MISSOULA — The streets of Missoula were quiet as families celebrated Christmas in their homes, but once 11 o’clock rolled around, energy began to pick up, especially at Caras Park.
The carousel in Caras Park has opened its doors to the public on Christmas Day for years, welcoming families to begin a new tradition.
Wednesday was no exception as families lined the perimeter of A Carousel for Missoula from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. waiting to give the hand-carved ponies a whirl.
As with any holiday, the carousel offered rides for free and members of the board of directors volunteered to run the show.
President Kimberly Roth said that for many families in town, it’s just not Christmas without a trip to the carousel, so deciding whether or not to stay open on December 25th is a no-brainer.
“This carousel and Dragon Hollow park was built by the community, and it’s the love of the community and the support of the community of why we stay open, so this is a way for us to give back and say 'thank you' for being so loyal to us”
