Coney Island opened its parks in style on Sunday, March 29.
Both Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park held opening ceremonies, bringing fans of the neighborhood’s history and rides together with local leaders and elected officials to welcome in the new season.
The morning started with Deno’s 71st annual Palm Sunday opening and the Blessing of the Rides.
The official ceremony began at 10 a.m. on the boardwalk at West 12th Street, featuring the NYC Fire Department Ceremonial Unit presenting the nation’s colors, followed by speeches.
There were also performances by the Coney Island Sideshow and the Battle in the Apple All-Stars dance group.
The first 106 guests in line received a complimentary ride in celebration of the Wonder Wheel, which is celebrating its 106th anniversary.
“Opening day always feels like a fresh start, and with the return of warmer days, we’re looking forward to another season of unforgettable memories,” said Denos Vourderis, operations manager at the amusement park.
“Bringing people together has always been at the heart of what we do, and we’re happy to partner with the Salt and Sea Mission to give registered children a free day at the park so more families can experience the joy of Coney Island.”
“The truth is that any day of the week in season you can see any member of the Vourderis family working here putting kids on rides, making sure the wheel turns and turns, making sure everyone comes here and is satisfied every day,” said Dan Murphy, executive director for the Alliance for Coney Island.
Fans of the Cyclone wait online for their first ride this season. Photo: Luna Park
Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso, Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, Assemblymember Alec Brook-Krasny, State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and NYC Parks Commissioner Tricia Shimamura were among those who spoke during the ceremony.
“Coney Island offers a respite from all the other craziness that we see in the world, and it’s a respite for working-class people,” said Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce President Randy Peers.
Following the remarks and the ribbon-cutting, the official Egg Cream Christening Ceremony at the Cyclone commenced in Luna Park, celebrating its 99th birthday.
Luna Park. Photo: Luna Park
“It’s been a long, cold winter,” said Alessandro Zamperla, president and CEO of Central Amusement International.
“There’s always something special this time of year when the gates open. The rides come to life, and Coney Island begins a new season. This year feels particularly special. As we celebrate today, we are also beginning the countdown to an incredible milestone, which is the 100th anniversary of the Coney Island Cyclone. For nearly a century, the Cyclone has stood as a symbol of resilience and an enduring spirit of Coney Island.”
The first 99 guests in line at the coaster rode for free and received a complimentary egg cream, courtesy of the Brooklyn Seltzer Boys.
A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales went to local organizations, including the Coney Island Sharks, Children of Promise NYC and the Coney Island Public Library.
Deno’s Wonder Wheel. Photo: Charles Denson/Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park
“What makes Luna Park special is not just the rides,” Zamperla said. “It’s the accessibility, it’s inclusivity, because anyone, regardless of background and class, can enjoy Luna Park with its open gates and community that surrounds it.”
SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.
ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.
