This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Editors note: This post initially said Lagoon was celebrating its 130th anniversary "this week." The amusement park's celebration is next Friday, July 15.
Even though I am now in my 60s, I continue to have a love affair with both history and amusement parks.
I once researched a story on the Utah connection to the opening of Disneyland, finding a number of locals who had participated in one way or the other during the park's opening year.
I've loved visiting theme parks such as Cedar Point, Magic Mountain (that served as Walley World in the classic Vacation movie), Knotts Berry Farm, Kings Island in Cincinnati, Universal Studios, Disney World in Florida and Blackpool, England.
Reading about venerable parks such as Dorney Park and researching historic roller coasters such as the Cyclone at Coney Island make me want to travel even more.
So, the long history of Utah's Lagoon has always fascinated me. When I visit the Farmington Park, which I usually do a few times a year, I love reading about the history of rides such as the old wooden roller coaster or the classic carousel.
Lagoon, which first opened on July 15, 1886, is celebrating its 130th anniversary next week with some special events. On Friday, July 15, a single day passport will be $38.50 — the youth rate so every adult can feel like a kid again. The first 130 guests will receive a special gift.
At 11 a.m., a special gazebo inside the park that celebrates 130 years of fun will be unveiled. Special discounts on food, games and merchandise will be offered all day. And, at 5 p.m., anniversary cake will be served to guests at the new gazebo while it lasts.
For information, log on to www.lagoonpark.com.