Coney Island’s iconic amusement parks will roar back to life this weekend, welcoming thrill-seekers back for the summer season.
Luna Park — home of the historic Coney Island Cyclone, which turns 99 years old this summer — will officially open on Saturday, March 28, at 11 a.m. But the real celebration begins on Sunday morning, with the traditional egg cream christening of the Cyclone.
To celebrate the rollercoaster’s upcoming birthday, the first 99 people in line on Sunday will ride for free, and receive a free classic egg cream.
“Our entire team is filled with gratitude and enthusiasm as we open our doors for the 2026 season,” said Alessandro Zamperla, president and CEO of Central Amusement International,” in a statement. “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.”
While the Cyclone is the park’s most famous ride, it’s far from the only one on offer this weekend. Luna Park is home to dozens of rides, from the gentle Seaside Swing to the “high-thrill” Leti’s Treasure and Tony’s Express, a log flume and roller coaster named for Zamperla’s grandparents.
The park is also bringing back its annual charitable initiative by selling discounted Luna Park Boardwalk Passes. Portions of the proceeds of the passes will be donated to local community organizations, like the Coney Island Sharks and the Coney Island Library.
“We are grateful for Luna Park’s continued generosity and support of the Coney Island community,” said Boris Ioselev, branch manager of the Coney Island Library. “This donation will help expand public programming and strengthen the resources our librarians and staff provide every day. Support like this ensures the library remains a welcoming space for learning, connection, and opportunity for residents of all ages.”
Right next door, Deno’s Wonder Wheel will mark the start of the season with the annual Blessing of the Rides on Sunday, March 29 at 9:30 a.m. The Coney Island Sideshow and the Battle in the Apple All-Stars Dance Group will perform to kick off the celebration before the ceremony starts at 10 a.m.
The park’s founders, Denos and Lula Vourderis, started the Blessing of the Rides back in 1985 along with the founder of Coney Island’s Sea and Salt Mission, Debbie Santiago.
Four decades later, Pastor Mary Smith will keep up the tradition, leading the blessing while the FDNY ceremonial unit presents the U.S. and New York State flags and sing the National Anthem.
To celebrate the opening, the first 106 guests in line will get a free ride on the legendary Wonder Wheel itself.
The “kiddie park” opens at 11 a.m., followed by the rest of the park at noon. Kids’ rides range from the classic Dizzy Dragons to the Sea Serpent mini-rollercoaster; while adult rides include the musical Thunderbolt and the thrilling Phoenix rollercoaster.
“After a cold winter, we’re very excited to welcome families back to Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park,” said Denos Vourderis, operations manager at Deno’s Wonder Wheel, in a statement. “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. 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.”
Admission to the park is free, but tickets are needed for the pantheon of rides. Kids registered with the Sea and Salt Mission will ride free on Sunday.
After opening weekend, Luna Park is open Friday-Sunday through Memorial Day — but is open all day, everyday for spring break, April 2-12. Deno’s, similarly, is open weekends and school holidays until Memorial Day. After Memorial Day, both parks are open seven days a week all summer long.
The nabe’s famous restaurants will be open, too, and ready to welcome visitors after a long and cold winter. Nathan’s Famous will offer a new spicy fish sandwich and fish and chips platter, and boardwalk staples Paul’s Daughter and Ruby’s will raise up their gates.
And, on April 3, a few days after the amusement parks reopen for the season, the beloved Brooklyn Cyclones will play their home opener against the Hudson Valley Renegades.
