It is May 21st, and it is a beautiful day to visit Coney Island. I bring my family, my brother’s dog and a couple of salads and enjoy the hot sun and the gentle breeze. Summer is finally here! Due to the fact that it is a Sunday, I notice more families present at the boardwalk. I hear children whining and laughing as I sit down on a bench near the beach. I love the smell of the ocean because it reminds me of vacation. I hear helicopters passing above my head every so often and dog chains clinking. I notice at least three photoshoots going on with young adults dressed up in jean jackets and cool sunglasses, holding ice-cream or cotton candy.
I notice that the larger crowds tend to gravitate towards the center of the boardwalk near Nathan’s hot dogs. That is primarily because all of the shops and Luna Park’s entrance which had just reopened recently are located there. I saw a man dressed up in a monkey suit playing the cymbals. There are performers all of the time like magicians or clowns. This makes me appreciate that Coney Island is a safe haven for all types of people with different interests. People can dress the way they want and do what they are passionate about without being judged. I love that this boardwalk attracts such a diverse group of people and you never know who you will encounter.
This was the first field trip that I actually got to see luna park opened. It was closed the whole winter and just opened recently. It was refreshing to hear the sounds of the rollercoasters brushing against the tracks. I even tried out the basketball game where you have one shot to shoot the ball into the basket. I got it in on the first try, but the guy in charge of the game informed me that I did not stand in the correct place and so my “swoosh” didn’t count. I was deeply saddened, but my father reassured me that I was still a winner in his eyes which made me feel better. (I’m a very competitive person can’t you tell?)
The weather really has an impact on Coney Island’s atmosphere. When it is cold out, less people come to the boardwalk because it is a fully outdoor place. When it is nice out however like today, the place is so crowded. Everyone is doing their own thing and just enjoying themselves and relaxing. The warm weather really brings out the friendly nature in people. I brought my brother’s dog and everyone came up to me and asked if they could pet the dog. People will gladly let you pet their dogs, they will take pictures of you without hesitation, they will give you directions if you are lost… I also noticed that when it is a nice day and people are on the boardwalk, no one is in a rush to get anywhere. The boardwalk exhibits good vibes during these hot sunny days. You instantly become attracted to the music that plays as you walk past the restaurants, shops and bars. It is a place that is meant to let you roam free and forget your worries.
