Activity
National Roller Coaster Day
Celebrated on 08/16/2026
Quick Fact
National Roller Coaster Day is celebrated annually on August 16. The holiday was created to honor the invention of the roller coaster, with the first known roller coaster patent granted to LaMarcus Adna Thompson on January 20, 1885, for his 'Switchback Railway' at Coney Island.
Origins and Establishment of National Roller Coaster Day
National Roller Coaster Day was established to celebrate the thrill and innovation of roller coasters. The exact origins of the holiday are unclear, but it is widely recognized on August 16, the date when the first roller coaster patent was granted to LaMarcus Adna Thompson in 1885. Thompson's "Switchback Railway" at Coney Island marked the beginning of roller coaster history, offering a gentle ride that reached speeds of only 6 mph. The day was likely created by amusement park enthusiasts and historians to honor this milestone and promote the joy of roller coasters.
Evolution and Modern Commemoration
Over the decades, roller coasters have evolved from simple wooden tracks to complex steel structures with inversions, launches, and extreme heights. National Roller Coaster Day has grown in popularity, with amusement parks across the United States offering special events, discounts, and extended hours. Many parks host coaster marathons, behind-the-scenes tours, and social media contests. Enthusiasts celebrate by visiting parks, riding their favorite coasters, and sharing experiences online using hashtags like #NationalRollerCoasterDay.
Facts & General Observations
- The world's tallest roller coaster is Kingda Ka at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, standing at 456 feet (139 m).
- The fastest roller coaster is Formula Rossa at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, reaching speeds of 149 mph (240 km/h).
- The oldest operating roller coaster is Leap-The-Dips at Lakemont Park in Pennsylvania, built in 1902.