National Carousel Day in US – July 25 Merry-Go-Round Day

National Carousel Day in US – July 25 Merry-Go-Round Day in France, Germany, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and Japan. Every year on July 25, people around the world celebrate Carousel Day—a tribute to one of the most iconic and whimsical rides ever created: the carousel, also known as a merry-go-round. From county fairs to amusement parks, carousels bring back the magic of childhood. Their ornate horses, cheerful music, and colorful canopies are more than just entertainment—they represent a beautiful blend of art, engineering, and tradition. Carousel Day invites us all to pause, smile, and enjoy the simple pleasure of going ‘round and ‘round on a beautifully crafted ride. Whether you’re reminiscing your first spin or introducing the joy to a child, this day is all about appreciating this timeless amusement park favorite. When we think of carousels, vivid images come to mind—ornate, hand-carved horses mounted on golden poles, spinning gracefully to the sound of cheerful carnival music. Though carousels became a cherished part of American childhood in the early 1800s, their roots stretch back centuries, long before America was even founded. Designed to delight, especially children, these whimsical rides have brought laughter and joy for generations. Carousel Day honors this rich legacy, celebrating the artistry, history, and timeless fun of the merry-go-round. So hop on, hold tight, and take a spin through one of America’s most beloved pastimes!

How to Celebrate Carousel Day

Looking to make the most of Carousel Day? Here are fun ways to celebrate:

1. Take a Ride on a Carousel (Merry-Go-Round)

Visit your local amusement park, zoo, fairground, or boardwalk and enjoy a nostalgic spin on a merry-go-round. Choose your favorite animal—be it a horse, lion, or giraffe!

2. Visit a Carousel Museum or Historic Site

Explore carousel museums or restored vintage rides. Many display rare carved animals and explain how the rides were built and maintained.

3. Host a Carousel-Themed Party

Use carnival-themed decorations, carousel music, striped tents, and classic treats like cotton candy and pretzels to bring the theme alive.

4. Learn About Carousel Craftsmanship

Read up on carousel carvers like Gustav Dentzel, Charles Looff, or Daniel Muller, who created magnificent, hand-painted carousel animals.

5. Support Local Carousels

Donate to or volunteer for carousel restoration projects that aim to preserve these beautiful machines for future generations.  

Popular Carousel Locations in the United States

New York City, New York

Jane’s Carousel – Brooklyn Bridge Park

• A beautifully restored 1922 carousel overlooking the Manhattan skyline and East River.
• Fully enclosed in a modern glass pavilion designed by Jean Nouvel.

Central Park Carousel – Mid-Park at 65th Street

• One of the largest and most famous carousels in the U.S., featuring 57 hand-carved horses.
• Operated since 1871, though the current model dates to 1951.

🇺🇸 Washington, D.C.

National Carousel – National Mall near the Smithsonian Castle

• Installed in 1967 and considered a classic part of the Mall’s family-friendly attractions.
• Originally built in 1947 with hand-painted scenes of Americana.

San Francisco, California

Golden Gate Park Carousel – Koret Children’s Quarter

• Built in 1914 by the Herschell-Spillman Company.
• Features over 60 hand-carved animals including horses, dragons, roosters, and frogs.

Santa Monica, California

Santa Monica Pier Carousel – Looff Hippodrome

• A vintage 1922 carousel housed in a National Historic Landmark building.
• Features beautiful wooden horses with seaside views.

Boston, Massachusetts

Greenway Carousel – Rose Kennedy Greenway

• Features 36 unique, hand-carved creatures native to New England, like lobsters, cod, and foxes.
• A modern carousel designed for inclusivity and regional flair.

Portland, Oregon

Jantzen Beach Carousel

• A grand 1921 carousel currently under restoration, originally built by C.W. Parker.
• Once part of a now-closed amusement park, it’s a cherished local treasure.

Chicago, Illinois

Lincoln Park Zoo Carousel

• Family-friendly carousel with 48 hand-carved animals.
• Located within one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., free to the public.

Seattle, Washington

Woodland Park Zoo Carousel

• Features endangered species and wildlife-themed animals to raise conservation awareness.
• A classic carousel experience nestled in a beautiful zoo environment.

Cleveland, Ohio

Euclid Beach Park Grand Carousel – Cleveland History Center

• Originally from the historic Euclid Beach amusement park (1910).
• Lovingly restored and now operated indoors at the museum.

Albany, New York

New York State Museum Carousel

• A restored 1916 carousel located inside the museum.
• Free to ride and part of the state’s cultural preservation efforts.

New England Carousel Museum – Bristol, Connecticut

• A must-visit for enthusiasts, featuring restored animals, carousel art, and rideable carousels.
• Dedicated to preserving and educating about carousel heritage.

History of Carousel Day and the Merry-Go-Round

National Carousel Day is observed every July 25, the anniversary of the first U.S. carousel patent granted in 1871 to William Schneider. But the merry-go-round’s story began long before that.

Origins of the Merry-Go-Round

The concept dates back to 12th-century Arabia and Byzantium, where horseback games helped knights train for combat. These rotating platforms eventually evolved into fairground rides in Europe during the 17th and 18th centuries. By the 19th century, the merry-go-round (or carousel) became a popular fixture at fairs and amusement parks, particularly during the “Golden Age of Carousels” (late 1800s–early 1900s). America became a hub for carousel artistry, where carousels were adorned with elaborate, hand-carved animals—not just horses, but also lions, tigers, zebras, dragons, and sea monsters!

What’s the Difference Between a Carousel and a Merry-Go-Round?

In most cases, carousel and merry-go-round are used interchangeably. However:

• In the U.S., both terms refer to the same ride: a rotating platform with seats, often animal-shaped, accompanied by music.
• In Europe, the term “carousel” typically refers to the amusement ride, while “merry-go-round” can also mean a smaller children’s playground spinner.
• Also, American carousels often rotate counterclockwise, while British and European carousels rotate clockwise.

Where Is Carousel Day Celebrated?

Carousel Day is primarily recognized in the United States, but carousel enthusiasts around the world also embrace it. Countries such as:

• France – Home to charming antique carousels, especially in Paris
• Germany – Known for engineering precision and ornate traveling carousels
• United Kingdom – Preserving classic funfair merry-go-rounds
• Canada, Australia, and Japan – Where restored and modern carousels are loved by families

Many theme parks, museums, and city councils use this day to celebrate historic rides, host community events, and promote heritage conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When is Carousel Day celebrated?

July 25 every year.

2. Why was this date chosen?

It marks the anniversary of the first U.S. patent for a carousel, issued to William Schneider in 1871.

3. What is the difference between a carousel and a merry-go-round?

They are often the same, but in some countries, “merry-go-round” can refer to a smaller playground ride. Also, rotation direction differs: counterclockwise in the U.S., clockwise in Europe.

4. What are traditional carousel animals besides horses?

Carousels may feature lions, tigers, giraffes, pigs, goats, dragons, unicorns, and even seahorses—especially in “menagerie-style” carousels.

5. Who were some famous carousel makers?

Legends like Gustav Dentzel, Charles Looff, and Allan Herschell crafted some of the most admired carousels in history.

6. Where can I see antique carousels?

Try places like:

• Bryant Park (New York)
• Santa Monica Pier Carousel (California)
• Bushnell Park Carousel (Connecticut)
• San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park

7. Are carousel animals hand-carved?

Yes—especially older models. Many antique carousels feature hand-carved wooden animals, with each piece being a work of art.

8. Is Carousel Day just for kids?

Not at all! Adults celebrate it too—for the nostalgia, design, and history behind these iconic rides.

9. Can I still find new carousels being built?

Yes! While many vintage ones are preserved, modern carousels continue to be produced using fiberglass or metal, often with LED lights and sound systems.

10. How can I support carousel preservation?

Donate to carousel associations, volunteer with local heritage groups, or simply ride and share your experiences to raise awareness.