National Merry-Go-Round Day is observed worldwide every July 25, celebrating one of the oldest and most popular amusement rides, the carousel. This day encourages people to visit amusement parks, carnivals, or fairs to enjoy riding carousels. The modern carousel has its roots in medieval jousting traditions and transitioned from a training device for horse riders to an entertainment ride by the 17th century. The first U.S. patent for the modern carousel was issued on July 25, 1871, to William Schneider, a fact that inspired the establishment of this observance in 2014 by carousel historian Ronald Hopkins and Bette Largent, President of the National Carousel Association. This non-profit organization, founded in 1973, aims to preserve carousel history and ensure these beloved rides continue to bring joy to people of all ages.