Steep slopes, tight turns and roller coasters upside down. Do you miss the joy in the air?

For many, a little fun is exactly what's needed as COVID-19 eases its grip on China.

Summer is usually the peak season for theme parks. But this year has been one unlike any other with the COVID-19 pandemic seeing tourist attractions shut nationwide. However, some of the country's top theme parks are finally reopening. Families and youngsters are eager to take a tour.

"I thought it'd be nice to let my son relax a little bit in a safe environment, or he could end up getting sick at home," said the mother of a 10-year-old boy.

Months of online classes gave the high-schoolers much more spare time this year. "I got an annual card so I can play more often here," said one of them.

And it's not just the screaming crowds; the parks too have experienced their share of ups and downs given the recurring outbreaks of COVID-19.

"I could sell more than 200 sausages a day in summers. But this year, I'd say I sold only dozens," said Han Ze, a staff at Beijing's Happy Valley.

The reopening of Happy Valley is giving a much-needed boost to business, but staff are not letting their guard down yet.

Li Wei, deputy general manager of Beijing's Happy Valley, told CGTN that the number of people in the park was under 50 percent of the maximum capacity. She said admission is allowed only by appointment. "And the park is providing 75 percent alcohol-based hand sanitizer every 50 meters."

With the crowds and music, Happy Valley is almost getting back to normal. The only difference? There are certain safety measures in place and everyone is still wearing masks. This serves as a visible reminder of just how lucky one is to be back on the roller coaster, and how precious the fleeting pleasure is.

(Cover image via CFP)