After undergoing a brief hiatus from Jan. 2-8, the Richland Carrousel Park held a grand re-opening event on Saturday, drawing dozens of visitors to the site at 75 N. Main St.
Co-Director Sharon Bishop explained that the carrousel was recently renovated. Improvement projects included re-building the platform and the sleighs and re-varnishing the walls. Further, a new sound system was installed and the gift shop inventory was completed.
“Our staff worked for hours and hours trying to get all of this accomplished,” said Bishop. “They’re remarkable.”
This year’s ride token will feature the peg-leg cat, one of the animals on the carrousel. In keeping with the theme, the carrousel is decked out in pirate paraphernalia with the inclusion of a ship display, animals dressed up in pirate gear, and the appearance of Pirate Joe, played by Joseph Besecker.
“We hope to do more with the pirate theme throughout the year,” said Bishop.
Visitors piled in, with smiles stamped on their faces as they waited for the carrousel to start turning. Some participants celebrated their birthday, including three-year-old Maria Perez.
“We’ve been really busy and it’s been a great turnout,” Bishop remarked.
The Richland Carrousel Park is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. On the first Friday of each month, the carrousel is open until 8 p.m.
