Coney Island is gearing up for a high-speed fundraiser this weekend as local nonprofits take on Luna Park’s eight roller coasters for the annual Charity Coasterthon.
The event will take place Aug. 16 in celebration of National Roller Coaster Day. Beginning at 11 a.m., three-person teams representing seven local organizations will have two hours to ride as many of Luna Park’s roller coasters as possible.
Participants will race from coaster to coaster, receiving a stamp after each completed ride. When the competition ends at 1 p.m., the stamps will be counted to determine which team completed the most rides.
The winning organization will receive a $10,000 donation from Luna Park, while the second- and third-place teams will receive $5,000 and $3,000, respectively. The remaining participating organizations will each receive $1,000.
This year’s participating nonprofits are Art’s House Schools of Music, Dance and Fine Arts; Brooklyn United; Children of Promise; Coney Island Sharks; The B.R.O. (Brothers Redefining Opportunity) Experience; Coney Island USA and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
This year’s event is in anticipation of the Cyclone’s 100th birthday next year.Photo courtesy of Luna Park
Alessandro Zamperla, president and CEO of Central Amusement International, said that the Coasterthon is one of the park’s “favorite traditions.”
“This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the Coney Island Cyclone’s 99th anniversary and continue the countdown to its historic centennial,” he said. “The event brings together everything we love about Luna Park, from thrilling rides, friendly competition and the opportunity to give back. We look forward to cheering on each participating team.”
The fundraiser comes as Luna Park marks the 99th anniversary of the legendary Coney Island Cyclone, with the park counting down to the coaster’s centennial in 2027.
The Cyclone, which has become one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks, is part of the amusement district’s long history of thrills. During Sunday’s Coasterthon, however, teams will have all eight of Luna Park’s coasters to choose from as they attempt to rack up as many rides as possible.
Teams of three have two hours to ride as many coasters as they can. The first-place winners will receive a $10,000 donation.File photo courtesy of Erica Price
Luna Park said the event is intended to support organizations working in local communities while bringing together nonprofits for a day of competition and fun.
Admission to Luna Park is free, with individual ride prices starting at $4. For thrill-averse guests, the park features more than 50 attractions, including food, shopping and entertainment along the Riegelmann Boardwalk.