Zippin Pippin's first night ride

GREEN BAY - The Zippin Pippin made its debut night ride on Monday. Lights donated by Orion Engineered Systems of Wisconsin make it possible for the Bay Beach roller coaster to run past dusk.

Hundreds of people eagerly awaited a ride on the Zippin Pippin for the first time at night. While the coaster has been open for some time, it was the first time the riders could be on it long after sunset.

“(I’ve) been on it many times. It's the first time at night but it's all the better in the night time,” said Christopher Naumann of Green Bay.

The night ride honored Elvis Presley and the anniversary of his last trip on the Zippin Pippin about 34 years ago. On Aug. 8, 1977, Presley rented the Libertyland amusement park in Memphis, Tenn. - the Zippin Pippin's orginal home - for an all-night party.

• See an interactive timeline of the Zippin Pippin's history

The roller coaster was said to be Presley's favorite ride, and even people not planning on riding the Pippin at night wanted to see the spectacle.

“I'm a big Elvis fan. I remember when he passed away. Matter of fact I did go to his funeral,” said Jim Mohr, Green Bay. “It's pretty great, I wanted to be here for it.”

So how were the first night rides?

“Got up there and you can't see what's coming but it's a lot of fun,” said Naumann.

The roller coaster ran until 10 p.m. From now on, officials say it will only ride until 9 p.m., when the park closes.