Playland Celebrates 100th Anniversary of Grand Carousel

Playland Amusement Park is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Grand Carousel this year, and the county will kick off the celebration with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque today, July 23, at noon, officials announced.

“This magnificent ride dates back to 1915, which is 13 years before the opening of Playland,” said County Executive Rob Astorino in a statement. The carousel features 66 hand-carved horses and three chariots with dazzling jewels. “The ride has a great history that will forever be documented on this new plaque. I encourage everyone to take a spin on the carousel and experience the joy it has brought to so many generations over the past century.”

Playland’s 1915 Grand Carousel was named one of the top 10 carousels in America in Painted Ponies, a book on classic carousel art by William Manns.

The commemoration of the carousel’s first 100 years will culminate with a celebration in the park this Sunday, July 26 beginning at noon. The day will feature a display of automobiles from the 1920s and 1930s. Actors in period costumes will hand out giveaways, and a birthday cake celebration will follow shortly thereafter.

Celebration sponsors include Neri’s Bakery, Antique Automobile Club of America – Westchester NY Region, Playland’s “Scared by the Sound” haunted attraction and Friends of Westchester County Parks.

Admission prices are $30 for unlimited rides; $20 for juniors (under 48”) – Westchester residents with acceptable proof of residency are eligible for a $5 discount on these prices. Spectator admission (no rides) is free for Westchester County residents and $10 for non-residents. Parking is $10 on this special event day.

Playland Park is located on Playland Parkway in Rye. Go to ryeplayland.org or call (914) 813-7010.

Photo credit: Rye Playland