Rye Playland cut the ribbon to signify their official Opening Day for the 96th time on Saturday.
Playland CEO Evonne Keeler was the first to speak, highlighting the newest ride, “Jack the Puppeteer”. Keeler described the ride with great excitement, saying, “Jack is an immersive amusement ride that combines whimsy and a heartwarming story of freedom. Set in a fantastical world where puppets come to life, writers embark on a thrilling journey alongside Jack as the ride unfolds. You will travel through the hills and turn through the enchanted forests with the views of the sound. You will discover Jack’s magic of cutting his own strings and embracing freedom.” Playland teased the ride in 2023, but this will be the first time it opens to the public.
Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins also spoke, and then the group cut the blue ribbon in front of a decently sized crowd. He cited several park upgrades, including investments in the park’s food facilities, and its new ride.
The ceremony was not limited to only formalities. A drumline procession by the Lighting
Drumline from the Barack Obama School for Social Justice in Yonkers, airbrush tattoo artists, a stilted electric violinist, strolling entertainers, and face painters scattered the Fountain Plaza, entertaining visitors who eagerly entered the historic park in its first few hours of operation in 2024.
Playland will be open on weekends only (with the exception of Memorial Day – Monday, May 27th) until Wednesday, June 5, when it begins its weekday schedule for the summer season.
Watch video from the 2024 Playland opening:
