Helm & Sons Amusements: Taking Innovation to New Heights
Helm & Sons Amusements, based in Colton, California and Yuma, Arizona, is renowned for providing amusement rides and attractions at fairs, festivals, and community venues across the state. The company prides itself on its vibrant, colorful midways, currently boasting 72 mechanical and 34 non-mechanical rides.
“In addition, we also have over 40 custom inflatables” says owner Davey Helm. The company sets up between 15 to 20 games per event, out of a total of 52.
Davey Helm represents the third generation in his family's industry legacy, drawing from a deep well of passion for the carnival world. His late father, Dave Helm, founded Helm & Sons Amusements with his wife, Debby Helm in 1978 and imparted extensive knowledge before passing away in January this year.
“There were so many instances this season with both terrific milestones and the daily challenges that come with running a portable amusement park; it's tough not having him here to share it,” Davey reflects. During his father's illness, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the two had profound conversations about the industry's future, the next generation of showmen, innovation, and safety.
“My father will always be my hero, but anyone who worked with him knows he gave his all, and that rides, fishing, and family were his joys,” Davey adds. He's confident in Helm & Sons' offerings, combining family tradition with modern technology and diverse team input.
“Operating first from a family mindset, and secondly as a portable amusement park, we ensure the customer experience is not just of a carnival, but of an innovative, affordable amusement park like no other,” he explains.
Helm & Sons has recently acquired a 33-meter Lambrink Giant Wheel and is anticipating a three-story darkride from Europe, set to feature unique experiences. The company will also soon receive a Starfighter from Battech Industries and is planning to expand with five more rides and another large observation wheel by 2025.
“When we design rides with manufacturers, we aim for uniqueness, ensuring each ride offers an experience that stands out,” Helm states. Additionally, Helm & Sons will unveil Hyperdrive, the world's most detailed Sizzler ride, courtesy of Wisdom Rides of America, which took nearly five years to complete.
The company's food division, managed by Davey's wife Colleen, operates from eight modern food trailers, with two more slated for delivery in 2025 and 2026.
An exciting venture for Helm & Sons is the development of another permanent amusement park in Southern California, set to open in 2025, adding to their existing Fresno Playland.
Future plans include partnering with local businesses at fairgrounds for corporate events, aiming to host such an event at every fair by the end of 2026.
“I'm excited for this year's IAFE convention in Phoenix; it's a short drive from our Winter Wonderland setup in Scottsdale with our partners at the Fairmont Princess Resort, the finest in Arizona,” Davey shares.
For more information, visit www.helmandsons.com .
“In addition, we also have over 40 custom inflatables” says owner Davey Helm. The company sets up between 15 to 20 games per event, out of a total of 52.
Davey Helm represents the third generation in his family's industry legacy, drawing from a deep well of passion for the carnival world. His late father, Dave Helm, founded Helm & Sons Amusements with his wife, Debby Helm in 1978 and imparted extensive knowledge before passing away in January this year.
“There were so many instances this season with both terrific milestones and the daily challenges that come with running a portable amusement park; it's tough not having him here to share it,” Davey reflects. During his father's illness, exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, the two had profound conversations about the industry's future, the next generation of showmen, innovation, and safety.
“My father will always be my hero, but anyone who worked with him knows he gave his all, and that rides, fishing, and family were his joys,” Davey adds. He's confident in Helm & Sons' offerings, combining family tradition with modern technology and diverse team input.
“Operating first from a family mindset, and secondly as a portable amusement park, we ensure the customer experience is not just of a carnival, but of an innovative, affordable amusement park like no other,” he explains.
Helm & Sons has recently acquired a 33-meter Lambrink Giant Wheel and is anticipating a three-story darkride from Europe, set to feature unique experiences. The company will also soon receive a Starfighter from Battech Industries and is planning to expand with five more rides and another large observation wheel by 2025.
“When we design rides with manufacturers, we aim for uniqueness, ensuring each ride offers an experience that stands out,” Helm states. Additionally, Helm & Sons will unveil Hyperdrive, the world's most detailed Sizzler ride, courtesy of Wisdom Rides of America, which took nearly five years to complete.
The company's food division, managed by Davey's wife Colleen, operates from eight modern food trailers, with two more slated for delivery in 2025 and 2026.
An exciting venture for Helm & Sons is the development of another permanent amusement park in Southern California, set to open in 2025, adding to their existing Fresno Playland.
Future plans include partnering with local businesses at fairgrounds for corporate events, aiming to host such an event at every fair by the end of 2026.
“I'm excited for this year's IAFE convention in Phoenix; it's a short drive from our Winter Wonderland setup in Scottsdale with our partners at the Fairmont Princess Resort, the finest in Arizona,” Davey shares.
For more information, visit www.helmandsons.com .
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