Coney Island reopens next weekend with celebration events

Coney Island is preparing to welcome visitors back as winter comes to an end. The popular amusement area will open for the season next Saturday. To celebrate, Luna Park is hosting a three-day opening weekend event. One highlight will be the “egg cream christening” of the Cyclone roller coaster, scheduled for noon on Saturday. In honor of the Cyclone’s 98th anniversary, the first 98 guests will enjoy free rides and complimentary egg creams. Additionally, Luna Park is offering discounted $40 All Day Extraordinary Wristbands. These wristbands allow unlimited access to most rides for four hours, with some proceeds going to local charities. Individual ride tickets will also be available for purchase. Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park will open on Palm Sunday, April 13th, at 10 AM. This year, it celebrates its 105th season with a special event called the “Blessing of the Rides.” The first 105 visitors can ride the Wonder Wheel for free, but without egg creams. Both parks will initially operate on weekends until May 23. From then, they will be open daily until September 3, before switching back to a weekend schedule until the end of the season. In addition, Coney Island will host its 43rd Mermaid Parade on Saturday, June 21. Next weekend also features the 8th annual Coney Island Ritual Cabaret, showcasing various dance performances. Tickets for this event start at $25 and can be purchased online.