National Ferris Wheel Day

National Ferris Wheel Day is observed annually on February 14, celebrating the invention of the towering observation wheel that has become a staple of amusement parks worldwide. The holiday specifically honors the birth of George Washington Gale Ferris Jr., the civil engineer who designed the first modern wheel. While the date is often dominated by romantic celebrations, this observance provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the engineering marvels that offer bird’s-eye views of cityscapes and fairgrounds, blending mechanical innovation with the simple joy of a slow, circular ascent.

History of National Ferris Wheel Day

The holiday commemorates the birth of George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. on February 14, 1859, in Galesburg, Illinois. A graduate of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Ferris was a structural engineer who specialized in steel frameworks for bridges and railroads. In the early 1890s, he answered a challenge issued by the directors of the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, who were searching for an iconic American landmark to surpass the 1,063-foot Eiffel Tower. Ferris proposed a “gargantuan monster” of a wheel that would carry passengers high above the fairgrounds, a concept that many contemporary engineers initially ridiculed as impossible.

Despite the skepticism, the original “Chicago Wheel” debuted on June 21, 1893. Standing at 264 feet, it featured 36 cars, each about the size of a streetcar and capable of holding 60 people. The wheel was a massive success, carrying over 1.4 million passengers during the exposition. However, the success was short-lived for the inventor; plagued by patent lawsuits and financial distress, Ferris died of typhoid fever in 1896 at the age of 37. Although the original wheel was eventually demolished for scrap in 1906, the design lived on, evolving into the diverse array of giant observation wheels found in major cities across the globe today.

Why is National Ferris Wheel Day important?

This day is important because it highlights the spirit of American ingenuity and the desire to push the boundaries of civil engineering. The creation of the first Ferris wheel was a breakthrough in the use of structural steel and mechanical dynamics, proving that massive, rotating structures could be both safe and profitable. Celebrating the day encourages an appreciation for the “hidden” engineering required to keep these rides operational, from the tensioned spokes to the massive axles that support thousands of tons of moving weight. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of entertainment often drives significant technological advancement.

The observance also honors the role of the Ferris wheel as a universal symbol of nostalgia and community connection. For many, a ride on the wheel represents a rite of passage or a cherished memory associated with summer fairs and family outings. The slow, rhythmic pace of the ride offers a literal change in perspective, allowing passengers to step away from the bustle of the ground to view their surroundings with a sense of wonder. By focusing on this specific machine, the holiday preserves the legacy of an attraction that has remained culturally relevant for over 130 years.

The original 1893 wheel could hold up to 2,160 passengers at a single time.
Ferris wheels paved the way for modern observation towers in urban architecture.
The “High Roller” in Las Vegas currently stands as one of the world’s tallest wheels.
Early Ferris wheels were powered by massive steam engines rather than electricity.
The holiday encourages the preservation of historic wheels like New York’s Wonder Wheel.

How to Celebrate National Ferris Wheel Day

Celebrating typically involves heading to a local fairground, boardwalk, or permanent amusement park to take a ride. Since the day coincides with Valentine’s Day, many people use the occasion as a unique date activity, enjoying the private and panoramic views provided by an enclosed gondola. If a physical wheel is not nearby, you can observe the day by researching the history of the 1893 World’s Fair or reading about the life of George Ferris Jr. Sharing photos or videos of your favorite Ferris wheel experiences on social media helps spread the joy of the holiday.

Another popular way to celebrate is by indulging in classic carnival snacks that are traditionally served near these attractions. Corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy can help recreate the atmosphere of a fair at home. For those interested in mechanics, the day is an opportunity to look at blueprints or watch documentaries detailing the construction of modern giants like the London Eye or the Singapore Flyer. Whether you are seeking a romantic moment at the top of the wheel or a deeper understanding of its steel construction, the focus remains on the elevation of the human spirit through invention.

Locate the nearest Ferris wheel and take a spin with friends or family.
Share a “bird’s-eye view” photo from a previous ride on social media.
Enjoy a traditional fairground treat like popcorn or a caramel apple.
Watch a documentary about the engineering of the 1893 World’s Fair.
Visit a local museum that features exhibits on industrial history or invention.