A magical menagerie featuring 57 whimsical, hand-carved animals on a restored 1910 Looff carousel, turning to the music of a 1913 Wurlitzer band organ.
Nederland CO carousel merry go round fund day out with family

Happening at the Carousel
Free Rides March 23!
We’ve got some great events coming up! Join us for free carousel rides all day Thursday, March 23, in honor of Tom & Glenna Carline. The free ride day kicks off a week of events and the next “Mayor of
The Three Cherubs
Come and see the newest carved additions to the carousel! This adorable group of cherubs, carved by Scott Harrison and installed on the carousel February 2, 2023, are ready to meet you. With unique hair and skin colors, their magical
We got the Gold! A Certified Green Business
The Carousel of Happiness recognized from the beginning that lessening our impact on the environment is deeply important to our community. While planning the build, it was determined that the Carousel House could be a great demonstration opportunity for LEED
How It All Began...
As a young Marine in Vietnam Scott Harrison received a tiny music box that he held to his ear to distract him from the horror of the war going on around him. The music, Chopin’s “Tristesse,” brought him a peaceful image of a carousel in a mountain meadow. After returning home, he rescued an abandoned Looff carousel in Utah and spent 26 years hand-carving animals to bring it back to life.
Scott had never carved before, but starting with the rabbit that is now on the sign in front of the carousel in Nederland, he went on to create more than 50 one-of-a-kind animals, 35 of which can be ridden. As he was finishing, the small community of Nederland (pop. 1,500) came together and raised the $700,000 to build it a home.

Membership
The perks of becoming a member are more than just discounts. Join our family today and “Don’t Delay Joy!”

Shop the Carousel
Our gift shop is full of items sure to intertwine our story with yours.
Your purchase helps fund the Carousel’s operation and mission, magic and all.

Birthday Parties
Celebrate your birthday, or other special event, at the Carousel to create lasting memories for your family and friends.