Balboa Fun Zone Celebrates 75th Anniversary

Remember the good old days when Ferris wheel rides cost 10 cents? Well those days were back for one special day in Newport Beach as the Balboa Fun Zone celebrated its 75th anniversary.

Prices at the popular attraction were rolled back Saturday to where they started when the Fun Zone opened in 1936. That meant harbor cruises went for 25 cents and carousel rides for 5.

Along with the laughs and good times came a mixture of emotions as the day marked the final spin for the historic carousel that will be  dismantled Friday.

“It’s a bittersweet occasion as the carousel has to be removed," owner Patrick Moore said. "It’s served as a great attraction for generations of locals and visitors alike.”

In addition to attraction discounts, food vendors at the Fun Zone offered 50-cent cotton candy, two-for-$5 pizzas and $2 tacos.

"It's a great community event. It's not that crowded, so it's reasonable. I hope the Fun Zone will be here another 75 years," said Newport Beach resident Amanda Alenick.

Near the Nautical Museum, craft tables were set up for children to build model wooden boats. Vintage Ford automobiles were showcased at the adjacent parking lot.

Raffle tickets were sold for whale watching cruises and gift certificates to Newport Landing and Harborside restaurants. All raffle sales benefited Newport Elementary School on the Balboa Peninsula.

"I just bought a raffle ticket. I try to do my best to support the local schools. We have the best here," said Newport Beach resident Michelle Loveall.