- Categories:
- Fun
- Tags:
- ActivitiesAmericanFun
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every July 25
- Holiday emoji:
- ðŸŽ
Carousel Day spins into action every July 25, celebrating the timeless joy of merry-go-rounds. This day honors the first carousel patent in 1871, inviting everyone to embrace the nostalgia and simple pleasure of a ride. Find a local carousel, share your favorite memories, or learn about their fascinating history.
Want to sponsor Carousel Day? Learn how
Expected Carousel Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that amusement parks and family entertainment centers often roll out special offers for Carousel Day. Expect local parks like Six Flags and Cedar Fair properties to feature discounted ride tickets or package deals. Smaller, independent carousels, often found in city parks or malls, might offer free rides or special events. Toy retailers such as Toys ‘R’ Us and Target could highlight carousel-themed toys or miniature collectibles. Even candy shops like See’s Candies might offer themed treats. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as July 25 approaches.
Platform Guide for Carousel Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #CarouselDay. Film a POV video from your favorite carousel ride or share a fun fact about its history.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #CarouselDay. Post vibrant photos or reels of carousels, showcasing their intricate designs and the joy they bring.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #CarouselDay. Share your fondest carousel memories or organize a group outing to a local merry-go-round.
Carousel Day Hero
William Schneider
History of Carousel Day
The earliest-known carousel depiction is said to have originated from the Byzantine Empire in 500 A.D. In the design, riders are depicted sitting in baskets suspended from poles. The word ‘carousel’ derives from the Italian word ‘garosello’ and the Spanish word ‘carosella,’ both of which mean ‘little battle.’ The name references the sixth-century style of jousting in Europe and Asia, where knights on horses would ride in a circle while attempting to catch balls of perfume being thrown at them. In the 17th century, children began to play a mock version of this game by riding on horses made of wood.
Several people contributed to the development of modern carousels. One of the most prominent was Gustav Dentzel who emigrated from Germany to the United States and revived his family’s carousel business. He has been credited as the first to include animal menagerie in his carousels, such as lions, cats, tigers, and deer, apart from the traditional horses and chariots. However, he did not file a patent for his carousel designs and in 1871, William Schneider of Davenport, Ohio became the first person to file a patent for a carousel.
The creation of Carousel Day or Merry-Go-Round Day is all thanks to Bette Largent, President of the National Carousel Association (N.C.A.), and Ronald Hopkins, a carousel historian. The holiday was created to celebrate carousels and their joyful addition to society.
Carousel Day timeline
William Schneider registers a patent for the carousel.
The Walt Disney World Resort opens in Florida, United States.
The National Carousel Association is founded in the United States.
The National Carousel Association creates Carousel Day.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Carousel Day
Local businesses can celebrate Carousel Day by sponsoring rides at a community carousel or offering themed discounts. Ice cream parlors could introduce ‘Carousel Swirl’ sundaes, while toy stores can highlight classic wooden carousels or animal figures. Family entertainment centers can host special ‘spin-and-win’ games or offer free rides for children. Consider partnering with a local historical society to share the history of carousels in your area.
Carousel Day FAQs
When is Carousel Day?
Carousel Day 2026 is observed on Saturday, July 25, inviting everyone to enjoy the nostalgic charm of a merry-go-round ride.
How many carousels are there in the U.S.?
While an exact count is difficult, the National Carousel Association estimates there are roughly 150-200 antique wooden carousels still operating across the United States in 2026, with many more modern versions.
What is the origin of carousels?
Carousels have a surprisingly ancient history, with early forms traced back to 500 A.D. in the Byzantine Empire. The modern carousel evolved from 17th-century European jousting training devices, becoming popular amusement rides by the 19th century.
What is the difference between a carousel and a merry-go-round?
The terms ‘carousel’ and ‘merry-go-round’ are often used interchangeably to describe the same rotating amusement ride. Historically, ‘carousel’ was more common in Europe, while ‘merry-go-round’ gained popularity in the United States, though both refer to the same classic attraction.
Carousel Day Activities
Visit an amusement park
On this day, relive some of your happiest memories by visiting an amusement park or local fair. Participate in all the fun games, indulge your taste buds, and have some fun.
Ride a carousel
Even if you feel a little bit out of place, take a carousel ride. Just relax and enjoy the smooth ride.
Post on social media
While you’re at the park, take a picture of some of your favorite rides and post it online. Make sure to use the hashtag #merrygoroundday or #carouselday.
5 Most Visited Amusement Parks In The World
Magic Kingdom
Located in Florida, U.S. at the Walt Disney World Resort, Magic Kingdom welcomes over 20 million guests a year.
Tokyo Disneyland
Located in Japan’s capital, Tokyo, this park had over 17 million visitors in 2019.
Tokyo DisneySea
Also located in Japan, this park has received an average of over 15 million visitors a year for the past ten years.
Universal Studios Japan
Owned by Comcast, Universal Studios receives an average of 11.7 million visitors every year.
Shanghai Disneyland
Located in Shanghai, China, this park welcomed over 11 million visitors in a single year.
Why We Love Carousel Day
Carousels are so much fun
Relive the feeling of freedom and weightlessness as you’re carried along on a merry-go-round. We love carousels because they are just plain fun.
Carousels help to create good memories
Carousels are mostly associated with family time as parents watch their kids laugh and enjoy the many rides. Carousels are not only fun but also create special memories for both kids and adults.
Carousel Day provides publicity
Carousel Day encourages people to take carousel rides and visit amusement parks. Due to the buzz created by the holiday, this provides publicity for carousel makers and theme parks.
Social Media Tips for Carousel Day
Individuals
Creators
Brands