Coney Island’s iconic Luna Park will reopen its gates to thrill-seekers on Saturday, March 29, marking the start of its 2025 summer season.
The season will kick off, as usual, with a ceremonial christening of the historic Cyclone roller coaster using a bottle of egg cream. In celebration of the Cyclone’s 98th anniversary since its 1927 grand opening, the first 98 guests in line will ride for free and receive a complimentary egg cream.
“Our entire team is filled with gratitude and enthusiasm as we open our doors for the 2025 season,” said Alessandro Zamperla, President and CEO of Central Amusement International. “It is an honor to continue the incomparable amusement legacy in Coney Island as we preserve, revitalize, and provide an incredible family-oriented experience in NYC.”
During the opening weekend, Luna Park is also launching its annual charitable initiative, offering discounted All Day Extraordinary Wristbands to guests. A portion of the proceeds from wristband sales will benefit local organizations, including the Coney Island Sharks, Operation H.O.O.D., Children of Promise, NYC, Urban Neighborhood Services, and the Coney Island Public Library.
In a statement, Coney’s community leaders praised Luna Park’s charitable support, highlighting its impact on local programs. Boris Ioselev of the Coney Island Library said the donation strengthens community services at the library, which he called a a “vibrant hub of learning and opportunity.”
Derick Scott of Operation H.O.O.D. emphasized collaboration, saying, “When we come together and care for our community, we create spaces where children can thrive and play.”
This season, Luna Park officials said they will continue to upgrade the park with new arcade games, renovated retail outlets, and an expanded patio at Salt & Sizzle. The park will also offer extended hours, opening daily during spring break (April 11–20) and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Memorial Day. After Memorial Day weekend, the park will operate daily throughout the summer.
Meanwhile, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, another landmark of the People’s Playground, will celebrate its 105th season with its 70th Annual Official Palm Sunday Opening on April 13.
The festivities will include the 40th Annual “Blessing of the Rides” at 10 a.m., with the first 105 guests riding the iconic Wonder Wheel for free.
The park’s kiddie rides will open at 11 a.m., followed by adult rides at noon. Deno’s notes on its website that the park will be open for spring break from April 12 to 18, then operating on weekends through May 18, before opening daily from May 23 through September 3. From September 6 through October 26 the park will open on weekends and holidays.
