The beloved Lakeside Park Carousel is ready to spin back into action this weekend as Opening Day for the 2026 season takes place Saturday, May 16, beginning at 11:00 a.m.
Visitors can once again enjoy free rides on the historic carousel throughout the day, courtesy of the Friends of the Lakeside Park Carousel, the volunteer group that helps preserve and support the popular attraction.
Alongside the season opening festivities, the organization is also launching a Silent Auction for a handcrafted wooden rocking horse currently on display inside the carousel building.
Bidding officially opens at 11:00 a.m. on May 16 and will continue through to 8:00 p.m. on November 28, 2026. The reserve bid for the rocking horse is set at $100, with all bids required to increase in minimum $5 increments.
The winning bid will be announced during the annual “Let it Glow” celebration on November 28 at the carousel. Organizers say full payment will be required before the rocking horse is awarded to the successful bidder.
The Lakeside Park Carousel has remained a treasured fixture in Port Dalhousie for generations, drawing both local residents and tourists with its historic charm and tradition of nickel — and now free — rides.
More information about the carousel and the silent auction can be found at https://www.friendsofthelakesideparkcarousel.com
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