By Jessica Easthope
You’ve seen it on TV and in the movies. It’s already one of the most iconic places on earth, but this year Coney Island is securing its place in the history books.
For 120 years the sounds of Coney Island’s amusement park have gone quiet once the weather got cold, but for the first time Luna Park is embracing the winter months, and Frost Fest is taking over.
“A real historic moment, we have all the entertainment, all the food, all the rides so really the best place to come and have a good time,” said Alessandro Zamperla, the president and CEO of Central Amusement International, the company that owns and operates Luna Park.
Zamperla believes Frost Fest offers a boost to the Christmas spirit and a financial boost for Coney Island.
“The holiday season is a great time for everybody to get together, that’s what we do, we’ve been doing it for a long time in the spring, the summer, and the fall so why not do it in the winter,” Zamperla said. “And in terms of economic initiative, everyone will have a benefit.”
With Santa’s workshop, rides, and attractions, a skating rink, and holiday market, Luna Park has it all, even some classic Christmas bites.
Vendors like Bilena Settepani said this is a day she never thought would come.
“For an iconic summer destination to now also be a winter destination it’s really special,” Settepani said. “I feel like I’m part of history in the making right now.”
Dashing from ride to ride, no one seemed to mind the cold weather. Destiny Armstead came with her crew. The historic day for Coney Island is tied to a piece of her own family history.
“I came here as a little kid and my mom actually moved here again because she loved Coney Island so much,” Armstead said. “My mom passed away and it’s amazing the first time Coney Island is lighting up, is on my mom’s birthday and it means so much to me.”
Visitors can enjoy Frost Fest and all of the fun that comes with it until Jan. 7.