California's Great America stands as a testament to the timeless allure of amusement parks, where tradition intertwines seamlessly with innovation. At the heart of this beloved park lies a dedication to preserving and revitalizing its iconic attractions, ensuring that each visit is not just a fleeting moment, but a timeless experience that resonates with guests of all ages.

One crucial aspect for this are the numerous restoration projects by the invaluable partnership with Signs by Van, a renowned name in craftsmanship and intricate design. With their years of experience and unwavering commitment to excellence, Signs by Van has played a pivotal role in bringing the park's vision to life.

Signs by Van, established in 1981 by Phil VanderKraats and presently owned by his son, Jeremy VanderKraats, operates in Monterey County with a team of 12 skilled individuals encompassing an eclectic range of talents. Together, they have cultivated an impressive portfolio of world-renowned work spanning over three decades. To explore the full spectrum of their creative capabilities, including custom murals and three-dimensional signage, visit https://www.signsbyvan.com/

Over the last year, they have demonstrated their expertise by crafting impeccable signage for NorCal County Fair, including Barney Oldfield's Redwood Rally, The Grizzly, and Drop Tower. From crafting eye-catching marquees to hand-painted works of art, their unparalleled craftsmanship has elevated the aesthetic appeal of California's Great America's attractions.

Restoring Icons of Nostalgia and Artistry 

At the heart of Great America's entrance stands Carousel Columbia, an iconic symbol of joy and nostalgia since 1976. The carousel is currently being revitalized by the skilled artisans of Signs by Van. The 100 ft high, double-decker carousel is a testament to the park's dedication to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation. Signs by Van's restoration process for Carousel Columbia's original horses are meticulous, aiming to recreate their appearance as faithfully as possible to the originals. However, when it comes to newer animals, they infuse their creative touch, adding unique elements such as color choice and paint finish. This approach ensures that while honoring the historical integrity of the carousel, they also bring a fresh and vibrant aesthetic to the newer additions.

Of the 82 fiberglass replicas of rare carousel animals and symbolic chariots, eight to a dozen selections were removed at a time and taken to the SBV shop in Prunedale, California where they would be hand-painted and meticulously restored. By tackling small sections at a time, the cherished attraction remained operational and enjoyed by visitors throughout the 2023 season and is set to be complete this Spring. Additionally, the team brings their expertise to the restoration of Celebration Swings, meticulously hand-painting each panel to ensure that this beloved attraction retains its whimsical charm and continues to delight guests. Future CGA projects that Signs by Van will be working on include elements in All-American Corners and South Bay Shores waterpark.

"When this project is complete, the defining moment will be when I take my whole team up there...to be able to see all of our hard work come to fruition when we take a ride on the carousel...that’s going to be a pretty darn special moment.” - Jeremy VanderKraats, Owner Signs by Van

Reflecting on Timeless Memories 

As the park opens its gates on March 23, amidst the sounds of laughter and joy, take a moment to admire the beautiful details adorning these cherished legacy attractions. Allow yourself to be transported back to a time when you first rode these rides, when every twist and turn filled you with excitement and wonder. Let the sights and sounds of these timeless attractions reignite cherished memories and create new ones as you embark on another unforgettable journey at California's Great America.

Join us on social media as we celebrate the artistry and dedication of Signs by Van and their ongoing contributions to California's Great America. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories and witness firsthand the impact of these projects on our community.