National Carousel Day

A joyful child riding a colorful carousel horse, surrounded by twinkling lights and the sweet smell of cotton candy in the air. . — National carousel day illustration

Happy National Carousel Day! Time to hop on the magical horse and take a spin through the whimsical world of carousels. Get ready for a delightful ride full of twinkling lights, enchanting music, and the sweet smell of cotton candy. So, hold on tight as we explore the rich history and bring a sparkle of joy to your day!

When is Carousel Day?

It's national carousel day on the 25th July.

The Fantastic History of Carousels

Carousels, also known as merry-go-rounds, have been spreading joy for centuries. These interactive amusement rides have captured the hearts of children and adults alike since their invention in the 17th century. The very first carousels were not like the extravagant ones we see today. Instead, they were simple spinning platforms designed to train young knights in various riding and jousting techniques.

Throughout the years, carousels evolved and transformed into the elegant and ornate structures we know and love. They became a staple of amusement parks and fairs, providing a joyful escape for people of all ages. The beautiful hand-carved horses, colorful lights, and whimsical music create an enchanting atmosphere that transports riders to a magical world.

How to Celebrate National Carousel Day

Celebrating National Carousel Day is a delightful opportunity to embrace your inner child and relish in the joy and nostalgia of carousels. Here are a few ways to commemorate this fantastic day:

Visit a Carousel: Find a nearby amusement park, fair, or even a shopping center that has a carousel. Take a ride and let the magic carry you away.
Learn Carousel History: Dive deeper into the rich history of carousels. Discover the different types of carousels, the craftsmanship that goes into making them, and the significance they hold in various cultures.
Host a Carousel Party: Gather your loved ones and transform your backyard into a mini-carousel wonderland. Decorate with lights, play carousel music, and serve delicious carnival-inspired treats.

However you choose to celebrate, National Carousel Day is the perfect occasion to let your cares float away as you twirl to happiness!

History behind the term 'Carousel'

1629

Early Invention

The term 'carousel' traces back to the early seventeenth century when a unique entertainment device was invented in France. In 1629, it was first mentioned as 'Carousels' in a journal entry by French writer Théophile de Viau. This early version of the carousel consisted of wooden horses attached to a rotating platform, which was manually operated by people pushing it around in a circle.

1700s

Evolving Designs

During the 1700s, carousels started to evolve in design. They became more ornate and featured additional animals such as elephants, camels, and even mythical creatures. The term 'carousel' was widely adopted to describe these new amusement rides, as it derived from the Italian word 'garosello,' meaning a tournament game involving horsemen.

1870s

Steam Power and Traveling Carousels

In the 1870s, steam power revolutionized the amusement industry, and carousels were no exception. Steam engines replaced the manual operation, allowing carousels to spin faster and carry more passengers. With this development, traveling carousels began to gain popularity, providing entertainment to people across different cities and fairs.

1900s

Iconic Carousel Manufacturers

The early 1900s saw the rise of notable carousel manufacturers who left a lasting impact on the industry. Companies like the Dentzel Carousel Company, the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, and the Herschell-Spillman Company became renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship. Their carousels featured intricate hand-carved wooden horses and elaborate artwork, making them highly sought-after attractions.

1940s

Popularity Decline and Preservation Efforts

In the mid-20th century, the popularity of carousels started to decline due to new amusement park trends and the effects of World War II. Many carousels were dismantled, sold, or fell into disrepair. However, during the 1940s, there was a growing appreciation for these nostalgic rides, and efforts to preserve and restore historic carousels began.

1980s

Carousel Revival

The 1980s marked a resurgence of interest in carousels. Carousel enthusiasts, collectors, and preservationists joined forces to restore and replicate antique carousels. The Carousel Museum in Bristol, Connecticut, was established in 1985, becoming a hub for carousel history and preservation. Today, carousels continue to captivate people of all ages, enchanting millions with their timeless charm.

Did you know?

Did you know that carousels were originally powered by real horsepower? Early carousels were manually operated by teams of people or pulled by horses to get the spinning action going!