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Coney Island businesses gear up for Memorial Day Weekend, hope for warm weather

The holiday weekend typically draws thousands to Coney Island’s beaches, boardwalk, and amusement rides.

Shakti Denis

May 24, 2025, 2:55 AM

Updated 5 hr ago

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Coney Island is getting ready for the unofficial start of summer as businesses prepare for the Memorial Day weekend rush, despite cooler-than-average temperatures.
On Thursday, the boardwalk was mostly quiet, with some visitors holding umbrellas to dodge the rain.
But local shop owners say they’re expecting crowds to return once the sun does.
“It’s actually one of our biggest weekends,” said Maya Miller, owner of Brooklyn Beach Shop.
The holiday weekend typically draws thousands to Coney Island’s beaches, boardwalk, and amusement rides. And while some worry that the chilly spring weather could impact on turnout, many remain optimistic.
“It looks like it’s going to be a great summer,” said Steven Gaffney, manager at Paul’s Daughter bar. “It’s all weather- dependent. We need sunshine and warmth.”
New York City’s public beaches officially open for the season on May 24.