Ferris Wheel Day

Ferris Wheel Day is February 14th

In honor of the wonderful attraction of the ferris wheel, every year on February 14th people around the world celebrate Ferris Wheel Day. Ferris Wheel Day is celebrated on the 14th because it is the birthday of George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. So, who is George Washington Gale Ferris Jr?

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr.

George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. is the inventor of the ferris wheel. George Ferris Jr. had a degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Civil Engineering. With his background in civil engineering, Ferris came up with the idea of the ferris wheel when he went to the World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893 in Chicago. Ferris proposed that a gigantic ferris wheel, then called an observation wheel, be built to be a tribute to the World’s Columbian Exposition fair. 

At first, Ferris’ idea about the ferris wheel was turned down. Ferris went on to get a few architects to support his plans and found the finances to build the ferris wheel. With this Ferris’ plan on the ferris wheel was okayed.

Sadly, the ferris wheel was built and completed a month and a half after the fair opened. But that did not stop fair goers. Many people rode the first ferris wheel in Chicago. The ferris wheel was the largest piece of steel made in the U.S. The entire wheel had 36 cars, which could hold 40 to 60 passengers and lasted for about 20 minutes. Soon after the ferris wheel was built in Chicago, other ferris wheels were starting to be built in amusement parks throughout the country.

Celebrating Ferris Wheel Day!

Ferris Wheel Day is celebrated on February 14th on Geroge Ferris Jr.'s birthday. It does not matter if you decide to celebrate this day alone or with others. Whatever you decide to do here is a list of a few ways to celebrate Ferris Wheel Day. 

• If you live near one of the world’s tallest ferris wheels, or live near any ferris wheel, take some time out of your day and ride a ferris wheel. 
• Since Ferris Wheel Day is on Valentines Day have a nice Valentines Day date on a ferris wheel. 
• If you do not live near a ferris wheel you could also watch youtube videos about ferris wheels. 
• If you are feeling like getting a little crafty on Ferris Wheel Day here is a youtube video on how to make your very own ferris wheel at home.

The ferris wheel was once built to be a tribute to the World’s Columbian Exposition fair. Now there are many ferris wheels built that are a symbol of an amusement park or a country around the world. No matter where you are in the world, everyone can enjoy a ride on a ferris wheel.