National Ferris Wheel Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Ferris Wheel Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Ferris Wheel Day is observed on February 14th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Ferris Wheel Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as important facts you need know about National Ferris Wheel Day.

📅 What day is National Ferris Wheel Day 2024?

In 2024, National Ferris Wheel Day is on Tuesday, February 14th. It is the 2nd Tuesday in February; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all intriguing details and facts about February 14, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Ferris Wheel Day is celebrated annually on February 14th. If you’re a fan of excitement and don’t mind heights, chances are you have fond memories of riding a Ferris wheel during your childhood. Ferris wheels come in different sizes and offer a thrilling experience, allowing you to enjoy a breathtaking view from above. Interestingly, the ‘High Roller’ in Las Vegas holds the title for being the world’s largest Ferris wheel, towering at an impressive height of 550 feet.

📜 National Ferris Wheel Day History

Ferris, a civil engineer from Galesburg, Illinois, was the brilliant mind behind the Ferris wheel. He designed and built the original Chicago Ferris Wheel, which became a symbol of the United States just like the Eiffel Tower in Paris. After graduating from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1881, Ferris embarked on creating his masterpiece. The Chicago Ferris Wheel, also known as “the Chicago Wheel,” took him two years to complete and cost a staggering $700,000 in 1893. Standing at a remarkable height of 264 feet, it boasted over 100,000 pieces and featured 36 gondolas that could accommodate up to 60 passengers. During the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, nearly 1.4 million people paid 50 cents each for a thrilling 20-minute ride on the wheel.

After the exposition, the Ferris wheel was moved to St. Louis, Missouri, for the Louisiana Purchase Exposition in 1904. Sadly, it was eventually demolished using explosives on May 11, 1906, to salvage its metal. Some parts of Ferris’ original design were repurposed for the USS Illinois, a battleship used in World War I, as well as a bridge over the Kankakee River near Chicago. Despite his short life, as Ferris passed away at the age of 37 due to typhoid disease, his invention continues to bring joy to people around the world. Ferris wheels can now be found in amusement parks, festivals, carnivals, and various other celebrations.

✅ National Ferris Wheel Day Facts

🔖 Four times shorter
Despite its initial intention to rival the towering Eiffel Tower in Paris, the first Ferris wheel fell significantly short, standing at a mere height of 264 feet, which was only a quarter of the Eiffel Tower’s impressive stature.

🔖 $25,000 for safety research
The fair organizers were concerned about the safety of Ferris’ rollercoaster, which stood 26 stories tall. As a result, Ferris took it upon himself to finance safety studies to address these concerns.

🔖 A ride for 50 cents
To go on the first-ever Ferris wheel, people had to pay fifty cents.

👍 Why Is National Ferris Wheel Day Important

National Ferris Wheel Day raises awareness of the incredible machine’s significance and history. While fair organizers opposed Ferris because of safety concerns about his planned design, he persisted and paid for the safety studies himself.
Ferris wheels are frequently connected with childhood memories. The majority of the individuals on it are children. You might recall being on one as a youngster and remembering how thrilling the journey was.
National Ferris Wheel Day is a great opportunity for anyone who has been too shy or too busy to ride a Ferris wheel in recent years to do so. It’s also a terrific way to spend the Valentine’s Day weekend with a date, if they’re up for it!

🙂 How To Observe National Ferris Wheel Day

⚡ Eat a snack or two
Since Ferris wheels are commonly seen in amusement parks, you might want to indulge in some carnival treats. Delicious options like popsicles, buttered popcorn, corn dogs, cotton candy, and funnel cakes may come to your mind. However, it’s important to remember that none of these foods offer nutritional value.

⚡ Ride one
If you happen to reside close to a Ferris wheel, today would be the perfect occasion to hop on it, especially if it’s been a while since you last did. You could plan a romantic outing with your partner and make the most of the chance to grow closer, or you could enjoy some valuable moments with your loved ones and friends. The experience will transport you back to your childhood, allowing you to relish in the joy and thrill of the ride.

⚡ Read about the history
The history of the Ferris wheel is both captivating and intriguing. By delving into its story, you can gain an understanding of Ferris’ ambitious aspirations and his dream to provide entertainment to people around the world.

📅 When is National Ferris Wheel Day?

View all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Special Interest and other 🔗 Fun holidays.

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