National Merry Go Round Day

Introduction

There’s something magical about riding a merry-go-round. From childhood memories to watching kids smile as the carousel spins, it’s a simple joy that never gets old. National Merry Go Round Day 2026 is the perfect chance to celebrate this classic ride, relive the fun, and enjoy a cherished part of American amusement park tradition.

Key Takeaways

• National Merry-Go-Round Day is celebrated every year on July 25.
• The holiday commemorates the first U.S. carousel patent, granted to William Schneider on July 25, 1871.
• Also known as National Carousel Day, it celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and nostalgia of these classic amusement rides.
• Also known as National Carousel Day, it celebrates the artistry, craftsmanship, and nostalgia of these classic amusement rides.

What is National Merry Go Round Day?

National Merry-Go-Round Day is a yearly celebration of one of the world's most beloved amusement rides. Also known as National Carousel Day, it honors the history, beautiful craftsmanship, and timeless charm of these colorful, music-filled rides that have brought smiles to kids and families for generations.

The day recognizes the lasting cultural impact of carousels and the artisans who have kept this classic ride alive for generations. It's a great opportunity to appreciate a timeless attraction that continues to delight people of all ages.

When is National Merry Go Round Day?

National Merry Go Round Day (or National Carousel Day) is celebrated every year on July 25th. The date honors July 25, 1871, when William Schneider received the first official U.S. patent for a modern carousel, marking a milestone in American amusement history.

Future National Merry Go Round Day Dates

Year	Day	Date
2026	Saturday	July 25
2027	Sunday	July 25
2028	Tuesday	July 25
2029	Wednesday	July 25
2030	Thursday	July 25
2031	Friday	July 25

Brief History

Carousels trace their roots to 17th-century Europe, where horse-riding tournaments inspired spinning wooden horse machines used for training. By the 1800s, they had evolved into the colorful amusement rides loved at fairs and parks across America.

On July 25, 1871, William Schneider of Davenport, Iowa, received the first U.S. patent for a modern carousel design. To honor that milestone and celebrate America's historic carousels, the National Carousel Association established National Merry-Go-Round Day in 2014, helping preserve these beloved attractions for future generations.

How to Celebrate National Merry Go Round Day?

There are plenty of wonderful ideas for celebrating National Merry Go Round Day, whether you prefer heading out or staying in.

Here are some of the best ideas for celebrating National Merry Go Round Day 2026 to try this July:

• Take a Carousel Ride

Celebrate the classic way by riding a merry-go-round at a nearby amusement park, fair, zoo, or shopping center. If you're lucky, you might even find a beautifully restored historic carousel.

• Visit a Historic Carousel Park

Make it a memorable day trip by exploring a park or museum with a vintage carousel. These hand-carved treasures offer a fascinating glimpse into American history and craftsmanship.

• Share the Joy on Social Media

Snap a few photos during your ride and post them on social media with #NationalMerryGoRoundDay and #DayofToday. It's a fun way to spread smiles and connect with others celebrating the day.

• Learn Something New

Dive into the history of carousels and discover how they evolved from medieval training devices into beloved amusement rides. You might be surprised by how much history is hidden behind those colorful horses.

• Watch a Carousel-Themed Film

Staying home? Enjoy a movie night with the classic Carousel or a documentary about vintage amusement parks to soak up the nostalgia.

• Create a Special Memory

If you have young children in your life, treat them to their very first carousel ride. The cheerful music, colorful animals, and gentle spin often become a childhood memory they'll cherish for years to come.

Some Amusement Parks with Historic Carousels in the USA

Our country is home to some truly amazing historic merry-go-rounds, and many of them are still spinning for visitors today. More than just amusement rides, these beautifully restored carousels are pieces of American history that continue to bring smiles to every generation.

Here are a few worth checking out:

• Flying Horses Carousel, Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts: Built in 1876, it is the oldest operating platform carousel in the U.S. and a National Historic Landmark, with hand-carved horses that still feature real horsehair manes and tails.
• Central Park Carousel, New York City, New York: A 1908 Stein and Goldstein carousel brought from Coney Island in 1951, this is one of the largest carousels in the country and a beloved Central Park landmark that has delighted families for decades
• Herschell Carousel Factory Museum, North Tonawanda, New York: Set inside the original Herschell Company factory that built carousels from 1883 to 1970, visitors can ride a restored 1916 carousel accompanied by a vintage Wurlitzer band organ.
• Balboa Park Carousel, San Diego, California: Built in 1910 just steps from the San Diego Zoo, this is one of the last carousels in America still offering the traditional brass ring grab game, a treat from the golden age of carousels.
• Pullen Park Carousel, Raleigh, North Carolina: Built by the Gustave A. Dentzel Carousel Company around 1900 and moved to Pullen Park in 1915, it anchors the 5th-oldest operating amusement park in the United States.
• Kiddie Park Carousel, San Antonio, Texas: Part of what is claimed to be the oldest children's amusement park in America, this 1918 Herschell-Spillman carousel features 36 uniquely carved wooden jumping horses, some still with genuine horsehair tails.

Each of these locations is far more than a ride; they are living museums connecting you to over a century of American amusement history.

Conclusion

National Merry-Go-Round Day 2026 is more than a quirky calendar date. It is a genuine invitation to slow down, smile, and celebrate something timeless. So this July 25, pick your horse, hold on tight, and enjoy every spin.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is it called a merry-go-round?

The term describes exactly what the device does: it spins people in a circle ("go-round") to provide amusement and joy ("merry").