WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY — The much-anticipated 2025 season at Playland Amusement Park is officially underway, and the atmosphere was nothing short of electric as the gates swung open to welcome eager visitors.
For many local residents, the event was a moment of celebration—and relief—after months of uncertainty about whether the beloved park would open at all.
Playland, a cherished Westchester County landmark, is more than just an amusement park—it’s a place where generations have created lasting memories. This weekend, the park offered free admission, inviting longtime fans and newcomers alike to experience the magic for themselves.
As soon as the gates opened, crowds of all ages rushed in, eager to be among the first to enjoy the rides and attractions. “As soon as it opened, everybody was just running down,” said Jeremy Terrero, a parkgoer who joined in the excitement.
Samantha Allen and her father, John, were among the first to take on this year’s rides.
Samantha, already a roller coaster veteran, joked, “I’ve done it twice, this is my third time, I always regret it…” For John, the day was a nostalgic trip down memory lane. “We’re so thankful to Ken Jenkins and everyone who got this place up and running,” he said. “I know over the summer it’s going to get better and better.”
John’s connection to Playland runs deep.
“We grew up here. When I was Samantha’s age, I was coming here with my friends,” he shared. “It’s something that generations have enjoyed, and I don’t know any other county that has their own amusement park owned by the county and run by the county.”
While the excitement was palpable, not every ride was ready for opening day. Some attractions remain closed due to inspection delays and a dispute with a third-party company. Currently, eight kiddie rides and five major attractions are open, but park officials are hopeful that all rides will be operational at some point this summer.
Despite these setbacks, the energy at Playland was undeniable. The sound of roller coasters and laughter filled the air, signaling the official start of summer fun.
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins acknowledged the challenges the park has faced.
“There’s a really big hill that has to be climbed in order to make this happen,” he said. Still, his optimism was shared by parkgoers like Terry Smith and his family, who were thrilled to be part of the opening day festivities.
“I’m feeling great, the weather is wonderful, the people look good, we’re going to have some fun,” Smith said. When asked what brought him out, he laughed, “Of course, the cost of the park.” With free admission for the weekend, many families took advantage of the opportunity to make new memories.
Playland Park will be open Memorial Day Weekend, Saturday, May 24 through Monday, May 26, 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. each day. Admission, rides, and parking will be FREE all three days.
You can also apply to a variety of summer jobs at Playland Park, including Park Management (Operations), Ride Operators, Ride Attendants, Lifeguards, Cashiers, Custodial, and Painters at our upcoming Job Fair, Saturday, June 7, at the Westchester County Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information on Playland, click here.
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