Carousel Day

Carousel Day: A Whimsical Celebration of Timeless Joy

Carousel Day, also known as National Merry-Go-Round Day, is an annual celebration dedicated to honoring the beloved amusement park ride that has brought joy to generations of people. This special day commemorates the rich history and enduring charm of carousels, inviting everyone to take a spin and relive the magic of childhood.

Quick Facts

When is it?: July 25th
Tagged as: National Carousel Day, National Merry-Go-Round Day
What’s the hashtag?: #CarouselDay
When was it founded?: 2014
Who founded it?: Bette Largent and Ronald Hopkins

History of Carousel Day

Carousel Day was established to celebrate the anniversary of William Schneider’s carousel patent, issued on July 25, 1871. The holiday aims to draw attention to the hundreds of historic carousels still in operation, preserving their legacy and continuing to bring joy to riders of all ages.

Timeline

500 A.D.: Earliest known depiction of a carousel-like device in the Byzantine Empire
12th century: Crusaders describe combat preparation exercises resembling carousels
1780: World’s oldest surviving carousel built in Germany
1871: William Schneider patents the modern carousel design
2014: National Carousel Day established by the National Carousel Association

Carousel Day Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	July 25	Friday
2026	July 25	Saturday
2027	July 25	Sunday
2028	July 25	Tuesday
2029	July 25	Wednesday
2030	July 25	Thursday

Observed Carousel Day

Carousel Day is celebrated at amusement parks, fairs, and carousel museums across the country. Many locations offer special events, free rides, or discounted admission to commemorate the day. Enthusiasts and families alike gather to enjoy the timeless charm of these rotating platforms adorned with ornate horses and other whimsical creatures.

The day serves as a reminder of the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating and maintaining carousels. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the intricate carvings, vibrant paint work, and melodious music that make each carousel ride a unique experience.

For many, Carousel Day is a chance to relive cherished childhood memories or create new ones with younger generations. The simple pleasure of choosing a favorite horse, climbing aboard, and feeling the gentle rotation as the world spins by continues to captivate riders of all ages.

Fun Facts About Carousels

Most carousels rotate counterclockwise, except in the UK where they spin clockwise.
The term “carousel” comes from the Italian “carosella,” meaning “little war,” referring to knights’ jousting games.
Carvers often hid their signatures in the intricate designs of carousel animals.
The “lead horse” on a carousel is typically the most elaborately decorated.
Some carousel animals are so rare and valuable that they’ve sold for over $100,000 at auction.

Quiz

In which year was the first American carousel patent issued?
What is the typical direction of rotation for carousels in the United States?
Who is credited with creating the modern carousel in America?
What type of wood was commonly used to carve carousel animals?
How many horses are typically on a classic carousel?

(Answers: 1. 1871, 2. Counterclockwise, 3. William Schneider, 4. Yellow poplar, 5. 66)

FAQs

What is the difference between a carousel and a merry-go-round?
While often used interchangeably, carousels typically feature ornate animals that move up and down, while merry-go-rounds may have simpler seats that only rotate.

Are there any famous carousels I should visit?
Yes! Some notable carousels include the Carousel of Happiness in Nederland, Colorado, and Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn, New York.

How long does a typical carousel ride last?
Most carousel rides last between 2 to 3 minutes.

Can adults ride carousels too?
Absolutely! Carousels are enjoyed by people of all ages.

Are there any carousel museums in the United States?
Yes, there are several, including the Merry-Go-Round Museum in Sandusky, Ohio, and the New England Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut.

Importance of Carousel Day

Carousel Day plays a crucial role in preserving an important piece of amusement park history. By dedicating a day to these magical rides, we ensure that future generations can continue to experience the wonder and nostalgia that carousels provide.

The celebration also highlights the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating and maintaining carousels. It brings attention to the skilled woodcarvers, painters, and mechanics who keep these intricate machines running smoothly, often using techniques passed down through generations.

Moreover, Carousel Day serves as a reminder of the simple joys in life. In our fast-paced, technology-driven world, the carousel offers a moment of whimsical escape, allowing riders to slow down and enjoy a timeless pleasure that transcends age and era.