Skip to content

Bright colors, lively music, and the smooth glide of carved animals make carousels more than just amusement park rides. National Merry-Go-Round Day celebrates these spinning works of art, bringing joy to anyone who takes a turn.

Each ride blends movement and melody, creating a moment when time slows even as the world twirls. The gentle rhythm, the wind in your face, and the cheerful chimes make every spin a small escape into wonder.

More than just a ride, a carousel is a piece of history that still brings people together. The craftsmanship, the artistry, and the tradition live on, making each one unique.

This special day reminds us that simple delights still have their place even in a world full of fast thrills. Families, friends, and strangers gather around these spinning stages, sharing smiles as the music plays on.

How to Celebrate National Merry-Go-Round Day

National Merry-Go-Round Day offers a delightful opportunity to celebrate the timeless charm of carousels. Here are several engaging ways to mark this special occasion.

Take a Spin

Seek out a local carousel and enjoy a ride. Whether it’s a vintage model or a modern version, the experience is sure to bring joy.​

Capture the Moment

Bring along a camera to photograph the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the carousel. These images can serve as cherished mementos or artistic inspiration.​

Organize a party inspired by carousels. Decorate with bright hues, play classic carousel music, and offer treats reminiscent of fairgrounds.​

Encourage children or friends to draw or craft their own carousel animals. This activity sparks creativity and deepens appreciation for the artistry involved.​

Learn the History

Explore the rich background of carousels by reading articles or watching documentaries. Understanding their evolution enhances the appreciation of these enduring amusements.

History of National Merry-go-round Day

National Merry-Go-Round Day started in 2014. Bette Largent, President of the National Carousel Association, and carousel historian Ronald Hopkins created it to recognize the significance of these spinning treasures.

They chose July 25 to honor William Schneider’s 1871 patent, which helped shape the design of modern carousels. His invention allowed carousels to move smoothly, making rides more enjoyable and safer for passengers.

This special day brings attention to the craftsmanship and history behind carousels. These beloved attractions have entertained people for generations, from grand amusement parks to small-town fairgrounds.

Organizers hope the celebration encourages appreciation for their artistic tries and preservation. Many historic carousels still operate today, thanks to dedicated efforts to maintain them.

See what else is happening…

There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!

Also on ...

View all holidays

National Hot Fudge Sundae Day

Fudge and ice cream, one of the greatest combos in the world: head to an ice cream parlor, or make your own tasty, creamy, sweet hot fudge sundae at home.

National Wine and Cheese Day

Pairing aged vino with savory nibbles creates an exquisite duet of flavors that tantalizes the palate and ignites conversations.

National Hire a Veteran Day

Providing meaningful employment offers gratitude, dignity, and a fresh start for those who have served their country.

Carousel Day

Find a local fair or amusement park, or a designated carousel and have some old-fashioned fun. Or, stay home and watch the hit musical, “Carousel”.

View all holidays

We think you may also like...

Beer Pong Day

Gather your friends, set up the table and get ready for an epic game of beer pong. Perfect your aim, master your bounce shots and don't forget to stock up on cups, balls and beer, it's gonna be a wild ride!

Calendar

Join the community!

Password requirements

  • At least one capital letter
  • At least one lowercase letter
  • At least one number
  • 8 or more characters

Welcome back!

Log in to get personalized recommendations, follow events and topics you love, and never miss a day again!

Logo

Hey friend, your ad blocker is on...

×

Simply put, we rely on ads to keep creating quality content for you to enjoy for free.

Please support our site by disabling your ad blocker.

Continue without supporting us

Choose your Ad Blocker

  • Adblock Plus
  • Adblock
  • Adguard
  • Ad Remover
  • Brave
  • Ghostery
  • uBlock Origin
  • uBlock
  • UltraBlock
  • Other
  1. In the extension bar, click the AdBlock Plus icon
  2. Click the large blue toggle for this website
  3. Click refresh
  1. In the extension bar, click the AdBlock icon
  2. Under "Pause on this site" click "Always"
  1. In the extension bar, click on the Adguard icon
  2. Click on the large green toggle for this website
  1. In the extension bar, click on the Ad Remover icon
  2. Click "Disable on This Website"
  1. In the extension bar, click on the orange lion icon
  2. Click the toggle on the top right, shifting from "Up" to "Down"
  1. In the extension bar, click on the Ghostery icon
  2. Click the "Anti-Tracking" shield so it says "Off"
  3. Click the "Ad-Blocking" stop sign so it says "Off"
  4. Refresh the page
  1. In the extension bar, click on the uBlock Origin icon
  2. Click on the big, blue power button
  3. Refresh the page
  1. In the extension bar, click on the uBlock icon
  2. Click on the big, blue power button
  3. Refresh the page
  1. In the extension bar, click on the UltraBlock icon
  2. Check the "Disable UltraBlock" checkbox
  1. Please disable your Ad Blocker
  2. Disable any DNS blocking tools such as AdGuardDNS or NextDNS

If the prompt is still appearing, please disable any tools or services you are using that block internet ads (e.g. DNS Servers).