Fireworks planned for Boardwalk Giant Dipper’s 100th anniversary

THRILL RIDE

A summer day draws a crowd to Main Beach as visitors enjoy the Giant Dipper Roller Coaster and other rides at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. According to the Boardwalk’s website, “The Giant Dipper is the fourth oldest coaster in the U.S., continuously operating in its original location. Built by Arthur Looff in 1924, Looff’s love of amusement rides may have been hereditary. In 1911, his father, Charles I.D. Looff, delivered a new merry-go-round with hand-carved horses to the Boardwalk.” SHMUEL THALER — SANTA CRUZ SENTINEL

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By Aric Sleeper

asleeper@santacruzsentinel.com

SANTA CRUZ >> The Boardwalk’s historic wooden roller coaster the Giant Dipper will celebrate its 100th year in operation this May and the milestone will be marked with some special events and celebrations that include a fireworks celebration.

“The Giant Dipper is one of the most iconic and recognized landmarks in all of Santa Cruz,” said Kris Reyes, Boardwalk spokesperson. “This classic wooden roller coaster has thrilled over 66 million riders during the past 100 years and we are excited to celebrate the Boardwalk’s crown jewel with an amazing fireworks show in May and other fun events throughout the year.”

The renowned roller coaster has been thrilling riders in its original location since May 17, 1924. The structure is the fourth oldest coaster in the country and one of the oldest in the world, and in 1987 both the Giant Dipper and the Boardwalk’s carousel were made historic landmarks by the National Park Service.

The Giant Dipper is not only locally famous as the historic ride has been seen in numerous television commercials, shows and movies such as “Us,” “Bumblebee,” “Dangerous Minds,” “Sudden Impact,” and of course the 1980s cult classic “The Lost Boys.”

To celebrate the historic structure’s centennial, the Boardwalk has received the go-ahead to put on a once-in-a-lifetime, 100th Anniversary Fireworks Celebration at 9 p.m., May 18. In addition to the display, the first 200 riders on the Giant Dipper that day will receive a commemorative 100th anniversary pin.

The Boardwalk will all commemorate the occasion with “Dipper Days,” which will allow patrons to ride the iconic coaster for just $1 every Wednesday from May 29 to Aug. 7. On Aug. 17, or National Rollercoaster Day, the first 100 Giant Dipper riders will receive a Boardwalk souvenir cup.

For local artists, young and old, A fan art contest centered around the Giant Dipper will take place from May 17 to Aug. 16. The contest welcomes artworks from all mediums such as paintings, drawings, photos or Dipper-inspired sculptures. Prizes include swag, Boardwalk cards and ride wristbands.

For information, visit beachboardwalk.com.