Playland Set to Open Saturday, May 9

The celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Grand Carousel at Playland will kick-off the amusement park’s new season on Saturday, May 9, at 11 a.m.

“The grand carousel, which consists of 66 stunning, bejeweled horses and three chariots, was built in 1915,” said Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino in a statement. “Thanks to the great care given to this beautiful ride, and all the other historic rides in the park over generations of use, the carousel still shines as we kick off our 2015 season.”

Opening day fun gets underway at the Rye-based park with a parade and entertainment beginning at 11 a.m. Rides will open at noon. Rain date for opening day is Saturday, May 16.

Related:

• Astorino Negotiates $25 Million Investment Deal to Aid Playland
• Payment of Debt Service Focus of Playland Meeting

Officials said opening day will feature a special admission price of $15, which is good for unlimited rides until the park closes at 7 p.m. Admissions go on sale at 11 a.m.

The amusement park, which has weathered spotty attendance and damage from natural storms in recent years, is attempting a comeback, and Astorino recently negotiated a private investment agreement worth $25 million.

Saturday’s celebration will begin with strolling entertainment at the Fountain Plaza at 11 a.m., followed by the traditional parade with the Port Chester High School Marching Band accompanied by Astorino and other local dignitaries, staff and Playland’s mascot Coaster the Dragon.

Additionally, the band Reunion perform hit sounds from the ‘50s, ’60s and ‘70s during shows at the Music Tower Theater at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 5 p.m.

From a Playland press release:

“Erik’s Reptile Edventures” will educate and entertain the crowd with animal ambassadors, featuring Wally the five-foot- long American alligator. Shows take place in Kiddyland and at the Music Tower Theater stage; show times will be posted in the park. Playland’s Kiddyland DJ will also entertain with the “Play it DJ” show in four performances at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Kids will move, groove and be smooth as our DJ plays their favorite dance tunes. In addition, Bubbles, Magic and Science will amaze you with shows at 2 p.m., 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Admission prices:

· $15 May Days: May 9, 10, 16, 17 and 22: $15 unlimited rides for everyone.

· Starting Saturday, May 23: $30 unlimited rides; $20 Junior (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.

Season Passes:

· $95 for unlimited rides all season, with a $15 discount for Westchester residents. Purchase four or more and save 10%.

· $35 for spectator admission all season (no rides), for non-residents of Westchester County.

Acceptable proof of Westchester residency is a Westchester County Park Pass; New York State driver’s license or non-driver I.D.; or a photo I.D. or report card from a Westchester County school.

Playland’s pre-season schedule is noon to 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, until Memorial Day weekend, after which the spring schedule begins. For the season’s schedule go to RyePlayland.org or call the park at (914) 813-7000. Click here to join the Playland E-Club and receive valuable discounts all season long.

Become a Facebook fan at Rye Playland and follow @Rye_Playland on Twitter and atRyePlaylandOfficialPage on Instagram.

Parking is $5 weekdays, $7 weekends and $10 on holidays, special events and concert days.

Playland is located at the end of Playland Parkway in Rye. For public bus transportation, go to westchestergov.com/beelinebus.

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