Luna Park invites families to unwind and reconnect

AS Bulawayo comes alive with activity during the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), a different kind of attraction is drawing crowds, not for business deals, but for laughter, colour and shared moments.

Luna Park, the seasonal amusement park, has returned to the city, having opened its gates on February 28 until May 12 and offering more than just thrills. It is extending a warm invitation to residents and visitors alike to pause, unwind and reconnect.

Under neon-lit skies, the park transforms into a vibrant playground where children tug excitedly at their parents’ hands, eager to be first in line for rides, while teenagers and adults gather around high-energy attractions. Nearby, vendors dish out familiar treats that complete the nostalgic carnival experience.

“This is not just about rides. It’s about giving people a space to reconnect, to laugh and to enjoy time as families. We are calling on residents to come through and experience it,” said the park’s director, Mr Witness Chihota. The timing is deliberate.

With ZITF drawing thousands for business and exhibitions during the day, Luna Park is positioning itself as the perfect after-hours escape.

“We are encouraging people to attend ZITF and, after that, come here and enjoy family time. After all the meetings and exhibitions, people need a place to relax and just be happy,” said Mr Chihota. Now located at North End Grounds, at the corner of JMN Nkomo Street and Masotsha Ndlovu Avenue, the park offers a more spacious and accessible setting. It opens daily from 9AM, with free entry, while rides and activities cost US$2, payable in both foreign and local currency.

In interviews, residents welcomed the park’s return, saying it feels both familiar and refreshing, especially during the holiday season.

“I brought my children here after work today and you can just see the difference.

“They are happy and that makes everything worth it,” said Mrs Tanya Moyo. Another parent, Mr Nleya, praised the park’s upgrades, particularly its embrace of modern entertainment.

“This time they brought high-quality jumping castles and virtual reality, which my older son loves so much,” he said.

Indeed, the addition of virtual reality experiences alongside traditional rides reflects Luna Park’s effort to blend nostalgia with innovation, appealing to a wider audience.

But perhaps what sets it apart most is its sense of belonging.

“We want Bulawayo to feel alive. We want families, friends and even visitors coming for ZITF to know there is a place for them — a place to unwind and create memories,” said Mr Chihota.