Sack Lunch Productions Inc (SAKL)

[Hypocalese]

Slide the City's massive water slide trades Boulder for Lakewood in August
1,000-foot-long slide spans three city blocks and tickets go on sale May 18

http://www.denverpost.com/lifestyles/ci_29878804/slide-citys-massive-water-slide-trades-boulder-lakewood

What does a $100,000 water slide look like?

Slide the City, the 1,000-foot outdoor water slide that debuted in Boulder last year, will give metro Denver residents a chance to see for themselves this summer.

The slide, which typically takes over several city blocks, is planning to set up its massive operation at South Garrison Street and Morrison Road in Lakewood on Aug. 6.

"We wanted to get into Denver last year, but they had a special-events cap because the city's just getting so popular," said Brandon Jay, who holds the title of Director of Wet and Wild Times for event owner Sack Lunch Productions. "Although Denver is the Mile High City, it's a flat city and doesn't have the desired slope we need, so we're working with some nonprofits in Lakewood to get the permits secured there."

Last year's Boulder event took place along 13th Street on University Hill and attracted about 4,500 people, Jay said. He expects a similar number to show up for the Lakewood event.


Organizers are planning to expand to more than 100 international events this year, including 74 in the U.S. and Canada. Each event costs between $70,000 and $150,000 to produce.

"And we're adding new events every week," said Amy Gessel, PR director for the Salt Lake City-based Sack Lunch Productions.

Slide the City is just what it sounds like: an open-air Slip'N Slide made of industrial-strength vinyl that spans three city blocks. Unlike in Boulder, organizers hope to add entertainment and food/drink vendors to the Lakewood version.

"Once of the improvements we've made is that it's more of a block party instead of just the slide," Gessel said. "We want it to be something people can stay and hang out at for a long time, so we'll have more local vendors and we're trying to incorporate street entertainment for people, especially families."

Another improvement is the concept of "wave times," which staggers start times for ticket holders to avoid long lines. People are given the option of signing up for two-hour blocks when they purchase tickets.

"No one should be waiting more than 20 minutes," Gessel said.

Slide the City is open to everyone over 5 years of age and 46 inches tall. Single rides start at $10 per person and "triple slider" packages start at $25. "Ultimate" and unlimited options are available for $45-$100 as well, with prices going up as the event draws closer.

Each ticket includes an entry wristband, a drawstring bag and a mouth guard, plus an inflatable tube — although participants can also bring their own.

The company does not allow pets, GoPros or selfie sticks on the slide. But water guns are allowed.

Last year's Boulder event sold out, so organizers are encouraging people to register now. Tickets are on sale May 18 at slidethecity.com.

John Wenzel: 303-954-1642, [e-mail] or @johnwenzel