Carousel Day, also known as National Merry Go Round Day, takes place every year on July 25. It’s a joyous celebration of carousels—those timeless rides that spin us into nostalgia and childhood delight.
History of Carousel Day
Carousels trace back centuries—early versions appear in Byzantine drawings from around 500 AD, featuring riders in baskets suspended from poles. By medieval Europe, these evolved into “carrousels” – cavalry training devices where knights rode wooden horses in circles aimed at rings and jousting points.
Fast-forward to the U.S.: in 1871 William Schneider from Davenport, Iowa, filed the first American patent for a modern carousel. Recognizing the importance of preserving carousel history, the National Carousel Association (NCA) was founded in 1973. In 2014, NCA president Bette Largent and historian Ronald Hopkins officially launched Carousel Day to honor Schneider’s invention and celebrate the hundreds of historic carousels still spinning joy worldwide.
Why is Carousel Day important?
Something about stepping onto a carousel, hearing the band organ and feeling the gentle rise and fall of a painted horse—it stirs memories and reconnects us with simpler joys. It’s not just a ride; it’s a bridge between childhood innocence and adult nostalgia. By celebrating Carousel Day, we honor those collective memories and the artistry behind each carved figure.
The day also supports heritage preservation. Many antique wooden carousels—only around 160 still exist—are vulnerable to decay. Recognizing Carousel Day helps raise awareness—and funding—for restoration efforts that protect these cultural treasures for future generations to experience.
- carousels remind us of carefree moments
- they carry history in every carved horse
- preserving them keeps community stories alive
- they bring people together across generations
- celebrating them supports goodwill and restoration
How to Celebrate Carousel Day
You don’t need an amusement park pass—just find your nearest carousel! Riding one is the heart of celebration. Look up local fairs, museums, or even indoor malls with working carousels and treat yourself to at least one magical spin. Invite friends or family to share in the nostalgia.
If you’re into history, dig into your carousel’s backstory—who built it, when, and why. Many parks share details on plaques or brochures. Or bring the fun home: watch the classic film Carousel, grab some popcorn, and sip something sweet while immersing yourself in that vintage charm.
- go ride a carousel with someone you love
- learn the origin of your local ride
- take a photo of your favorite carousel horse
- donate or support a restoration project in your community
- share a throwback memory of carousels online
Even for adults, a carousel can be a source of joy, inspiration, and relaxation. Indulge your inner child, allow yourself sincere joy and a moment of warm childhood memories!
Carousel Day Dates Table
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 25 | Friday |
| 2026 | July 25 | Saturday |
| 2027 | July 25 | Sunday |
| 2028 | July 25 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | July 25 | Wednesday |
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