The Carousel of Happiness will celebrate “Mary Wingate Days” on August 9 & 10, 2025 with free carousel rides for all. Carousel hours are 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday, and local
residents, as well as visitors are encouraged to come by for a spin in honor of Mary Quinlan Wingate.
Mary Wingate was a life-long summer resident of Nederland who was known for her kindness and generosity to others. Wingate worked with the Town of Nederland during her lifetime to create two undeveloped parks, and upon her death, donated a parcel of land above Barker Reservoir to provide public access to National Forest land. She also was a strong supporter of the Carousel of Happiness. She died in Fort Collins on June 11, 2020, at the age of 87.
The idea of sponsoring a weekend with free carousel rides came up during the planning of the family gathering in 2020. “I was just thinking about what would make her smile,” said Mary’s daughter, Laurie Wingate who lives in Washington, DC with her husband Mark. “It’s a fun way to feel connected to people and a place that she loved so much.” The family has continued the annual tradition to this day. Adults and children alike are welcome to spin on the carousel, play in the puppet theater, peruse the small gift shop, or soak up the history exhibits.
Join us for a ride August 9 & 10 and give what you can to support our mission!
