MEDIA ALERT

  

 

LUNA PARK’S ICONIC CONEY ISLAND CYCLONE ROLLER COASTER REOPENS, READY TO THRILL VISITORS ONCE AGAIN

 

BROOKLYN, NY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2024: Luna Park in Coney Island is excited to announce the reopening of the world-famous Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster – today, Saturday, September 7 at 11:00am EST. Following a brief closure for maintenance, this beloved American treasure is ready to once again deliver heart-pounding thrills to visitors from around the globe.

Since its debut on June 26, 1927, the Coney Island Cyclone has been a core fixture of the Coney Island Amusement District and remains one of Luna Park’s most cherished operating landmarks. Located at the intersection of Surf Avenue and West 10th Street, this wooden wonder reaches a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour and boasts a total track length of 2,640 feet.

Over the years, the Zamperla family has invested millions of dollars of their private funds to restore the Coney Island Cyclone and continues their financial commitment to ensure New Yorkers and visitors alike can experience the iconic roller coaster for generations to come. Their company, Central Amusement International Inc., is a family-owned amusement park developer and operator whose management team has more than 150 years of combined amusement industry experience that specializes in revitalizing and preserving historic entertainment venues.

“We are incredibly honored to preserve the legacy of the Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster and offer memorable experiences on this historic coaster, year after year. This American icon has captivated guests for nearly a century, and our dedicated team and attraction engineers continue to ensure that this legendary 97-year-old landmark continues to operate safely and smoothly,” said Alessandro Zamperla, President and CEO of Central Amusement International, Inc. “We are always thrilled to welcome riders to experience the Cyclone every season.”

Recognized as both a New York City Landmark (1988) and listed in the National Register of Historic Places (1991), the Cyclone has been featured in major films, music videos, and works of art. It stands as a cultural phenomenon and one of Brooklyn’s most iconic sites. Often called the “Mother of rollercoasters” and the “Big Momma” of Coney Island, the Cyclone consistently tops the list of must-do experiences for visitors to New York City.

About Luna Park in Coney Island:

Luna Park in Coney Island is the largest and most famous amusement park in New York City. Known as the heart of Coney Island with a heritage that stretches back over 120 years, this iconic amusement park is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, families, friends, and anyone who loves to have fun. At Luna Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of unforgettable Coney Island seaside thrills with the park’s array of timeless attractions including the historic and legendary Coney Island Cyclone. Luna Park is also home to breathtaking ocean views, shopping, and dining options on the scenic landmarked Riegelmann Boardwalk, offering timeless charm and novelties that make it a world-class destination for all ages. Located at the heart of the Amusement District, with over 50 attractions and games, Luna Park offers a fun-filled day out that’s suitable for everyone. Thrill-seekers can scream on rides like the Atlantic Aviator and the Thunderbolt, while younger guests and those seeking a milder thrill can enjoy family-friendly options like Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure. Celebrations continue into the fall and winter with Luna Park’s annual Halloween Harvest and Frost Fest. Head over to LunaParkNYC.com to check out the full list of rides, entertainment, food and more.

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Media Alert:

STEP RIGHT UP! LUNA PARK IN CONEY ISLAND CELEBRATES ITS HISTORIC EXPANSION AND 120 YEARS OF FUN ON JUNE 21^st

 

• Celebrate Luna Park’s Historic Expansion Featuring NYC’s first 50-foot Ropes Course, Integrated Roller Coaster and Water Flume Attractions, Food and Beverage Locations, and Pedestrian Plazas
• Celebrate 120 years of Luna Park, the most influential park in the world

 

BROOKLYN, NY, June 13, 2023 – Luna Park in Coney Island, New York City’s most iconic destination for fun, is gearing up to honor a momentous occasion celebrating the park’s historic expansion and the 120^th anniversary of Luna Park’s original inception in 1903. On June 21^st beginning at 6:00 PM, Luna Park will celebrate the historic expansion, featuring NYC’s first 50ft oceanside ropes courses and adventure zones, integrated roller coaster and water flume attractions, food and beverage locations, and pedestrian plazas. Guests, visitors, and local community members alike can join in on this incredible celebration like never before with a free event featuring special carnival-style performances, music, entertainment, and treats at the new main entrance of Luna Park on Stillwell Avenue.

For over a century, Luna Park has been part of the iconography of amusement parks, inspiring namesakes that provide fun and joy for families across the world. Today Luna Park honors that rich heritage of the most influential park in the world by creating history with the future. Its newest additions pay homage to the history of the Amusement District in Coney Island and enhance the unique Brooklyn heritage and identity that Luna Park is known for today.

“We are overjoyed to celebrate this expansion, a milestone that pays homage to the enduring spirit of fun and joy that has defined this beloved Amusement District and our community throughout its history,” said Alessandro Zamperla, President and CEO of Central Amusement International Inc. “With the addition of these new attractions, food and beverage locations, and pedestrian plazas, we are excited to continue to celebrate the legacy of Coney Island by bringing the finest amusement park experience to New York City.”

“I am thrilled that one of our city’s most iconic spaces will be not only celebrated and highlighted but expanded to provide even more fun and excitement for all of our families this summer and beyond,” said Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton. “We are so fortunate to have such a historic and symbolic entertainment destination in Southern Brooklyn and I look forward to its continued enhancements, improvements, and investments for both visitors and local community members.”

“Luna Park has been at the heart of New York City summer fun for the last 120 years, and today, we celebrate this historic expansion,” said New York City Economic Development Corporation President & CEO Andrew Kimball. “The new attractions, pedestrian plazas, and food and beverage locations will uplift the local economy and arrives just in time for New Yorkers from across the five boroughs – and tourists – to enjoy this summer.”

“For so many New Yorkers, Luna Park and Coney Island are synonymous with summer fun, and this expansion gives New Yorkers and visitors even more great features to enjoy, including Luna Park’s new oceanside ropes courses,” added NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “I encourage all New Yorkers to take the trip out to Coney Island and check out the new pedestrian plazas, rides, food & beverage options, and other attractions that are enhancing this iconic part of a New York City summer.”

“I am very excited to join many Coney Island residents and other visitors at the wonderful celebration of the historic expansion of Luna Park and its 120 years anniversary. Proud to represent the neighborhood that is home to the New York City largest and most famous amusement park. Congratulations to Alessandro Zamperla and the entire team at Luna Park for providing world class attractions and entertainment, as well as creating many local jobs and additional opportunities for Coney Island businesses!” said District 47 NYC Councilman, Ari Kagan.

“You can never have too much of a good thing and who would ever say “no,” to more Coney Island?, said District 43 Councilmember Justin Brannan. “With heartfelt gratitude to the Zamperla Family and New York City Economic Development Corporation, we are finally activating new parts of this historic amusement district with four new attractions and a new pedestrian plaza for all to enjoy. Let’s remember: Coney Island isn’t just an iconic, world-famous destination – it is a vibrant, hardworking, and resilient neighborhood that deserves nothing but the best all year round. This is a very exciting day.”

“Congratulations to Luna Park on 120 years of serving as an iconic landmark not just in Brooklyn, but across New York City, bringing family fun and entertainment to locals and tourist from all over,” said Brooklyn Borough President Antonio Reynoso. “Luna Park’s legacy and longevity has stood the test of time mainly due to the amusement park’s ability to reinvent itself, surviving ebbs and flows of visitors, economic recessions, new trends in entertainment, and more. Its latest historic expansion is yet another example of this agility. I can’t wait to enjoy with my own family.”

Luna Park’s return breathed new life into the historic Amusement District, reinvigorating its storied past, benefiting the small business community in Coney Island, bringing record revenues to the Riegelmann Boardwalk businesses, and providing thousands of job opportunities to the broader South Brooklyn. Through their investments and commitment, Central Amusement International Inc. was able to bring Coney Island’s Amusement District back to the focal point of business in the area and invigorate its economy with the opening of a re-imagined, re-created, and re-vitalized Luna Park in Coney Island.

Since 2010, Luna Park has introduced an array of exciting attractions and new locations for all to enjoy, seamlessly blending the charm of the past with the thrill of the future. Nestled within Luna Park are the timeless classics that have delighted visitors for generations. From the iconic Coney Island Cyclone roller coaster, which has been thrilling daredevils since 1927 to introducing The Thunderbolt, NYC’s first major steel rollercoaster in 2014, as well as newly debuted attractions including family friendly coaster, Tony’s Express, Leti’s Treasure, a flume-style water ride, and Sky Tykes and Sky Chaser ropes courses, Luna Park continues to evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Additionally, guests can indulge their taste buds at Flywheel Bar & Grill and discover Urban Legend, a new open air beer garden.

Combining tradition and innovation, Luna Park has become an enduring symbol of timeless amusement, promising visitors an immersive experience that will whisk them away to a place where nostalgia, fun, and awe are at every turn. Mark your calendars for June 21^st and get ready for an unforgettable evening of laughter, cherished memories, and a fun-filled extravaganza like no other.

Admission to Luna Park is free, with ride prices starting at just $3. For more information on Luna Park’s offerings, tickets, hours and more, please visit www.LunaParkNYC.com.

About Luna Park in Coney Island:

Luna Park in Coney Island is the largest and most famous amusement park in New York City. Known as the heart of Coney Island with a heritage that stretches back over 120 years, this iconic amusement park is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, families, friends, and anyone who loves to have fun. At Luna Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of unforgettable Coney Island seaside thrills with the park’s array of timeless attractions including the historic and legendary Coney Island Cyclone. Luna Park is also home to breathtaking ocean views, shopping, and dining options on the scenic landmarked Riegelmann Boardwalk, offering timeless charm and novelties that make it a world-class destination for all ages. Located at the heart of the Amusement District, with over 50 attractions and games, Luna Park offers a fun-filled day out that’s suitable for everyone. Thrill-seekers can scream on rides like the Atlantic Aviator and the Thunderbolt, while younger guests and those seeking a milder thrill can enjoy family-friendly options like Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure. Head over to LunaParkNYC.com to check out the full list of rides, entertainment, food and more.

 

• New Hours, New Thrills and New Treats at Luna Park This Season

• Luna Park Gives Back to Children and Youth Charities by Donating Proceeds from April 2^nd Sales through its annual Donation Day

• Donation Day Celebrations Kick Off with Annual Coney Island Cyclone Egg Cream Christening on April 2^nd

• This Year, New York City’s Iconic Coney Island Cyclone Turns 96

 

 

BROOKLYN, NY, March 27, 2023 – New York City’s most iconic amusement park, Luna Park in Coney Island, known for delivering thrills and memories to visitors for generations, is welcoming guests back for a memorable 2023 Season on Friday, March 31st at 12:00 PM EST.  Celebrating 120 years since the original inception of Coney Island’s Luna Park in 1903, Opening Weekend will culminate with Donation Day and the egg cream christening of the Coney Island Cyclone on Sunday April 2^nd.  In honor of the iconic coaster’s 96^th birthday, the first 96 guests to ride the Coney Island Cyclone will enjoy a free ride and an egg cream treat courtesy of Luna Park.  On April 2^nd, Luna Park in Coney Island’s will also be kicking off the season with its annual Donation Day, and donating proceeds from the day’s sales to children and youth charities, including the Coney Island Sharks, Give Kids The World Village, and Operation H.O.O.D..

“Our entire team is filled with gratitude and enthusiasm as we open our doors for the 2023 Season.” said Alessandro Zamperla, President and CEO of Central Amusement International. “It is an honor to continue the incomparable Amusement legacy in Coney Island and, as we preserve, revitalize, and provide an incredible family-oriented experience in NYC.  We are thankful for all our partnerships with children and youth charities, as we support them with the annual charitable tradition for Donation Day and look forward to continuing working together to benefit our community.”

“Grateful to be selected to be a part of Luna Park’s Donation Day.  Coney Island Sharks Education Sports Club greatly benefits from this inclusion by continuing our free youth programs that benefit our community.  Our participants are excited that our athletics, academic, mentoring and Youth Council programs can continue to grow successfully.” Rodney Knight, Coney Island Sharks.

“For more than a decade, the Zamperla family’s tremendous generosity and ingenuity have enabled Give Kids The World Village to create happiness and hope for critically ill children and their families from around the world during magical week-long wish vacations.  The Zamperla family’s donation of our wheelchair accessible Lori’s Magical Flight and Kelly’s Sunny Swing have had an immeasurable impact on our families – providing an opportunity for children and adults of all ages and abilities the chance to experience the joy of riding an attraction, while underscoring our commitment to diversity and inclusion.  – Pamela Landwirth, President & CEO.

“Operation H.O.O.D. is incredibly grateful for Luna Park’s commitment to enhancing our beloved Coney Island.  Our partnership with Luna Park has been invaluable in our mission to build a safer community for our children and for the young men and women who are shaping Coney Island’s future.  Operation H.O.O.D. is proud to participate in Luna Park’s Annual Donation Day Celebration and honor the organization’s devotion to giving back to the community that is their home.  Just imagine if we all cared!” – Derick Latif Scott, Director of Operation H.O.O.D., a project of Jewish Community Council of Greater Coney Island.

“I am delighted to participate in the Annual Donation Day and Opening Weekend at Luna Park!  Happy to learn that Luna Park chose two prominent local non-for-profits – Coney Island Sharks and Operation H.O.O.D. – to be recipients of the proceeds.  I am a big supporter of both groups and proudly secured funding for them from NYC Council.” said Council Member Ari Kagan. “We all need to work to prevent violence in Coney Island and to give our youth an opportunity to succeed.  Excited to participate in the Grand Opening for new season at the world-renowned Cyclone.  Let’s ride together!”

“Nothing says fun in the sun like a trip to Coney Island, and the opening of the amusement district sends a beacon to New Yorkers: summer is coming!” said NYC Parks Commissioner Sue Donoghue. “Whether you’re splashing around in the waves, lounging on the beach, or getting your thrills at the amusement parks, Coney Island has something for everyone.  As the weather gets warmer, I encourage all New Yorkers to pay a visit and soak up all this iconic beachfront has to offer.”

For over a century, Luna Park has been part of the iconography of amusement parks, inspiring fun, and joy for families across the world.  Today’s Luna Park, honors that rich heritage with its newest additions that pay homage to the history of Coney Island.  These attractions include Tony’s Express – a family coaster – and Leti’s Treasure – a log flume attraction.  Tony’s Express is the largest family-style coaster in NYC, making it perfect for the youngest and most daring coaster audience.  Tony’s Express twists and turns around the bespoke log flume, Leti’s Treasure.  This massive log flume water ride features over 1200 feet of track, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph, offers a panoramic view of Coney Island’s shoreline, and ends with an unforgettable splash.  And for adventure seekers of all skill levels, guests will enjoy two custom-designed ropes courses, called Sky Chaser and Sky Tykes, which together offer 4 levels of difficulty as well as stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Luna Park is also proud to announce additional hours, offering guests the opportunity to create more exciting memories throughout the season.  Luna Park in Coney Island will be open daily during Spring break (April 7^th – 16^th) and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until Memorial Day.  Following Memorial Day weekend, visitors can experience the thrills of Luna Park daily.

Luna Park in Coney Island continues to help preserve and revitalize the historic Amusement District in New York City with innovative attractions, delivering joy to visitors year after year. Guests can look forward to over 50 attractions and entertainment, shopping and dining on the scenic landmarked Riegelmann Boardwalk and enjoy timeless charm and historic novelties.

Admission to Luna Park is free, with ride prices starting at just $3. For more information on Luna Park’s offerings, tickets, hours and more, please visit www.LunaParkNYC.com.

About Luna Park in Coney Island:

Luna Park in Coney Island is the largest and most famous amusement park in New York City.  Known as the heart of Coney Island with a heritage that stretches back over 120 years, this iconic amusement park is the ultimate destination for thrill-seekers, families, friends, and anyone who loves to have fun.  At Luna Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a world of unforgettable Coney Island seaside thrills with the park’s array of timeless attractions including the historic and legendary Coney Island Cyclone.  Luna Park is also home to breathtaking ocean views, shopping, and dining options on the scenic landmarked Riegelmann Boardwalk, offering timeless charm and novelties that make it a world-class destination for all ages.  Located at the heart of the Amusement District, with over 50 attractions and games, Luna Park offers a fun-filled day out that’s suitable for everyone.  Thrill-seekers can scream on rides like the Atlantic Aviator and the Thunderbolt, while younger guests and those seeking a milder thrill can enjoy family-friendly options like Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure.  Head over to LunaParkNYC.com to check out the full list of rides, entertainment, food and more.

 

About Coney Island Sharks Education Sports Club:

The Coney Island Sharks Education Sports Club has been a community-based organization for the past 30 years.  Their mission is to ensure that the youth are not influenced by the social platitudes of the community by providing a free athletics program that not only includes sports but life skills through mentoring and tutoring. Their athletics program consists of youth tackle Football and Cheerleading.

About Operation Hood:

Our Operation H.O.O.D. (Helping Our Own Develop) Cure Violence Initiative in Coney Island aims to identify and mediate conflicts among high-risk youth, mentor high-risk youth to change behaviors toward gun violence and mobilize the community to raise awareness about violence and promote community norms that reject violence. Operation H.O.O.D. has made the Coney Island community safer and achieved phenomenal outcomes, including multiple periods of 200 days without a shooting and hundreds of at-risk youths taking ownership and bettering their lives.  Operation H.O.O.D. maintains a walk-in center located on Mermaid Avenue centrally located in Coney Island.

About Give Kids The World Village:

Rated Four Stars by Charity Navigator, Give Kids The World Village is an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, Florida, that provides week-long, cost-free wish vacations to critically ill children and their families from around the world who want to visit Central Florida.  A stay at the Village is much more than a vacation. During one incredible week, wish families laugh, play, and create priceless memories together away from hospital visits and medical procedures.  It’s a magical week of “YES” where wish kids can experience the simple joys of childhood, and where families can recapture some of the precious moments that may have been missed due to illness.

We are open 7 days a week and ready to serve up smiles, great food, thrilling and family friendly attractions and one-of-a-kind experiences at New York City’s most iconic destination for fun.

June is shaping up to be another action-packed month here at Luna Park with celebrations around Pride Month, The Mermaid Parade, Juneteenth, and of course the 95^th Birthday of our beloved Cyclone Roller Coaster on June 26^th. Fireworks every Friday beginning on June 24, 2022.

2022 Season line up:

Free entertainment and performances every Saturday and Sunday throughout the season including sword jugglers, stilt walkers, and FIRE BREATHERS…yea that’s right, fire breathers, just to name a few.

In Park Performances begin at 2PM and end at 11PM

Enjoy Live Music Every Weekend at Salt & Sizzle Located on the Riegelmann Boardwalk.

Saturdays: 7:00pm-10:30pm

Sundays: 6:00pm-9:30pm

Set to open this summer, three new major attractions including an intertwined roller coaster and log flume ride and NYC’s only ocean-side ropes course overlooking the Coney Island beach and boardwalk.

Coming soon, environmentally friendly pedestrian plazas, grand entrances, beer gardens, and more. Three new portals welcoming people from far and wide to America’s playground, Luna Park in Coney Island.

PLAN & SAVE on your next visit to experience the EXTRAORDINARY at Luna Park this summer with the Extraordinary Wristband

We’re Egg-cited to welcome guests back for the 2022 season on Saturday, April 2^nd at 12:00PM EST! Celebrations begin at 11AM with the Egg Cream Christening of the Coney Island Cyclone, which turns 95 this year, followed by a fun-filled day at the park.  In honor of the iconic coaster’s 95^th birthday, the first 95 guests to ride the Coney Island Cyclone will enjoy a free ride and an egg cream treat (while supplies last)!

We take pride in being New York City’s largest amusement destination and maintain our commitment to enhancing Coney Island year after year. This season we will also unveil our newly added sites as part of our expansion project, adding more ways to have fun in New York City.  By way of our expansion, we’re bringing more fun and innovation to Coney Island with new attractions and environmentally friendly pedestrian plazas!  Additional details on the forthcoming attractions and pedestrian plazas will be announced later this season.

About Luna Park in Coney Island:

Luna Park in Coney Island is the largest amusement park in New York City’s and its most famous playground with a heritage that stretches back more than 150 years. Luna Park in Coney Island provides New Yorkers and tourists from around the world an unforgettable seaside experience with family-friendly attractions and entertainment, shopping and dining on the scenic landmarked boardwalk, thrill rides and special events. Luna Park in Coney Island lights up the famous Coney Island skyline with its timeless charm, historic landmarks, and exciting novelties. Adjacent to the nearly three miles of sandy beaches, two and a half miles of boardwalk and other top attractions, Luna Park in Coney Island, which employs more than 1200 people, offers over 40 games, rides and roller coasters and is a fun-filled world-class destination for all ages.

The National Amusement Park Historical Association (NAPHA), an international educational and enthusiasts’ organization dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the heritage of the amusement park, visited Luna Park in Coney Island on July 29, 2021, as part of their annual convention – ParkHop 21!

In a small ceremony, held at the historic 115-year-old B&B Carousell, NAPHA presented Central Amusement International Inc. (CAI), our parent company, and the Zamperla Family, with an award recognizing their incredible contributions in the revitalization of the historic Amusement District at Coney Island! The President and CEO of our parent company CAI, Alessandro Zamperla, accepted the award on behalf of the CAI team and his family.

A message from Alessandro Zamperla President and CEO of Central Amusement International Inc.

Dear Friends,

Good news, New Yorkers are demonstrating their strength and resilience in the most difficult of times and it’s paying off. With continued decreases in the infection and hospitalization rates, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced that beginning Friday, April 9, outdoor amusement parks can reopen with a 33 percent capacity limit and additional safety measures in place.

Like all of you, I’m thrilled to hear the news and I cannot wait to share laughter and joy with all of our amazing guests and team members. The health and safety of our guests and team members is always our primary focus, and we are happy to continue working with our government and health officials to ensure that when we open Luna Park in Coney Island, we will create enjoyable memorable experiences for everyone in a safe and fun environment.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we have been building on the many existing safety measures at our amusement park and will be implementing public health protocols according to CDC and health agencies’ guidelines to maximize the protection of our guests and team members. We are thankful for the decreases in the infection and hospitalization rates, and we are hopeful for additional encouraging news as more vaccinations take place.

We are excited to reopen in 2021 with 6 new attractions geared towards our youngest guests and to continue the Coney Island tradition of seaside thrills and fun!

We thank you for your continued loyalty, patience, and understanding. We remain optimistic navigating this challenging time with COVID-19, as we know the resilience of New Yorkers, Brooklynites, and Coney Islanders.

Above all else, please continue to take the necessary precautions to mitigate this pandemic and stay healthy. On behalf of our entire team, we cannot wait to welcome you back to Luna Park in Coney Island.

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM LUNA PARK IN CONEY ISLAND