Did you know that July 25 is National Carousel Day? This special day celebrates the enchanting history of carousels, those delightful and colorful rides that have charmed generations. Join us at The Carousel at Thanksgiving Point, located next to the Museum of Natural Curiosity, for a day of magical fun. But before you visit, let’s journey through time to uncover the rich history of carousels.

How Carousels Started

Also known as the merry-go-rounds, carousels trace back to the 12th century. Originally, knights in the Middle East and Europe used them as training devices for jousting. The term “carousel” comes from the Spanish and Italian word “carosella,” meaning “little war,” referring to these early soldier competitions. The amusement rides we adore today began in the 17th century in Europe, where carousels decorated with carved horses and chariots became popular at fairs.

Who Created the First Carousel

The modern carousel was created in the late 19th century by craftsman Gustav Dentzel. He is recognized for popularizing carousels in the United States after immigrating from Germany. Dentzel sparked the golden age of carousels in America after starting his company in the 1860s.

Why Horses

By the 19th century, carousels became more widespread and were no longer used for military training. Woodcarvers aimed to capture the elegance and thrill of riding a real horse, appealing to both children and adults. The horses on these carousels are often shown in dynamic poses and have fancy decorations and vibrant paintings.

Celebrate at Thanksgiving Point

This National Carousel Day, make your way to Thanksgiving Point and take a whirl on The Carousel. Featuring 30 hand-painted horses, it’s a perfect way to step back in time and experience the joy of this classic amusement ride. Celebrate the history, the artistry, and the sheer fun of carousels with us!

Celebrate Today