FORMOSA, ARGENTINA – The “17 de Octubre” Water Park in Formosa is experiencing a record-breaking start to the 2026 summer season, exceeding attendance expectations and solidifying its position as a premier recreational destination for both local families and regional tourists. January saw over 230,000 admissions to the park’s free pool area alone, a significant increase compared to the previous year.
Park Director Nicolás Pintos highlighted the impressive figures, noting a daily average of 10,000 visitors, which surged to as many as 20,000 on Sundays. “We surpassed by a wide margin the attendance we had in January of last year,” Pintos told local news outlet The Morning. The surge in popularity is attributed to a combination of factors, including the park’s established reputation as a summer getaway, its accessible free admission policy, and growing regional recognition.
The park’s appeal is particularly strong in the current economic climate, offering an affordable option for families seeking outdoor recreation. Pintos emphasized that the park is increasingly viewed as a regular leisure destination throughout the summer months, attracting visitors from neighboring provinces and even Paraguay.
A Multifaceted Program
The “17 de Octubre” Water Park operates a diverse program of activities catering to a wide range of ages and interests. From through , the park is open from Tuesday to Sunday, offering a blend of structured programs and open access. Mornings are dedicated to a holiday colony program for children in the second stage of the complex, alongside swimming lessons for children, adolescents, and adults in the 2019-inaugurated swimming facilities.
Afternoons, from Wednesday to Sunday, are reserved for free pool access, running from 3:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Adults can also participate in aquagym classes held from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Pintos confirmed that the free pool remains the most popular attraction, drawing the largest crowds.
While the free pool is a major draw, the swimming school continues to accept registrations and will operate through , even offering double shifts to accommodate demand. The holiday camp, however, will conclude with the start of the school year.
Promoting Water Safety
Pintos underscored the importance of promoting swimming proficiency within the province, given the abundance of natural bodies of water. “It is essential that the people of Formosa learn to handle themselves safely in the water to avoid accidents,” he stated, acknowledging the dedication of the park’s team of instructors and lifeguards. This emphasis on safety is a key component of the park’s overall mission.
Accessibility and Services
Participation in the swimming school requires only the presentation of identification. While a physical fitness certificate is recommended, it is not a mandatory requirement for enrollment. The park provides all the necessary equipment for learning to swim.
A new addition for the season is the provision of sunscreen, produced by Laformed Laboratory, specifically for children attending the holiday camp. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of young visitors.
With attendance figures exceeding expectations and a comprehensive program continuing through , the “17 de Octubre” Water Park is firmly established as a central recreational hub for the Formosa summer season. The park’s success highlights the growing demand for affordable, accessible, and safe outdoor activities within the region.
The park’s continued growth is a positive sign for the local tourism industry, attracting visitors and contributing to the economic vitality of Formosa. The combination of free access, diverse programming, and a focus on water safety positions the “17 de Octubre” Water Park for continued success in the years to come.
