2,955,457		2,659,132
Total liabilities		3,387,053		3,407,862		3,044,137
Redeemable noncontrolling interests		523,376		523,376		529,276
Stockholders' deficit:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value		—		—		—
Common stock, $0.025 par value, 280,000,000 shares authorized; 85,369,434, 85,075,901 and 84,666,505 shares issued and outstanding at April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively		2,134		2,126		2,116
Capital in excess of par value		1,104,904		1,089,199		1,070,900
Accumulated deficit		(2,249,207)		(2,153,368)		(1,815,457)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax		(94,295)		(96,504)		(110,423)
Total stockholders' deficit		(1,236,464)		(1,158,547)		(852,864)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit	$	2,673,965	$	2,772,691	$	2,720,549

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands, except per share data)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Park admissions	$	44,334	$	59,806
Park food, merchandise and other		31,224		29,806
Sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations		6,466		12,891
Total revenues		82,024		102,503
Operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)		92,643		105,864
Selling, general and administrative expenses (including stock-based compensation of $6,637 and $4,280 in 2021 and 2020, respectively, and excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)		36,126		36,190
Costs of products sold		7,215		7,760
Other net periodic pension benefit		(1,643)		(996)
Depreciation		28,827		30,063
Amortization		6		601
Loss (gain) on disposal of assets		520		(120)
Interest expense		38,460		27,486
Interest income		(40)		(329)
Loss on debt extinguishment		—		1,019
Other expense, net		7,619		1,560
Loss before income taxes		(127,709)		(106,595)
Income tax benefit		(31,870)		(22,049)
Net loss	$	(95,839)	$	(84,546)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted:		85,209		84,656
Net loss per average common share outstanding - basic and diluted:	$	(1.12)	$	(1.00)
Cash dividends declared per common share	$	—	$	0.25

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Net loss	$	(95,839)	$	(84,546)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment (1)		(1,973)		(14,198)
Defined benefit retirement plan (2)		255		193
Change in cash flow hedging (3)		3,927		(21,708)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		2,209		(35,713)
Comprehensive loss	$	(93,630)	$	(120,259)

(1)  Foreign currency translation adjustment is presented net of tax benefit of $0.4 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021, and tax benefit of $3.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020.

(2)  Defined benefit retirement plan is presented net of tax expense of $0.1 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020.

(3)  Change in cash flow hedging is presented net of tax expense of $1.3 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and tax benefit of $7.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020, respectively.

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit

(Unaudited)

								Accumulated
				Capital in				other		Total
	Common stock			excess of		Accumulated		comprehensive		stockholders'
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)	Shares issued	Amount		par value		deficit		loss		deficit
Balances at December 31, 2019	84,633,845	$	2,116	$	1,066,223	$	(1,709,747)	$	(74,710)	$	(716,118)
Issuance of common stock	32,788		1		421		—		—		422
Stock-based compensation	—		—		4,280		—		—		4,280
Dividends declared to common shareholders	—		—		—		(21,164)		—		(21,164)
Repurchase of common stock	(155)		—		(6)		—		—		(6)
Employee stock purchase plan	27		(1)		—		—		—		(1)
Change in redemption value of partnership units	—		—		(18)		—		—		(18)
Net loss attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	—		—		—		(84,546)		—		(84,546)
Net other comprehensive loss, net of tax	—		—		—		—		(35,713)		(35,713)
Balances at March 31, 2020	84,666,505	$	2,116	$	1,070,900	$	(1,815,457)	$	(110,423)	$	(852,864)

								Accumulated
				Capital in				other		Total
	Common stock			excess of		Accumulated		comprehensive		stockholders'
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)	Shares issued	Amount		par value		deficit		loss		deficit
Balances at December 31, 2020	85,075,901	$	2,126	$	1,089,199	$	(2,153,368)	$	(96,504)	$	(1,158,547)
Issuance of common stock	293,597		8		9,071		—		—		9,079
Stock-based compensation	—		—		6,637		—		—		6,637
Employee stock purchase plan	(64)		—		(3)		—		—		(3)
Net loss attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	—		—		—		(95,839)		—		(95,839)
Net other comprehensive income, net of tax	—		—		—		—		2,209		2,209
Balances at April 4, 2021	85,369,434	$	2,134	$	1,104,904	$	(2,249,207)	$	(94,295)	$	(1,236,464)

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$	(95,839)	$	(84,546)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization		28,833		30,664
Stock-based compensation		6,637		4,280
Interest accretion on notes payable		277		320
Loss on debt extinguishment		—		1,019
Amortization of debt issuance costs		1,978		856
Other, including loss (gain) on disposal of assets		(931)		1,546
Change in accounts receivable		(9,897)		35,159
Change in inventories, prepaid expenses and other current assets		3,907		(30,794)
Change in deposits and other assets		436		2,208
Change in ROU operating leases		2,113		2,437
Change in accounts payable, deferred revenue, accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities		42,146		1,223
Change in operating lease liabilities		(1,182)		2,204
Change in accrued interest payable		(26,894)		(5,715)
Deferred income taxes		(31,982)		(21,248)
Net cash used in operating activities		(80,398)		(60,387)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property and equipment		(23,133)		(53,458)
Property insurance recoveries		—		2,042
Proceeds from sale of assets		33		—
Net cash used in investing activities		(23,100)		(51,416)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of borrowings		(2,000)		(117,510)
Proceeds from borrowings		2,000		105,000
Payment of cash dividends		(201)		(21,367)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock		9,078		421
Stock repurchases		(3)		(6)
Reduction in finance lease liability		(76)		—
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		8,798		(33,462)
Effect of exchange rate on cash		(155)		(6,103)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents		(94,855)		(151,368)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period		157,760		174,179
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$	62,905	$	22,811
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash paid for interest	$	63,937	$	31,987
Cash paid for income taxes	$	268	$	1,959

See accompanying notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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1.  General — Basis of Presentation

We own and operate regional theme parks and waterparks. We are the largest regional theme park operator in the world, and the largest operator of waterparks in North America based on the number of parks we operate. Of the 27 parks we owned or operated as of April 4, 2021, 24 parks are located in the United States, two are located in Mexico and one is located in Montreal, Canada. Our waterpark at Six Flags Great America will open as a separate gate in 2021 as Hurricane Harbor Chicago, creating our 27^th park.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed, or omitted, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Holdings’ Board of Directors determined that it is in our best interest to change the method of determining our fiscal quarters and fiscal years, such that each fiscal quarter will consist of thirteen weeks ending on a Sunday and each fiscal year will consist of 52 or 53 weeks, as applicable, and will end on the Sunday closest to December 31, effective as of the commencement of our fiscal year on January 1, 2021. This change was made to align our reporting calendar with how we operate our business and improve comparability across periods. Our current fiscal year will end on January 2, 2022. This Quarterly Report covers the period January 1, 2021 – April 4, 2021 (“the three months ended April 4, 2021”). The comparison period in the prior year covers the dates January 1, 2020 – March 31, 2020 (“the three months ended March 31, 2020”). The additional four days in the three months ended April 4, 2021 did not make a material impact on the first quarter 2021 results.

"Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" contains a discussion of our results of operations and our financial position and should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes. The 2020 Annual Report includes additional information about us, our operations and our financial position, and should be referred to in conjunction with this Quarterly Report. The information furnished in this Quarterly Report reflects all normal and recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present a fair statement of the results for the periods presented.

Results for the three months ended April 4, 2021, are not indicative of the results expected for the full year. In particular, our park operations contribute more than half of their annual revenue during the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year, while expenses are incurred year-round.

COVID-19 Considerations

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, federal, state and local governments implemented significant restrictions on travel, social conduct and business operations, including mass quarantine and social distancing mandates and orders. In March 2020, we temporarily suspended operations at all of our domestic theme parks and waterparks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have reopened or announced reopening dates for each of our parks with the exception of our park in Canada. Most parks that are currently operating have capacity and other operating limitations.

In March 2020, we quickly implemented plans to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business to ensure the health and safety of our employees and guests. In response to the challenging environment, we focused on the following actions:

● Implemented immediate cost controls by right-sizing marketing and temporarily reducing salaries of all full-time employees by 25%;

● Strengthened liquidity through expansion of our revolving credit facility, suspension of testing of certain maintenance covenants in our credit facility, issuance of senior secured notes, and suspension of dividend payments and stock repurchases;

● Enhanced financial flexibility by delaying and reducing capital expenses related to new rides and attractions;

● Developed measures to preserve our season pass holder and member bases;

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● Opened parks as quickly as possible, while following governmental and public health guidelines; and

● Created new sources of revenue by introducing animal and holiday drive-thru experiences at many parks.

We resumed partial operations at many of our parks on a staggered basis near the end of the second quarter of 2020 using a cautious and phased approach, including limiting attendance, in accordance with local conditions and government guidelines. Attendance trends continued to improve throughout 2020 and the first quarter of 2021 for the parks that were open.

We have taken measures to ensure sufficient liquidity to meet our cash flow needs and covenant compliance obligations for at least the next twelve months from the issuance of these financial statements. Additionally, we believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our cash obligations through the end of 2021, even if our open parks are required to close. In addition to reducing expenses and capital expenditures, in April 2020, we increased the revolving credit commitments under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by $131.0 million, increasing the facility from $350.0 million to $481.0 million. Also, in April 2020, Six Flags Theme Parks Inc. (“SFTP”), Holdings’ indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025. In August 2020, we extended the increased revolving credit commitments under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan through December 31, 2022, and extended the suspension of our senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant through the end of 2021. See Note 3, Long-Term Indebtedness, for more information on these transactions. In connection with the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, we suspended dividend payments and stock repurchases until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments by $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present material uncertainty and risk with respect to our performance and financial results, including around our ability to keep all of our parks open to our guests. We will continue to consider near-term exigencies and the long-term financial health of the business as we take steps to mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts our business will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including any additional actions we take to contain COVID-19 or treat its impact, among others. Our business and financial results could be materially and adversely impacted.

Transformation Plan

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, we incurred the below expenses related to our transformation plan.

Transformation Costs Breakout by Quarter
	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021
Amounts included in "Other expense, net"
Consultant costs	$	6,787
Technology modernization costs		2,094
Employee termination costs		815
Total transformation costs	$	9,696

​
There were no transformation plan related expenses incurred during the three months ended March 31, 2020.

a.  Consolidated U.S. GAAP Presentation

Our accounting policies reflect industry practices and conform to U.S. GAAP.

The unaudited condensed 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 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, as we have determined that we have the

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power to direct the activities of the Partnership Parks that most significantly impact their economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses and receive benefits from the Partnership Parks 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 unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. See Note 6 for a description of the partnership agreements applicable to the Partnership Parks and Note 8 for further discussion on the non-affiliated parties’ share of the earnings of the Partnership Parks.

b.  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 recorded a valuation allowance of $129.4 million, $128.2 million and $132.2 million as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to use 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. Our projected taxable income over the foreseeable future indicates we will be able to use all of our federal net operating loss carryforwards before they expire.

In determining the effective tax rate for interim periods, we consider the expected changes in our valuation allowance from current year originating or reversing timing differences between financial accounting and tax purposes and the taxable income or loss expected for the current year. For interim periods, we also account for the tax effect of significant non-recurring items in the period in which they occur as well as changes in the valuation allowance relating to a change in the assessment of the probability of utilization of the deferred income tax assets.

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, taxing authorities of 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 Company 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 April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we had no recorded amounts for accrued interest or penalties.

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.

c. Goodwill and Intangibles

Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite 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.

As of April 4, 2021, the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded our carrying amount. We have one reporting unit at the same level for which Holdings common stock is traded and we believe our market capitalization is the best

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indicator of our reporting unit’s fair value. At April 4, 2021, we determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of our intangible assets were less than their carrying amounts and there were no triggering events.

d.  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 comparing the carrying amount of the 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. We determined that our long-lived assets were recoverable as of April 4, 2021.

e.  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.

We incurred a net loss for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, therefore, diluted shares outstanding equaled basic shares outstanding for the purposes of determining loss per common share. The computation of diluted earnings per share excluded the effect of 6,199,000 and 5,907,000 antidilutive stock options for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively.

f. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the condensed 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 throughout the contract term, 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 interest rate derivatives that are effective and that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in “Other comprehensive 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 the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting or that are de-designated are recorded in “Other expense, net” in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

g.  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. We present the estimated fair values and classifications of our financial instruments in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

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We use the following methods and assumptions 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.

● 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.

● 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.

h.  Stock Benefit Plans

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 equivalent rights ("DERs") 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 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’ common stock on the date of grant.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, performance stock units were granted to key employees that will vest upon the achievement of Adjusted EBITDA and Revenue performance targets by 2023. The aggregate payout under these awards if the targets are achieved in 2023 would be 186,000, but could be more or less depending on the level of achievement and timing thereof. There has been no stock-based compensation expense recorded for the performance stock units because, as of April 4, 2021, it is not deemed probable that we will achieve the specified performance targets in 2023. Based on the grant date fair value of these performance stock units as determined by the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the date of grant, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to these performance stock units at target achievement in 2023 is $9.3 million that will be expensed over the service period if achievement of the performance conditions becomes probable. We will continue to evaluate the probability of achieving the performance conditions going forward and will record the appropriate expense as necessary.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, stock-based compensation expense consisted of the following:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Long-Term Incentive Plan	$	6,562	$	4,205
Employee Stock Purchase Plan		75		75
Total Stock-Based Compensation	$	6,637	$	4,280

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, we paid $0.2 million to employees with dividend equivalent rights for previously declared dividends due upon the vesting of the related shares. These dividends were declared prior to the suspension of dividend payments in connection with the increase in the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan in April 2020.

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i.  Revenue Recognition

We account for revenue from contracts with customers based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of 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. 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 condensed consolidated statements of operations net of sales taxes collected from our guests that are remitted or payable to government taxing authorities. 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 guests visit our parks. Amounts owed or received for multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in deferred revenue. In contrast to our season pass and other multi-use offerings (such as our all season dining pass program, which enables season passholders 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 whenever the parks are open as long as the guest remains enrolled in the membership program. We review the estimated redemption rate on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year, including the impact of changes to our season pass and memberships described above. For any bundled products with multiple performance obligations, revenue is allocated using the retail price of each distinct performance obligation and products that are not sold on a stand-alone basis are treated as residual.

For active memberships after the initial twelve-month term, we recognize revenue monthly as payments are received, with the exception of those payments related to the parks that remain temporarily closed due to COVID-19. In connection with the temporary closure of our parks due to COVID-19, we added one additional month of membership privileges for every month a member paid but could not visit their home park. Any membership payments received while parks were temporarily closed due to the pandemic were deferred and will be recognized as revenue when these additional months are utilized at the end of the respective membership periods or when they exchange their additional months for a Six Flags gift card pursuant to our gift card exchange program, whichever is sooner. Season pass holders were granted an additional year of admission to the parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All 2020 passes now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

As of April 4, 2021, deferred revenue was primarily comprised of (i) unredeemed season pass and all-season dining pass revenue, (ii) unredeemed portions of the membership program, member dining program and member flash pass program that will primarily be recognized in 2021, (iii) pre-sold single day admissions revenue for the 2021 operating season and (iv) pre-sold single-day admissions revenue for the 2020 operating season which now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

Certain contracts with customers, primarily memberships, may include bundled products with multiple performance obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the observable retail prices charged to customers and use residual for any products not sold on a stand-alone basis. We generally expense (i) sales commissions when incurred, and (ii) certain costs to obtain a contract where the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses." We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount for which we have the right to invoice for services performed. For certain of our contracts that have an original expected length of one year or less, we use the practical expedient applicable to such contracts and do not consider the time value of money.

We have entered into international agreements to assist a third party in the planning, design, development and operation of a Six Flags-branded park outside of North America. These agreements consist of a brand licensing agreement, project services agreement, and management services agreement. We treat these agreements as one contract because they were negotiated with a single commercial objective. We have identified three distinct promises within the agreement with the third-party partner as brand licensing, project services and management services. Each of these

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promises is its own performance obligation and distinct, as the third party could benefit from each service on its own with other readily available resources, and each service is separately identifiable from other services in the context of the contract. We recognize revenue under our international agreements over the relevant service period of each performance obligation based on its relative stand-alone selling price, as determined by our best estimate of selling price. We review the service period of each performance obligation on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Revisions to the relevant service periods of the performance obligations may result in revisions to revenue in future periods and are recognized in the period in which the change is identified.

j.  Leases

We or certain of our subsidiaries are a lessee in various noncancelable operating and finance (formerly “capital”) leases, primarily for operating rights to amusement parks, land, office space, warehouses, office equipment and machinery. We account for leases in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 842, Leases (“Topic 842”); see below for additional information on recently adopted accounting pronouncements and Note 7 for additional information regarding our leases. We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception and recognize a right-of-use ("ROU") asset and lease liability at the lease commencement date.

For both our operating and finance leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. Key estimates and judgments include how we determine (i) the discount rate used to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value, (ii) the lease term and (iii) the lease payments. Topic 842 requires a lessee to discount its unpaid lease payments using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, its incremental borrowing rate ("IBR"). Generally, we cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease and therefore we use the IBR as a discount rate for our leases. The IBR reflects the rate of interest we would pay on a collateralized basis to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments under similar terms. The lease term for all of our leases includes the noncancelable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by an option to extend the lease that are reasonably certain to be executed by us. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise fixed payments owed over the lease term, variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, and the exercise price of an option to purchase the underlying asset if it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option.

The ROU asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of lease liability adjusted for lease payments made at or before the lease commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. For our operating leases, the ROU asset is subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability, plus initial direct costs, and adjusted for any prepaid or accrued lease payments, less the unamortized balance of lease incentives received. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the operating lease.

Variable lease payments associated with our leases are recognized upon the occurrence of the event, activity, or circumstance in the lease agreement on which those payments are assessed. Variable lease payments for operating leases are presented as operating expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations in the same line item as expense arising from fixed lease payments. Property taxes and insurance paid on behalf of our lessors is included within variable lease payments.

Operating lease ROU assets net of accumulated amortization are presented as "Right-of-use operating leases, net" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of operating lease liabilities is presented as "Short-term lease liabilities" and the long-term portion is presented separately as "Long-term lease liabilities" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Finance lease ROU assets are presented within “Property and equipment, at cost” and the related lease amortization within “Accumulated depreciation” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of the finance lease liabilities is presented as “Short-term lease liabilities” and the long-term portion is presented separately as “Long-term lease liabilities” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

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We have elected not to recognize ROU assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less. We recognize the lease payments associated with short-term leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments associated with short-term leases are recognized and presented in the same manner as for all other leases.

The ROU assets for operating leases may be periodically reduced by impairment losses. We use the long-lived assets impairment guidance to determine whether an ROU asset is impaired and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize. We monitor for events or changes in circumstances that require a reassessment of one of our leases. When a reassessment results in the remeasurement of a lease liability, an adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the corresponding ROU asset unless doing so would reduce the carrying amount of the ROU asset to an amount less than zero. In that case, the amount of the adjustment that would result in a negative ROU asset balance is recorded in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

k.  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, such as 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 record an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we have recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $8.5 million, $3.1 million and $7.6 million, respectively, which is primarily comprised of estimated payment defaults under our membership program. To the extent that payments under our membership program have not been recognized in revenue, the allowance for doubtful accounts recorded against our membership program is offset with a corresponding reduction in deferred revenue.

l.  Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“Update 2019-12”), which removes certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim tax calculations and adds guidance to reduce complexity in accounting for income taxes. Update 2019-12 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The various amendments in Update 2019-12 are applied on a retrospective basis, modified retrospective basis and prospective basis, depending on the amendment. Our adoption of Update 2019-12 did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

m. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In August 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-14, Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans: (“Update 2018-14”), which modifies the disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plans. Update 2018-14 is effective for annual periods beginning after January 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. Adoption is required to be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of this amendment on our condensed consolidated financial statements; however, we do not expect a material impact.

2.  Revenue

Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Sales and other taxes we collect concurrent with revenue-producing activities are excluded from revenue. Incidental items that are immaterial in the context of the contract are recognized as expense.

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The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by contract duration for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively. Long-term and short-term contracts consist of our contracts with customers with terms greater than one year and less than or equal to one year, respectively. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues.

	Three Months Ended April 4, 2021
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	7,010	$	997	$	4,163	$	12,170
Short-term contracts and other (a)		37,324		30,227		2,303		69,854
Total revenues	$	44,334	$	31,224	$	6,466	$	82,024

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	5,762	$	820	$	9,270	$	15,852
Short-term contracts and other (a)		54,044		28,986		3,621		86,651
Total revenues	$	59,806	$	29,806	$	12,891	$	102,503

(a) Other revenues primarily include sales of single-use tickets and short-term transactional sales for which we have the right to invoice.

Long-term Contracts

Our long-term contracts consist of season passes purchased by customers in the year preceding the operating season to which they relate, sponsorship contracts and international agreements with third parties. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have extended all 2020 season passes through the 2021 season. Due to the extension of term on the 2020 season passes, all 2020 season passes have a length greater than one year and are thus considered long-term contracts. We earn season pass revenue when our customers purchase a season pass for a fixed fee, which entitles the customer to visit our parks, including certain waterparks, throughout the duration of the parks’ operating season. We earn sponsorship revenue from separately-priced contracts with third parties pursuant to which we sell and advertise the third party’s products within the parks in exchange for consideration. Advertisements may include, but are not limited to, banners, signs, radio ads, association with certain events, sponsorship of rides within our parks and retail promotions. We earn international agreements revenue pursuant to arrangements in which we assist in the development and management of Six Flags-branded parks outside of North America. Within our international agreements, we have identified three distinct performance obligations as brand licensing, project services and management services. We do not consider revenue recognized for the performance obligations related to our international agreements to be significant, neither individually nor in the aggregate, to any period presented.

The transaction price for our long-term contracts is explicitly stated within the contracts. Our sponsorship contracts and international agreements may include estimated variable consideration such as penalties for delay in performance of contract terms, and certain volume-based discounts and rebates. We do not believe there will be significant changes to our estimates of variable consideration. Our brand licensing and management services performance agreements include royalty payments and management fees, respectively, based on gross sales from Six Flags-branded parks once opened. We have elected to apply the sales-based royalty exemption to the brand licensing performance obligation, and accordingly, do not estimate revenue attributable to the gross sales-based royalty. We have also elected to apply the direct allocation exemption to the management services performance obligation, and accordingly, do not estimate revenue attributable to the gross sales-based management fee.

We recognize season pass revenue in "Park admissions" over the estimated redemption rate, as we believe this appropriately depicts the transfer of service to our customers. We estimate the redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions that we believe to be customary and reasonable. We review the estimated redemption rate regularly, on an ongoing basis, and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Amounts received for

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multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in "Deferred revenue." We recognize sponsorship and international agreements revenue over the term of the agreements using the passage of time as a measure of complete satisfaction of the performance obligations in "Sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations." Amounts received for unsatisfied sponsorship and international agreements performance obligations are recognized in "Deferred revenue."

At January 1, 2021, $77.6 million of unearned revenue associated with outstanding long-term contracts was reported in "Deferred revenue," of which $8.4 million was recognized as revenue for long-term contracts during the three months ended April 4, 2021. As of April 4, 2021, the total unearned amount of revenue for remaining long-term contract performance obligations was $86.7 million. At January 1, 2020, $85.1 million of unearned revenue associated with outstanding long-term contracts was reported in "Deferred revenue," of which $10.2 million was recognized as revenue for long-term contracts during the three months ended March 31, 2020. As of March 31, 2020, the total unearned amount of revenue for remaining long-term contract performance obligations was $70.6 million.

As of April 4, 2021, we expect to recognize estimated revenue for partially or wholly unsatisfied performance obligations on long-term contracts of approximately $100.8 million in the remainder of 2021, $18.5 million in 2022, $8.9 million in 2023, $2.3 million in 2024, and $0.8 million in 2025 and thereafter.

Short-term Contracts and Other

Our short-term contracts consist primarily of season passes and memberships with customers, certain sponsorship contracts and international agreements with third parties. We earn revenue from a customer’s purchase of our season pass and membership products, which entitles the customer to visit our parks, including certain waterparks, throughout the duration of the parks’ operating season for a fixed fee. Some membership products include other benefits and discounts for our guests during their visits. We earn sponsorship and international agreements revenue from contracts with third parties, pursuant to which we sell and advertise the third party’s products within our parks on a short-term basis that generally coincides with our annual operating season, and pursuant to certain activities in connection with our international agreements. The transaction price for our short-term contracts is explicitly stated within the contracts.

We generally recognize revenue from short-term contracts over the passage of time, with the exception of season pass and membership revenues. We estimate the redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable. 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."

Other revenues consist primarily of revenues from single-use tickets for entrance to our parks, in-park services (such as the sale of food and beverages, merchandise, games and attractions, standalone parking sales and other services inside our parks), accommodations revenue, and other miscellaneous products and services. Due to the short-term transactional nature of such purchases, we apply the practical expedient to recognize revenue for single-use ticket sales, in-park services, accommodations, and other miscellaneous services and goods for which we have the right to invoice.

Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations

Certain contracts with customers, primarily memberships, may include bundled products with multiple performance obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the observable retail prices charged to customers and use residual for any products not sold on a stand-alone basis. We generally expense (i) sales commissions when incurred, and (ii) certain costs to obtain a contract where the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses." We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount for which we have the right to invoice for services performed. For certain of our contracts that have an original expected length of one year or less, we use the practical expedient applicable to such contracts and do not consider the time value of money.

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3. Long-Term Indebtedness

Credit Facility

As of April 4, 2021, our credit facility consisted of a $481.0 million revolving credit loan facility (the “Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan”) and a $479.0 million Tranche B Term Loan facility (the “Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B”) pursuant to the amended and restated credit facility that we entered into in 2019 (the “Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility”) and further amended in both April 2020 and August 2020 as discussed below.

On October 18, 2019, we entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility which reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B by 25 basis points by reducing the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 2.00% to LIBOR plus 1.75%. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.3 million related to the transaction.

On April 8, 2020, certain of our revolving credit lenders agreed to provide an incremental $131.0 million of revolving credit commitments to the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan, increasing the facility from $350.0 million to $481.0 million.

On April 15, 2020, we received sufficient consents from the continuing lenders under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility (the “Credit Agreement Amendment”) substantially concurrently with the closing of the $725 million 2025 Notes discussed below which, among other things, (i) permitted the issuance of the 2025 Notes, including specifically, permitted the 2025 Notes to mature inside the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, (ii) suspended the testing of the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility through the end of 2020, (iii) re-established the financial maintenance covenant thereafter (provided that for the first, second, and third quarters of 2021 that such covenant is tested, we will be permitted to use the quarterly Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility) from the second, third and fourth quarters of 2019 in lieu of the actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the corresponding quarters of 2020) and (iv) added a minimum liquidity covenant that will apply from the date of the Credit Agreement Amendment through December 31, 2021. The Credit Agreement Amendment became effective on April 22, 2020, after giving effect to the repayment of a portion of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B with a portion of the proceeds from the 2025 Notes.

On April 22, 2020, SFTP completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025. The net proceeds from this offering were used to repay the outstanding balance of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, and for general corporate and working capital purposes, including expenses relating to the offering. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $5.1 million related to the transaction.

On August 26, 2020, we entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility which, among other things, (i) extended the previously effectuated suspension of the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility through the end of 2021, (ii) re-established the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant thereafter (provided that for each quarter in 2022 (other than the fourth quarter) that the financial maintenance covenant is tested, SFTP will be permitted to use its quarterly Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the credit agreement governing the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility) from the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2019 in lieu of the actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the corresponding quarters of 2021), (iii) reduced the commitment fee on the revolving credit facility, and (iv) extended the minimum liquidity covenant that will apply through December 31, 2022. The extension of the modifications to the financial covenant and other provisions in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility pursuant to this amendment will be in effect from the date of the amendment until the earlier of the delivery of the compliance certificate for the fourth quarter of 2022 and the date on which SFTP, in its sole discretion, elects to calculate its compliance with the financial maintenance covenant by using its actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA instead of the 2019 figures as outlined above. In addition, all of SFTP’s existing incremental revolving credit

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lenders agreed to extend the incremental $131 million revolving credit commitments to the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by one year to December 31, 2022.

As of April 4, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had no amounts outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of $20.2 million and $21.0 million, respectively). As of March 31, 2020, we had $40.0 million outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of $21.3 million). Interest on the Second 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 April 4, 2021, the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan unused commitment fee was 0.625%. The principal amount of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan is due and payable on April 17, 2024.

As of April 4, 2021 and December 31, 2020, $479.0 million was outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, respectively. As of March 31, 2020, $794.0 million was outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. Interest on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B accrues at an annual rate of LIBOR plus 1.75%. In June 2019, we entered into the June 2019 Swap Agreements to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. In August 2019, we entered into the August 2019 Swap Agreements to further mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. As of April 4, 2021, the applicable interest rate on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B was 3.00%. All remaining outstanding principal of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B is due and payable on April 17, 2026.

Amounts outstanding under the Second 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 Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Loan Parties. The Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility agreement contains certain representations, warranties, affirmative covenants and a financial covenant (specifically, a maximum senior secured net leverage maintenance covenant). In addition, the Second 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, investments, prepayments of certain indebtedness, transactions with affiliates, changes in fiscal periods, modifications of certain documents, and certain hedging agreements, subject, in each case, to certain carve-outs.

2024 Notes, 2025 Notes and 2027 Notes

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 2015 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, Holdings issued an additional $700.0 million of 4.875% Senior Notes due July 31, 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, Holdings issued $500.0 million of 5.50% Senior Notes due April 15, 2027 (the "2027 Notes"). We capitalized $2.6 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of the 2027 Notes.

During March of 2020, we prepaid $50.5 million of the outstanding 2024 Notes principal reducing the outstanding amount to $949.5 million. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $1.0 million. Interest payments of $23.1 million for the 2024 Notes and the 2024 Notes Add-on are due semi-annually on January 31 and July 31 of each year.

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On April 22, 2020, SFTP completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025 (the “2025 Notes”). The net proceeds from this offering were used to repay the outstanding balance of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B and for general corporate and working capital purposes, including expenses relating to the offering. In conjunction with the $315.0 million repayment of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, certain of our hedging instruments that were entered into to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate and were de-designated. Consistent with policy, we hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Accordingly, in April 2020 we entered into counter-agreements designed to economically offset the impact of the de-designated swap agreements. Interest payments of $25.4 million are due semi-annually on January 1 and July 1 of each year, with the exception of January 1, 2021, which included the interest from April 22, 2020 through July 1, 2020 and totaled $35.1 million.

The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes and the 2027 Notes are guaranteed by the Loan Parties. The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes 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, 2025 Notes 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.

Long-Term Indebtedness Summary

As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, long-term debt consisted of the following:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B	$	479,000	$	479,000	$	794,000
Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan		—		—		40,000
2024 Notes		949,490		949,490		949,490
2025 Notes		725,000		725,000		—
2027 Notes		500,000		500,000		500,000
Net discount		(4,080)		(4,357)		(6,002)
Deferred financing costs		(25,049)		(26,492)		(13,694)
Total debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,263,794
Less current portion of long-term debt		—		—		(8,000)
Less short-term borrowings		—		—		(40,000)
Total long-term debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,215,794

Fair-Value of Long-Term Indebtedness

As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, the fair value of our long-term debt was $2,700.5 million, $2,693.3 million and $1,952.4 million, respectively.

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4.  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Changes in the composition of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCI") during the three months ended April 4, 2021, were as follows:

									Accumulated
	Cumulative								Other
	Translation		Cash Flow		Defined Benefit		Income		Comprehensive
(Amounts in thousands)	Adjustment		Hedges		Plans		Taxes		Loss
Balances at December 31, 2020	$	(27,412)	$	(16,819)	$	(57,642)	$	5,369	$	(96,504)
Net current period change		(2,402)		3,883		—		(546)		935
Amounts reclassified from AOCI		—		1,361		340		(427)		1,274
Balances at April 4,2021	$	(29,814)	$	(11,575)	$	(57,302)	$	4,396	$	(94,295)

The change in “Cumulative Translation Adjustment” was caused by the weakening of the United States Dollar against the Mexican Peso and the Canadian Dollar during the three months ended April 4, 2021. Our assets for our parks that we operate in Mexico and Canada are recorded in their local currencies and translated into United States Dollars on our condensed consolidated balance sheet.

The change in “Cash Flow Hedges” was caused by declining interest rates and continued projections of low interest rates in future interest rate forward curves.

The Company had the following reclassifications out of AOCI during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

		Amount of Reclassification from AOCI
		Three Months Ended
Component of AOCI	Location of Reclassification into (Loss) Income	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge	Interest Expense	$	1,361	$	(120)
	Income tax benefit		(342)		30
	Net of tax	$	1,019	$	(90)
Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost	Operating expenses	$	340	$	257
	Income tax expense		(85)		(64)
	Net of tax	$	255	$	193
Total reclassifications		$	1,274	$	103

5.  Derivative Financial Instruments

In June 2019, we entered into the June 2019 Swap Agreements with an aggregate notional amount of $300.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. The term of the June 2019 Swap Agreements began in June 2019 and expires in June 2023. Upon execution, we designated and documented the June 2019 Swap Agreements as cash flow hedges. The June 2019 Swap Agreements serve as economic hedges and provide protection against rising interest rates.

In August 2019, we entered into the August 2019 Swap Agreements with an aggregate notional amount of $400.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. The term of the August 2019 Swap Agreements began in August 2019 and expires in August 2024. Upon execution, we designated and documented the August 2019 Swap Agreements as cash flow hedges. The August 2019 Swap Agreements serve as economic hedges and provide protection against rising interest rates.

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In March 2020, we executed a strategy common known as a “blend and extend” on $100.0 million of the June 2019 Swap Agreements that extended the length of one of the swap agreements through April 2026. We extended the existing pay-fixed swap rate over a longer period than its original term at a lower interest rate, while maintaining the same overall value of the swap. The remaining $200.0 million of the June 2019 Swap Agreements did not change.

On April 22, 2020, we repaid $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. In conjunction, the June 2019 Swap Agreements and the Modified June 2019 Swap Agreement were de-designated, since the hedged interest was no longer likely to occur due to the repayment of the debt. As a result, $14.9 million was reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Consistent with company policy, we hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Accordingly, in April 2020 we entered into $300.0 million of notional amount counter-agreements (the “April 2020 Counter-agreements”) designed to economically offset the impact of the de-designated swap agreements.

By utilizing a derivative instrument to hedge our exposure to LIBOR rate changes, we are 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, hedging instruments are placed with counterparties that we believe pose 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 manage the market risk associated with derivative instruments by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degree of market risk that we may undertake. We hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

We record derivative instruments at fair value on our unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets. When in qualifying relationships, the gains and losses on cash flow designated derivatives are deferred in AOCI and are reclassified to interest expense when the forecasted transaction takes place. The fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments are recorded directly to “interest expense, net”. Derivative assets and derivative liabilities that have maturity dates equal to or less than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other accrued liabilities, respectively. Derivative assets and derivative 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.

The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments in an asset position as well as their classification on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

(Amounts in thousands)	Asset Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets		403		877		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(157)		585		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	246	$	1,462	$	—
Total asset derivatives		$	246	$	1,462	$	—

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The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments in a liability position as well as their classification on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

(Amounts in thousands)	Liability Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(5,139)		(5,251)		(7,689)
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,634)	$	(16,884)	$	(30,484)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets	$	398	$	—	$	—
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(7,353)		(9,032)		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,752)	$	(13,907)	$	—
Total liability derivatives		$	(23,386)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Derivative assets recorded at fair value in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, consisted of the following:

	Derivative Assets
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	—	$	—	$	—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		—		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		801		877		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		585		—
	$	801	$	1,462	$	—

Derivative liabilities recorded at fair value in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, consisted of the following:

	Derivative Liabilities
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	(5,139)	$	(5,251)	$	(7,689)
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(7,510)		(9,032)		—
	$	(23,941)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Losses before taxes on derivatives not designated as a cash flow hedge of $0.1 million were presented in “Interest expense” in the condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2021.

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Gains and losses before taxes on derivatives designated as hedging instruments were presented in “Interest expense” in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

	Gain (Loss)				(Loss) Gain Reclassified from
	Recognized in AOCL				AOCL into Operations
(Amounts in thousands)	2021		2020		2021		2020
Interest Rate Swap Agreements	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120
Total	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120

As of April 4, 2021, we expect to reclassify net losses of $5.1 million, currently recorded in AOCL, into “Interest expense, net” within the next twelve months. However, the actual amount reclassified could vary due to future changes in the fair value of these derivatives.

6.  Commitments and Contingencies

Partnership Parks

On April 1, 1998, we acquired all of the capital stock of the former Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (a corporation that has been merged out of existence and that has always been a separate corporation from Holdings, "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 $75.2 million in 2021 (subject to cost of living adjustments) to the limited partners in the Partnership Parks (based on our ownership of units as of April 4, 2021, our share of the distribution will be approximately $33.3 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 offered for the units of the Partnership Parks by certain entities. In light of the temporary suspension of operations of the parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic during March of 2020, which would cause the value of the partnership park units to decrease in 2021 and thereafter, we adjusted our annual offer to purchase these units to set a minimum price floor for all future purchases. Pursuant to the new minimum price floor, the Specified Price for the Partnership Parks, if determined as of April 4, 2021, is $409.7 million in the case of SFOG and $527.4 million in the case of SFOT. As of April 4, 2021, we owned approximately 31.4% and 53.9% 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. As of the date of this quarterly report, we expect to purchase units from the Georgia and Texas partnerships for $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively, in May 2021 pursuant to the 2021 annual offer. 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 2021 at both parks is approximately $523.4 million, representing approximately 68.6% of the outstanding units of SFOG and 46.1% of the outstanding units of SFOT. An additional $350.0 million of incremental borrowing is available under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility for future "put" obligations, if necessary.

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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 (an indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc. as a result of a merger in 2018), 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 that 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 the 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. The 2018 merger of Time Warner and AT&T Inc. did not affect the Time Warner guarantee of our obligations under the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement.

We incurred $9.1 million of capital expenditures at the Partnership Parks during the 2020 season and intend to incur approximately $11.0 million of capital expenditures at these parks for the 2021 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 used approximately $5.0 million of cash in 2020 in operating activities, after deduction of capital expenditures and excluding the impact of short-term intercompany advances from or payments to Holdings. As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we had total loans receivable outstanding of $288.3 million, $288.3 million and $239.3 million, respectively, from the partnerships that own the Partnership Parks, primarily to fund the acquisition of Six Flags White Water Atlanta and to make capital improvements to the Partnership Parks and distributions to the limited partners in prior years.

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 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 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 our industry. Our 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.

The majority of our current insurance policies expire on December 31, 2021. We generally renegotiate our insurance policies on an annual basis. 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.

Litigation

Privacy Class Action Lawsuits

On January 7, 2016, a putative class action complaint was filed against Holdings 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 that commenced in the 2014 operating season at Six Flags Great

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America in Gurnee, Illinois, and seeks statutory damages, attorneys’ 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 complaint does not allege that any information was misused or disseminated. On April 7, 2017, the trial 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 Illinois Appellate Court. On December 21, 2017, the Illinois 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 in order to have a right of action. On March 1, 2018, the plaintiff filed a petition for leave to appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court. On May 30, 2018, the Illinois Supreme Court granted the plaintiff’s leave to appeal and oral arguments were heard on November 20, 2018. On January 25, 2019, the Illinois Supreme Court found in favor of the plaintiff, holding that the plaintiff does not need to allege an actual injury beyond the violation of his rights under BIPA in order to proceed with a complaint. We intend to continue to vigorously defend ourselves against this litigation. The amount we have recorded is based on our estimate of the probable outcome of this litigation.

During 2017, four putative class action complaints were filed against Holdings 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 sought by the plaintiffs. The complaints do not allege that any information was misused. On October 20, 2020, the parties entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the lawsuits, for an immaterial amount, and preliminary approval was granted by the court on December 3, 2020. All four lawsuits are stayed pending final approval of the settlement by the court.

Securities Class Action Lawsuits

In February 2020, two putative securities class action complaints were filed against Holdings and certain of its former executive officers (collectively, the “defendants”) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. On March 2, 2020, the two cases were consolidated in an action captioned Electrical Workers Pension Fund Local 103 I.B.E.W. v. Six Flags Entertainment Corp., et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00201-P (N.D. Tex.) (the “Electrical Workers litigation”), and an amended complaint was filed on March 20, 2020. On May 8, 2020, Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System and Electrical Workers Pension Fund Local 103 I.B.E.W. were appointed as lead plaintiffs, Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossman LLP was appointed as lead counsel, and McKool Smith PC was appointed as liaison counsel. On July 2, 2020, lead plaintiffs filed a consolidated complaint. The consolidated complaint alleges, among other things, that the defendants made materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co. Ltd., in violation of the federal securities laws. The consolidated complaint seeks compensatory damages and other relief on behalf of a putative class of purchasers of Holdings’ publicly traded common stock during the period between April 24, 2018 and February 19, 2020. On August 3, 2020, defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint. On March 3, 2021, the court granted defendants’ motion, dismissing the complaint in its entirety and with prejudice. Plaintiffs filed a motion to amend or set aside judgment on March 31, 2021, and defendants filed an opposition to that motion on April 21, 2021. We believe that these lawsuits are without merit and intend to defend this litigation vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of the lawsuit.

Stockholder Derivative Lawsuits

On March 20, 2020, a putative stockholder derivative lawsuit was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings, by Mr. Mark Schwartz in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas against certain of its current and former executive officers and directors (the “individual defendants”) in an action captioned Schwartz v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00262-P (N.D. Tex.). In April 2020, two additional stockholder derivative lawsuits, making

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substantially identical allegations as the Schwartz complaint, were filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings by Trustees of the St. Clair County Employees’ Retirement System and Mr. Mehmet Ali Albayrak in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in actions captioned Martin, et al. v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00311-P (N.D. Tex.) and Albayrak v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00312-P (N.D. Tex.), respectively. On April 8, 2020, plaintiffs in all three of these putative derivative actions moved to consolidate the three actions and to appoint lead counsel. On May 8, 2020, the court granted the plaintiffs’ motion to consolidate. The consolidated action is captioned In re Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Derivative Litigation, Case No. 4:20-cv-00262-P (N.D. Tex.). On August 10, 2020, plaintiffs filed a consolidated derivative complaint. The consolidated derivative complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty, insider selling, waste of corporate assets, unjust enrichment, and contribution for violations of federal securities laws. The consolidated derivative complaint references, and makes many of the same allegations, as are set forth in the Electrical Workers litigation, alleging, among other things, that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties, committed waste, are liable for contribution for, or were unjustly enriched by making, failing to correct, or failing to implement adequate internal controls relating to alleged materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the prospects of the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co. Ltd. The consolidated derivative complaint also alleges that a former officer and director sold shares of the Company while allegedly in possession of material non-public information concerning the same. On September 9, 2020, Holdings and the individual defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint. On April 28, 2021, the court granted defendants’ motion, dismissing the consolidated complaint in its entirety and with prejudice and denying leave to amend. We believe that these complaints are without merit and intend to defend these lawsuits vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits.

On May 5, 2020, a putative stockholder derivative lawsuit was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings, by Mr. Richard Francisco in the District Court for Dallas County, Texas, 160th Judicial District, against certain of its current and former executive officers and directors (the “individual defendants”) in an action captioned Francisco v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. DC-20-06425 (160th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.) (the “Francisco action”). The petition in the Francisco action alleges breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, abuse of control, gross mismanagement, and waste of corporate assets. The petition in the Francisco action references, and makes many of the same allegations, as are set forth in the Electrical Workers litigation, alleging, among other things, that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties, were unjustly enriched by, abused their control, committed gross mismanagement, and committed waste by making, failing to correct, or failing to implement adequate internal controls relating to alleged materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the prospects of the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co, Ltd. The petition also alleges that a former officer and director engaged in insider trading. On May 28, 2020, the parties in the Francisco action filed a joint motion to stay proceedings through the resolution of the forthcoming motion to dismiss the Electrical Workers litigation. On June 3, 2020, the court granted the joint motion to stay proceedings. On June 12, 2020, an additional stockholder derivative lawsuit, making substantially identical allegations as the Francisco petition, was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings in the District Court for Dallas County, Texas, 298th Judicial District on behalf of putative stockholder Mr. Cliff Bragdon in an action captioned Bragdon v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. DC-20-08180 (298th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.) (the “Bragdon action”). On July 10, 2020, the court granted an agreed motion filed by the parties in the Francisco and Bragdon actions to consolidate cases, to accept service and an unopposed motion to appoint co-lead and liaison counsel, and to stay both the Francisco and Bragdon actions through resolution of the motion to dismiss the Electrical Workers litigation. The consolidated state derivative action is captioned In re Six Flags Entertainment Corp. Derivative Litigation, Case No. DC-20-06425 (160th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.). On September 8, 2020, the parties to the consolidated state derivative action filed an agreed motion to transfer the case from Dallas County to Tarrant County, which motion was so ordered on September 27, 2020. The consolidated action is now captioned In re Six Flags Ent. Corp. Deriv. Litig., No. 096-320958-20 (Tex. Dist. Ct., Tarrant Cty.). We believe that these complaints are without merit and intend to defend these lawsuits vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits.

Wage and Hour Class Action Lawsuits

On March 8, 2016, certain plaintiffs filed a complaint against one of our subsidiaries in the Superior Court of Massachusetts, Suffolk County, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags New

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England. The complaint alleges violations of Massachusetts law governing employee overtime and rest breaks, and seeks damages in the form of unpaid wages for overtime and meal breaks and related penalties. On November 12, 2020, the parties entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount, and final approval was granted by the court on March 31, 2021.

On April 20, 2018, a complaint was filed against Holdings and Six Flags Concord, LLC in the Superior Court of Solano County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. On June 15, 2018, an amended complaint was filed adding Park Management Corp. as a defendant. The amended complaint alleges violations of California law governing, among other things, employee overtime, meal and rest breaks, wage statements, and seeks damages in the form of unpaid wages, and related penalties, and attorneys’ fees and costs. Following mediation on November 30, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount. The settlement is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

On September 18, 2019, a complaint was filed against Magic Mountain LLC in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Magic Mountain. An amended complaint was filed on November 24, 2019. On May 27, 2020, a copycat complaint was filed by the same law firm on behalf of a different named plaintiff alleging nearly identical causes of action. The complaints allege violations of California law governing payment of wages, wage statements, and background checks, and seeks unpaid wages and statutory damages under California law as well as under the Private Attorneys General Act, and attorneys’ fees and costs. 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.

On February 14, 2020, a complaint was filed against Magic Mountain, LLC in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Magic Mountain. The complaint alleges one cause of action for failure to furnish accurate, itemized wage statements in violation of California labor law, and seeks statutory damages under California law as well as under the Private Attorneys General Act, and attorneys’ fees and costs. Following mediation on January 13, 2021, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount. The settlement is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

On February 20, 2020, a complaint was filed against Park Management Corp. in the Superior Court of Solano County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. The complaint alleges violations of California law governing payment of wages, wage statements, and background checks, and seeks statutory damages under federal and California law and attorneys’ fees and costs. The claims related to wages and wage statements will be resolved under the settlement of the April 2018 litigation above. With respect to the remaining background check claims, 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.

COVID-19 Park Closure Lawsuits

Since COVID-19 began affecting the operations of our parks in mid-March 2020, three similar purported class action complaints were filed against Holdings or one of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Central District of California on April 10, 2020, April 13, 2020, and April 21, 2020. These complaints allege that we, in violation of California law, charged members and season passholders while the parks were closed and did not provide refunds for the amounts charged. The complaints seek compensatory damages, punitive damages, restitution, and unspecified injunctive relief. On September 9, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuits, for an immaterial amount, which is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

7.  Leases

We have operating and finance leases for amusement parks, land, vehicles, machinery and certain equipment. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than one year to 44 years, some of which include options to extend leases up to 20 years, and some of which include options to terminate the lease within one year. For our noncancelable operating leases with options to extend, because we may determine it is not reasonably certain we will exercise the option, the

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options are not considered in determining the lease term, and associated potential option payments are excluded from lease payments. Our leases generally do not include restrictive financial or other covenants. Payments due under the lease contracts include fixed payments and, for certain of our leases, variable payments.

The components of lease cost for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 are as follows:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Finance lease expense
Amortization of ROU assets	$	157	$	—
Interest on lease liabilities		19		—
Operating lease cost		6,130		6,263
Short-term lease cost		1,465		1,602
Variable lease cost		1,338		1,466
Total lease cost	$	9,109	$	9,331

Lease costs for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 included minimum rental payments under operating leases recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Other information related to leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows for operating leases	$	5,208	$	1,587
Operating cash flows for finance leases		76		—
Financing cash flows for finance leases		19		—
Operating Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		79		329
Finance Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		439		—

Additional information related to our operating leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	18.77
Weighted-average discount rate	6.89	%

Additional information related to our finance leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	3.43
Weighted-average discount rate	3.83	%

The following tables set forth supplemental balance sheet information related to operating and finance leases as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020.

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Operating Leases
Right of use assets, net	$	194,768	$	196,711	$	194,519
Short-term lease liabilities		10,037		13,727		10,490
Long-term lease liabilities		188,573		185,823		186,062
Total operating lease obligation	$	198,610	$	199,550	$	196,552
Finance Leases
Property and equipment, at cost	$	2,867	$	2,428	$	—
Accumulated depreciation		(405)		(248)		—
Total property and equipment, net		2,462		2,180		—
Short-term lease liabilities	$	510	$	327	$	—
Long-term lease liabilities		1,789		1,609		—

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Total finance lease obligation $ 2,299 $ 1,936 $ —

Maturities of noncancelable operating and finance lease liabilities under Topic 842 as of April 4, 2021 are summarized in the table below:

(Amounts in thousands)	As of April 4, 2021
	Finance Leases		Operating Leases
Remaining in 2021	$	398	$	21,685
2022		767		22,417
2023		769		21,955
2024		502		20,206
2025		24		18,127
Thereafter		—		259,490
Total	$	2,460	$	363,880
Less: present value discount		(161)		(165,270)
Lease liability	$	2,299	$	198,610

8.  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. As of April 4, 2021, redeemable noncontrolling interests of the SFOT and SFOG partnerships was $242.6 million and $280.8 million, respectively which approximates redemption value.

9.  Business Segments

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 a Six Flags-branded park outside of North America.

The following information reflects our long-lived assets (which consists of property and equipment, right-of-use operating leases and intangible assets) as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Domestic	$	2,312,048	$	2,317,009	$	2,368,183
Foreign		131,207		134,805		122,239
Total		2,443,255		2,451,814		2,490,422

Revenues and loss before income taxes by domestic and foreign categories as of or for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

	Domestic		Foreign		Total
2021	(Amounts in thousands)
Revenues	$	78,673	$	3,351	$	82,024
Loss before income taxes		(121,192)		(6,517)		(127,709)
2020
Revenues	$	89,496	$	13,007	$	102,503
Loss before income taxes		(102,362)		(4,233)		(106,595)

10.  Pension Benefits

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

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benefits. The following summarizes our pension costs during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Service cost	$	275	$	325
Interest cost		1,275		1,623
Expected return on plan assets		(3,069)		(3,279)
Amortization of net actuarial loss		340		257
Total net periodic benefit	$	(1,179)	$	(1,074)

The components of net periodic pension benefit other than the service cost component were included in "Other net periodic pension benefit" in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Cost

	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Discount rate	2.20	%	3.00	%
Rate of compensation increase	N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	5.75	%	6.50	%

Employer Contributions

During the three month period ended March 31, 2020, we made pension contributions of $1.5 million. We did not make any pension contributions during the three month period ended April 4, 2021.

11. Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan

On March 30, 2017, Holdings announced that its Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase plan that permits Holdings to repurchase an incremental $500.0 million in shares of Holdings’ common stock (the "March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan"). As of April 23, 2021, Holdings had repurchased 4,607,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $268.3 million and an average price per share of $58.25 under the March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan, leaving approximately $231.7 million available for permitted repurchases.

The amount of share repurchases is limited by the covenants in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility, the 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes and the 2027 Notes. In April 2020 and August 2020, in connection with amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, we suspended dividend payments and stock repurchases due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments by $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance. However, given the uncertainty associated with the ultimate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and operations, we may determine that it is prudent to continue these suspensions for a longer duration. Investors may have an expectation that we will resume our dividend at a certain time and at certain levels or repurchase shares available under Holdings’ repurchase program. The stock price of Holdings’ common stock could be adversely affected if our cash dividend rate or common stock repurchase activity differs from investors’ expectations.

On March 31, 2020, Holdings entered into a Rights Agreement (the “Rights Agreement”). In accordance with the terms of the Rights Agreement, the rights issued thereunder expired on March 30, 2021. On April 1, 2021, Holdings filed with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware a Certificate of Elimination (the “Certificate of Elimination”), which, effective upon filing, eliminated from Holdings’ Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, all matters set forth in Holdings’ Certificate of Designation of Series B Junior Preferred Stock, as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 31, 2020. The 200,000 shares of preferred stock previously designated as Series B Junior Preferred Stock were eliminated and returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock, without designation.

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12. Subsequent Event

In April 2021, we received $11.3 million pursuant to one of our terminated international development agreements in China. We currently do not anticipate any further payments related to any of the remaining terminated international development agreements.

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ITEM 2.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements relating to future events or our future financial performance, which involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements. Please see the discussion regarding forward-looking statements included under the caption "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report and "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our 2020 Annual Report and in this Quarterly Report for further discussion of the uncertainties, risks and assumptions associated with these statements.

The following discussion and analysis presents information that we believe is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our condensed consolidated balance sheets and results of operations. This information should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto, and other financial data included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report. The following information should also be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements, and the notes thereto, and "Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in our 2020 Annual Report.

Overview

General

We are the largest regional theme park operator in the world and the largest operator of waterparks in North America based on the number of parks we operate. Of our 27 regional theme parks and waterparks, 24 are located in the United States, two are located in Mexico and one is located in Montreal, Canada. Our waterpark at Six Flags Great America will open as a separate gate in 2021 as Hurricane Harbor Chicago, our 27^th park. Our parks are located in geographically diverse markets across North America and generally offer a broad selection of state-of-the-art and traditional thrill rides, water attractions, themed areas, concerts and shows, restaurants, game venues and retail outlets, thereby providing a complete family-oriented entertainment experience. We work continuously to improve our parks and our guests’ experiences and to meet our guests’ evolving needs and preferences.

The results of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 are not indicative of the results expected for the full year. Typically, our park operations generate more than half of their annual revenue during the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year while expenses are incurred year-round. In March 2020, we temporarily suspended operations at all of our domestic theme parks and waterparks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many of our parks currently have capacity limits or other restrictions affecting attendance. We continue to monitor government guidelines and requirements in each geographic region in which we operate and resumed operations on a park-by-park basis based on local conditions.

Our revenue is derived from (i) the sale of tickets (including season passes and memberships) for entrance to our parks (which accounted for approximately 54% and 58% of total revenue during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively), (ii) the sale of food and beverages, merchandise, games and attractions, parking and other services inside our parks, and (iii) sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations. Revenues from ticket sales and in-park sales are primarily impacted by park attendance. Revenues from sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations can be impacted by the term, timing and extent of services and fees under these arrangements, which can result in fluctuations from quarter to quarter and year to year. During the first three months of 2021, our park earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("Park EBITDA") decreased relative to the comparable period in the prior year, primarily as a result of temporary pandemic-related suspension of operations at several of our parks, and capacity restrictions at most of the parks that were open. In March 2020, we temporarily suspended operations at all of our parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our principal costs of operations include salaries and wages, employee benefits, advertising, third party services, repairs and maintenance, utilities, rent and insurance. A large portion of our expenses is relatively fixed when our parks are operating, as our costs for full-time employees, maintenance, utilities, rent, advertising and insurance do not vary significantly with attendance. During 2020, while all of our parks were temporarily closed due to the COVID-19

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pandemic, we reduced a significant portion of these expenses, including eliminating the majority of our seasonal labor and advertising expense. These cost-saving measures remain in effect with respect to parks that continue to be temporarily closed. These cost-savings were partially offset by the increased costs related to enhanced sanitization and preventative measures initiated at the reopened parks to help minimize the spread of COVID-19. We may face additional costs in the future in complying with any new federal, state or local regulations or industry best practices established in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Transformation Plan

Prior to the pandemic, we initiated a transformation plan. The transformation plan consists of five revenue initiatives and three cost initiatives designed to improve our core operational effectiveness and to support our strategy, delivering sustainable value creation over time. Our strategy is to create thrilling, memorable experiences at our regional parks, delivered by a diverse and empowered team, through industry-leading innovation and technology. The strategy is driven by three focus areas: (i) modernizing the guest experience through technology, (ii) continuously improving operational efficiency, and (iii) driving financial excellence. We plan to focus on our core business over the next two to three years; during this time, we will be cautious about expanding into adjacent domestic markets or entering into new international agreements.

Due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 and the resulting park closures, management redirected its focus on steering us through this crisis, causing a delay in our transformation plan. However, in the latter half of 2020, we made significant progress on each of the transformation initiatives. For example, in October 2020, we reduced our full-time headcount costs by approximately 10%. From a cost perspective, we closed two satellite offices, initiated centralized negotiations with several vendors to reduce procurement costs, and piloted a program to use our variable labor more efficiently and effectively. From a revenue perspective, we improved our menu assortment, pricing and merchandizing strategy, developed a new tool to optimize media spending, improved our website, and made progress on optimizing our ticket revenue by adjusting the relative prices of our tickets and executing dynamic pricing, allowing us to attract incremental single day visitors and increasing park utilization.

We expect the transformation plan to generate an incremental $80 to $110 million in annual run-rate Adjusted EBITDA. We expect to realize $30 to $35 million of benefits in 2021, independent of attendance levels, and to achieve the remaining benefits through incremental revenue opportunities and lower variable costs once the plan is fully implemented and we are operating in a normal business environment.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses earned and incurred during the reporting period. Critical accounting estimates are fundamental to the portrayal of both our financial condition and results of operations and often require difficult, subjective and complex estimates and judgments. 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 these estimates resulting from the continuing changes in the economic environment will be reflected in the financial statements in future periods. With respect to our critical accounting policies and estimates, there have been no material developments or changes from the policies and estimates discussed in our 2020 Annual Report.

Recent Events

Management and Board Changes

In February 2021, Holdings’ board of directors determined that Selim Bassoul would succeed Richard Roedel as Non-Executive Chairman effective immediately, and Nancy Krejsa, a director since 2017, advised us of her intention to

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retire from Holdings’ board of directors at the end of her current term and that she will not stand for re-election at our 2021 annual meeting of stockholders.

In March 2021, Holdings nominated Denise M. Clark as an independent director nominee to stand for election at our 2021 annual meeting of stockholders.

Fiscal Year Change

Holdings’ Board of Directors determined that it is in the best interests of the Company to change the method of determining its fiscal quarters and fiscal years, such that each fiscal quarter will consist of thirteen weeks ending on a Sunday and each fiscal year will consist of 52 or 53 weeks, as applicable, and shall end on the Sunday closest to December 31, effective as of the commencement of the Company’s fiscal year on January 1, 2021. This change was made to align the Company’s reporting calendar with how the Company operates its business and improve comparability across periods. The Company’s current fiscal year will end on January 2, 2022.

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Results of Operations

Three Months Ended April 4, 2021 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31, 2020 and the Three Months Ended March 31, 2019

The following table sets forth financial information for the three months ended April 4, 2021, March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019.

	Three Months Ended						Percentage Change (%)
(Amounts in thousands, except percentage and per capita data)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020		March 31, 2019		2021 to 2020		2021 to 2019
Total revenue	$	82,024	$	102,503	$	128,193	(20)	%	(36)	%
Operating expenses		92,643		105,864		114,522	(12)	%	(19)	%
Selling, general and administrative expenses		36,126		36,190		40,110	(0)	%	(10)	%
Cost of products sold		7,215		7,760		10,275	(7)	%	(30)	%
Other net periodic pension benefit		(1,643)		(996)		(1,055)	65	%	56	%
Depreciation and amortization		28,833		30,664		29,073	(6)	%	(1)	%
Loss (gain) on disposal of assets		520		(120)		1,136	N/M		(54)
Interest expense, net		38,420		27,157		28,348	41	%	36	%
Loss on extinguishment of debt		—		1,019		—	N/M		NM
Other expense (income), net		7,619		1,560		(427)	N/M		NM
Loss before income taxes		(127,709)		(106,595)		(93,789)	20	%	36	%
Income tax benefit		(31,870)		(22,049)		(24,657)	45	%	29	%
Net loss	$	(95,839)	$	(84,546)	$	(69,132)	13	%	39	%
Other Data:
Attendance		1,346		1,583		2,167	(15)	%	(38)	%
Total revenue per capita	$	60.96	$	64.75	$	59.15	(6)	%	3	%

Revenue

Revenue for the three months ended April 4, 2021, totaled $82.0 million, a decrease of $20.5 million, or 20%, compared to $102.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020 and a decrease of $46.2 million, or 36% compared to $128.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The difference in revenue was primarily driven by a 15% and 38% decrease in attendance, respectively, due to the temporary pandemic-related suspension of operations at several of our parks, and capacity restrictions at most of the parks that were open. In 2020, we suspended operations at all of our domestic parks on March 13 and our parks in Mexico on March 14 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease in revenue was also attributable to a $6.4 million and $16.7 million reduction in sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations revenues, due primarily to the suspension of most sponsorship revenue while certain parks were not operating, and the pandemic-related suspension of the majority of our accommodations operations and the termination of our international agreements in both China and Dubai.

Total guest spending per capita, which excludes sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations revenue, for the three months ended April 4, 2021, decreased by $0.44, to $56.16, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020, primarily as a result of a $4.82, or 13%, decrease in admissions revenue per capita which was offset by a $4.38, or 23% increase in non-admissions revenue per capita. Total guest spending per capita improved by $7.68 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2019, primarily as a result of a $5.47, or 17%, increase in non-admissions revenue per capita. Since the beginning of the membership program, we have allocated a portion of the membership revenue to “Non-admissions revenue.” Beginning with memberships in October 2020, we prospectively began allocating an incremental portion of revenue between “Park admissions” and “Park food, merchandise and other.” This resulted in a reduction in admissions revenue per capita and an increase in non-admissions revenue per capita compared to what previously would have been reported, but the increased allocation has no impact on “Total guest spending per capita.” Non-admissions revenue per capita also benefitted from an increase in the mix of single-day guests, who tend to spend more per visit.

Operating expenses

Operating expenses for the three months ended April 4, 2021, decreased $13.2 million, or 12%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 and decreased $21.9 million, or 19% compared to the three months ended March 31,

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2019. These decreases were primarily as a result of cost savings during the quarter driven by our transformation plan, and lower salaries, wages, utilities and other costs related to the fact that several of our parks that were operating in the first quarters of 2019 and 2020 were not operating in the first quarter of 2021. These savings were partially offset by the increased costs related to increased sanitization and additional preventative measures to help minimize the spread of COVID-19.

Selling, general and administrative expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended April 4, 2021 decreased $0.1 million, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 and decreased $4.0 million, or 30%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2019. Our selling, general and administrative costs would have further decreased if not for our centralization initiative within our transformation plan. All corporate costs are included in selling, general and administrative rather than operating costs. This centralization initiative was offset by a reduction in advertising expense and other costs related to the reduced number of operating days and reduced operating hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic impact on our operations.

Cost of products sold

Cost of products sold in the three months ended April 4, 2021, decreased $0.5 million, or 7%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 and decreased $3.1 million, or 30%, for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The decreases were primarily as a result of reduced sales of food and merchandise due to the continued suspension of operations at several of our parks and reduced attendance at our parks that were operating due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Costs of products sold as a percentage of non-admissions revenue for the three months ended April 4, 2021 decreased slightly relative to the both prior periods, primarily as a result of the mix of non-admissions revenues and a reduction in membership discounts driven by the increased mix of single-day guests.

Depreciation and amortization expense

Depreciation and amortization expense for the three months ended April 4, 2021, decreased $1.8 million, or 6%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020, and decreased $0.2 million, or 1%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2019. The decrease in depreciation and amortization expense is primarily the result of asset retirements, and reduced capital expenditures due to the COVID-19 reductions implemented in 2020.

Loss (gain) on disposal of assets

We recognized a $0.5 million loss on disposal of assets for the three months ended April 4, 2021, compared to a gain on disposal of assets of $0.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020. The gain in the prior year period was primarily driven by insurance proceeds from a flood at Six Flags Over Texas in September 2018.

We recognized a loss on disposal of assets of $1.1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2019. The difference between the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2019 relates to fewer asset disposals in conjunction with the execution of our ongoing capital program during the current year.

Interest expense, net

Interest expense, net increased $11.3 million, or 41%, for the three months ended April 4, 2021, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020, and increased $10.1 million, or 36%, compared to the three months ended March 31, 2019. The increase was primarily as a result of increased interest expense related to the 2025 Notes issued in April 2020. This increase was partially offset by lower borrowings under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, and the interest savings related to the prepayment of $50.5 million of the outstanding 2024 Notes in March 2020.

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Income tax benefit

Income tax benefit increased $9.8 million and $7.2 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019, respectively. Because of the magnitude of unfavorable permanent book-tax differences compared to a marginal forecasted, annual pre-tax loss, the annual effective tax rate approach does not provide a reliable estimate of the income tax benefit.  As a result, the Company has computed its income tax benefit for the three months ended April 4, 2021 using its actual effective tax rate.  The effective tax rates for the three months ended April 4, 2021, March 31, 2020 and March 31, 2019 were 24.9%, 20.7% and 24.7%, respectively.  The difference between the Company’s effective tax rate and the federal statutory rate primarily results from state and foreign income taxes and nondeductible expenses, including nondeductible executive compensation.

Liquidity, Capital Commitments and Resources

On an annual basis, our principal sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations, funds from borrowings and existing cash on hand. Our principal uses of cash typically include the funding of working capital obligations, debt service, investments in parks (including capital projects), common stock dividends, payments to our partners in the Partnership Parks, and common stock repurchases.

Holdings did not pay any dividends during the three months ended April 4, 2021. During the three months ended March 31, 2020, Holdings paid $21.2 million in cash dividends on its common stock.

As of April 4, 2021, Holdings had repurchased 4,607,000 shares of common stock at a cumulative cost of approximately $268.3 million and an average cost per share of $58.25 under its previously approved stock repurchase program, leaving approximately $231.7 million available for permitted repurchases. Pursuant to amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility in April and August 2020, we agreed to temporarily suspend the payment of dividends and the repurchase of common stock until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments by $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance. However, given the present uncertainty associated with the ultimate impact of COVID-19 on our business and operations, we may determine that it is prudent to continue suspending the repurchase of Holdings’ common stock and payment of dividends after the restrictions under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility are terminated depending on any then-existing limitations on our working capital.

Based on historical and anticipated operating results, we believe cash flow from operations, available cash and amounts available under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility will be adequate to meet our liquidity needs for at least the next twelve months, including any anticipated requirements for working capital, capital expenditures, scheduled debt service and obligations under arrangements relating to the Partnership Parks. Additionally, we expect to be able to use federal net operating loss carryforwards to reduce our federal income tax liability for several years. For the years 2019 through 2024, we have significant federal net operating loss carryforwards subject to an annual limitation that will offset approximately $32.5 million of taxable income per year. We expect taxable income in excess of the annual limitation in those years will be offset by net operating losses generated during 2020. In accordance with the CARES Act, any net operating loss carryforwards generated in 2020 and 2021 are not subject to expiration and will carryforward indefinitely.

On April 8, 2020, we increased the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by $131.0 million, increasing the facility from $350.0 million to $481.0 million. On April 22, 2020, SFTP completed the private sale of $725 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes (the “2025 Notes”).

On August 26, 2020, we entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility which, among other things, (i) extended the previously effectuated suspension of the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility through the end of 2021, (ii) re-established the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant thereafter (provided that for each quarter in 2022 (other than the fourth quarter) that the financial maintenance covenant is tested, SFTP will be permitted to use its quarterly Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the credit agreement governing the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility) from the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2019 in lieu of the actual Borrower Consolidated

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Adjusted EBITDA for the corresponding quarters of 2021), (iii) reduced the commitment fee on the revolving credit facility, and (iv) extended the minimum liquidity covenant that will apply through December 31, 2022. The extension of the modifications to the financial covenant and other provisions in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility pursuant to the August 2020 amendment will be in effect from the date of the amendment until the earlier of the delivery of the compliance certificate for the fourth quarter of 2022 and the date on which SFTP, in its sole discretion, elects to calculate its compliance with the financial maintenance covenant by using its actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA instead of the 2019 figures as outlined above. In addition, all of SFTP’s existing incremental revolving credit lenders agreed to extend the incremental $131 million revolving credit commitments to the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by one year to December 31, 2022.

Our current and future liquidity is greatly dependent upon our operating results, which are driven largely by overall economic conditions as well as the price and perceived quality of the entertainment experience at our parks. Our liquidity could also be adversely affected by a disruption in the availability of credit as well as unfavorable weather; natural disasters; contagious diseases, such as Ebola, Zika, swine flu, COVID-19 or other diseases; accidents or the occurrence of an event or condition at our parks, including terrorist acts or threats inside or outside of our parks; negative publicity; or significant local competitive events, which could materially reduce paid attendance and revenue related to that attendance at any of our parks. While we work with local police authorities on security-related precautions to prevent certain types of disturbances, we can make no assurance that these precautions will be able to prevent these types of occurrences. However, we believe our ownership of many parks in different geographic locations reduces the effects of adverse weather and these other types of occurrences on our consolidated results. If such an adverse event were to occur, we may be unable to borrow under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan or may be required to repay amounts outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility and/or may need to seek additional financing. In addition, we expect we may be required to seek additional financing to refinance all or a significant portion of our existing debt on or prior to maturity. The degree to which we are leveraged could adversely affect our ability to obtain any additional financing. See "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in the 2020 Annual Report and in this Quarterly Report.

As of April 4, 2021, our total indebtedness, net of discount and deferred financing costs, was approximately $2,624.4 million. As of April 23, 2021, based on (i) non-revolving credit debt outstanding on that date, (ii) anticipated levels of working capital revolving borrowings during 2021 and 2022, (iii) estimated interest rates for floating-rate debt and (iv) the 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes and the 2027 Notes, we anticipate annual cash interest payments of approximately $160 million and $150 million during 2021 and 2022, respectively.

As of April 4, 2021, we had approximately $62.9 million of unrestricted cash and $460.8 million available for borrowing under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan. Our ability to borrow under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan depends on compliance with certain conditions, including a maximum senior secured net leverage maintenance covenant, a minimum liquidity covenant and the absence of any material adverse change in our business or financial condition. If we were to become unable to borrow under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan, and we failed to meet our projected results from operations significantly, we might be unable to pay in full our off-season obligations. A default under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan could permit the lenders under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility to accelerate the obligations thereunder. The Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan expires on April 17, 2024. The terms and availability of the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility and other indebtedness are not affected by changes in the ratings issued by rating agencies in respect of our indebtedness. For a more detailed description of our indebtedness, see Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report.

We regularly make capital investments for new rides and attractions in our parks. In addition, each year we make capital investments in the food, retail, games and other in-park areas to increase guest spending per capita. We also make annual enhancements to theming and landscaping of our parks in order to provide a more complete family-oriented entertainment experience; and invest in our information technology infrastructure to attain operational efficiencies. We regularly perform maintenance capital enhancements, with most expenditures made during the off-season. Repairs and maintenance costs for materials and services associated with maintaining assets, such as painting and inspecting existing rides, are expensed as incurred and are not included in capital expenditures.

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During the three months ended April 4, 2021, net cash used in operating activities was $80.4 million compared to net cash used in operating activities of $60.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020. The increase in cash used in operating activities was due to the decrease in operations during 2021 attributable to our reduction in operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Net cash used in investing activities during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, was $23.1 million and $51.4 million, respectively, consisting primarily of capital expenditures, net of property insurance recoveries. The decrease was driven by a reduction in our capital budget due to the pandemic. Net cash provided by financing activities during the three months ended April 4, 2021 was $8.8 million primarily due to stock option activity. Net cash used in financing activities during the three months ended March 31, 2020 was $33.5 million, primarily attributable to the $50.5 million of the outstanding 2024 Notes principal we prepaid in March 2020 and the payment of $21.4 million in cash dividends, partially offset by the net proceeds from borrowings under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility and proceeds from the issuance of common stock.

Since our business is both seasonal in nature and involves significant levels of cash transactions, our net operating cash flows are largely driven by attendance and guest spending per capita levels. Most of our cash-based expenses are relatively fixed and do not vary significantly with either attendance or spending per capita assuming that the parks are operational. During 2020, we had significant cash savings due to the suspension of park operations at our properties. These cash-based operating expenses include salaries and wages, employee benefits, advertising, third party services, repairs and maintenance, utilities and insurance.

Contractual Obligations

Since December 31, 2020, there have been no material changes to the contractual obligations of the Company outside the ordinary course of the Company’s business.

ITEM 3.   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

As of April 4, 2021, there were no material changes in our market risk exposure from that disclosed in the 2020 Annual Report.

ITEM 4.   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we conducted an evaluation, as of April 4, 2021, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of the end of such period, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (i) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and (ii) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) promulgated under the Exchange Act, that occurred during our fiscal quarter ended April 4, 2021 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

ITEM 1.   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

The nature of the industry in which we operate tends to expose us to claims by guests, generally for injuries. Accordingly, we are party to various legal actions arising in the normal course of business. Historically, the great majority of these claims have been minor. Although we believe that we are adequately insured against guests’ claims, if

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we become subject to damages that cannot by law be insured against, such as punitive damages or certain intentional misconduct by employees, there may be a material adverse effect on our operations.

For information regarding legal proceedings, see Note 15, Commitments and Contingencies, to the consolidated financial statements in the 2020 Annual Report, and Note 6, Commitments and Contingencies, to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in this Quarterly Report.

ITEM   1A. RISK FACTORS

There have been no material changes to the principal risks that we believe are material to our business, results of operations and financial condition, from the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2020 Annual Report. For a discussion of these risk facts, please see “Item 1A. Risk Factors” contained in the 2020 Annual Report.

ITEM 2.   UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS

On March 30, 2017, Holdings announced that its Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase plan that permits Holdings to repurchase an incremental $500.0 million in shares of Holdings’ common stock (the "March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan"). No repurchases were made under the March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan during the three months ended April 4, 2021. As of April 23, 2021, Holdings had repurchased 4,607,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $268.3 million and an average cost per share of $58.25 under the March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan, leaving approximately $231.7 million available for permitted repurchases.

In connection with the recent amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility, we agreed to suspend the repurchase of Holdings’ common stock and payment of dividends until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments of $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance.

ITEM 5.   OTHER INFORMATION

On April 1, 2021, Holdings filed with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware a Certificate of Elimination (the “Certificate of Elimination”), which, effective upon filing, eliminated from Holdings’ Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, all matters set forth in Holdings’ Certificate of Designations of Series B Junior Preferred Stock, as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 31, 2020. The 200,000 shares of preferred stock previously designated as Series B Junior Preferred Stock were eliminated and returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock, without designation. The Certificate of Elimination is attached as Exhibit 3.3 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

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ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS

Exhibit 3.1	Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (File No. 001-13703) filed on April 30, 2020
Exhibit 3.2	Amended and Restated Bylaws of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant's Current Report on Form 8-K (File No. 001-13703) filed on February 7, 2018
Exhibit 3.3	Certificate of Elimination of Series B Junior Preferred Stock of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on April 1, 2021—incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form 8-A/A (File No. 001-13703) filed on April 1, 2021
Exhibit 10.1†*	Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement Pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan
Exhibit 10.2†*	Form of Performance Restricted Stock Unit Agreement Pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan
Exhibit 31.1*	Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 31.2*	Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32.1*	Certification of Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 32.2*	Certification of Chief Financial Officer, pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
Exhibit 101*	The following financial statements and footnotes from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 4, 2021 formatted in Inline XBRL: (i) the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, (iii) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Deficit, (v) the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow, and (vi) related Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
Exhibit 104*	The cover page from the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 4, 2021, formatted in Inline XBRL.

*     Filed herewith

† Management contract or compensatory plan

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

		SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION
		(Registrant)
Date:	April 28, 2021	/s/ Michael Spanos
		Michael Spanos
		President and Chief Executive Officer
Date:	April 28, 2021	/s/ Sandeep Reddy
		Sandeep Reddy
		Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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EX-10.1

Exhibit 10.1

RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AGREEMENT
PURSUANT TO THE
SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN

* * * * *

Participant:

Grant Date:

Number of Restricted Stock Units Granted:

* * * * *

THIS RESTRICTED STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), dated as of the Grant Date specified above, is entered into by and between Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (the “Company”), and the Participant specified above, pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan, as in effect and as amended from time to time (the “Plan”), which is administered by the Committee; and

WHEREAS, it has been determined under the Plan that it is in the best interests of the Company to grant the Restricted Stock Units (“RSUs”) provided herein to the Participant.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises hereinafter set forth and for other good and valuable consideration, the parties hereto hereby mutually covenant and agree as follows:

1.Incorporation By Reference; Plan Document Receipt. This Agreement is subject in all respects to the terms and provisions of the Plan (including, without limitation, any amendments thereto adopted at any time and from time to time unless such amendments are expressly intended not to apply to the Award provided hereunder), all of which terms and provisions are made a part of and incorporated in this Agreement as if they were each expressly set forth herein. Any capitalized term not defined in this Agreement shall have the same meaning as is ascribed thereto in the Plan or in the Participant’s written employment agreement with the Company. In the event of a conflict in definitions, the Participant’s written employment agreement shall control. The Participant hereby acknowledges receipt of a true copy of the Plan and that the Participant has read the Plan carefully and fully understands its content. In the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, the terms of the Plan shall control.

2.Grant of Restricted Stock Unit Award. The Company hereby grants to the Participant, as of the Grant Date specified above, the number of RSUs specified above. Each

RSU corresponds to one share of Company Stock. Except as otherwise provided by the Plan, the Participant agrees and understands that nothing contained in this Agreement provides, or is intended to provide, the Participant with any protection against potential future dilution of the Participant’s interest in the Company for any reason, and no adjustments shall be made for dividends in cash or other property, distributions or other rights in respect of the shares of Company Stock underlying the RSUs, except as otherwise specifically provided for in the Plan or this Agreement.

3.Vesting and Distribution.

(a)Vesting. Subject to the provisions of Sections 3(b), 3(c), 3(d) and 3(e) hereof, or the applicable provisions of the Participant’s employment agreement with the Company, the RSUs shall vest in equal installments on each of the first three anniversaries of the Grant Date (each, a “Vesting Date”), provided that the Participant has not incurred a termination of employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries (a “Termination”) prior to each applicable Vesting Date.

(b)Termination of Employment without Cause or for Good Reason. In the event the Participant’s employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries is terminated by the Company without Cause or by the Participant for Good Reason, then the unvested RSUs that would have vested in the twelve (12) month period following the date of such termination shall vest upon the date of such termination.

(c)Termination due to Death or Disability. The RSUs shall become fully vested upon the Participant’s termination of employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries due to the Participant’s death or upon the Participant becoming Disabled.

(d)Change in Control. The RSUs shall become fully vested upon the Participant’s termination of employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries by the Company without Cause or by the Participant for Good Reason, in each case on or within two years after or in anticipation of a Change in Control.

(e)Forfeiture. Subject to Sections 3(b), 3(c) and 3(d) hereof, all unvested RSUs shall be immediately forfeited upon the Participant’s termination of employment for any reason, and the Participant shall have no right to receive the underlying shares of Company Stock.

4.Delivery of Shares. Within thirty (30) days following the vesting of the RSUs, the Participant shall receive the number of shares of Company Stock that correspond to the number of RSUs that have become vested on the applicable Vesting Date. No fractional shares shall be delivered under this Agreement, and any fractional share that may be deliverable shall be rounded to the nearest whole share.

5.Dividends; Rights as Stockholder. Cash dividends on shares of Company Stock issuable hereunder shall be credited to a dividend book entry account on behalf of the Participant with respect to each RSU granted to the Participant, provided that such cash dividends shall not be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Company Stock and shall be held uninvested and without interest and paid in cash at the same time that the shares of Company Stock underlying the RSUs

are delivered to the Participant in accordance with the provisions hereof. Stock dividends on shares of Company Stock shall be credited to a dividend book entry account on behalf of the Participant with respect to each RSU granted to the Participant, provided that such stock dividends shall be paid in shares of Company Stock at the same time that the shares of Company Stock underlying the RSUs are delivered to the Participant in accordance with the provisions hereof. Except as otherwise provided herein, the Participant shall have no rights as a stockholder with respect to any shares of Company Stock covered by any RSU unless and until the Participant has become the holder of record of such shares.

6.Non-Transferability. No portion of the RSUs may be sold, assigned, transferred, encumbered, hypothecated or pledged by the Participant, other than to the Company as a result of forfeiture of the RSUs as provided herein, unless and until payment is made in respect of vested RSUs in accordance with the provisions hereof and the Participant has become the holder of record of the vested shares of Company Stock issuable hereunder.

7.Prohibited Conduct; Restatements.

(a)Consequences of Prohibited Conduct. If the Company determines that the Participant has engaged in any Prohibited Conduct (as defined in Section 7(b)), then:

(i)    The Participant shall immediately forfeit all outstanding RSUs awarded pursuant to this Agreement and shall have no right to receive the underlying Shares; and

(ii)    If the delivery of Shares underlying any RSUs has occurred (each, a “Payment Date”), and the Company determines that Prohibited Conduct occurred on or before the first anniversary of the Vesting Date for those RSUs, the Participant shall repay and transfer to the Company (A) the number of Shares issued to the Participant under this Agreement on that Payment Date (the “Forfeited Shares”), which shall include with respect to any Forfeited Shares that have been sold by the Participant prior to the Company’s demand for repayment, the repayment by the Participant to the Company of 100% of the proceeds of such sale or sales, plus (B) the amount of cash equal to the withholding taxes paid by withholding and/or selling Shares (if any) from the Participant on the respective Payment Date.

(b)Prohibited Conduct. Each of the following constitutes “Prohibited Conduct” to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law:

(i)    the conviction or entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to

(A)any felony or

(B)any crime (whether or not a felony) involving moral turpitude, fraud, theft, breach of trust or other similar acts, whether under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or any similar foreign law to which the person may be subject;

(ii)being engaged or having engaged in conduct constituting breach of fiduciary duty, dishonesty, willful misconduct or material neglect relating to the Company or any Subsidiary or the performance of a person’s duties;

(iii)appropriation (or an overt act attempting appropriation) of a material business opportunity of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(iv)misappropriation (or an overt act attempting misappropriation) of any funds of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(v)the willful failure to:

(A)follow a reasonable and lawful directive of the Company or any Subsidiary at which the Participant is employed or provides services, or the Board or

(B)comply with any written rules, regulations, policies or procedures of the Company or any Subsidiary at which the Participant is employed or to which the Participant provides services which, if not complied with, would reasonably be expected to have more than a de minimis adverse effect on the business or financial condition of the Company;

(vi)violation of the Participant’s employment, consulting, separation or similar agreement with the Company or any Subsidiary or any non-disclosure, non-solicitation or non-competition covenant in any other agreement to which the Participant is subject;

(vii)during the Participant’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary or at any time after termination for any reason, the Participant, in violation of any Company or Subsidiary policies or agreements with the Company or any Subsidiary, discloses or misuses any of the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s trade secrets or other confidential information regarding the Company or any Subsidiary, including without limitation, matters relating to cost data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, processes, manufacturing processes, business strategy and plans, customer information, pricing information, supplier information, the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s policies and procedures and other financial data of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(viii)deliberate and continued failure to perform material duties to the Company or any Subsidiary;

(ix)violation of the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, as it may be amended from time to time; or

(x)during the Participant’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary or at any time during the twelve-month period following termination for any reason, the Participant violates Section 7(d) of this Agreement or otherwise:

(A)directly or indirectly competes with the Company or any Subsidiary, accepts employment with any entity that directly or indirectly competes with the Company or any Subsidiary or otherwise approaches, solicits or accepts business from any supplier of the Company or any Subsidiary in direct or indirect competition with the Company or any Subsidiary;

(B)approaches, counsels or attempts to induce any person who is then in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary to leave his or her employ; or employs or attempts to employ any such person or any person who at any time during the preceding twelve (12) months was in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary; or

(C)aids, assists or counsels any other person, firm or corporation to do any of the above.

(c)Restatement of Financial Statements. In addition to the other provisions in this Section 7, this Agreement, or the Plan (including without limitation Section 15 of the Plan), the RSUs and any Shares issued under the RSUs shall be subject to any policies of the Company in effect on the Grant Date or adopted by the Company at any time thereafter that provide for forfeiture of the RSUs and recoupment of any Shares issued under the RSUs or of any gain received by the Participant in connection with the sale of Shares received under the RSUs in the event of any restatement of the Company’s financial statements or other triggering event under such policies.

(d)Nonsolicitation; Noncompetition.

(i)During the term of employment and for a period of 1 year following Participant’s Termination, Participant agrees that he or she will not (i) individually or on behalf of his or her employer or any other person or entity, directly or indirectly, solicit, divert, or recruit any employee or officer of Company or any Subsidiary, or induce any employee of Company or any Subsidiary, to terminate his or her employment, or (ii) directly or indirectly, as an employee, consultant, principal, agent, trustee or otherwise engage in any business through a corporation, partnership or other entity that competes directly with any business that is conducted by Company or any Subsidiary (the “Competing Business”) and that (x) Participant was directly or indirectly engaged in on behalf of Company or any Subsidiary or (y) Participant obtained confidential information regarding during the course of his or her employment (the “Restricted Business”). The restrictions in this Section 7(d) are further limited geographically to the following areas or locations where a Competing Business operates in the Restricted Business: any country in which Company or any Subsidiary engages in the Restricted Business.

(ii)Company has attempted to place the most reasonable limitations on Participant’s subsequent employment opportunities consistent with the protection of Company’s valuable trade secrets, business interests, and goodwill.  In order to accommodate Participant in obtaining subsequent employment, Company may, in its discretion, grant a waiver of one or more of the restrictions on subsequent employment contained in this Section 7(d).  A request for waiver shall be in writing and must be received by the Company at least 45 days before the proposed starting date of the employment for which Participant is seeking a waiver.  The request must include the full name and address of the organization with which Participant is seeking employment;  the department or area in which Participant proposes to work; the position or job title to be held by Participant; and a complete description of the duties Participant expects to perform for such employer.  If Company decides to grant a waiver (which decision shall be solely within Company’s discretion), the waiver may be subject to such restrictions or conditions as Company may impose.

(e)Determinations. The Committee shall, in its sole discretion, make all determinations regarding this Section 7, including whether any Prohibited Conduct has occurred, and the determinations by the Committee shall be final and binding on all parties.

(f)Company and its Affiliates. All references in this Section 7 to the Company shall include the Company and any of its Subsidiaries and Affiliates.

8.Governing Law. All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to the choice of law principles thereof.

9.Withholding of Tax. Any amount that the Company may be required to withhold upon the vesting of RSUs, distribution of shares of Common Stock or any relevant tax withholding event with respect to RSUs in respect of applicable federal, state, local and foreign taxes of any kind (including, but not limited to, the Participant’s FICA and SDI obligations) must be paid in full at the time of the issuance of Shares or such relevant tax withholding time. Unless Participant makes other arrangements to satisfy this withholding obligation in accordance with procedures approved by the Company in its discretion or the Company determines otherwise, such portion of the Shares as is necessary to satisfy the required withholding obligation related to the settlement of the RSUs will be sold into the market pursuant to a “sell to cover” tax arrangement. The Participant hereby authorizes withholding from payroll and any other amounts payable to the Participant and hereby authorizes and agrees to make adequate provision for any “sell to cover” tax arrangement consistent with this Section 9.

10.Legend. The Company may at any time place legends referencing any applicable federal, state or foreign securities law restrictions on all certificates representing shares of Company Stock issued pursuant to this Agreement. The Participant shall, at the request of the Company, promptly present to the Company any and all certificates representing shares of Company Stock acquired pursuant to this Agreement in the possession of the Participant in order to carry out the provisions of this Section 10.

11.Electronic Delivery and Acceptance. Participant hereby consents and agrees to electronic delivery of any Plan documents, proxy materials, annual reports and other related documents.  Participant hereby consents to any and all procedures that the Company has established or may establish for an electronic signature system for delivery and acceptance of Plan documents (including documents relating to any programs adopted under the Plan), and agrees that his or her electronic signature is the same as, and shall have the same force and effect as, his or her manual signature.  Participant consents and agrees that any such procedures and delivery may be effected by a third party engaged by the Company to provide administrative services related to the Plan, including any program adopted under the Plan.

12.Entire Agreement; Amendment. This Agreement, together with the Plan, contains the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter contained herein, and supersedes all prior agreements or prior understandings, whether written or oral, between the parties relating to such subject matter. The Committee shall have the right, in its sole discretion, to modify or amend this Agreement from time to time in accordance with and as provided in the Plan. This Agreement may also be modified or amended by a writing signed by both the Company and the Participant. The Company shall give written notice to the Participant of any such modification or amendment of this Agreement as soon as practicable after the adoption thereof.

13.Notices. Any notice hereunder by the Participant shall be given to the Company in writing and such notice shall be deemed duly given only upon receipt thereof by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Any notice hereunder by the Company shall be given to the Participant in writing and such notice shall be deemed duly given only upon receipt thereof at such address as the Participant may have on file with the Company.

14.No Right to Employment. Any questions as to whether and when there has been a termination of employment and the cause of such termination shall be determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. Nothing in this Agreement shall interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company, its Subsidiaries or its Affiliates to terminate the Participant’s employment or service at any time, for any reason and with or without Cause.

15.Transfer of Personal Data. The Participant authorizes, agrees and unambiguously consents to the transmission by the Company (or any Subsidiary) of any personal data information related to the RSUs awarded under this Agreement for legitimate business purposes (including, without limitation, the administration of the Plan). This authorization and consent is freely given by the Participant.

16.Compliance with Laws. The grant of RSUs and the issuance of shares of Company Stock hereunder shall be subject to, and shall comply with, any applicable requirements of any foreign and U.S. federal and state securities laws, rules and regulations (including, without limitation, the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Exchange Act and in each case any respective rules and regulations promulgated thereunder) and any other law, rule, regulation or exchange requirement applicable thereto. The Company shall not be obligated to issue the RSUs or any shares of Company Stock pursuant to this Agreement if any such issuance would violate any such requirements. As a condition to the settlement of the

RSUs, the Company may require the Participant to satisfy any qualifications that may be necessary or appropriate to evidence compliance with any applicable law or regulation.

17.Binding Agreement; Assignment. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of, be binding upon, and be enforceable by the Company and its successors and assigns. The Participant shall not assign (except in accordance with Section 6 hereof) any part of this Agreement without the prior express written consent of the Company.

18.Headings. The titles and headings of the various sections of this Agreement have been inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement.

19.Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.

20.Further Assurances. Each party hereto shall do and perform (or shall cause to be done and performed) all such further acts and shall execute and deliver all such other agreements, certificates, instruments and documents as either party hereto reasonably may request in order to carry out the intent and accomplish the purposes of this Agreement and the Plan and the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereunder.

21.Severability. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provisions of this Agreement in any jurisdiction shall not affect the validity, legality or enforceability of the remainder of this Agreement in such jurisdiction or the validity, legality or enforceability of any provision of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction, it being intended that all rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

22.Acquired Rights. The Participant acknowledges and agrees that: (a) the Company may terminate or amend the Plan at any time; (b) the Award of RSUs made under this Agreement is completely independent of any other award or grant and is made at the sole discretion of the Company; (c) no past grants or awards (including, without limitation, the RSUs awarded hereunder) give the Participant any right to any grants or awards in the future whatsoever; and (d) any benefits granted under this Agreement are not part of the Participant’s ordinary salary, and shall not be considered as part of such salary in the event of severance, redundancy or resignation.

* * * * *

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

By:​ ​

Name:​ ​

Title:​ ​

PARTICIPANT

Name:

EX-10.2

Exhibit 10.2

PERFORMANCE STOCK UNIT AGREEMENT
PURSUANT TO THE
SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN

* * * * *

Participant:

Grant Date:

Number of Target Performance Stock Units (“Target PSUs”):

* * * * *

THIS PERFORMANCE STOCK UNIT AWARD AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”), dated as of the Grant Date specified above, is entered into by and between Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, a corporation organized under the laws of the State of Delaware (the “Company”), and the Participant specified above, pursuant to the Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Long-Term Incentive Plan, as in effect and as amended from time to time (the “Plan”), which is administered by the Committee; and

WHEREAS, it has been determined under the Plan that it is in the best interests of the Company to grant the Performance Stock Units (“PSUs”) provided herein to the Participant.

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and promises hereinafter set forth and for other good and valuable consideration, the parties hereto hereby mutually covenant and agree as follows:

1.Incorporation By Reference; Plan Document Receipt. This Agreement is subject in all respects to the terms and provisions of the Plan (including, without limitation, any amendments thereto adopted at any time and from time to time unless such amendments are expressly intended not to apply to the Award provided hereunder), all of which terms and provisions are made a part of and incorporated in this Agreement as if they were each expressly set forth herein. Any capitalized term not defined in this Agreement shall have the same meaning as is ascribed thereto in the Plan. The Participant hereby acknowledges receipt of a true copy of the Plan and that the Participant has read the Plan carefully and fully understands its content. In the event of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Plan, the terms of the Plan shall control.

2.Grant of Performance Stock Unit Award. The Company hereby grants to the Participant, as of the Grant Date specified above, a number of PSUs equal to the Target PSU amount set forth above multiplied by two, to represent maximum possible achievement of the Performance Goals contained in Exhibit A. Each PSU corresponds to one share of Company

Stock that may be issued in the future upon achievement of the Performance Goals. Except as otherwise provided by the Plan, the Participant agrees and understands that nothing contained in this Agreement provides, or is intended to provide, the Participant with any protection against potential future dilution of the Participant’s interest in the Company for any reason, and no adjustments shall be made for dividends in cash or other property, distributions or other rights in respect of the shares of Company Stock underlying the PSUs, except as otherwise specifically provided for in the Plan or this Agreement.

3.Vesting and Distribution.

(a)Vesting. Subject to the provisions of Sections 3(b) hereof, the PSUs shall vest on the third anniversary of the Grant Date (“Vesting Date”), based upon the level of achievement of the Performance Goals set forth in Exhibit A, as determined in the sole discretion of the Committee, provided that the Participant’s employment with the Company and its Subsidiaries has not terminated for any reason (a “Termination”) prior to the Vesting Date.

(b)Forfeiture. Subject to Section 3(b) hereof, all unvested PSUs shall be immediately forfeited upon the Participant’s termination of employment for any reason, and the Participant shall have no right to receive the underlying shares of Company Stock.

4.Delivery of Shares. Within thirty (30) days following the vesting of the PSUs, the Participant shall receive the number of shares of Company Stock that correspond to the number of PSUs that have become vested on the applicable Vesting Date. No fractional shares shall be delivered under this Agreement, and any fractional share that may be deliverable shall be rounded to the nearest whole share.

5.Dividends; Rights as Stockholder. Cash dividends on shares of Company Stock issuable hereunder shall be credited to a dividend book entry account on behalf of the Participant with respect to each PSU granted to the Participant, provided that such cash dividends shall not be deemed to be reinvested in shares of Company Stock and shall be held uninvested and without interest and paid in cash at the same time that the shares of Company Stock underlying the PSUs are delivered to the Participant in accordance with the provisions hereof. Stock dividends on shares of Company Stock shall be credited to a dividend book entry account on behalf of the Participant with respect to each PSU granted to the Participant, provided that such stock dividends shall be paid in shares of Company Stock at the same time that the shares of Company Stock underlying the PSUs are delivered to the Participant in accordance with the provisions hereof. Except as otherwise provided herein, the Participant shall have no rights as a stockholder with respect to any shares of Company Stock covered by any PSU unless and until the Participant has become the holder of record of such shares.

6.Non-Transferability. No portion of the PSUs may be sold, assigned, transferred, encumbered, hypothecated or pledged by the Participant, other than to the Company as a result of forfeiture of the PSUs as provided herein, unless and until payment is made in respect of vested PSUs in accordance with the provisions hereof and the Participant has become the holder of record of the vested shares of Company Stock issuable hereunder.

7.Prohibited Conduct; Restatements.

(a)Consequences of Prohibited Conduct. If the Company determines that the Participant has engaged in any Prohibited Conduct (as defined in Section 7(b)), then:

(i)The Participant shall immediately forfeit all outstanding PSUs awarded pursuant to this Agreement and shall have no right to receive the underlying Shares; and

(ii)If the delivery of Shares underlying any PSUs has occurred (each, a “Payment Date”), and the Company determines that Prohibited Conduct occurred on or before the first anniversary of the Vesting Date for those PSUs, the Participant shall repay and transfer to the Company (A) the number of Shares issued to the Participant under this Agreement on that Payment Date (the “Forfeited Shares”), which shall include with respect to any Forfeited Shares that have been sold by the Participant prior to the Company’s demand for repayment, the repayment by the Participant to the Company of 100% of the proceeds of such sale or sales, plus (B) the amount of cash equal to the withholding taxes paid by withholding and/or selling Shares (if any) from the Participant on the respective Payment Date.

(b)Prohibited Conduct. Each of the following constitutes “Prohibited Conduct” to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law:

(i)the conviction or entry of a plea of guilty or nolo contendere to

(A)any felony or

(B)any crime (whether or not a felony) involving moral turpitude, fraud, theft, breach of trust or other similar acts, whether under the laws of the United States or any state thereof or any similar foreign law to which the person may be subject;

(ii)being engaged or having engaged in conduct constituting breach of fiduciary duty, dishonesty, willful misconduct or material neglect relating to the Company or any Subsidiary or the performance of a person’s duties;

(iii)appropriation (or an overt act attempting appropriation) of a material business opportunity of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(iv)misappropriation (or an overt act attempting misappropriation) of any funds of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(v)the willful failure to:

(A)follow a reasonable and lawful directive of the Company or any Subsidiary at which the Participant is employed or provides services, or the Board or

(B)comply with any written rules, regulations, policies or procedures of the Company or any Subsidiary at which the Participant is employed or to which

the Participant provides services which, if not complied with, would reasonably be expected to have more than a de minimis adverse effect on the business or financial condition of the Company;

(vi)violation of the Participant’s employment, consulting, separation or similar agreement with the Company or any Subsidiary or any non-disclosure, non-solicitation or non-competition covenant in any other agreement to which the Participant is subject;

(vii)during the Participant’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary or at any time after termination for any reason, the Participant, in violation of any Company or Subsidiary policies or agreements with the Company or any Subsidiary, discloses or misuses any of the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s trade secrets or other confidential information regarding the Company or any Subsidiary, including without limitation, matters relating to cost data, formulas, patterns, compilations, programs, devices, methods, techniques, processes, manufacturing processes, business strategy and plans, customer information, pricing information, supplier information, the Company’s or any Subsidiary’s policies and procedures and other financial data of the Company or any Subsidiary;

(viii)deliberate and continued failure to perform material duties to the Company or any Subsidiary;

(ix)violation of the Company’s Code of Business Conduct and Ethics, as it may be amended from time to time; or

(x)during the Participant’s employment or service with the Company or any Subsidiary or at any time during the twelve-month period following termination for any reason, the Participant violates Section 7(d) of this Agreement or otherwise:

(A)directly or indirectly competes with the Company or any Subsidiary, accepts employment with any entity that directly or indirectly competes with the Company or any Subsidiary or otherwise approaches, solicits or accepts business from any supplier of the Company or any Subsidiary in direct or indirect competition with the Company or any Subsidiary;

(B)approaches, counsels or attempts to induce any person who is then in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary to leave his or her employ; or employs or attempts to employ any such person or any person who at any time during the preceding twelve (12) months was in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary; or

(C)aids, assists or counsels any other person, firm or corporation to do any of the above.

(c)Restatement of Financial Statements. In addition to the other provisions in this Section 7, this Agreement, or the Plan (including without limitation Section 15 of the Plan), the PSUs and any Shares issued under the PSUs shall be subject to any policies of the Company in effect on the Grant Date or adopted by the Company at any time thereafter that provide for forfeiture of the PSUs and recoupment of any Shares issued under the PSUs or of any gain received by the Participant in connection with the sale of Shares received under the PSUs in the event of any restatement of the Company’s financial statements or other triggering event under such policies.

(d)Nonsolicitation; Noncompetition.

(i)During the term of employment and for a period of 1 year following Participant’s Termination, Participant agrees that he or she will not (i) individually or on behalf of his or her employer or any other person or entity, directly or indirectly, solicit, divert, or recruit any employee or officer of Company or any Subsidiary, or induce any employee of Company or any Subsidiary, to terminate his or her employment, or (ii) directly or indirectly, as an employee, consultant, principal, agent, trustee or otherwise engage in any business through a corporation, partnership or other entity that competes directly with any business that is conducted by Company or any Subsidiary (the “Competing Business”) and that (x) Participant was directly or indirectly engaged in on behalf of Company or any Subsidiary or (y) Participant obtained confidential information regarding during the course of his or her employment (the “Restricted Business”). The restrictions in this Section 7(d) are further limited geographically to the following areas or locations where a Competing Business operates in the Restricted Business: any country in which Company or any Subsidiary engages in the Restricted Business.

(ii)Company has attempted to place the most reasonable limitations on Participant’s subsequent employment opportunities consistent with the protection of Company’s valuable trade secrets, business interests, and goodwill.  In order to accommodate Participant in obtaining subsequent employment, Company may, in its discretion, grant a waiver of one or more of the restrictions on subsequent employment contained in this Section 7(d).  A request for waiver shall be in writing and must be received by the Company at least 45 days before the proposed starting date of the employment for which Participant is seeking a waiver.  The request must include the full name and address of the organization with which Participant is seeking employment;  the department or area in which Participant proposes to work; the position or job title to be held by Participant; and a complete description of the duties Participant expects to perform for such employer.  If Company decides to grant a waiver (which decision shall be solely within Company’s discretion), the waiver may be subject to such restrictions or conditions as Company may impose.

(e)Determinations. The Committee shall, in its sole discretion, make all determinations regarding this Section 7, including whether any Prohibited Conduct has occurred, and the determinations by the Committee shall be final and binding on all parties.

(e)Company and its Affiliates. All references in this Section 7 to the Company shall include the Company and any of its Subsidiaries and Affiliates.

8.Governing Law. All questions concerning the construction, validity and interpretation of this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Texas, without regard to the choice of law principles thereof.

9.Withholding of Tax. Any amount that the Company may be required to withhold upon the vesting of PSUs, distribution of shares of Common Stock or any relevant tax withholding event with respect to PSUs in respect of applicable federal, state, local and foreign taxes of any kind (including, but not limited to, the Participant’s FICA and SDI obligations) must be paid in full at the time of the issuance of Shares or such relevant tax withholding time. Unless Participant makes other arrangements to satisfy this withholding obligation in accordance with procedures approved by the Company in its discretion or the Company determines otherwise, such portion of the Shares as is necessary to satisfy the required withholding obligation related to the settlement of the PSUs will be sold into the market pursuant to a “sell to cover” tax arrangement. The Participant hereby authorizes withholding from payroll and any other amounts payable to the Participant and hereby authorizes and agrees to make adequate provision for any “sell to cover” tax arrangement consistent with this Section 9.

10.Legend. The Company may at any time place legends referencing any applicable federal, state or foreign securities law restrictions on all certificates representing shares of Company Stock issued pursuant to this Agreement. The Participant shall, at the request of the Company, promptly present to the Company any and all certificates representing shares of Company Stock acquired pursuant to this Agreement in the possession of the Participant in order to carry out the provisions of this Section 10.

11.Electronic Delivery and Acceptance. Participant hereby consents and agrees to electronic delivery of any Plan documents, proxy materials, annual reports and other related documents.  Participant hereby consents to any and all procedures that the Company has established or may establish for an electronic signature system for delivery and acceptance of Plan documents (including documents relating to any programs adopted under the Plan), and agrees that his or her electronic signature is the same as, and shall have the same force and effect as, his or her manual signature.  Participant consents and agrees that any such procedures and delivery may be effected by a third party engaged by the Company to provide administrative services related to the Plan, including any program adopted under the Plan.

12.Entire Agreement; Amendment. This Agreement, together with the Plan, contains the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter contained herein, and supersedes all prior agreements or prior understandings, whether written or oral, between the parties relating to such subject matter. The Committee shall have the right, in its sole discretion, to modify or amend this Agreement from time to time in accordance with and as provided in the Plan. This Agreement may also be modified or amended by a writing signed by both the Company and the Participant. The Company shall give written notice to the Participant of any such modification or amendment of this Agreement as soon as practicable after the adoption thereof.

13.Notices. Any notice hereunder by the Participant shall be given to the Company in writing and such notice shall be deemed duly given only upon receipt thereof by the Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Any notice hereunder by the Company shall be deemed duly

given upon delivery thereof to such address as the Participant may have on file with the Company.

14.No Right to Employment. Any questions as to whether and when there has been a termination of employment and the cause of such termination shall be determined in the sole discretion of the Committee. Nothing in this Agreement shall interfere with or limit in any way the right of the Company, its Subsidiaries or its Affiliates to terminate the Participant’s employment or service at any time, for any reason and with or without Cause.

15.Transfer of Personal Data. The Participant authorizes, agrees and unambiguously consents to the transmission by the Company (or any Subsidiary) of any personal data information related to the PSUs awarded under this Agreement for legitimate business purposes (including, without limitation, the administration of the Plan). This authorization and consent is freely given by the Participant.

16.Compliance with Laws. The grant of PSUs and the issuance of shares of Company Stock hereunder shall be subject to, and shall comply with, any applicable requirements of any foreign and U.S. federal and state securities laws, rules and regulations (including, without limitation, the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Exchange Act and in each case any respective rules and regulations promulgated thereunder) and any other law, rule, regulation or exchange requirement applicable thereto. The Company shall not be obligated to issue the PSUs or any shares of Company Stock pursuant to this Agreement if any such issuance would violate any such requirements. As a condition to the settlement of the PSUs, the Company may require the Participant to satisfy any qualifications that may be necessary or appropriate to evidence compliance with any applicable law or regulation.

17.Binding Agreement; Assignment. This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of, be binding upon, and be enforceable by the Company and its successors and assigns. The Participant shall not assign (except in accordance with Section 6 hereof) any part of this Agreement without the prior express written consent of the Company.

18.Headings. The titles and headings of the various sections of this Agreement have been inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not be deemed to be a part of this Agreement.

19.Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all of which shall constitute one and the same instrument.

20.Further Assurances. Each party hereto shall do and perform (or shall cause to be done and performed) all such further acts and shall execute and deliver all such other agreements, certificates, instruments and documents as either party hereto reasonably may request in order to carry out the intent and accomplish the purposes of this Agreement and the Plan and the consummation of the transactions contemplated thereunder.

21.Severability. The invalidity or unenforceability of any provisions of this Agreement in any jurisdiction shall not affect the validity, legality or enforceability of the remainder of this Agreement in such jurisdiction or the validity, legality or enforceability of any

provision of this Agreement in any other jurisdiction, it being intended that all rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

22.Acquired Rights. The Participant acknowledges and agrees that: (a) the Company may terminate or amend the Plan at any time; (b) the Award of PSUs made under this Agreement is completely independent of any other award or grant and is made at the sole discretion of the Company; (c) no past grants or awards (including, without limitation, the PSUs awarded hereunder) give the Participant any right to any grants or awards in the future whatsoever; and (d) any benefits granted under this Agreement are not part of the Participant’s ordinary salary, and shall not be considered as part of such salary in the event of severance, redundancy or resignation.

* * * * *

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION

By:​ ​

Name:​ ​

Title:​ ​

PARTICIPANT

Name:

EXHIBIT A

TO THE

PERFORMANCE STOCK UNIT AGREEMENT
PURSUANT TO THE
SIX FLAGS ENTERTAINMENT CORPORATION LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN

The Performance Goals applicable to this PSU Agreement are weighted (1) 2023 fiscal year Adjusted EBITDA (60%) and (2) 2023 fiscal year Revenue (40%), as more fully described below.  

1.Payout. Subject to possible enhancement under Section 2(c) of this Exhibit A, or reduction under Section 7 of the Agreement, the number of PSUs that vest (the “Payout”) shall be determined by multiplying the Payout Factor (as defined below) by an amount equal to the number of Target PSUs. The Payout Factor shall be determined pursuant to Section 2; provided, however, that the Payout Factor shall not be greater than 200% and the Payout Factor shall be 0% if the Performance Measure Result (as defined below) for all Performance Goals is less than Threshold.

2.Payout Factor.

(a)The “Payout Factor” shall be the weighted average of the Performance Measure Payout Factor (as defined below) for each Performance Goal. The Performance Measure Payout Factor achieved by the Company for each Performance Goal shall be determined as follows:

If the Performance Measure Result for a Performance Goal is:	Then the “Performance Measure Payout Factor” for that Performance Goal shall be:
less than Threshold	0%
Threshold	50%
Target	100%
Maximum	200%

If the result achieved by the Company during the Award Period for the Performance Measure (“Performance Measure Result”) is between any two Performance Measure data points set forth in the below table, the Performance Measure Payout Factor shall be interpolated as follows. The excess of the Performance Measure Result over the Performance Measure of the lower data point shall be divided by the difference between the Performance Measure of the higher data point and the Performance Measure of the lower data point. The resulting fraction shall be multiplied by the difference between the Performance Measure Payout Factors in the above table corresponding to the two data points. The product of that calculation shall be rounded to the nearest hundredth of a percentage point and then added to the Performance Measure Payout Factor corresponding to the lower data point, and the resulting sum shall be the Performance Measure Payout Factor for that Performance Goal.

(b)The “Performance Measures” for each Performance Goal, together with the weight attributed to the Performance Measure Payout Factor for each Performance Goal for purposes of calculating the Payout Factor is as follows:

Performance Goal	Weight	Performance Measure
		Threshold	Target	Maximum
2023 Adjusted EBITDA	60%
2023 Revenue	40%

(c)In the event the Company achieves at least Target performance for both Performance Goals in fiscal year 2022, the Payout Factor will be increased by 25%; in the event the Company achieves at least Target performance for only Adjusted EBITDA in fiscal year 2022, the Payout Factor will be increased by 15%; and if the Company achieves at least Target performance for only Revenue in fiscal year 2022, the Payout Factor will be increased by 10%. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in no event shall the Payout Factor be greater than 200%.

3. Definitions.

a."Adjusted EBITDA", a non-GAAP measure, is defined for purposes of this Agreement as Modified EBITDA minus the interests of third parties in the Modified EBITDA of properties that are less than wholly owned (consisting of Six Flags Over Georgia, Six Flags White Water Atlanta and Six Flags Over Texas), as may be adjusted pursuant to Section 4.

b.“Modified EBITDA”, a non-GAAP measure, is defined for purposes of this Agreement as consolidated income (loss) 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 sales of investees, amortization, depreciation, stock-based compensation, and Fresh Start accounting valuation adjustments, as may be further adjusted pursuant to Section 4.

c.“Revenue”, a GAAP measure, is defined for purposes of this Agreement as Revenue reported by the Company for fiscal year 2023, as may be adjusted pursuant to Section 4.

4.Adjustments.  The Committee may, at any time, approve adjustments to the calculation of a Performance Measure, Performance Measure Result, or the component parts thereof to take into account such unanticipated circumstances or significant, non-recurring or unplanned events as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion, and such adjustments may increase or decrease the Performance Measure, Performance Measure Results, or the component parts thereof. Circumstances that may be the basis for such adjustments include, but shall not be limited to, any change in applicable accounting rules or principles; any gain or loss on the disposition of a business; impairment of assets; dilution caused by acquiring a business; tax changes and tax impacts of other changes; changes in applicable laws and regulations; changes in

rate case timing; changes in the Company’s structure; and any other circumstances outside of management’s control or the ordinary course of business.

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Michael Spanos, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: April 28, 2021
	/s/ Michael Spanos
	Michael Spanos
	President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 302 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Sandeep Reddy, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation;

2. Based on my knowledge, this quarterly report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this quarterly report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15(d)-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: April 28, 2021
	/s/ Sandeep Reddy
	Sandeep Reddy
	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Michael Spanos, as President and Chief Executive Officer of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (the “Company”) certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

(1) the accompanying quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ending April 4, 2021 as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date: April 28, 2021
	/s/ Michael Spanos
	Michael Spanos
	President and Chief Executive Officer

EX-32.2

Exhibit 32.2

CERTIFICATION OF CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

PURSUANT TO SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

I, Sandeep Reddy, as Senior Vice President and Interim Chief Financial Officer of Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (the “Company”) certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that to my knowledge:

(1) the accompanying quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ending April 4, 2021 as filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Report”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended; and

(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

Date: April 28, 2021
	/s/ Sandeep Reddy
	Sandeep Reddy
	Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

XML

Document and Entity Information - shares	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Apr. 23, 2021
Document and Entity Information
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Transition Report	false
Document Period End Date	Apr. 04, 2021
Entity Registrant Name	Six Flags Entertainment Corporation
Entity File Number	1-13703
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	13-3995059
Entity Address, Address Line One	1000 Ballpark Way Suite 400,
Entity Address, City or Town	Arlington
Entity Address, State or Province	TX
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	76011
City Area Code	972
Local Phone Number	595-5000
Title of 12(b) Security	Common stock, $0.025 par value per share
Trading Symbol	SIX
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		85,391,767
Entity Central Index Key	0000701374
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--01-02
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 62,905	$ 157,760	$ 22,811
Accounts receivable, net	46,420	36,610	71,558
Inventories	39,057	39,191	42,397
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	69,166	73,179	79,496
Total current assets	217,548	306,740	216,262
Property and equipment, net:
Property and equipment, at cost	2,427,318	2,408,690	2,364,872
Accumulated depreciation	(1,182,641)	(1,157,403)	(1,073,198)
Total property and equipment, net	1,244,677	1,251,287	1,291,674
Other assets:
Right-of-use operating leases, net	194,768	196,711	194,519
Debt issuance costs	6,501	7,034	3,413
Deposits and other assets	6,661	7,103	10,452
Goodwill	659,618	659,618	659,618
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $244, $238 and $23,824 as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively	344,192	344,198	344,611
Total other assets	1,211,740	1,214,664	1,212,613
Total assets	2,673,965	2,772,691	2,720,549
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	31,771	26,582	48,994
Accrued compensation, payroll taxes and benefits	25,674	22,031	11,660
Accrued insurance reserves	27,568	31,060	33,223
Accrued interest payable	33,290	60,184	20,413
Other accrued liabilities	91,848	93,369	63,114
Deferred revenue	245,310	205,125	149,111
Short-term borrowings			40,000
Current portion of long-term debt			8,000
Short-term lease liabilities	10,547	14,054	10,490
Total current liabilities	466,008	452,405	385,005
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt	2,624,361	2,622,641	2,215,794
Long-term lease liabilities	190,362	187,432	186,062
Other long-term liabilities	35,337	43,553	43,238
Deferred income taxes	70,985	101,831	214,038
Total noncurrent liabilities	2,921,045	2,955,457	2,659,132
Total liabilities	3,387,053	3,407,862	3,044,137
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	523,376	523,376	529,276
Stockholders' deficit:
Preferred stock, $1.00 par value
Common stock, $0.025 par value, 280,000,000 shares authorized; 85,369,434, 85,075,901 and 84,666,505 shares issued and outstanding at April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively	2,134	2,126	2,116
Capital in excess of par value	1,104,904	1,089,199	1,070,900
Accumulated deficit	(2,249,207)	(2,153,368)	(1,815,457)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(94,295)	(96,504)	(110,423)
Total stockholders' deficit	(1,236,464)	(1,158,547)	(852,864)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit	$ 2,673,965	$ 2,772,691	$ 2,720,549

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
Accumulated amortization of intangible assets	$ 244	$ 238	$ 23,824
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 1.00	$ 1.00	$ 1.00
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.025	$ 0.025	$ 0.025
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	280,000,000	280,000,000	280,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	85,369,434	85,075,901	84,666,505
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	85,369,434	85,075,901	84,666,505

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Total revenues	$ 82,024	$ 102,503
Operating expenses (excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	92,643	105,864
Selling, general and administrative expenses (including stock-based compensation of $6,637 and $4,280 in 2021 and 2020, respectively, and excluding depreciation and amortization shown separately below)	36,126	36,190
Costs of products sold	7,215	7,760
Other net periodic pension benefit	(1,643)	(996)
Depreciation	28,827	30,063
Amortization	6	601
Loss (gain) on disposal of assets	520	(120)
Interest expense	38,460	27,486
Interest income	(40)	(329)
Loss on debt extinguishment		1,019
Other expense, net	7,619	1,560
Loss before income taxes	(127,709)	(106,595)
Income tax benefit	(31,870)	(22,049)
Net loss	(95,839)	(84,546)
Net (loss) income attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation	$ (95,839)	$ (84,546)
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in shares)	85,209	84,656
Net loss per average common share outstanding - basic and diluted (in dollars per share)	$ (1.12)	$ (1.00)
Cash dividends declared per common share		$ 0.25
Park admissions
Total revenues	$ 44,334	$ 59,806
Park food, merchandise and other
Total revenues	31,224	29,806
Sponsorship international agreements and accommodations
Total revenues	$ 6,466	$ 12,891

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
Stock-based compensation	$ 6,637	$ 4,280

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
		Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net loss		$ (95,839)	$ (84,546)
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:
Foreign currency translation adjustment	[1]	(1,973)	(14,198)
Defined benefit retirement plan	[2]	255	193
Change in cash flow hedging	[3]	3,927	(21,708)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax		2,209	(35,713)
Comprehensive loss		$ (93,630)	$ (120,259)

[1] Foreign currency translation adjustment is presented net of tax benefit of $0.4 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021, and tax benefit of $3.8 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020

[2] Defined benefit retirement plan is presented net of tax expense of $0.1 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020.

[3] Change in cash flow hedging is presented net of tax expense of $1.3 million for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and tax benefit of $7.2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020, respectively.

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Foreign currency translation adjustment, tax expense (benefit)	$ 0.4	$ (3.8)
Defined benefit retirement plan, tax expense (benefit)	0.1
Derivatives qualifying as hedges, tax expense (benefit)	$ 1.3	$ (7.2)

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Deficit - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Common stock	Capital in excess of par value	Accumulated deficit	Accumulated other comprehensive loss	Total
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2019	$ 2,116	$ 1,066,223	$ (1,709,747)	$ (74,710)	$ (716,118)
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019	84,633,845
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Deficit
Issuance of common stock	$ 1	421			422
Issuance of common stock (in shares)	32,788
Stock-based compensation		4,280			4,280
Dividends declared to common shareholders			(21,164)		(21,164)
Repurchase of common stock		(6)			(6)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)	(155)
Employee stock purchase plan	$ (1)				(1)
Employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	27
Change in redemption value of partnership units		(18)			(18)
Net loss attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation			(84,546)		(84,546)
Net other comprehensive loss, net of tax				(35,713)	(35,713)
Ending balance at Mar. 31, 2020	$ 2,116	1,070,900	(1,815,457)	(110,423)	(852,864)
Ending balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2020	84,666,505
Beginning balance at Dec. 31, 2020	$ 2,126	1,089,199	(2,153,368)	(96,504)	(1,158,547)
Beginning balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020	85,075,901
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Deficit
Issuance of common stock	$ 8	9,071			9,079
Issuance of common stock (in shares)	293,597
Stock-based compensation		6,637			6,637
Employee stock purchase plan		(3)			(3)
Employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	(64)
Net loss attributable to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation			(95,839)		(95,839)
Net other comprehensive loss, net of tax				2,209	2,209
Ending balance at Apr. 04, 2021	$ 2,134	$ 1,104,904	$ (2,249,207)	$ (94,295)	$ (1,236,464)
Ending balance (in shares) at Apr. 04, 2021	85,369,434

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net loss	$ (95,839)	$ (84,546)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in and provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	28,833	30,664
Stock-based compensation	6,637	4,280
Interest accretion on notes payable	277	320
Loss on debt extinguishment		1,019
Amortization of debt issuance costs	1,978	856
Other, including loss (gain) on disposal of assets	(931)	1,546
Change in accounts receivable	(9,897)	35,159
Change in inventories, prepaid expenses and other current assets	3,907	(30,794)
Change in deposits and other assets	436	2,208
Change in ROU operating leases	2,113	2,437
Change in accounts payable, deferred revenue, accrued liabilities and other long-term liabilities	42,146	1,223
Change in operating lease liabilities	(1,182)	2,204
Change in accrued interest payable	(26,894)	(5,715)
Deferred income taxes	(31,982)	(21,248)
Net cash used in operating activities	(80,398)	(60,387)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Additions to property and equipment	(23,133)	(53,458)
Property insurance recoveries		2,042
Proceeds from sale of assets	33
Net cash used in investing activities	(23,100)	(51,416)
Cash flows from financing activities:
Repayment of borrowings	(2,000)	(117,510)
Proceeds from borrowings	2,000	105,000
Payment of cash dividends	(201)	(21,367)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock	9,078	421
Stock repurchases	(3)	(6)
Reduction in finance lease liability	(76)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	8,798	(33,462)
Effect of exchange rate on cash	(155)	(6,103)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents	(94,855)	(151,368)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	157,760	174,179	$ 174,179
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	62,905	22,811	$ 157,760
Supplemental cash flow information
Cash paid for interest	63,937	31,987
Cash paid for income taxes	$ 268	$ 1,959

XML

General - Basis of Presentation

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

General - Basis of Presentation

General - Basis of Presentation

1.  General — Basis of Presentation

We own and operate regional theme parks and waterparks. We are the largest regional theme park operator in the world, and the largest operator of waterparks in North America based on the number of parks we operate. Of the 27 parks we owned or operated as of April 4, 2021, 24 parks are located in the United States, two are located in Mexico and one is located in Montreal, Canada. Our waterpark at Six Flags Great America will open as a separate gate in 2021 as Hurricane Harbor Chicago, creating our 27^th park.

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed, or omitted, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC.

Holdings’ Board of Directors determined that it is in our best interest to change the method of determining our fiscal quarters and fiscal years, such that each fiscal quarter will consist of thirteen weeks ending on a Sunday and each fiscal year will consist of 52 or 53 weeks, as applicable, and will end on the Sunday closest to December 31, effective as of the commencement of our fiscal year on January 1, 2021. This change was made to align our reporting calendar with how we operate our business and improve comparability across periods. Our current fiscal year will end on January 2, 2022. This Quarterly Report covers the period January 1, 2021 – April 4, 2021 (“the three months ended April 4, 2021”). The comparison period in the prior year covers the dates January 1, 2020 – March 31, 2020 (“the three months ended March 31, 2020”). The additional four days in the three months ended April 4, 2021 did not make a material impact on the first quarter 2021 results.

"Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" contains a discussion of our results of operations and our financial position and should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes. The 2020 Annual Report includes additional information about us, our operations and our financial position, and should be referred to in conjunction with this Quarterly Report. The information furnished in this Quarterly Report reflects all normal and recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present a fair statement of the results for the periods presented.

Results for the three months ended April 4, 2021, are not indicative of the results expected for the full year. In particular, our park operations contribute more than half of their annual revenue during the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year, while expenses are incurred year-round.

COVID-19 Considerations

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, federal, state and local governments implemented significant restrictions on travel, social conduct and business operations, including mass quarantine and social distancing mandates and orders. In March 2020, we temporarily suspended operations at all of our domestic theme parks and waterparks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have reopened or announced reopening dates for each of our parks with the exception of our park in Canada. Most parks that are currently operating have capacity and other operating limitations.

In March 2020, we quickly implemented plans to mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business to ensure the health and safety of our employees and guests. In response to the challenging environment, we focused on the following actions:

● Implemented immediate cost controls by right-sizing marketing and temporarily reducing salaries of all full-time employees by 25%;

● Strengthened liquidity through expansion of our revolving credit facility, suspension of testing of certain maintenance covenants in our credit facility, issuance of senior secured notes, and suspension of dividend payments and stock repurchases;

● Enhanced financial flexibility by delaying and reducing capital expenses related to new rides and attractions;

● Developed measures to preserve our season pass holder and member bases;

● Opened parks as quickly as possible, while following governmental and public health guidelines; and

● Created new sources of revenue by introducing animal and holiday drive-thru experiences at many parks.

We resumed partial operations at many of our parks on a staggered basis near the end of the second quarter of 2020 using a cautious and phased approach, including limiting attendance, in accordance with local conditions and government guidelines. Attendance trends continued to improve throughout 2020 and the first quarter of 2021 for the parks that were open.

We have taken measures to ensure sufficient liquidity to meet our cash flow needs and covenant compliance obligations for at least the next twelve months from the issuance of these financial statements. Additionally, we believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our cash obligations through the end of 2021, even if our open parks are required to close. In addition to reducing expenses and capital expenditures, in April 2020, we increased the revolving credit commitments under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by $131.0 million, increasing the facility from $350.0 million to $481.0 million. Also, in April 2020, Six Flags Theme Parks Inc. (“SFTP”), Holdings’ indirect, wholly owned subsidiary, completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025. In August 2020, we extended the increased revolving credit commitments under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan through December 31, 2022, and extended the suspension of our senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant through the end of 2021. See Note 3, Long-Term Indebtedness, for more information on these transactions. In connection with the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, we suspended dividend payments and stock repurchases until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments by $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance.

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to present material uncertainty and risk with respect to our performance and financial results, including around our ability to keep all of our parks open to our guests. We will continue to consider near-term exigencies and the long-term financial health of the business as we take steps to mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. The extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic impacts our business will depend on future developments, which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted, including any additional actions we take to contain COVID-19 or treat its impact, among others. Our business and financial results could be materially and adversely impacted.

Transformation Plan

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, we incurred the below expenses related to our transformation plan.

Transformation Costs Breakout by Quarter
	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021
Amounts included in "Other expense, net"
Consultant costs	$	6,787
Technology modernization costs		2,094
Employee termination costs		815
Total transformation costs	$	9,696

​
There were no transformation plan related expenses incurred during the three months ended March 31, 2020.

a.  Consolidated U.S. GAAP Presentation

Our accounting policies reflect industry practices and conform to U.S. GAAP.

The unaudited condensed 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 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, as we have determined that we have the

power to direct the activities of the Partnership Parks that most significantly impact their economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses and receive benefits from the Partnership Parks 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 unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. See Note 6 for a description of the partnership agreements applicable to the Partnership Parks and Note 8 for further discussion on the non-affiliated parties’ share of the earnings of the Partnership Parks.

b.  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 recorded a valuation allowance of $129.4 million, $128.2 million and $132.2 million as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to use 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. Our projected taxable income over the foreseeable future indicates we will be able to use all of our federal net operating loss carryforwards before they expire.

In determining the effective tax rate for interim periods, we consider the expected changes in our valuation allowance from current year originating or reversing timing differences between financial accounting and tax purposes and the taxable income or loss expected for the current year. For interim periods, we also account for the tax effect of significant non-recurring items in the period in which they occur as well as changes in the valuation allowance relating to a change in the assessment of the probability of utilization of the deferred income tax assets.

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, taxing authorities of 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 Company 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 April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we had no recorded amounts for accrued interest or penalties.

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.

c. Goodwill and Intangibles

Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite 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.

As of April 4, 2021, the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded our carrying amount. We have one reporting unit at the same level for which Holdings common stock is traded and we believe our market capitalization is the best

indicator of our reporting unit’s fair value. At April 4, 2021, we determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of our intangible assets were less than their carrying amounts and there were no triggering events.

d.  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 comparing the carrying amount of the 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. We determined that our long-lived assets were recoverable as of April 4, 2021.

e.  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.

We incurred a net loss for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, therefore, diluted shares outstanding equaled basic shares outstanding for the purposes of determining loss per common share. The computation of diluted earnings per share excluded the effect of 6,199,000 and 5,907,000 antidilutive stock options for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively.

f. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the condensed 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 throughout the contract term, 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 interest rate derivatives that are effective and that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in “Other comprehensive 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 the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting or that are de-designated are recorded in “Other expense, net” in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

g.  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. We present the estimated fair values and classifications of our financial instruments in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

We use the following methods and assumptions 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.

● 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.

● 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.

h.  Stock Benefit Plans

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 equivalent rights ("DERs") 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 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’ common stock on the date of grant.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, performance stock units were granted to key employees that will vest upon the achievement of Adjusted EBITDA and Revenue performance targets by 2023. The aggregate payout under these awards if the targets are achieved in 2023 would be 186,000, but could be more or less depending on the level of achievement and timing thereof. There has been no stock-based compensation expense recorded for the performance stock units because, as of April 4, 2021, it is not deemed probable that we will achieve the specified performance targets in 2023. Based on the grant date fair value of these performance stock units as determined by the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the date of grant, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to these performance stock units at target achievement in 2023 is $9.3 million that will be expensed over the service period if achievement of the performance conditions becomes probable. We will continue to evaluate the probability of achieving the performance conditions going forward and will record the appropriate expense as necessary.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, stock-based compensation expense consisted of the following:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Long-Term Incentive Plan	$	6,562	$	4,205
Employee Stock Purchase Plan		75		75
Total Stock-Based Compensation	$	6,637	$	4,280

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, we paid $0.2 million to employees with dividend equivalent rights for previously declared dividends due upon the vesting of the related shares. These dividends were declared prior to the suspension of dividend payments in connection with the increase in the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan in April 2020.

i.  Revenue Recognition

We account for revenue from contracts with customers based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of 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. 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 condensed consolidated statements of operations net of sales taxes collected from our guests that are remitted or payable to government taxing authorities. 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 guests visit our parks. Amounts owed or received for multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in deferred revenue. In contrast to our season pass and other multi-use offerings (such as our all season dining pass program, which enables season passholders 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 whenever the parks are open as long as the guest remains enrolled in the membership program. We review the estimated redemption rate on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year, including the impact of changes to our season pass and memberships described above. For any bundled products with multiple performance obligations, revenue is allocated using the retail price of each distinct performance obligation and products that are not sold on a stand-alone basis are treated as residual.

For active memberships after the initial twelve-month term, we recognize revenue monthly as payments are received, with the exception of those payments related to the parks that remain temporarily closed due to COVID-19. In connection with the temporary closure of our parks due to COVID-19, we added one additional month of membership privileges for every month a member paid but could not visit their home park. Any membership payments received while parks were temporarily closed due to the pandemic were deferred and will be recognized as revenue when these additional months are utilized at the end of the respective membership periods or when they exchange their additional months for a Six Flags gift card pursuant to our gift card exchange program, whichever is sooner. Season pass holders were granted an additional year of admission to the parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All 2020 passes now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

As of April 4, 2021, deferred revenue was primarily comprised of (i) unredeemed season pass and all-season dining pass revenue, (ii) unredeemed portions of the membership program, member dining program and member flash pass program that will primarily be recognized in 2021, (iii) pre-sold single day admissions revenue for the 2021 operating season and (iv) pre-sold single-day admissions revenue for the 2020 operating season which now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

Certain contracts with customers, primarily memberships, may include bundled products with multiple performance obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the observable retail prices charged to customers and use residual for any products not sold on a stand-alone basis. We generally expense (i) sales commissions when incurred, and (ii) certain costs to obtain a contract where the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses." We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount for which we have the right to invoice for services performed. For certain of our contracts that have an original expected length of one year or less, we use the practical expedient applicable to such contracts and do not consider the time value of money.

We have entered into international agreements to assist a third party in the planning, design, development and operation of a Six Flags-branded park outside of North America. These agreements consist of a brand licensing agreement, project services agreement, and management services agreement. We treat these agreements as one contract because they were negotiated with a single commercial objective. We have identified three distinct promises within the agreement with the third-party partner as brand licensing, project services and management services. Each of these

promises is its own performance obligation and distinct, as the third party could benefit from each service on its own with other readily available resources, and each service is separately identifiable from other services in the context of the contract. We recognize revenue under our international agreements over the relevant service period of each performance obligation based on its relative stand-alone selling price, as determined by our best estimate of selling price. We review the service period of each performance obligation on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Revisions to the relevant service periods of the performance obligations may result in revisions to revenue in future periods and are recognized in the period in which the change is identified.

j.  Leases

We or certain of our subsidiaries are a lessee in various noncancelable operating and finance (formerly “capital”) leases, primarily for operating rights to amusement parks, land, office space, warehouses, office equipment and machinery. We account for leases in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 842, Leases (“Topic 842”); see below for additional information on recently adopted accounting pronouncements and Note 7 for additional information regarding our leases. We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception and recognize a right-of-use ("ROU") asset and lease liability at the lease commencement date.

For both our operating and finance leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. Key estimates and judgments include how we determine (i) the discount rate used to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value, (ii) the lease term and (iii) the lease payments. Topic 842 requires a lessee to discount its unpaid lease payments using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, its incremental borrowing rate ("IBR"). Generally, we cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease and therefore we use the IBR as a discount rate for our leases. The IBR reflects the rate of interest we would pay on a collateralized basis to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments under similar terms. The lease term for all of our leases includes the noncancelable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by an option to extend the lease that are reasonably certain to be executed by us. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise fixed payments owed over the lease term, variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, and the exercise price of an option to purchase the underlying asset if it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option.

The ROU asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of lease liability adjusted for lease payments made at or before the lease commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. For our operating leases, the ROU asset is subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability, plus initial direct costs, and adjusted for any prepaid or accrued lease payments, less the unamortized balance of lease incentives received. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the operating lease.

Variable lease payments associated with our leases are recognized upon the occurrence of the event, activity, or circumstance in the lease agreement on which those payments are assessed. Variable lease payments for operating leases are presented as operating expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations in the same line item as expense arising from fixed lease payments. Property taxes and insurance paid on behalf of our lessors is included within variable lease payments.

Operating lease ROU assets net of accumulated amortization are presented as "Right-of-use operating leases, net" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of operating lease liabilities is presented as "Short-term lease liabilities" and the long-term portion is presented separately as "Long-term lease liabilities" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Finance lease ROU assets are presented within “Property and equipment, at cost” and the related lease amortization within “Accumulated depreciation” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of the finance lease liabilities is presented as “Short-term lease liabilities” and the long-term portion is presented separately as “Long-term lease liabilities” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

We have elected not to recognize ROU assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less. We recognize the lease payments associated with short-term leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments associated with short-term leases are recognized and presented in the same manner as for all other leases.

The ROU assets for operating leases may be periodically reduced by impairment losses. We use the long-lived assets impairment guidance to determine whether an ROU asset is impaired and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize. We monitor for events or changes in circumstances that require a reassessment of one of our leases. When a reassessment results in the remeasurement of a lease liability, an adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the corresponding ROU asset unless doing so would reduce the carrying amount of the ROU asset to an amount less than zero. In that case, the amount of the adjustment that would result in a negative ROU asset balance is recorded in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

k.  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, such as 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 record an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we have recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $8.5 million, $3.1 million and $7.6 million, respectively, which is primarily comprised of estimated payment defaults under our membership program. To the extent that payments under our membership program have not been recognized in revenue, the allowance for doubtful accounts recorded against our membership program is offset with a corresponding reduction in deferred revenue.

l.  Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“Update 2019-12”), which removes certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim tax calculations and adds guidance to reduce complexity in accounting for income taxes. Update 2019-12 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The various amendments in Update 2019-12 are applied on a retrospective basis, modified retrospective basis and prospective basis, depending on the amendment. Our adoption of Update 2019-12 did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

m. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In August 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-14, Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans: (“Update 2018-14”), which modifies the disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plans. Update 2018-14 is effective for annual periods beginning after January 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. Adoption is required to be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of this amendment on our condensed consolidated financial statements; however, we do not expect a material impact.

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Revenue

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Revenue

Revenue

2.  Revenue

Revenues are recognized when control of the promised goods or services is transferred to our customers in an amount that reflects the consideration we expect to be entitled to in exchange for those goods or services. Sales and other taxes we collect concurrent with revenue-producing activities are excluded from revenue. Incidental items that are immaterial in the context of the contract are recognized as expense.

The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by contract duration for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively. Long-term and short-term contracts consist of our contracts with customers with terms greater than one year and less than or equal to one year, respectively. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues.

	Three Months Ended April 4, 2021
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	7,010	$	997	$	4,163	$	12,170
Short-term contracts and other (a)		37,324		30,227		2,303		69,854
Total revenues	$	44,334	$	31,224	$	6,466	$	82,024

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	5,762	$	820	$	9,270	$	15,852
Short-term contracts and other (a)		54,044		28,986		3,621		86,651
Total revenues	$	59,806	$	29,806	$	12,891	$	102,503

(a) Other revenues primarily include sales of single-use tickets and short-term transactional sales for which we have the right to invoice.

Long-term Contracts

Our long-term contracts consist of season passes purchased by customers in the year preceding the operating season to which they relate, sponsorship contracts and international agreements with third parties. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have extended all 2020 season passes through the 2021 season. Due to the extension of term on the 2020 season passes, all 2020 season passes have a length greater than one year and are thus considered long-term contracts. We earn season pass revenue when our customers purchase a season pass for a fixed fee, which entitles the customer to visit our parks, including certain waterparks, throughout the duration of the parks’ operating season. We earn sponsorship revenue from separately-priced contracts with third parties pursuant to which we sell and advertise the third party’s products within the parks in exchange for consideration. Advertisements may include, but are not limited to, banners, signs, radio ads, association with certain events, sponsorship of rides within our parks and retail promotions. We earn international agreements revenue pursuant to arrangements in which we assist in the development and management of Six Flags-branded parks outside of North America. Within our international agreements, we have identified three distinct performance obligations as brand licensing, project services and management services. We do not consider revenue recognized for the performance obligations related to our international agreements to be significant, neither individually nor in the aggregate, to any period presented.

The transaction price for our long-term contracts is explicitly stated within the contracts. Our sponsorship contracts and international agreements may include estimated variable consideration such as penalties for delay in performance of contract terms, and certain volume-based discounts and rebates. We do not believe there will be significant changes to our estimates of variable consideration. Our brand licensing and management services performance agreements include royalty payments and management fees, respectively, based on gross sales from Six Flags-branded parks once opened. We have elected to apply the sales-based royalty exemption to the brand licensing performance obligation, and accordingly, do not estimate revenue attributable to the gross sales-based royalty. We have also elected to apply the direct allocation exemption to the management services performance obligation, and accordingly, do not estimate revenue attributable to the gross sales-based management fee.

We recognize season pass revenue in "Park admissions" over the estimated redemption rate, as we believe this appropriately depicts the transfer of service to our customers. We estimate the redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions that we believe to be customary and reasonable. We review the estimated redemption rate regularly, 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." We recognize sponsorship and international agreements revenue over the term of the agreements using the passage of time as a measure of complete satisfaction of the performance obligations in "Sponsorship, international agreements and accommodations." Amounts received for unsatisfied sponsorship and international agreements performance obligations are recognized in "Deferred revenue."

At January 1, 2021, $77.6 million of unearned revenue associated with outstanding long-term contracts was reported in "Deferred revenue," of which $8.4 million was recognized as revenue for long-term contracts during the three months ended April 4, 2021. As of April 4, 2021, the total unearned amount of revenue for remaining long-term contract performance obligations was $86.7 million. At January 1, 2020, $85.1 million of unearned revenue associated with outstanding long-term contracts was reported in "Deferred revenue," of which $10.2 million was recognized as revenue for long-term contracts during the three months ended March 31, 2020. As of March 31, 2020, the total unearned amount of revenue for remaining long-term contract performance obligations was $70.6 million.

As of April 4, 2021, we expect to recognize estimated revenue for partially or wholly unsatisfied performance obligations on long-term contracts of approximately $100.8 million in the remainder of 2021, $18.5 million in 2022, $8.9 million in 2023, $2.3 million in 2024, and $0.8 million in 2025 and thereafter.

Short-term Contracts and Other

Our short-term contracts consist primarily of season passes and memberships with customers, certain sponsorship contracts and international agreements with third parties. We earn revenue from a customer’s purchase of our season pass and membership products, which entitles the customer to visit our parks, including certain waterparks, throughout the duration of the parks’ operating season for a fixed fee. Some membership products include other benefits and discounts for our guests during their visits. We earn sponsorship and international agreements revenue from contracts with third parties, pursuant to which we sell and advertise the third party’s products within our parks on a short-term basis that generally coincides with our annual operating season, and pursuant to certain activities in connection with our international agreements. The transaction price for our short-term contracts is explicitly stated within the contracts.

We generally recognize revenue from short-term contracts over the passage of time, with the exception of season pass and membership revenues. We estimate the redemption rate based on historical experience and other factors and assumptions we believe to be customary and reasonable. 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."

Other revenues consist primarily of revenues from single-use tickets for entrance to our parks, in-park services (such as the sale of food and beverages, merchandise, games and attractions, standalone parking sales and other services inside our parks), accommodations revenue, and other miscellaneous products and services. Due to the short-term transactional nature of such purchases, we apply the practical expedient to recognize revenue for single-use ticket sales, in-park services, accommodations, and other miscellaneous services and goods for which we have the right to invoice.

Arrangements with Multiple Performance Obligations

Certain contracts with customers, primarily memberships, may include bundled products with multiple performance obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the observable retail prices charged to customers and use residual for any products not sold on a stand-alone basis. We generally expense (i) sales commissions when incurred, and (ii) certain costs to obtain a contract where the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses." We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount for which we have the right to invoice for services performed. For certain of our contracts that have an original expected length of one year or less, we use the practical expedient applicable to such contracts and do not consider the time value of money.

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Long-Term Indebtedness

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Long-Term Indebtedness

Long-Term Indebtedness

3. Long-Term Indebtedness

Credit Facility

As of April 4, 2021, our credit facility consisted of a $481.0 million revolving credit loan facility (the “Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan”) and a $479.0 million Tranche B Term Loan facility (the “Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B”) pursuant to the amended and restated credit facility that we entered into in 2019 (the “Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility”) and further amended in both April 2020 and August 2020 as discussed below.

On October 18, 2019, we entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility which reduced the overall borrowing rate on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B by 25 basis points by reducing the applicable margin from LIBOR plus 2.00% to LIBOR plus 1.75%. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $0.3 million related to the transaction.

On April 8, 2020, certain of our revolving credit lenders agreed to provide an incremental $131.0 million of revolving credit commitments to the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan, increasing the facility from $350.0 million to $481.0 million.

On April 15, 2020, we received sufficient consents from the continuing lenders under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility (the “Credit Agreement Amendment”) substantially concurrently with the closing of the $725 million 2025 Notes discussed below which, among other things, (i) permitted the issuance of the 2025 Notes, including specifically, permitted the 2025 Notes to mature inside the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, (ii) suspended the testing of the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility through the end of 2020, (iii) re-established the financial maintenance covenant thereafter (provided that for the first, second, and third quarters of 2021 that such covenant is tested, we will be permitted to use the quarterly Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility) from the second, third and fourth quarters of 2019 in lieu of the actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the corresponding quarters of 2020) and (iv) added a minimum liquidity covenant that will apply from the date of the Credit Agreement Amendment through December 31, 2021. The Credit Agreement Amendment became effective on April 22, 2020, after giving effect to the repayment of a portion of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B with a portion of the proceeds from the 2025 Notes.

On April 22, 2020, SFTP completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025. The net proceeds from this offering were used to repay the outstanding balance of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, and for general corporate and working capital purposes, including expenses relating to the offering. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $5.1 million related to the transaction.

On August 26, 2020, we entered into an amendment to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility which, among other things, (i) extended the previously effectuated suspension of the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility through the end of 2021, (ii) re-established the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant thereafter (provided that for each quarter in 2022 (other than the fourth quarter) that the financial maintenance covenant is tested, SFTP will be permitted to use its quarterly Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the credit agreement governing the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility) from the second, third, and fourth quarters of 2019 in lieu of the actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA for the corresponding quarters of 2021), (iii) reduced the commitment fee on the revolving credit facility, and (iv) extended the minimum liquidity covenant that will apply through December 31, 2022. The extension of the modifications to the financial covenant and other provisions in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility pursuant to this amendment will be in effect from the date of the amendment until the earlier of the delivery of the compliance certificate for the fourth quarter of 2022 and the date on which SFTP, in its sole discretion, elects to calculate its compliance with the financial maintenance covenant by using its actual Borrower Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA instead of the 2019 figures as outlined above. In addition, all of SFTP’s existing incremental revolving credit

lenders agreed to extend the incremental $131 million revolving credit commitments to the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan by one year to December 31, 2022.

As of April 4, 2021 and December 31, 2020, we had no amounts outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of $20.2 million and $21.0 million, respectively). As of March 31, 2020, we had $40.0 million outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan (excluding amounts reserved for letters of credit in the amount of $21.3 million). Interest on the Second 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 April 4, 2021, the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan unused commitment fee was 0.625%. The principal amount of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan is due and payable on April 17, 2024.

As of April 4, 2021 and December 31, 2020, $479.0 million was outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, respectively. As of March 31, 2020, $794.0 million was outstanding under the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. Interest on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B accrues at an annual rate of LIBOR plus 1.75%. In June 2019, we entered into the June 2019 Swap Agreements to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. In August 2019, we entered into the August 2019 Swap Agreements to further mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. As of April 4, 2021, the applicable interest rate on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B was 3.00%. All remaining outstanding principal of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B is due and payable on April 17, 2026.

Amounts outstanding under the Second 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 Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility is secured by a first priority security interest in substantially all of the assets of the Loan Parties. The Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility agreement contains certain representations, warranties, affirmative covenants and a financial covenant (specifically, a maximum senior secured net leverage maintenance covenant). In addition, the Second 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, investments, prepayments of certain indebtedness, transactions with affiliates, changes in fiscal periods, modifications of certain documents, and certain hedging agreements, subject, in each case, to certain carve-outs.

2024 Notes, 2025 Notes and 2027 Notes

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 2015 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, Holdings issued an additional $700.0 million of 4.875% Senior Notes due July 31, 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, Holdings issued $500.0 million of 5.50% Senior Notes due April 15, 2027 (the "2027 Notes"). We capitalized $2.6 million of debt issuance costs directly associated with the issuance of the 2027 Notes.

During March of 2020, we prepaid $50.5 million of the outstanding 2024 Notes principal reducing the outstanding amount to $949.5 million. We recognized a loss on debt extinguishment of $1.0 million. Interest payments of $23.1 million for the 2024 Notes and the 2024 Notes Add-on are due semi-annually on January 31 and July 31 of each year.

On April 22, 2020, SFTP completed the private sale of $725.0 million in aggregate principal amount of 7.00% senior secured notes due 2025 (the “2025 Notes”). The net proceeds from this offering were used to repay the outstanding balance of the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B and for general corporate and working capital purposes, including expenses relating to the offering. In conjunction with the $315.0 million repayment of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B, certain of our hedging instruments that were entered into to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate and were de-designated. Consistent with policy, we hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Accordingly, in April 2020 we entered into counter-agreements designed to economically offset the impact of the de-designated swap agreements. Interest payments of $25.4 million are due semi-annually on January 1 and July 1 of each year, with the exception of January 1, 2021, which included the interest from April 22, 2020 through July 1, 2020 and totaled $35.1 million.

The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes and the 2027 Notes are guaranteed by the Loan Parties. The 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes 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, 2025 Notes 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.

Long-Term Indebtedness Summary

As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, long-term debt consisted of the following:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B	$	479,000	$	479,000	$	794,000
Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan		—		—		40,000
2024 Notes		949,490		949,490		949,490
2025 Notes		725,000		725,000		—
2027 Notes		500,000		500,000		500,000
Net discount		(4,080)		(4,357)		(6,002)
Deferred financing costs		(25,049)		(26,492)		(13,694)
Total debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,263,794
Less current portion of long-term debt		—		—		(8,000)
Less short-term borrowings		—		—		(40,000)
Total long-term debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,215,794

Fair-Value of Long-Term Indebtedness

As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, the fair value of our long-term debt was $2,700.5 million, $2,693.3 million and $1,952.4 million, respectively.

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

4.  Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Changes in the composition of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCI") during the three months ended April 4, 2021, were as follows:

									Accumulated
	Cumulative								Other
	Translation		Cash Flow		Defined Benefit		Income		Comprehensive
(Amounts in thousands)	Adjustment		Hedges		Plans		Taxes		Loss
Balances at December 31, 2020	$	(27,412)	$	(16,819)	$	(57,642)	$	5,369	$	(96,504)
Net current period change		(2,402)		3,883		—		(546)		935
Amounts reclassified from AOCI		—		1,361		340		(427)		1,274
Balances at April 4,2021	$	(29,814)	$	(11,575)	$	(57,302)	$	4,396	$	(94,295)

The change in “Cumulative Translation Adjustment” was caused by the weakening of the United States Dollar against the Mexican Peso and the Canadian Dollar during the three months ended April 4, 2021. Our assets for our parks that we operate in Mexico and Canada are recorded in their local currencies and translated into United States Dollars on our condensed consolidated balance sheet.

The change in “Cash Flow Hedges” was caused by declining interest rates and continued projections of low interest rates in future interest rate forward curves.

The Company had the following reclassifications out of AOCI during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

		Amount of Reclassification from AOCI
		Three Months Ended
Component of AOCI	Location of Reclassification into (Loss) Income	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge	Interest Expense	$	1,361	$	(120)
	Income tax benefit		(342)		30
	Net of tax	$	1,019	$	(90)
Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost	Operating expenses	$	340	$	257
	Income tax expense		(85)		(64)
	Net of tax	$	255	$	193
Total reclassifications		$	1,274	$	103

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Derivative Financial Instruments

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Derivative Financial Instruments

Derivative Financial Instruments

5.  Derivative Financial Instruments

In June 2019, we entered into the June 2019 Swap Agreements with an aggregate notional amount of $300.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. The term of the June 2019 Swap Agreements began in June 2019 and expires in June 2023. Upon execution, we designated and documented the June 2019 Swap Agreements as cash flow hedges. The June 2019 Swap Agreements serve as economic hedges and provide protection against rising interest rates.

In August 2019, we entered into the August 2019 Swap Agreements with an aggregate notional amount of $400.0 million to mitigate the risk of an increase in the LIBOR interest rate in effect on the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. The term of the August 2019 Swap Agreements began in August 2019 and expires in August 2024. Upon execution, we designated and documented the August 2019 Swap Agreements as cash flow hedges. The August 2019 Swap Agreements serve as economic hedges and provide protection against rising interest rates.

In March 2020, we executed a strategy common known as a “blend and extend” on $100.0 million of the June 2019 Swap Agreements that extended the length of one of the swap agreements through April 2026. We extended the existing pay-fixed swap rate over a longer period than its original term at a lower interest rate, while maintaining the same overall value of the swap. The remaining $200.0 million of the June 2019 Swap Agreements did not change.

On April 22, 2020, we repaid $315.0 million of the Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B. In conjunction, the June 2019 Swap Agreements and the Modified June 2019 Swap Agreement were de-designated, since the hedged interest was no longer likely to occur due to the repayment of the debt. As a result, $14.9 million was reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to interest expense in the condensed consolidated statement of operations. Consistent with company policy, we hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes. Accordingly, in April 2020 we entered into $300.0 million of notional amount counter-agreements (the “April 2020 Counter-agreements”) designed to economically offset the impact of the de-designated swap agreements.

By utilizing a derivative instrument to hedge our exposure to LIBOR rate changes, we are 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, hedging instruments are placed with counterparties that we believe pose 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 manage the market risk associated with derivative instruments by establishing and monitoring parameters that limit the types and degree of market risk that we may undertake. We hold and issue derivative instruments for risk management purposes only and do not utilize derivatives for trading or speculative purposes.

We record derivative instruments at fair value on our unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets. When in qualifying relationships, the gains and losses on cash flow designated derivatives are deferred in AOCI and are reclassified to interest expense when the forecasted transaction takes place. The fair value of derivatives that are not designated as hedging instruments are recorded directly to “interest expense, net”. Derivative assets and derivative liabilities that have maturity dates equal to or less than twelve months from the balance sheet date are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets and other accrued liabilities, respectively. Derivative assets and derivative 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.

The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments in an asset position as well as their classification on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

(Amounts in thousands)	Asset Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets		403		877		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(157)		585		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	246	$	1,462	$	—
Total asset derivatives		$	246	$	1,462	$	—

The table below presents the fair value of our derivative financial instruments in a liability position as well as their classification on the unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

(Amounts in thousands)	Liability Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(5,139)		(5,251)		(7,689)
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,634)	$	(16,884)	$	(30,484)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets	$	398	$	—	$	—
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(7,353)		(9,032)		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,752)	$	(13,907)	$	—
Total liability derivatives		$	(23,386)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Derivative assets recorded at fair value in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, consisted of the following:

	Derivative Assets
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	—	$	—	$	—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		—		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		801		877		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		585		—
	$	801	$	1,462	$	—

Derivative liabilities recorded at fair value in our condensed consolidated balance sheets as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, consisted of the following:

	Derivative Liabilities
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	(5,139)	$	(5,251)	$	(7,689)
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(7,510)		(9,032)		—
	$	(23,941)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Losses before taxes on derivatives not designated as a cash flow hedge of $0.1 million were presented in “Interest expense” in the condensed consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2021.

Gains and losses before taxes on derivatives designated as hedging instruments were presented in “Interest expense” in the condensed consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

	Gain (Loss)				(Loss) Gain Reclassified from
	Recognized in AOCL				AOCL into Operations
(Amounts in thousands)	2021		2020		2021		2020
Interest Rate Swap Agreements	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120
Total	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120

As of April 4, 2021, we expect to reclassify net losses of $5.1 million, currently recorded in AOCL, into “Interest expense, net” within the next twelve months. However, the actual amount reclassified could vary due to future changes in the fair value of these derivatives.

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Commitments and Contingencies

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

6.  Commitments and Contingencies

Partnership Parks

On April 1, 1998, we acquired all of the capital stock of the former Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (a corporation that has been merged out of existence and that has always been a separate corporation from Holdings, "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 $75.2 million in 2021 (subject to cost of living adjustments) to the limited partners in the Partnership Parks (based on our ownership of units as of April 4, 2021, our share of the distribution will be approximately $33.3 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 offered for the units of the Partnership Parks by certain entities. In light of the temporary suspension of operations of the parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic during March of 2020, which would cause the value of the partnership park units to decrease in 2021 and thereafter, we adjusted our annual offer to purchase these units to set a minimum price floor for all future purchases. Pursuant to the new minimum price floor, the Specified Price for the Partnership Parks, if determined as of April 4, 2021, is $409.7 million in the case of SFOG and $527.4 million in the case of SFOT. As of April 4, 2021, we owned approximately 31.4% and 53.9% 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. As of the date of this quarterly report, we expect to purchase units from the Georgia and Texas partnerships for $1.0 million and $1.2 million, respectively, in May 2021 pursuant to the 2021 annual offer. 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 2021 at both parks is approximately $523.4 million, representing approximately 68.6% of the outstanding units of SFOG and 46.1% of the outstanding units of SFOT. An additional $350.0 million of incremental borrowing is available under the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility 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 (an indirect subsidiary of AT&T Inc. as a result of a merger in 2018), 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 that 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 the 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. The 2018 merger of Time Warner and AT&T Inc. did not affect the Time Warner guarantee of our obligations under the Subordinated Indemnity Agreement.

We incurred $9.1 million of capital expenditures at the Partnership Parks during the 2020 season and intend to incur approximately $11.0 million of capital expenditures at these parks for the 2021 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 used approximately $5.0 million of cash in 2020 in operating activities, after deduction of capital expenditures and excluding the impact of short-term intercompany advances from or payments to Holdings. As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we had total loans receivable outstanding of $288.3 million, $288.3 million and $239.3 million, respectively, from the partnerships that own the Partnership Parks, primarily to fund the acquisition of Six Flags White Water Atlanta and to make capital improvements to the Partnership Parks and distributions to the limited partners in prior years.

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 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 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 our industry. Our 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.

The majority of our current insurance policies expire on December 31, 2021. We generally renegotiate our insurance policies on an annual basis. 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.

Litigation

Privacy Class Action Lawsuits

On January 7, 2016, a putative class action complaint was filed against Holdings 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 that commenced in the 2014 operating season at Six Flags Great

America in Gurnee, Illinois, and seeks statutory damages, attorneys’ 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 complaint does not allege that any information was misused or disseminated. On April 7, 2017, the trial 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 Illinois Appellate Court. On December 21, 2017, the Illinois 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 in order to have a right of action. On March 1, 2018, the plaintiff filed a petition for leave to appeal to the Illinois Supreme Court. On May 30, 2018, the Illinois Supreme Court granted the plaintiff’s leave to appeal and oral arguments were heard on November 20, 2018. On January 25, 2019, the Illinois Supreme Court found in favor of the plaintiff, holding that the plaintiff does not need to allege an actual injury beyond the violation of his rights under BIPA in order to proceed with a complaint. We intend to continue to vigorously defend ourselves against this litigation. The amount we have recorded is based on our estimate of the probable outcome of this litigation.

During 2017, four putative class action complaints were filed against Holdings 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 sought by the plaintiffs. The complaints do not allege that any information was misused. On October 20, 2020, the parties entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the lawsuits, for an immaterial amount, and preliminary approval was granted by the court on December 3, 2020. All four lawsuits are stayed pending final approval of the settlement by the court.

Securities Class Action Lawsuits

In February 2020, two putative securities class action complaints were filed against Holdings and certain of its former executive officers (collectively, the “defendants”) in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas. On March 2, 2020, the two cases were consolidated in an action captioned Electrical Workers Pension Fund Local 103 I.B.E.W. v. Six Flags Entertainment Corp., et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00201-P (N.D. Tex.) (the “Electrical Workers litigation”), and an amended complaint was filed on March 20, 2020. On May 8, 2020, Oklahoma Firefighters Pension and Retirement System and Electrical Workers Pension Fund Local 103 I.B.E.W. were appointed as lead plaintiffs, Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossman LLP was appointed as lead counsel, and McKool Smith PC was appointed as liaison counsel. On July 2, 2020, lead plaintiffs filed a consolidated complaint. The consolidated complaint alleges, among other things, that the defendants made materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co. Ltd., in violation of the federal securities laws. The consolidated complaint seeks compensatory damages and other relief on behalf of a putative class of purchasers of Holdings’ publicly traded common stock during the period between April 24, 2018 and February 19, 2020. On August 3, 2020, defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint. On March 3, 2021, the court granted defendants’ motion, dismissing the complaint in its entirety and with prejudice. Plaintiffs filed a motion to amend or set aside judgment on March 31, 2021, and defendants filed an opposition to that motion on April 21, 2021. We believe that these lawsuits are without merit and intend to defend this litigation vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of the lawsuit.

Stockholder Derivative Lawsuits

On March 20, 2020, a putative stockholder derivative lawsuit was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings, by Mr. Mark Schwartz in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas against certain of its current and former executive officers and directors (the “individual defendants”) in an action captioned Schwartz v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00262-P (N.D. Tex.). In April 2020, two additional stockholder derivative lawsuits, making

substantially identical allegations as the Schwartz complaint, were filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings by Trustees of the St. Clair County Employees’ Retirement System and Mr. Mehmet Ali Albayrak in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas in actions captioned Martin, et al. v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00311-P (N.D. Tex.) and Albayrak v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. 4:20-cv-00312-P (N.D. Tex.), respectively. On April 8, 2020, plaintiffs in all three of these putative derivative actions moved to consolidate the three actions and to appoint lead counsel. On May 8, 2020, the court granted the plaintiffs’ motion to consolidate. The consolidated action is captioned In re Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Derivative Litigation, Case No. 4:20-cv-00262-P (N.D. Tex.). On August 10, 2020, plaintiffs filed a consolidated derivative complaint. The consolidated derivative complaint alleges breach of fiduciary duty, insider selling, waste of corporate assets, unjust enrichment, and contribution for violations of federal securities laws. The consolidated derivative complaint references, and makes many of the same allegations, as are set forth in the Electrical Workers litigation, alleging, among other things, that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties, committed waste, are liable for contribution for, or were unjustly enriched by making, failing to correct, or failing to implement adequate internal controls relating to alleged materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the prospects of the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co. Ltd. The consolidated derivative complaint also alleges that a former officer and director sold shares of the Company while allegedly in possession of material non-public information concerning the same. On September 9, 2020, Holdings and the individual defendants filed a motion to dismiss the consolidated complaint. On April 28, 2021, the court granted defendants’ motion, dismissing the consolidated complaint in its entirety and with prejudice and denying leave to amend. We believe that these complaints are without merit and intend to defend these lawsuits vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits.

On May 5, 2020, a putative stockholder derivative lawsuit was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings, by Mr. Richard Francisco in the District Court for Dallas County, Texas, 160th Judicial District, against certain of its current and former executive officers and directors (the “individual defendants”) in an action captioned Francisco v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. DC-20-06425 (160th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.) (the “Francisco action”). The petition in the Francisco action alleges breach of fiduciary duty, unjust enrichment, abuse of control, gross mismanagement, and waste of corporate assets. The petition in the Francisco action references, and makes many of the same allegations, as are set forth in the Electrical Workers litigation, alleging, among other things, that the individual defendants breached their fiduciary duties, were unjustly enriched by, abused their control, committed gross mismanagement, and committed waste by making, failing to correct, or failing to implement adequate internal controls relating to alleged materially false or misleading statements or omissions regarding the Company’s business, operations and growth prospects, specifically with respect to the prospects of the development of its Six Flags branded parks in China and the financial health of its partner, Riverside Investment Group Co, Ltd. The petition also alleges that a former officer and director engaged in insider trading. On May 28, 2020, the parties in the Francisco action filed a joint motion to stay proceedings through the resolution of the forthcoming motion to dismiss the Electrical Workers litigation. On June 3, 2020, the court granted the joint motion to stay proceedings. On June 12, 2020, an additional stockholder derivative lawsuit, making substantially identical allegations as the Francisco petition, was filed on behalf of nominal defendant Holdings in the District Court for Dallas County, Texas, 298th Judicial District on behalf of putative stockholder Mr. Cliff Bragdon in an action captioned Bragdon v. Reid-Anderson, et al., Case No. DC-20-08180 (298th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.) (the “Bragdon action”). On July 10, 2020, the court granted an agreed motion filed by the parties in the Francisco and Bragdon actions to consolidate cases, to accept service and an unopposed motion to appoint co-lead and liaison counsel, and to stay both the Francisco and Bragdon actions through resolution of the motion to dismiss the Electrical Workers litigation. The consolidated state derivative action is captioned In re Six Flags Entertainment Corp. Derivative Litigation, Case No. DC-20-06425 (160th Dist. Ct., Dallas Cty., Tex.). On September 8, 2020, the parties to the consolidated state derivative action filed an agreed motion to transfer the case from Dallas County to Tarrant County, which motion was so ordered on September 27, 2020. The consolidated action is now captioned In re Six Flags Ent. Corp. Deriv. Litig., No. 096-320958-20 (Tex. Dist. Ct., Tarrant Cty.). We believe that these complaints are without merit and intend to defend these lawsuits vigorously. However, there can be no assurance regarding the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits.

Wage and Hour Class Action Lawsuits

On March 8, 2016, certain plaintiffs filed a complaint against one of our subsidiaries in the Superior Court of Massachusetts, Suffolk County, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags New

England. The complaint alleges violations of Massachusetts law governing employee overtime and rest breaks, and seeks damages in the form of unpaid wages for overtime and meal breaks and related penalties. On November 12, 2020, the parties entered into a settlement agreement to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount, and final approval was granted by the court on March 31, 2021.

On April 20, 2018, a complaint was filed against Holdings and Six Flags Concord, LLC in the Superior Court of Solano County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. On June 15, 2018, an amended complaint was filed adding Park Management Corp. as a defendant. The amended complaint alleges violations of California law governing, among other things, employee overtime, meal and rest breaks, wage statements, and seeks damages in the form of unpaid wages, and related penalties, and attorneys’ fees and costs. Following mediation on November 30, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount. The settlement is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

On September 18, 2019, a complaint was filed against Magic Mountain LLC in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Magic Mountain. An amended complaint was filed on November 24, 2019. On May 27, 2020, a copycat complaint was filed by the same law firm on behalf of a different named plaintiff alleging nearly identical causes of action. The complaints allege violations of California law governing payment of wages, wage statements, and background checks, and seeks unpaid wages and statutory damages under California law as well as under the Private Attorneys General Act, and attorneys’ fees and costs. 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.

On February 14, 2020, a complaint was filed against Magic Mountain, LLC in the Superior Court of Los Angeles County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Magic Mountain. The complaint alleges one cause of action for failure to furnish accurate, itemized wage statements in violation of California labor law, and seeks statutory damages under California law as well as under the Private Attorneys General Act, and attorneys’ fees and costs. Following mediation on January 13, 2021, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuit, for an immaterial amount. The settlement is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

On February 20, 2020, a complaint was filed against Park Management Corp. in the Superior Court of Solano County, California, on behalf of a purported class of current and former employees of Six Flags Discovery Kingdom. The complaint alleges violations of California law governing payment of wages, wage statements, and background checks, and seeks statutory damages under federal and California law and attorneys’ fees and costs. The claims related to wages and wage statements will be resolved under the settlement of the April 2018 litigation above. With respect to the remaining background check claims, 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.

COVID-19 Park Closure Lawsuits

Since COVID-19 began affecting the operations of our parks in mid-March 2020, three similar purported class action complaints were filed against Holdings or one of its subsidiaries in the United States District Court for the Central District of California on April 10, 2020, April 13, 2020, and April 21, 2020. These complaints allege that we, in violation of California law, charged members and season passholders while the parks were closed and did not provide refunds for the amounts charged. The complaints seek compensatory damages, punitive damages, restitution, and unspecified injunctive relief. On September 9, 2020, the parties agreed to a settlement in principle to resolve the lawsuits, for an immaterial amount, which is subject to preliminary and final approval by the court.

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Leases

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Operating Leases

Leases

7.  Leases

We have operating and finance leases for amusement parks, land, vehicles, machinery and certain equipment. Our leases have remaining lease terms of less than one year to 44 years, some of which include options to extend leases up to 20 years, and some of which include options to terminate the lease within one year. For our noncancelable operating leases with options to extend, because we may determine it is not reasonably certain we will exercise the option, the

options are not considered in determining the lease term, and associated potential option payments are excluded from lease payments. Our leases generally do not include restrictive financial or other covenants. Payments due under the lease contracts include fixed payments and, for certain of our leases, variable payments.

The components of lease cost for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 are as follows:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Finance lease expense
Amortization of ROU assets	$	157	$	—
Interest on lease liabilities		19		—
Operating lease cost		6,130		6,263
Short-term lease cost		1,465		1,602
Variable lease cost		1,338		1,466
Total lease cost	$	9,109	$	9,331

Lease costs for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 included minimum rental payments under operating leases recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease.

Other information related to leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows for operating leases	$	5,208	$	1,587
Operating cash flows for finance leases		76		—
Financing cash flows for finance leases		19		—
Operating Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		79		329
Finance Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		439		—

Additional information related to our operating leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	18.77
Weighted-average discount rate	6.89	%

Additional information related to our finance leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	3.43
Weighted-average discount rate	3.83	%

The following tables set forth supplemental balance sheet information related to operating and finance leases as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020.

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Operating Leases
Right of use assets, net	$	194,768	$	196,711	$	194,519
Short-term lease liabilities		10,037		13,727		10,490
Long-term lease liabilities		188,573		185,823		186,062
Total operating lease obligation	$	198,610	$	199,550	$	196,552
Finance Leases
Property and equipment, at cost	$	2,867	$	2,428	$	—
Accumulated depreciation		(405)		(248)		—
Total property and equipment, net		2,462		2,180		—
Short-term lease liabilities	$	510	$	327	$	—
Long-term lease liabilities		1,789		1,609		—

Total finance lease obligation $ 2,299 $ 1,936 $ —

Maturities of noncancelable operating and finance lease liabilities under Topic 842 as of April 4, 2021 are summarized in the table below:

(Amounts in thousands)	As of April 4, 2021
	Finance Leases		Operating Leases
Remaining in 2021	$	398	$	21,685
2022		767		22,417
2023		769		21,955
2024		502		20,206
2025		24		18,127
Thereafter		—		259,490
Total	$	2,460	$	363,880
Less: present value discount		(161)		(165,270)
Lease liability	$	2,299	$	198,610

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Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests

8.  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. As of April 4, 2021, redeemable noncontrolling interests of the SFOT and SFOG partnerships was $242.6 million and $280.8 million, respectively which approximates redemption value.

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Business Segments

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Business Segments

Business Segments

9.  Business Segments

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 a Six Flags-branded park outside of North America.

The following information reflects our long-lived assets (which consists of property and equipment, right-of-use operating leases and intangible assets) as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Domestic	$	2,312,048	$	2,317,009	$	2,368,183
Foreign		131,207		134,805		122,239
Total		2,443,255		2,451,814		2,490,422

Revenues and loss before income taxes by domestic and foreign categories as of or for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

	Domestic		Foreign		Total
2021	(Amounts in thousands)
Revenues	$	78,673	$	3,351	$	82,024
Loss before income taxes		(121,192)		(6,517)		(127,709)
2020
Revenues	$	89,496	$	13,007	$	102,503
Loss before income taxes		(102,362)		(4,233)		(106,595)

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Pension Benefits

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Pension Benefits

Pension Benefits

10.  Pension Benefits

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. The following summarizes our pension costs during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Service cost	$	275	$	325
Interest cost		1,275		1,623
Expected return on plan assets		(3,069)		(3,279)
Amortization of net actuarial loss		340		257
Total net periodic benefit	$	(1,179)	$	(1,074)

The components of net periodic pension benefit other than the service cost component were included in "Other net periodic pension benefit" in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Cost

	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Discount rate	2.20	%	3.00	%
Rate of compensation increase	N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	5.75	%	6.50	%

Employer Contributions

During the three month period ended March 31, 2020, we made pension contributions of $1.5 million. We did not make any pension contributions during the three month period ended April 4, 2021.

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Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan

Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan

11. Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan

On March 30, 2017, Holdings announced that its Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase plan that permits Holdings to repurchase an incremental $500.0 million in shares of Holdings’ common stock (the "March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan"). As of April 23, 2021, Holdings had repurchased 4,607,000 shares at a cumulative cost of approximately $268.3 million and an average price per share of $58.25 under the March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan, leaving approximately $231.7 million available for permitted repurchases.

The amount of share repurchases is limited by the covenants in the Second Amended and Restated Credit Facility, the 2024 Notes, the 2024 Notes Add-on, the 2025 Notes and the 2027 Notes. In April 2020 and August 2020, in connection with amendments to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, we suspended dividend payments and stock repurchases due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic until the earlier of December 31, 2022, or such time as SFTP reduces the incremental revolving credit commitments by $131 million and begins using actual results to test the senior secured leverage ratio financial maintenance covenant compliance. However, given the uncertainty associated with the ultimate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and operations, we may determine that it is prudent to continue these suspensions for a longer duration. Investors may have an expectation that we will resume our dividend at a certain time and at certain levels or repurchase shares available under Holdings’ repurchase program. The stock price of Holdings’ common stock could be adversely affected if our cash dividend rate or common stock repurchase activity differs from investors’ expectations.

On March 31, 2020, Holdings entered into a Rights Agreement (the “Rights Agreement”). In accordance with the terms of the Rights Agreement, the rights issued thereunder expired on March 30, 2021. On April 1, 2021, Holdings filed with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware a Certificate of Elimination (the “Certificate of Elimination”), which, effective upon filing, eliminated from Holdings’ Restated Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, all matters set forth in Holdings’ Certificate of Designation of Series B Junior Preferred Stock, as filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware on March 31, 2020. The 200,000 shares of preferred stock previously designated as Series B Junior Preferred Stock were eliminated and returned to the status of authorized but unissued shares of preferred stock, without designation.

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Subsequent Event

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Subsequent Event

Subsequent Event

12. Subsequent Event

In April 2021, we received $11.3 million pursuant to one of our terminated international development agreements in China. We currently do not anticipate any further payments related to any of the remaining terminated international development agreements.

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General - Basis of Presentation (Policies)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

General - Basis of Presentation

Consolidated U.S. GAAP Presentation

a.  Consolidated U.S. GAAP Presentation

Our accounting policies reflect industry practices and conform to U.S. GAAP.

The unaudited condensed 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 unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, as we have determined that we have the

power to direct the activities of the Partnership Parks that most significantly impact their economic performance and we have the obligation to absorb losses and receive benefits from the Partnership Parks 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 unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheets as redeemable noncontrolling interests. See Note 6 for a description of the partnership agreements applicable to the Partnership Parks and Note 8 for further discussion on the non-affiliated parties’ share of the earnings of the Partnership Parks.

Income Taxes

b.  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 recorded a valuation allowance of $129.4 million, $128.2 million and $132.2 million as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, respectively, due to uncertainties related to our ability to use 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. Our projected taxable income over the foreseeable future indicates we will be able to use all of our federal net operating loss carryforwards before they expire.

In determining the effective tax rate for interim periods, we consider the expected changes in our valuation allowance from current year originating or reversing timing differences between financial accounting and tax purposes and the taxable income or loss expected for the current year. For interim periods, we also account for the tax effect of significant non-recurring items in the period in which they occur as well as changes in the valuation allowance relating to a change in the assessment of the probability of utilization of the deferred income tax assets.

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, taxing authorities of 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 Company 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 April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we had no recorded amounts for accrued interest or penalties.

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.

Goodwill and Intangibles

c. Goodwill and Intangibles

Goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite 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.

As of April 4, 2021, the fair value of the single reporting unit exceeded our carrying amount. We have one reporting unit at the same level for which Holdings common stock is traded and we believe our market capitalization is the best

indicator of our reporting unit’s fair value. At April 4, 2021, we determined that it is not more likely than not that the fair value of our intangible assets were less than their carrying amounts and there were no triggering events.

Long-Lived Assets

d.  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 comparing the carrying amount of the 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. We determined that our long-lived assets were recoverable as of April 4, 2021.

Earnings Per Common Share

e.  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.

We incurred a net loss for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, therefore, diluted shares outstanding equaled basic shares outstanding for the purposes of determining loss per common share. The computation of diluted earnings per share excluded the effect of 6,199,000 and 5,907,000 antidilutive stock options for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively.

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

f. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

We recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the condensed 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 throughout the contract term, 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 interest rate derivatives that are effective and that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recorded in “Other comprehensive 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 the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting or that are de-designated are recorded in “Other expense, net” in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

g.  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. We present the estimated fair values and classifications of our financial instruments in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

We use the following methods and assumptions 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.

● 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.

● 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.

Stock Benefit Plans

h.  Stock Benefit Plans

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 equivalent rights ("DERs") 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 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’ common stock on the date of grant.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, performance stock units were granted to key employees that will vest upon the achievement of Adjusted EBITDA and Revenue performance targets by 2023. The aggregate payout under these awards if the targets are achieved in 2023 would be 186,000, but could be more or less depending on the level of achievement and timing thereof. There has been no stock-based compensation expense recorded for the performance stock units because, as of April 4, 2021, it is not deemed probable that we will achieve the specified performance targets in 2023. Based on the grant date fair value of these performance stock units as determined by the closing market price of Holdings' common stock on the date of grant, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to these performance stock units at target achievement in 2023 is $9.3 million that will be expensed over the service period if achievement of the performance conditions becomes probable. We will continue to evaluate the probability of achieving the performance conditions going forward and will record the appropriate expense as necessary.

During the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, stock-based compensation expense consisted of the following:

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Long-Term Incentive Plan	$	6,562	$	4,205
Employee Stock Purchase Plan		75		75
Total Stock-Based Compensation	$	6,637	$	4,280

During the three months ended April 4, 2021, we paid $0.2 million to employees with dividend equivalent rights for previously declared dividends due upon the vesting of the related shares. These dividends were declared prior to the suspension of dividend payments in connection with the increase in the Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan in April 2020.

Revenue Recognition

i.  Revenue Recognition

We account for revenue from contracts with customers based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of 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. 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 condensed consolidated statements of operations net of sales taxes collected from our guests that are remitted or payable to government taxing authorities. 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 guests visit our parks. Amounts owed or received for multi-use admissions in excess of redemptions are recognized in deferred revenue. In contrast to our season pass and other multi-use offerings (such as our all season dining pass program, which enables season passholders 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 whenever the parks are open as long as the guest remains enrolled in the membership program. We review the estimated redemption rate on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year, including the impact of changes to our season pass and memberships described above. For any bundled products with multiple performance obligations, revenue is allocated using the retail price of each distinct performance obligation and products that are not sold on a stand-alone basis are treated as residual.

For active memberships after the initial twelve-month term, we recognize revenue monthly as payments are received, with the exception of those payments related to the parks that remain temporarily closed due to COVID-19. In connection with the temporary closure of our parks due to COVID-19, we added one additional month of membership privileges for every month a member paid but could not visit their home park. Any membership payments received while parks were temporarily closed due to the pandemic were deferred and will be recognized as revenue when these additional months are utilized at the end of the respective membership periods or when they exchange their additional months for a Six Flags gift card pursuant to our gift card exchange program, whichever is sooner. Season pass holders were granted an additional year of admission to the parks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All 2020 passes now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

As of April 4, 2021, deferred revenue was primarily comprised of (i) unredeemed season pass and all-season dining pass revenue, (ii) unredeemed portions of the membership program, member dining program and member flash pass program that will primarily be recognized in 2021, (iii) pre-sold single day admissions revenue for the 2021 operating season and (iv) pre-sold single-day admissions revenue for the 2020 operating season which now expire at the end of the 2021 season.

Certain contracts with customers, primarily memberships, may include bundled products with multiple performance obligations. For such arrangements, we allocate revenue to each performance obligation based on its relative standalone selling price. We generally determine standalone selling prices based on the observable retail prices charged to customers and use residual for any products not sold on a stand-alone basis. We generally expense (i) sales commissions when incurred, and (ii) certain costs to obtain a contract where the amortization period would have been one year or less. These costs are recognized in "Selling, general and administrative expenses." We do not disclose the value of unsatisfied performance obligations for (i) contracts with an original expected length of one year or less or (ii) contracts for which we recognize revenue at the amount for which we have the right to invoice for services performed. For certain of our contracts that have an original expected length of one year or less, we use the practical expedient applicable to such contracts and do not consider the time value of money.

We have entered into international agreements to assist a third party in the planning, design, development and operation of a Six Flags-branded park outside of North America. These agreements consist of a brand licensing agreement, project services agreement, and management services agreement. We treat these agreements as one contract because they were negotiated with a single commercial objective. We have identified three distinct promises within the agreement with the third-party partner as brand licensing, project services and management services. Each of these

promises is its own performance obligation and distinct, as the third party could benefit from each service on its own with other readily available resources, and each service is separately identifiable from other services in the context of the contract. We recognize revenue under our international agreements over the relevant service period of each performance obligation based on its relative stand-alone selling price, as determined by our best estimate of selling price. We review the service period of each performance obligation on an ongoing basis and revise it as necessary throughout the year. Revisions to the relevant service periods of the performance obligations may result in revisions to revenue in future periods and are recognized in the period in which the change is identified.

Leases

j.  Leases

We or certain of our subsidiaries are a lessee in various noncancelable operating and finance (formerly “capital”) leases, primarily for operating rights to amusement parks, land, office space, warehouses, office equipment and machinery. We account for leases in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 842, Leases (“Topic 842”); see below for additional information on recently adopted accounting pronouncements and Note 7 for additional information regarding our leases. We determine if an arrangement is or contains a lease at contract inception and recognize a right-of-use ("ROU") asset and lease liability at the lease commencement date.

For both our operating and finance leases, the lease liability is initially and subsequently measured at the present value of the unpaid lease payments at the lease commencement date. Key estimates and judgments include how we determine (i) the discount rate used to discount the unpaid lease payments to present value, (ii) the lease term and (iii) the lease payments. Topic 842 requires a lessee to discount its unpaid lease payments using the interest rate implicit in the lease or, if that rate cannot be readily determined, its incremental borrowing rate ("IBR"). Generally, we cannot determine the interest rate implicit in the lease and therefore we use the IBR as a discount rate for our leases. The IBR reflects the rate of interest we would pay on a collateralized basis to borrow an amount equal to the lease payments under similar terms. The lease term for all of our leases includes the noncancelable period of the lease plus any additional periods covered by an option to extend the lease that are reasonably certain to be executed by us. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise fixed payments owed over the lease term, variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, and the exercise price of an option to purchase the underlying asset if it is reasonably certain that we will exercise the option.

The ROU asset is initially measured at cost, which comprises the initial amount of lease liability adjusted for lease payments made at or before the lease commencement date, plus any initial direct costs incurred, less any lease incentives received. For our operating leases, the ROU asset is subsequently measured throughout the lease term at the carrying amount of the lease liability, plus initial direct costs, and adjusted for any prepaid or accrued lease payments, less the unamortized balance of lease incentives received. Lease expense for lease payments is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the operating lease.

Variable lease payments associated with our leases are recognized upon the occurrence of the event, activity, or circumstance in the lease agreement on which those payments are assessed. Variable lease payments for operating leases are presented as operating expense in our condensed consolidated statements of operations in the same line item as expense arising from fixed lease payments. Property taxes and insurance paid on behalf of our lessors is included within variable lease payments.

Operating lease ROU assets net of accumulated amortization are presented as "Right-of-use operating leases, net" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of operating lease liabilities is presented as "Short-term lease liabilities" and the long-term portion is presented separately as "Long-term lease liabilities" on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

Finance lease ROU assets are presented within “Property and equipment, at cost” and the related lease amortization within “Accumulated depreciation” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets. The current portion of the finance lease liabilities is presented as “Short-term lease liabilities” and the long-term portion is presented separately as “Long-term lease liabilities” on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

We have elected not to recognize ROU assets and lease liabilities for short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less. We recognize the lease payments associated with short-term leases as an expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Variable lease payments associated with short-term leases are recognized and presented in the same manner as for all other leases.

The ROU assets for operating leases may be periodically reduced by impairment losses. We use the long-lived assets impairment guidance to determine whether an ROU asset is impaired and if so, the amount of the impairment loss to recognize. We monitor for events or changes in circumstances that require a reassessment of one of our leases. When a reassessment results in the remeasurement of a lease liability, an adjustment is made to the carrying amount of the corresponding ROU asset unless doing so would reduce the carrying amount of the ROU asset to an amount less than zero. In that case, the amount of the adjustment that would result in a negative ROU asset balance is recorded in our condensed consolidated statements of operations.

Accounts Receivable, Net

k.  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, such as 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 record an allowance for doubtful accounts. As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, we have recorded an allowance for doubtful accounts of $8.5 million, $3.1 million and $7.6 million, respectively, which is primarily comprised of estimated payment defaults under our membership program. To the extent that payments under our membership program have not been recognized in revenue, the allowance for doubtful accounts recorded against our membership program is offset with a corresponding reduction in deferred revenue.

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Recent Accounting Pronouncements

l.  Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

In December 2019, FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (“Update 2019-12”), which removes certain exceptions for investments, intraperiod allocations and interim tax calculations and adds guidance to reduce complexity in accounting for income taxes. Update 2019-12 is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020, with early adoption permitted. The various amendments in Update 2019-12 are applied on a retrospective basis, modified retrospective basis and prospective basis, depending on the amendment. Our adoption of Update 2019-12 did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.

m. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In August 2018, FASB issued ASU 2018-14, Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Defined Benefit Plans: (“Update 2018-14”), which modifies the disclosure requirements for employers that sponsor defined benefit pension or other post-retirement plans. Update 2018-14 is effective for annual periods beginning after January 1, 2021, with early adoption permitted. Adoption is required to be applied on a retrospective basis to all periods presented. We are in the process of evaluating the impact of this amendment on our condensed consolidated financial statements; however, we do not expect a material impact.

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General - Basis of Presentation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

General - Basis of Presentation

Schedule of Transformation Costs Breakout by Quarter

Transformation Costs Breakout by Quarter
	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021
Amounts included in "Other expense, net"
Consultant costs	$	6,787
Technology modernization costs		2,094
Employee termination costs		815
Total transformation costs	$	9,696

Schedule of stock-based compensation expense

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Long-Term Incentive Plan	$	6,562	$	4,205
Employee Stock Purchase Plan		75		75
Total Stock-Based Compensation	$	6,637	$	4,280

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Revenue (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Revenue

Schedule of revenues disaggregated by contract duration

The following tables present our revenues disaggregated by contract duration for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020, respectively. Long-term and short-term contracts consist of our contracts with customers with terms greater than one year and less than or equal to one year, respectively. Sales and usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues.

	Three Months Ended April 4, 2021
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	7,010	$	997	$	4,163	$	12,170
Short-term contracts and other (a)		37,324		30,227		2,303		69,854
Total revenues	$	44,334	$	31,224	$	6,466	$	82,024

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
					Sponsorship,
			Park Food,		International
			Merchandise		Agreements and
(Amounts in thousands)	Park Admissions		and Other		Accommodations		Consolidated
Long-term contracts	$	5,762	$	820	$	9,270	$	15,852
Short-term contracts and other (a)		54,044		28,986		3,621		86,651
Total revenues	$	59,806	$	29,806	$	12,891	$	102,503

(a) Other revenues primarily include sales of single-use tickets and short-term transactional sales for which we have the right to invoice.

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Long-Term Indebtedness (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Long-Term Indebtedness

Schedule of long-term debt

As of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020, long-term debt consisted of the following:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B	$	479,000	$	479,000	$	794,000
Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan		—		—		40,000
2024 Notes		949,490		949,490		949,490
2025 Notes		725,000		725,000		—
2027 Notes		500,000		500,000		500,000
Net discount		(4,080)		(4,357)		(6,002)
Deferred financing costs		(25,049)		(26,492)		(13,694)
Total debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,263,794
Less current portion of long-term debt		—		—		(8,000)
Less short-term borrowings		—		—		(40,000)
Total long-term debt	$	2,624,361	$	2,622,641	$	2,215,794

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Schedule of components of AOCI

Changes in the composition of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCI") during the three months ended April 4, 2021, were as follows:

									Accumulated
	Cumulative								Other
	Translation		Cash Flow		Defined Benefit		Income		Comprehensive
(Amounts in thousands)	Adjustment		Hedges		Plans		Taxes		Loss
Balances at December 31, 2020	$	(27,412)	$	(16,819)	$	(57,642)	$	5,369	$	(96,504)
Net current period change		(2,402)		3,883		—		(546)		935
Amounts reclassified from AOCI		—		1,361		340		(427)		1,274
Balances at April 4,2021	$	(29,814)	$	(11,575)	$	(57,302)	$	4,396	$	(94,295)

Schedule of reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

The Company had the following reclassifications out of AOCI during the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

		Amount of Reclassification from AOCI
		Three Months Ended
Component of AOCI	Location of Reclassification into (Loss) Income	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge	Interest Expense	$	1,361	$	(120)
	Income tax benefit		(342)		30
	Net of tax	$	1,019	$	(90)
Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost	Operating expenses	$	340	$	257
	Income tax expense		(85)		(64)
	Net of tax	$	255	$	193
Total reclassifications		$	1,274	$	103

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Derivative Financial Instruments

Schedule of derivative instruments recorded at fair value

(Amounts in thousands)	Asset Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets		403		877		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(157)		585		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	246	$	1,462	$	—
Total asset derivatives		$	246	$	1,462	$	—

(Amounts in thousands)	Liability Derivatives
		April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
	Balance Sheet Classifications	Fair Value		Fair Value		Fair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(5,139)		(5,251)		(7,689)
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,634)	$	(16,884)	$	(30,484)
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815
Interest rate contracts	Other current assets	$	398	$	—	$	—
Interest rate contracts	Other accrued liabilities		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest rate contracts	Other long-term liabilities		(7,353)		(9,032)		—
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815		$	(11,752)	$	(13,907)	$	—
Total liability derivatives		$	(23,386)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Schedule of derivative assets at fair value

	Derivative Assets
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	—	$	—	$	—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		—		—
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		801		877		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		—		585		—
	$	801	$	1,462	$	—

Schedule of derivative liabilities at fair value

	Derivative Liabilities
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current	$	(5,139)	$	(5,251)	$	(7,689)
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(6,495)		(11,633)		(22,795)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Current		(4,797)		(4,875)		—
Interest Rate Swap Agreements — Noncurrent		(7,510)		(9,032)		—
	$	(23,941)	$	(30,791)	$	(30,484)

Schedule of gains and losses before taxes on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

	Gain (Loss)				(Loss) Gain Reclassified from
	Recognized in AOCL				AOCL into Operations
(Amounts in thousands)	2021		2020		2021		2020
Interest Rate Swap Agreements	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120
Total	$	3,883	$	(28,794)	$	(1,361)	$	120

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Leases (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Operating Leases

Schedule of components of lease cost

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Finance lease expense
Amortization of ROU assets	$	157	$	—
Interest on lease liabilities		19		—
Operating lease cost		6,130		6,263
Short-term lease cost		1,465		1,602
Variable lease cost		1,338		1,466
Total lease cost	$	9,109	$	9,331

Schedule of other information related to leases

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows for operating leases	$	5,208	$	1,587
Operating cash flows for finance leases		76		—
Financing cash flows for finance leases		19		—
Operating Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		79		329
Finance Leases
ROU assets obtained in exchange for lease liabilities		439		—

Additional information related to our operating leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	18.77
Weighted-average discount rate	6.89	%

Additional information related to our finance leases for the three months ended April 4, 2021 is as follows:

Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	3.43
Weighted-average discount rate	3.83	%

Schedule of supplemental balance sheet information of leases

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Operating Leases
Right of use assets, net	$	194,768	$	196,711	$	194,519
Short-term lease liabilities		10,037		13,727		10,490
Long-term lease liabilities		188,573		185,823		186,062
Total operating lease obligation	$	198,610	$	199,550	$	196,552
Finance Leases
Property and equipment, at cost	$	2,867	$	2,428	$	—
Accumulated depreciation		(405)		(248)		—
Total property and equipment, net		2,462		2,180		—
Short-term lease liabilities	$	510	$	327	$	—
Long-term lease liabilities		1,789		1,609		—

Total finance lease obligation $ 2,299 $ 1,936 $ —

Schedule of maturities of noncancelable operating lease liabilities

(Amounts in thousands)	As of April 4, 2021
	Finance Leases		Operating Leases
Remaining in 2021	$	398	$	21,685
2022		767		22,417
2023		769		21,955
2024		502		20,206
2025		24		18,127
Thereafter		—		259,490
Total	$	2,460	$	363,880
Less: present value discount		(161)		(165,270)
Lease liability	$	2,299	$	198,610

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Business Segments (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Business Segments

Schedule of information reflecting long-lived assets, revenues and income before income taxes by domestic and foreign categories

The following information reflects our long-lived assets (which consists of property and equipment, right-of-use operating leases and intangible assets) as of April 4, 2021, December 31, 2020 and March 31, 2020:

	As of
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		December 31, 2020		March 31, 2020
Domestic	$	2,312,048	$	2,317,009	$	2,368,183
Foreign		131,207		134,805		122,239
Total		2,443,255		2,451,814		2,490,422

Revenues and loss before income taxes by domestic and foreign categories as of or for the three months ended April 4, 2021 and March 31, 2020:

	Domestic		Foreign		Total
2021	(Amounts in thousands)
Revenues	$	78,673	$	3,351	$	82,024
Loss before income taxes		(121,192)		(6,517)		(127,709)
2020
Revenues	$	89,496	$	13,007	$	102,503
Loss before income taxes		(102,362)		(4,233)		(106,595)

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Pension Benefits (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Apr. 04, 2021

Pension Benefits

Summary of pension costs

	Three Months Ended
(Amounts in thousands)	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Service cost	$	275	$	325
Interest cost		1,275		1,623
Expected return on plan assets		(3,069)		(3,279)
Amortization of net actuarial loss		340		257
Total net periodic benefit	$	(1,179)	$	(1,074)

Schedule of weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations and net cost

Weighted-Average Assumptions Used To Determine Net Cost

	Three Months Ended
	April 4, 2021		March 31, 2020
Discount rate	2.20	%	3.00	%
Rate of compensation increase	N/A		N/A
Expected return on plan assets	5.75	%	6.50	%

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General - Basis of Presentation (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021 USD ($) item payment	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2020 USD ($)	Apr. 22, 2020 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Number of parks owned or operated | item	27
Number of reporting units | item	1
Number of upfront payments | payment	1
Initial membership term	12 months
COVID 19 Considerations
Percentage of base salaries reduced for full-time salaried employees					25.00%
Transformation Initiative
Total transformation costs	$ 9,696
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable	8,500	$ 3,100			$ 7,600
Valuation allowance	129,400	128,200			132,200
Accrued interest and penalties, income taxes	$ 0	$ 0			0
Number of contracts in a typical international agreement | item	1
Number of distinct promises within a typical international agreement | item	3
Other expense. net
Transformation Initiative
Consultant costs	$ 6,787
Technology modernization costs	2,094
Employee termination costs	$ 815
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B
COVID 19 Considerations
Incremental borrowing capacity			$ 131,000
Maximum borrowing capacity			481,000		$ 350,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	3.00%
Senior Unsecured 2025 Notes
COVID 19 Considerations
Debt instrument, face amount			$ 725,000
Interest rate, stated percentage			7.00%
Senior Unsecured 2025 Notes | Six Flags Theme Parks Inc.
COVID 19 Considerations
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 725,000
Interest rate, stated percentage				7.00%
United States
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Number of parks owned or operated | item	24
Mexico
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Number of parks owned or operated | item	2
Canada
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Number of parks owned or operated | item	1

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General - Basis of Presentation - Earnings Per Common Share (Details) - shares	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
(Loss) Earnings Per Common Share
Antidilutive stock options excluded from computation of diluted shares outstanding (in shares)	6,199,000	5,907,000

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General - Basis of Presentation - Stock Benefit Plans (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Stock Benefit Plans
Stock-based compensation	$ 6,637	$ 4,280
Payment of cash dividends	$ 201	21,367
Performance awards
Stock Benefit Plans
Aggregate payout if targets achieved (in shares)	186,000
Unrecognized compensation cost	$ 9,300
Stock-based compensation	0
Dividend Equivalent Rights
Stock Benefit Plans
Payment of cash dividends	200
Long Term Incentive Plan
Stock Benefit Plans
Stock-based compensation	6,562	4,205
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Stock Benefit Plans
Stock-based compensation	$ 75	$ 75

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Revenue - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
	Jan. 01, 2020 USD ($)	Apr. 04, 2021 USD ($) item	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2021 USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Revenue
Revenues		$ 82,024	$ 102,503
Number of distinct obligations within international agreements | item		3
Long-term contracts
Revenue
Revenues		$ 12,170	15,852
Contract with customer, liability				$ 77,600	$ 85,100
Contract with customer, liability, revenue recognized	$ 10,200	8,400
Short-term contracts and other
Revenue
Revenues		69,854	86,651
Park admissions
Revenue
Revenues		44,334	59,806
Park admissions | Long-term contracts
Revenue
Revenues		7,010	5,762
Park admissions | Short-term contracts and other
Revenue
Revenues		37,324	54,044
Park food, merchandise and other
Revenue
Revenues		31,224	29,806
Park food, merchandise and other | Long-term contracts
Revenue
Revenues		997	820
Park food, merchandise and other | Short-term contracts and other
Revenue
Revenues		30,227	28,986
Sponsorship international agreements and accommodations
Revenue
Revenues		6,466	12,891
Sponsorship international agreements and accommodations | Long-term contracts
Revenue
Revenues		4,163	9,270
Sponsorship international agreements and accommodations | Short-term contracts and other
Revenue
Revenues		$ 2,303	$ 3,621

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Revenue - Performance Obligations (Details) - Long-term contracts - USD ($) $ in Millions	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 86.7	$ 70.6
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2021-04-05
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 100.8
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	9 months
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2022-01-03
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 18.5
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2023-01-02
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 8.9
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-01-01
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 2.3
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	1 year
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction, Start Date [Axis]: 2024-12-30
Revenue
Performance obligation	$ 0.8
Expected timing of satisfaction, period	1 year

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Long-Term Indebtedness - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands							1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 22, 2020	Oct. 18, 2019	Oct. 17, 2019	Apr. 13, 2017	Jan. 31, 2017	Jun. 16, 2016	Mar. 31, 2020	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020	Apr. 30, 2020	Apr. 08, 2020	Apr. 07, 2020
Summary of Long-term debt
Loss on debt extinguishment, net									$ 1,019
LIBOR
Summary of Long-term debt
Basis spread on variable rate			2.00%
Amended And Restated Revolving Loan
Summary of Long-term debt
Maximum borrowing capacity								$ 481,000
Long-term line of credit							$ 40,000		40,000
Letters of credit outstanding, amount							21,300	$ 20,200	21,300	$ 21,000
Commitment fee percentage								0.625%
Amended And Restated Term Loan B
Summary of Long-term debt
Maximum borrowing capacity								$ 479,000
Loss on debt extinguishment, net	$ 5,100
Repayment of debt	315,000
Amended And Restated Term Loan B As Amended June 2017
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt							794,000	$ 479,000	794,000	479,000
Amended And Restated Term Loan B As Amended June 2017 | LIBOR
Summary of Long-term debt
Basis spread on variable rate								1.75%
Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan
Summary of Long-term debt
Maximum borrowing capacity												$ 481,000	$ 350,000
Long-term line of credit							40,000	$ 0	40,000	0
Incremental borrowing capacity								131,000				$ 131,000
Repayment of debt	315,000
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B
Summary of Long-term debt
Maximum borrowing capacity							350,000		350,000		$ 481,000
Basis spread reduction		0.25%
Incremental borrowing capacity											131,000
Long-term debt							794,000	$ 479,000	794,000	479,000
Interest rate, stated percentage								3.00%
Annual interest cost savings from borrowing rate reduction		$ 300
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B | LIBOR
Summary of Long-term debt
Basis spread on variable rate		1.75%
Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Payments of debt issuance costs						$ 4,700
Loss on debt extinguishment, net							1,000
Long-term debt							949,490	$ 949,490	949,490	949,490
Debt instrument, face amount						$ 300,000
Interest rate, stated percentage						4.875%
Proceeds from issuance of debt utilized for extinguishment of existing debt instruments						$ 150,000
Periodic payment of interest				$ 24,400	$ 9,100		23,100
Pre-payment							50,500
Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes Add-on
Summary of Long-term debt
Payments of debt issuance costs				3,900
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 700,000
Interest rate, stated percentage				4.875%
Senior Unsecured 2025 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt								725,000		725,000
Debt instrument, face amount											$ 725,000
Interest rate, stated percentage											7.00%
Periodic payment of interest								25,400
Period payment of interest - first payment								35,100
Senior Unsecured 2025 Notes | Six Flags Theme Parks Inc.
Summary of Long-term debt
Debt instrument, face amount	$ 725,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	7.00%
Senior Unsecured 2027 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Payments of debt issuance costs				$ 2,600
Long-term debt							$ 500,000	$ 500,000	$ 500,000	$ 500,000
Debt instrument, face amount				$ 500,000
Interest rate, stated percentage				5.50%

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Long-Term Indebtedness - Schedule of Long-term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Summary of Long-term debt
Net discount	$ (4,080)	$ (4,357)	$ (6,002)
Deferred financing costs	(25,049)	(26,492)	(13,694)
Total debt	2,624,361	2,622,641	2,263,794
Less current portion of long-term debt			(8,000)
Less short-term borrowings			(40,000)
Total long-term debt	2,624,361	2,622,641	2,215,794
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt	479,000	479,000	794,000
Second Amended and Restated Revolving Loan
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term line of credit	0	0	40,000
Senior Unsecured 2024 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt	949,490	949,490	949,490
Senior Unsecured 2025 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt	725,000	725,000
Senior Unsecured 2027 Notes
Summary of Long-term debt
Long-term debt	500,000	500,000	500,000
Estimate of Fair Value Measurement
Summary of Long-term debt
Total long-term debt	$ 2,700,500	$ 2,693,300	$ 1,952,400

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss - Changes in AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	$ (1,158,547)	$ (716,118)
Net current period change	1,274
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	935
Ending balance	(1,236,464)	(852,864)
Cumulative Translation Adjustment
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	(27,412)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(2,402)
Ending balance	(29,814)
Cash Flow Hedges
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	(16,819)
Net current period change	1,361
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	3,883
Ending balance	(11,575)
Defined Benefit Plans
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	(57,642)
Net current period change	340
Ending balance	(57,302)
Income Taxes
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	5,369
Net current period change	(427)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI	(546)
Ending balance	4,396
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
Beginning balance	(96,504)	(74,710)
Ending balance	$ (94,295)	$ (110,423)

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Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss - Reclassification out of AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Income tax benefit	$ (31,870)	$ (22,049)
Total reclassifications	(935)
Reclassification out of AOCI
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Total reclassifications	1,274	103
Reclassification out of AOCI | Amortization of loss on interest rate hedge
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Operating expenses	1,361	(120)
Income tax benefit	(342)	30
Total reclassifications	1,019	(90)
Reclassification out of AOCI | Amortization of deferred actuarial loss and prior service cost
Reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
Operating expenses	340	257
Income tax benefit	(85)	(64)
Total reclassifications	$ 255	$ 193

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Derivative Financial Instruments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
	Apr. 22, 2020	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Apr. 30, 2020	Aug. 31, 2019	Jun. 30, 2019
Derivative Financial Instruments
Repayment of borrowings		$ 2,000	$ 117,510
Interest expense		$ 38,460	27,486
Reclassification out of AOCI
Derivative Financial Instruments
Interest expense	$ 14,900
Second Amended and Restated Term Loan B
Derivative Financial Instruments
Repayment of borrowings	$ 315,000
June 2019 Swap Agreements
Derivative Financial Instruments
Notional amount						$ 300,000
August 2019 Swap Agreements
Derivative Financial Instruments
Notional amount					$ 400,000
Modified June 2019 Swap Agreement
Derivative Financial Instruments
Notional amount			100,000
Unmodified June 2019 Swap Agreements
Derivative Financial Instruments
Notional amount			$ 200,000
April 2020 Counter-agreements
Derivative Financial Instruments
Notional amount				$ 300,000

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Derivative Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Derivative Financial Instruments In Asset Position (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative Financial Instruments
Assets derivatives	$ 246	$ 1,462
Liability derivatives	(23,386)	(30,791)	$ (30,484)
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Derivative Financial Instruments
Liability derivatives	(11,634)	(16,884)	(30,484)
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges | Interest rate Contracts | Other accrued liabilities
Derivative Financial Instruments
Liability derivatives	(5,139)	(5,251)	(7,689)
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges | Interest rate Contracts | Other long-term liabilities
Derivative Financial Instruments
Liability derivatives	(6,495)	(11,633)	$ (22,795)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
Assets derivatives	246	1,462
Liability derivatives	(11,752)	(13,907)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Interest rate Contracts | Other current assets
Derivative Financial Instruments
Assets derivatives	403	877
Liability derivatives	398
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Interest rate Contracts | Other accrued liabilities
Derivative Financial Instruments
Liability derivatives	(4,797)	(4,875)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Interest rate Contracts | Other long-term liabilities
Derivative Financial Instruments
Assets derivatives	(157)	585
Liability derivatives	$ (7,353)	$ (9,032)

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Derivative Financial Instruments - Derivative Instruments Recorded at Fair Value (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Assets	$ 246	$ 1,462
Derivative Liabilities	(23,386)	(30,791)	$ (30,484)
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Assets	801	1,462
Derivative Liabilities	(23,941)	(30,791)	(30,484)
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Liabilities	(11,634)	(16,884)	(30,484)
Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges | Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Liabilities - Current	(5,139)	(5,251)	(7,689)
Derivative Liabilities - Noncurrent	(6,495)	(11,633)	$ (22,795)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Assets	246	1,462
Derivative Liabilities	(11,752)	(13,907)
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Financial Instruments
Derivative Assets - Current	801	877
Derivative Assets - Noncurrent		585
Derivative Liabilities - Current	(4,797)	(4,875)
Derivative Liabilities - Noncurrent	$ (7,510)	$ (9,032)

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Derivative Financial Instruments - Gains and Losses before Taxes on Derivatives (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Derivative Financial Instruments
Gain (Loss) recognized in AOCL	$ 3,883	$ (28,794)
(Loss) Gain Reclassified from AOCL into Operations (Effective Portion)	(1,361)	120
Loss to be reclassified from AOCI to operations during the next twelve months	5,100
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative Financial Instruments
Gain (Loss) recognized in AOCL	3,883	(28,794)
(Loss) Gain Reclassified from AOCL into Operations (Effective Portion)	(1,361)	$ 120
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Derivative Financial Instruments
Loss recognized in Interest Expense	$ 100

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Commitments and Contingencies (Details)						1 Months Ended			3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Dec. 03, 2020 lawsuit	Apr. 21, 2020 claim	Apr. 08, 2020 claim	Jan. 07, 2016 USD ($)	Apr. 01, 1998 USD ($)	May 30, 2021 USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2020 lawsuit	Feb. 29, 2020 claim	Apr. 04, 2021 USD ($) multiple	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Jan. 02, 2022 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017 USD ($) lawsuit	Apr. 07, 2017 item
Details of commitments and contingencies
Acquisition of capital stock of the former Six Flags Entertainment Corporation, paid in cash					$ 976,000,000.0
Redemption value of noncontrolling interests									$ 523,400,000
Additions to property and equipment									23,133,000	$ 53,458,000
Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation
Details of commitments and contingencies
Number of claims filed | lawsuit													4
Number of lawsuits stayed pending final approval of settlement | lawsuit	4
Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation | Minimum
Details of commitments and contingencies
Range of possible loss per aggrieved party													$ 100
Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation | Maximum
Details of commitments and contingencies
Range of possible loss per aggrieved party													$ 1,000
Securities Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation
Details of commitments and contingencies
Number of claims filed | claim								2
Stockholder Derivative Lawsuits | Pending Litigation
Details of commitments and contingencies
Number of claims filed | lawsuit							2
Number of claims consolidated | claim			3
COVID-19 Park Closure Lawsuits | Pending Litigation
Details of commitments and contingencies
Number of claims filed | claim		3
BIPA | Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation
Details of commitments and contingencies
Number of questions certified for consideration by appellate court | item														2
BIPA | Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation | Minimum
Details of commitments and contingencies
Range of possible loss per aggrieved party				$ 1,000
BIPA | Privacy Class Action Lawsuits | Pending Litigation | Maximum
Details of commitments and contingencies
Range of possible loss per aggrieved party				$ 5,000
Multi-layered general liability policies
Details of commitments and contingencies
Excess liability coverage per occurrence									100,000,000.0
Self-insured retention per occurrence									2,000,000.0
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year									500,000
Workers' compensation claims
Details of commitments and contingencies
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year									750,000
Workers' compensation claims | November 16, 2001 - November 15, 2003
Details of commitments and contingencies
Deductible per occurrence applicable to all claims in the policy year									500,000
Information security and privacy liability insurance policy
Details of commitments and contingencies
Self-insured retention per occurrence									250,000
Insurance value maintained									10,000,000.0
Partnerships That Own Partnership Parks
Details of commitments and contingencies
Total loans receivable									288,300,000	$ 239,300,000		$ 288,300,000
Amended And Restated Term Loan B As Amended June 2017
Details of commitments and contingencies
Additional contingent borrowing capacity									$ 350,000,000.0
Six Flags over Georgia
Details of commitments and contingencies
Limited partner interests owned (as a percent)									31.40%
Remaining redeemable units (as a percent)									68.60%
Six Flags over Texas
Details of commitments and contingencies
Limited partner interests owned (as a percent)									53.90%
Remaining redeemable units (as a percent)									46.10%
Six Flags over Texas and Georgia
Details of commitments and contingencies
Rolling period for making minimum capital expenditure at each of the Partnership Parks									5 years
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									4 years
Additions to property and equipment												9,100,000
Cash generated from operating activities by partnerships, after deduction of capital expenditures and excluding the impact of short-term intercompany advances												$ 5,000,000.0
Six Flags over Georgia
Details of commitments and contingencies
Specified multiple for purchase price valuation (in multipliers) | multiple									8.0
Specified price for purchase of partnership parks									$ 409,700,000
Six Flags over Texas
Details of commitments and contingencies
Specified multiple for purchase price valuation (in multipliers) | multiple									8.5
Specified price for purchase of partnership parks									$ 527,400,000
Forecast | Six Flags over Georgia
Details of commitments and contingencies
Purchase price of partnership units						$ 1,000,000.0
Forecast | Six Flags over Texas and Georgia
Details of commitments and contingencies
Annual distributions by general partners to limited partners in partnership parks											$ 75,200,000
Share of Partnership Parks' annual distributions paid to Six Flags Entertainment Corporation											33,300,000
Additions to property and equipment											$ 11,000,000.0
Forecast | Six Flags over Texas
Details of commitments and contingencies
Purchase price of partnership units						$ 1,200,000

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Leases - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021
Minimum
Leases
Term of contract	1 year
Maximum
Leases
Term of contract	44 years
Renewal term	20 years
Option to terminate, term	1 year

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Leases - Components of Lease Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Operating Leases
Amortization of ROU assets	$ 157
Interest on lease liabilities	19
Operating lease cost	6,130	$ 6,263
Short-term lease cost	1,465	1,602
Variable lease cost	1,338	1,466
Total lease cost	9,109	9,331
Operating cash flows from operating leases	5,208	1,587
Operating cash flows from finance leases	76
Financing cash flows for finance leases	19
ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities	79	$ 329
ROU assets obtained in exchange for finance lease liabilities	$ 439
Weighted-average remaining lease term (in years)	18 years 9 months 7 days
Weighted-average discount rate	6.89%
Weighted-average remaining finance lease term (in years)	3 years 5 months 4 days
Weighted-average discount rate	3.83%

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Leases - Supplemental Balance Sheet Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Leases
Right of Use Assets, net	$ 194,768	$ 196,711	$ 194,519
Short-term lease liabilities	10,037	13,727	10,490
Long-term lease liabilities	188,573	185,823	186,062
Operating Lease, Liability, Total	$ 198,610	199,550	196,552
Operating Lease, Liability, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	us-gaap:OperatingLeaseLiabilityCurrent us-gaap:OperatingLeaseLiabilityNoncurrent
Property and equipment, at cost	$ 2,427,318	2,408,690	2,364,872
Accumulated depreciation	(1,182,641)	(1,157,403)	(1,073,198)
Total property and equipment, net	1,244,677	1,251,287	$ 1,291,674
Total finance lease obligations	2,299
Finance Leases
Leases
Property and equipment, at cost	2,867	2,428
Accumulated depreciation	(405)	(248)
Total property and equipment, net	2,462	2,180
Short-term lease liabilities	510	327
Long-term lease liabilities	1,789	1,609
Total finance lease obligations	$ 2,299	$ 1,936

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Leases - Future Minimum Lease Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Operating Leases
Remaining in 2021	$ 21,685
2022	22,417
2023	21,955
2024	20,206
2025	18,127
Thereafter	259,490
Total	363,880
Less: present value discount	(165,270)
Lease liability	198,610	$ 199,550	$ 196,552
Finance Leases
Remaining in 2021	398
2022	767
2023	769
2024	502
2025	24
Total	2,460
Less : present value discount	(161)
Lease Liability	$ 2,299

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Redeemable Noncontrolling Interests (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 04, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 523,376	$ 523,376	$ 529,276
Six Flags over Texas
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	242,600
Six Flags over Georgia
Changes in redeemable noncontrolling interests
Redeemable noncontrolling interests	$ 280,800

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Business Segments - Information by Geographic Region (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021 USD ($) item	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Business segment information by geographical areas
Number of parks owned or operated | item	27
Long-lived assets	$ 2,443,255	$ 2,490,422	$ 2,451,814
Revenues	82,024	102,503
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ (127,709)	(106,595)
Mexico
Business segment information by geographical areas
Number of parks owned or operated | item	2
Canada
Business segment information by geographical areas
Number of parks owned or operated | item	1
Domestic
Business segment information by geographical areas
Long-lived assets	$ 2,312,048	2,368,183	2,317,009
Revenues	78,673	89,496
Income (loss) before income taxes	(121,192)	(102,362)
Foreign
Business segment information by geographical areas
Long-lived assets	131,207	122,239	$ 134,805
Revenues	3,351	13,007
Income (loss) before income taxes	$ (6,517)	$ (4,233)

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Pension Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 04, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Net periodic benefit cost:
Service cost	$ 275	$ 325
Interest cost	1,275	1,623
Expected return on plan assets	(3,069)	(3,279)
Amortization of net actuarial loss	340	257
Total net periodic benefit	$ (1,179)	$ (1,074)
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net cost
Discount rate	2.20%	3.00%
Expected return on plan assets	5.75%	6.50%
Employer contributions		$ 1,500

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Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	49 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Apr. 23, 2021	Mar. 31, 2021	Aug. 31, 2020	Mar. 30, 2017
Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan
Value of shares repurchased	$ 6
Amount of reduction in incremental revolving credit commitments required to allow repurchase of common stock				$ 131,000
Series B Junior Preferred Stock
Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan
Number of authorized shares of preferred stock (in shares)			200,000
March 2017 Stock Repurchase Plan
Stock Repurchase Plans and Shareholder Rights Plan
Amount authorized of shares to be repurchased under Stock Repurchase Program					$ 500,000
Total number of shares purchased (in shares)		4,607,000
Value of shares repurchased		$ 268,300
Shares acquired, average cost (in dollars per share)		$ 58.25
Permitted dollar value of repurchases remaining		$ 231,700

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Subsequent Events (Details) $ in Millions	1 Months Ended
	Apr. 27, 2021 USD ($)
Subsequent Event
Subsequent Events
Payment received under an international agreement	$ 11.3