Now through January 7, sweeten up your holidays with a trip to Knott’s Merry Farm! With the entire park transformed into a magical Winter Wonderland, friends and families can enjoy gorgeous holiday decorations, live entertainment, Christmas-themed activities, and more.
We were thrilled to be invited to experience Knott’s Merry Farm. It’s an awesome, family-friendly event; and we can’t wait to tell you about it. Thank you, Knott’s Berry Farm, for having us out. Now, let’s take a look at all the Christmas cheer waiting for you beyond the attraction gates!
@freaks_of_hhn We’re at Knott’s Merry Farm today, checking out the gorgeous decorations and adorable holiday friends! What a fun event! @Knott’s Berry Farm #knotts #knottsberryfarm #knottsmerryfarm ♬ Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
Festive Holiday Decorations
If you love a good Christmas decoration, you’re in luck because the ENTIRE PARK is dressed up for the holidays! Knott’s Berry Farm looks AMAZING draped in themed wreaths, stunning garlands, and sparkling lights. I specifically enjoyed the iconic Charleston Circle fountain filled with metallic symbols from this special season.
@freaks_of_hhn Knott’s Berry Farm is all dressed up for Christmas, and when the sun goes down- the holiday spirit turns up! #knottsberryfarm #knottsmerryfarm #knotts #knottsscaryfarm #christmas #christmas2023 @Knott’s Berry Farm @Knott’s Scary Farm ♬ original sound – Freaks_of_HHN
Holiday Activities and Festive Experiences
To celebrate the holidays, Knott’s offers a variety of special activities and experiences for families to enjoy.
Snow and Glow
My favorite piece of Knott’s Merry Farm, don’t miss Snow and Glow on the Ghost Town Streets! Each evening, this area of the park will come alive with falling snow, dancing lights, and classic holiday music. I absolutely ADORED this special moment, and I hope they bring it back next year.
@freaks_of_hhn Florida snoap ain’t got nothin’ on SoCal snoap! At Knott’s Merry Farm we caught a blizzard of gorgeous snoap, classic Christmas music, and dancing lights. #knottsberryfarm #knottsmerryfarm #knottsmerryfarm2023 @Knott’s Berry Farm @Knott’s Scary Farm ♬ original sound – Freaks_of_HHN
Pro-Tip: Snow and Glow only happens at specified times after dark and before park closing. Make sure you check the park’s entertainment schedule, and plan your day accordingly. Snow and Glow only lasts a few minutes, so don’t be late to your chosen show time.
Tree Lighting
Every night, you can gather around a huge Christmas Tree to watch a special lighting ceremony! Filled with festive music and coordinated lighting, this dramatic moment is a memorable time for friends and family.
@freaks_of_hhn Every event evening, enjoy a magical tree lighting ceremony at Knott’s Merry Farm! #knottsberryfarm #knottsmerryfarm #knottsmerryfarm2023 #treelighting @Knott’s Berry Farm @Knott’s Scary Farm ♬ original sound – Freaks_of_HHN
Santa’s Christmas Cabin
Head to Santa’s Christmas Cabin for seasonal refreshments, a cozy place to warm up, and a big hug from St. Nick himself! Professional, portrait-style photos are available for an additional fee.
Live Entertainment
In addition to all the festive activities, Knott’s Merry Farm guests can enjoy a variety of live entertainment including stage shows, musical groups, and character meet and greets. Check the park’s daily show schedule for exact showtimes.
Please note: I attended Knott’s Merry Farm on a Monday. Because many of the stage shows and musical groups are only available on the weekends, I was unable to personally experience some of these offerings.
Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas Ice Show
Located at the Walter Knott Theater, “Snoopy’s Night Before Christmas” features all your favorite Peanuts characters in a special retelling of the classic holiday poem.
Home for the Holidays
Taking place on the outdoor Calico Mine Stage, this energetic dancing show includes classic Christmas tunes and old-fashioned fun.
A Calico Christmas Carol/The Gift of the Magi, 1885
Head to Ghost Town’s Bird Cage Theater to see Knott’s special adaptations of these fan-favorite holiday tales.
Live Music Groups
Throughout Knott’s Berry Farm, you’ll find talented musical groups like the traditional Calico Carolers, Sleigh Bells (an acappella group), and the toe-tappin’ sounds of the Bluegrass Duo!
Character Meet and Greets
While I did not get to experience the live shows, I did get to meet and greet with tons of adorable Knott’s characters! During my visit, I saw Lucy and Snoopy from the Peanuts gang, Boysen Bear, Whittles the Happy Miner, and Coyote Pups, Moxie and Brawny!
Seasonal Dining Options
Of course, what holiday event would be complete without a few festive eats and merry treats? Throughout Knott’s Merry Farm, you’ll find a variety of limited-time dining options all themed to the holiday season. At the Ghost Town Bakery, you can satisfy your sweet tooth with Pumpkin Spice Cake, Gingerbread Cookies, Christmas Tree Cupcakes, and a Dirty Chai Petit Cake with Coffee Ganache Filling and Pumpkin “Cold Foam” Whipped Cream.
If you’re looking for something spicy, head to the Grizzly Creek Lodge for a Naughty & Nice Beef Burger with pineapple slaw. And on select dates, traverse the Gold Mine Trail for an even wider selection of holiday goodies including gourmet pretzels, breaded turkey meatballs, and lots more.
Christmas Crafts Village
If you’re still looking for a few last minute gifts, head to the Ghost Town Streets to find an expansive Christmas Crafts Village! Individual artisans and local vendors are selling everything from wood carvings to unique home items to custom designed blown glass.
@freaks_of_hhn Head to the Knott’s Merry Farm Ghost Town Streets to find the Christmas Craft Village. Filled with local artisans and live demonstrations, you can find gifts for everyone on your list! #knotts #knottsberryfarm #knottsmerryfarm #knottsscaryfarm #christmascraftfair #buenapark #buenaparkcalifornia @Knott’s Berry Farm @Knott’s Scary Farm ♬ All That Glitters – Earl
Freaky Thoughts: Knott’s Merry Farm
What an adorable holiday overlay to your already exciting visit to Knott’s Berry Farm! I had so much fun exploring the decorated park, shopping at the Christmas Crafts Village, and enjoying the nighttime entertainment (like Snow and Glow and the Tree Lighting). Knott’s Merry Farm is a great way to make some holiday memories with friends and family. Don’t miss it!
Visiting Knott’s Merry Farm
Knott’s Merry Farm runs daily (except Christmas Day) from now until January 7. Included in your regular daytime admission to the park, you can buy your Knott’s Merry Farm ticket at knotts.com. Pro-tip: Buy a 2024 Season Pass, and get the rest of 2023 for FREE!
There are so many fun seasonal events and festivals (like the Peanuts Celebration, Boysenberry Festival, Spooky Farm, and more) coming to Knott’s Berry Farm in 2024! Keep up with all the latest updates from Knott’s Berry Farm by following them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
