Burlington's Carousel Christmas in the Park moves indoors because of rain
Since it's expected to rain Thursday, Burlington's Carousel Christmas in the Park activities are moving indoors.
Free rides on the Carousel will continue as planned in the new, fully enclosed carousel house.
Thataways Youth Center at 1331 Overbrook Rd. will host the following activities:
- Photos with Santa
- Carousel ornament decorating
- Arts and crafts
- Cookies and hot chocolate
The ribbon cutting and ceremonial first ride kicks off at 4:30 p.m. After that, the carousel will officially be open for the public to enjoy.
First installed in City Park in 1948, Burlington’s fully-restored historic Dentzel Carousel will spin again in its brand-new carousel house. The event runs Thursday from 5pm-8pm in Burlington’s City Park.
Two residents who played significant roles in the history of the carousel will be joining City Council for the ceremonial first ride. Ronnie Cates, the son of Burlington’s Recreation & Parks department director in 1948, was the first child ever to ride the Carousel. In 1985, Diane Vaught spearheaded the previous community-driven restoration of the Carousel. With extensive research and a lot of delicate paint scraping, she led a team of volunteers to restore the carousel in a way that celebrated the unique character and style of Dentzel carousels.
In addition to the return of the Carousel, Carousel Christmas in the Park will feature hayrides, photo opportunities with Santa, free hot cocoa, and a live nativity scene. For more information, visit www.BurlingtonNC.gov/ChristmasinthePark.
