Over The Top Mommy

Knott’s

Celebrate the Season at Knott’s Merry Farm Beginning November 22

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 
It’s almost time to celebrate the merriest of seasons at Knott’s Berry Farm as the park wondrously transforms into Knott’s Merry Farm, a Christmas celebration for all ages. You can come spend the most wonderful time of the year with your family at Knott’s Merry Farm enjoying thrilling holiday attractions, live entertainment, a Christmas Crafts Village, festive food, lavish holiday decorations, and nightly snow in Ghost Town, all beginning November 22!

I feel so lucky to live in Southern California where I can celebrate the holidays while still enjoying the beautiful sunny weather outside. I am all about making the most of this time of year with my family and Knott’s Merry Farm is an annual tradition for us. I’m not even sure if I’m most excited about the festive treats, the special holiday entertainment, visiting Santa (because he is there, too.) or just going on all of my favorite rides? Also, I get so excited to see what’s new each year.

Here are the special entertainment offerings you’ll find this year at Knott’s Merry Farm:

“Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” Ice Show (in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre) -Snoopy, the Peanuts, and a cast of world-class ice skaters perform in the spectacular ice show, “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre. During the show, filled with whimsy and spectacular skating, Snoopy enjoys all of the best parts of the season, including trimming the Christmas tree, awaiting Santa’s arrival, and attending the festive Christmas Ball! “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” is performed on select days.“Home for the Holidays” (at the Calico Mine Stage) -Home for the Holidays is a joyous music review filled with singing, dancing and merriment of Christmas days of yore, including some of the best-loved perennial holiday tunes including, “There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Jingle Bells,” “Here We Come A-Caroling,” and many more. The Calico Mine Stage depicts a Winter Wonderland directly out of a Currie & Ives painting and is the ideal version of an old-fashioned holiday dream. The year is 1915 and the sounds and feelings of the holiday season surround the air. Home for the Holidays is the story of family, friends and holiday traditions.

“A Peanuts Guide to Christmas” (at the Camp Snoopy Theater) – The Peanuts Gang offer their take and unique wisdom on surviving the holidays, while singing you a mashup of their favorite holiday tunes. After the show, head right next door to the Peanuts Meet and Greet Area to take a picture with your favorite character.“Charles Dickens’A Christmas Carol” and “Marley’s Wings” (in the Bird Cage Theater)- Knott’s melodrama company brings to life Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Marley’s Wings performances available on select dates during Knott’s Merry Farm. In Marley’s Wings, the Ghost of Jacob Marley returns to a wonderful new holiday musical that is destined to become a classic! One year ago, Marley appeared and appealed to Ebenezer Scrooge to mend his ways lest he suffer eternal torment in the form of chains forged by a life of greed and avarice. If Scrooge could truly change his ways for an entire year, Marley would not only be free of his chains; he would also gain his bona fide Angel’s Wings! On the surface, Ebenezer seems to have seen the light and made the necessary adjustments, with one glaring exception. Scrooge is struggling with finding and holding the true meaning of Christmas in his heart. He must grasp this essential message by midnight, or Marley will be grounded for all eternity. The Bird Cage piano will come alive with great new songs like “Raise the Rafters,” “Christmas in Heaven,” and “The Bah Hum Bug” to name a few. Marley is on a mission! With the help of this wonderful new musical score and audience energy, Scrooge’s transformation unfolds before our eyes. Will it be soon enough to deliver Marley’s wings? The clock is ticking…

Calico Saloon Christmas Show (Calico Saloon) – Cameo Kate and Dakota Dan invite you to their musical turn of the century holiday celebration. Head into the Calico Saloon, grab a boysenberry beer or sarsaparilla and watch a classical Old West revue show. Get ready for plenty of laughs and audience interaction in this toe-tapping, knee-slapping journey.

Snow and Glow Show (in Calico Ghost Town) – Every night during Merry Farm, when the sun sets on the Farm, the buildings and paths in Ghost Town’s Main Street and School House Road are filled with glow and snow! Thousands of sparkling lights dance to the beat of Christmas music while snow gently falls in this spectacular one-of-a-kind moment.

Calico Carolers (strolling throughout Ghost Town) – Be transported back in time to a Victorian Christmas by the Calico Carolers, Knott’s own vocal quartet, as they perform the songs of the season throughout Ghost Town. Warm up your vocal chords and join in on the fun by singing along to both classic and contemporary Christmas music presented in a timeless way.

Festive Eats and Treats at Knott’s Merry Farm
Every holday season, it seems like the Knott’s culinary team steps up their festive treats game even more. At Knott’s Merry Farm, you’ll not only find traditional favorites such as Mrs. Claus’ milk & cookies, hot cocoa with candy cane topping, roasted nuts, and but there are also offerings such as tamales, Christmas pizza, and candy cane churros!Knott’s is the perfect place to spend many a day together with friends and/or family creating new memories together, which is a great reason to grab a 2020 Knott’s Season Pass. They make great holiday gifts and include one free visit to Knott’s in 2019, unlimited visits in 2020 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise,  and access to exciting year-round seasonal events.For more information about Knott’s Season Passes, including information about their payment plans, please visit knotts.com.

Family Friendly Fun at Knott’s Spooky Farm Weekends Starting September 28

I was invited as a guest of Knott’s to spend a day in the park in exchange for this post. All opinions are my own. 

It’s almost that time of year again! Halloween time! I love spending September and October celebrating as much as possible and a visit to Knott’s for Knott’s Spooky Farm is always on our list of must-dos! Have you been before?Knott’s Spooky Farm is annual datytime family-friendly celebration that takes place on Saturday and Sunday days through October 27, as well as Halloween day. This kid-inspired “spooky” celebration offers a a variety of fun activities, throughout the park, geared towards children ages 3-11 and are included in the price of your regular park ticket. (or Season Pass) Children will be able to interact spooky (but very friendly) shopkeepers and ghosts in Ghost Town. Children are welcome to dress up in costumes. Adults are too. (no masks please.)

Here are some of the fun acitivites you’ll find this year at Knott’s Spooky Farm:

Trick or Treating (Ghost Town Main Street & Schoolhouse Road) – Little ghouls can trick-or-treat through Ghost Town to collect sweet Halloween treats. Treat bags containing event maps and other goodies will be distributed to children age 3 to 11 from opening until 4:30pm. There are different trick-or-treat stations, which you can find on the Knott’s Spooky Farm map.

Timber Mountain Log Ride: Halloween Hootenanny – The Timber Mountain Log Ride mystically converts into the Halloween Hootenanny by adding a new family friendly twist to a park favorite. Every year the citizens of the Timber Mountain invite the mysterious creatures that live out in the woods and caverns of the area to join them as they celebrate the season at the Halloween Hootenanny. The ride’s interior will feature new fun surprises as guests venture past the Calico Coffin Creeper band, the town’s green witch and splash down Skull Mountain through a labyrinth of jack-o-lanterns. The seasonal ride will also feature an original song performed by Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies. Open for day and night guests, this is the perfect family experience for all to enjoy this Halloween season.“The Monsters are Coming, Charlie Brown” (Camp Snoopy Theatre) – Camp Snoopy Theater plays host to the “Monsters are Coming” show. The Peanuts Gang will have you singing and dancing right along with them to classic Halloween tunes! Several shows a day are offered.where children are encouraged to participate in the daily “Calling All Monsters” costume contest.A Trip to Camp Spooky (Grand Sierra Railroad) – While you’re visiting Camp Spooky, be sure to take a ride on the Grand Sierra Railroad. This year, special for Knott’s Spooky Farm, guests will find added 2D and 3D Hallowen themed characters and effects as The Grand Sierra Railroad has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind experience that will take riders on an adventure to Camp Spooky, along with the Peanuts Gang.Creepy Critters of Calico (Livery Stable) – This year, Stanley Scarecrow has opened his Livery Stable to guests of all ages to come in and get up close and personal with the Creepy Critters of Calico, if you dare! You’ll find insects and other creepy crawlers, rats, and even a white python! The horses at the stable are also dressed up for the occasion.

Pumpkin Patch (Calico Park) – Over in Calico Patch, you’ll find the Pumpkin Patch. For an additional fee, you can purchase a pumpkin to decorate for your own home, while you enjoy the atmosphere of the season!Spooky Story Time (Bird Cage Theatre) – stop by Bird Cage Theatre for semi-haunted tales told by charismatic storytellers.

(Please note: some activities may be offered at a nominal fee.)

The best way to experience Knott’s Spooky Farm is with a  2020 Knott’s Season Pass! Right now, if you purchase a 2020 pass, you’ll get one free admission in 2019, as well as additional 2019 visits for just $14.99. It’s a great way to enjoy ALL the Seasons of Fun at Knott’s and is offered at a GREAT PRICE! For more information about Knott’s Season Passes and to purchase your own, please visit HERE
What are YOU most excitedf for this Halloween season? Share with me in the comments. For more information about Knott’s Camp Spooky and to purchase your park tickets, please visit their site HERE.

Spark Joy at Knott’s Boysenberry Festival March 28 – April 28

i was invited to a media tasting in order to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own. 

Recently I’ve find myself asking “Does it spark joy?” about everything!  In the case of Knott’s Boysenberry Festival, I already know it SPARKS JOY! This year marks the 5th anniversary of this amazing annual offering, just one of Knott’s “Seasons of Fun“. 

The Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is an annual foodi-nspired event that celebrates the park’s historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all, the boysenberry. This year’s newly-expanded festival will feature over 75 unique boysenberry-inspired creations crafted by the Knott’s culinary team.Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a tantalizing line up of dishes ranging from savory foods with a boysenberry twist to one-of-a-kind specialty desserts and drinks that can only be found at Knott’s Berry Farm during this time of the year. In addition to the numerous food and drink offerings, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers a wide selection of local crafters, live music, musical stage shows and fun activities for guests of all ages to enjoy.This year’s Boysenberry Festival runs 31 days starting March 29, operating daily through April 28, 2019. This year’s lineup will introduce several new food items including:

  • Flavorful boysenberry dry rubbed flank steak topped with boysenberry cream cheese
  • Sweet and tangy boysenberry jerk chicken wings
  • Hearty boysenberry chili in a fresh-baked boysenberry sourdough bread bowl
  • Tender boysenberry pot roast served over rich and creamy boysenberry mashed
    potatoes
  • Grilled boysenberry BBQ chicken skewers served with a zesty boysenberry aioli dipping
    sauce
  • Boysenberry glazed salmon served on mixed greens and topped with a boysenberry vinaigrette
  • Spicy boysenberry habanero baked mac and cheese
  • Boysenberry jambalaya prepared with chicken, boysenberry sausage and bell peppers served with white rice
  • Boysenberry pulled pork tostada topped with creamy coleslaw and boysenberry drizzle
  • Boysenberry-lemon hummus served with pita bread
  • Grilled boysenberry sausage on a freshly baked roll topped with boysenberry ketchup, relish, and mustard
  • Boysenberry elote, a grilled corn on the cob smothered in fresh boysenberry butter,
    mayo and topped off with cotija cheese
  • Fresh-baked boysenberry waffles served with sweet maple boysenberry cream cheese syrup
  • Boysenberry cinnamon sugar tortilla crisps served with creamy boysenberry ice cream

Knott’s Boysenberry Tasting Cards
A great way to indulge the new boysenberry food items during the festival is by purchasing a
Boysenberry tasting card. Priced at just $35 (that’s a great deal!), the card offers 8 tastings from a selection of the following 14 boysenberry-inspired dishes:

  1. NEW! Boysenberry Chili in a Boysenberry Sourdough Bread Bowl (Sutter’s Stand)
  2. NEW! Boysenberry and Lemon Hummus with Pita Bread (Sutter’s Stand)
  3. NEW! Boysenberry Dry Rubbed Flank Steak with a Boysenberry Cream Cheese Topping (Sutter’s Stand)
  4. Boysenberry Elote (Ghost Town Bank Stand)
  5. NEW! Boysenberry Jerk Chicken Wings (Spur’s Chophouse Outdoor Stand)
  6. Boysenberry Sausage in a Bun (Wilderness Dance Hall)
  7. NEW! Boysenberry BBQ Chicken Skewers with a Boysenberry Aioli (Wilderness Dance Hall)
  8. NEW! Boysenberry Pot Roast over Boysenberry Mashed Potatoes (Inside Spurs Chophouse)
  9. NEW! Boysenberry Glazed Salmon over mixed Greens and topped with a Boysenberry Vinaigrette (Inside Spurs Chophouse)
  10. NEW! Boysenberry Habanero Baked Mac and Cheese (Wagon Wheel Pizza)
  11. NEW! Boysenberry Jambalaya with Chicken and Sausage (Wagon Wheel Pizza)
  12. NEW! Boysenberry Pulled Pork Tostada (Wagon Wheel Pizza)
  13. NEW! Boysenberry Waffle with Maple Boysenberry Cream Cheese Syrup (Ghost Town Bakery)
  14. NEW! Boysenberry Cinnamon Sugar Flour Tortilla Chips with Boysenberry Ice Cream (Ghost Town Bakery)

A variety of signature boysenberry items will also be available for purchase a la carte. Tasting cards are available at Knotts.com or at the park.

Boysenberry Festival Merchandise
Guest can also take home a taste of the boysenberry festival with limited edition merchandise
found throughout the park. This year’s new merchandise includes a selection of event apparel, plus new packaged food items perfect for take-home souvenirs like the boysenberry peanut, cashew and pecan brittle, boysenberry hand-dipped chocolate-covered turtles, graham crackers and honeycomb. Unique boysenberry inspired artisan products will also be available at the Boysenberry Festival Craft Fair which features 30 local craft vendors.The Knott’s Berry Market (located in the Marketplace outside the Park) also features signature boysenberry items like the delicious boysenberry BBQ sauce or the classic jams and preserves.

Special Boysenberry Festival Entertainment
Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers endless entertainment options for the festival goer:

  • “Tied Up in Knott’s!” – a tribute art show dedicated to the rich history of Knott’s Berry Farm. Over 30 artists will be contributing 50 pieces of art to the show, which pays homage to Knott’s Berry Farm’s past, present and future in various mediums including: oil paintings, illustrations and digital mixed media. These original pieces will be hung on display at the Wilderness Dance Hall during the duration of the Boysenberry Festival.
  • Snoopy’s Boysenberry Jamboree! – Guests are invited to join Snoopy, Charlie
    Brown and the entire Peanuts Gang in a musical stage show that will have
    families dancing along at the Calico Mine Stage.
  • Old Time Melodrama – Knott’s pays tribute to its past at the Legendary Bird Cage
    Theatre with a special presentation of the musical comedy melodrama with a
    surprising boysenberry twist!
  • Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies – A group of krazy talented performers will have
    guests toe tappin’, vine dancin’ and knee-slappin’ to a comedic country music
    show at the Wagon Camp stage.
  • Musical Performances – Various musical duos playing Country and Bluegrass
    tunes will take the stage at Fireman’s stage.
  • Old MacDonald Petting Zoo – Young ones and young at heart are invited to cozy
    up to the cutest critters on the farm including horses, sheep, goats and other
    furry friends. Old MacDonald’s farm pays tribute to one of the farm’s original
    attractions.

The Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival is included with admission to Knott’s Berry Farm. Additional costs apply for food tasting experiences within the event. Knott’s will have extended hours on select days March 29 – April 28, allowing guests extra time to take advantage of all of the limitedt-ime offerings.The best way to savor every day of the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival and all of the other Seasons of Fun is with a 2019 Season Pass. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to Knott’s Berry Farm with no blackout dates, and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2019 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Regular passes are just $98 or five easy payments of $15.50 after an initial payment and Gold Passes are $118 or five easy payments of just $18.50 after an initial payment. These offers end April 28, 2019. Applicable taxes and fees apply. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.For more information about Knott’s Berry Farm please visit knotts.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smart phone. Join the conversation using #BoysenberryFestival on social.

How to Get Into Knott’s Scary Farm Early + Fright & Fast Lane Add-On

I was provided with media tickets in exchange for coverage. All opinions are my own.

Have you had been to Knott’s Scary Farm yet this year? It’s Southern California’s largest and most terrifying annual Halloween event and it’s not for the faint of heart!  Knott’s Scary Farm only happens at night after the regular Knott’s Berry Farm Park is closed. The Park is fully transformed into “Scary Farm” and comes alive with more than 1,000 horrifying creatures lurking in the fog and hiding in every corner. haunted houses, mazes and attractions, sinister shows, a dozen thrill rides in the dark and more!Each night at Knott’s Scary Farm is unique as monsters spill out onto the streets and turn theme park midways into terrifying scare zones. From the world famous Ghost Town Streets to the Boardwalk area filled with evil clowns, there’s nowhere to hide in Knott’s Scary Farm. It’s where nightmares never end! So, if you’re curious about how exactly you can gain early access to Knott’s Scary Farm, there is a way, so lean in while I spill. The Knott’s Scary Farm BOO-fet Grants Guests Early Access to the Park 
Come early and munch with the monsters before you face your fears! Treat yourself to a Knott’s Scary Farm BOO-fet dinner followed by early entrance (included with the BOO-fet) to select areas of Knott’s Scary Farm. The BOO-fet features endless portions of signature Knott’s entrees and desserts + receive a souvenir cup, which is a $14.99 value.)  Buy your Knott’s Scary Farm BOO-fet online HERE and save $5 off the price. Our friends over at Family Review Guide dined at Knott’s Scary Farm’s BOO-fet and the food looks fabulous. You can read about their dining experience HERE.

Please note: A separate Knott’s Scary Farm Admission is required for entry to the BOO-fet and is not included in the price of Boo-fet dinner itself. 

Add on Fast & Fright Lane to Your Knott’s Scary Farm Ticket
If you’re looking for a way to make your night out at Knott’s Scary Farm even better, consider adding on Fright & Fast Lane wristband to your ticket. With this special add-on, you’ll receive unlimited priority access for all mazes plus priority boarding on all Fast Lane rides. You can ride and scream as many times as you want, all night long! Fright & Fast Lane rides include:

  • The all-new HangTime
  • Ghostrider
  • Xcelerator
  • Voyage to the Iron Reef
  • Coast Rider
  • Silver Bullet
  • Calico Mine Ride
  • Sierra Sidewinder
  • Pony Express
  • Montezooma’s Revenge
  • Jaguar!
  • Supreme Scream
  • Halloween Hootenanny (a.k.a. Timber Mountain Log Ride)

For more information about the Fast & Fright Lane add-on, please go HERE. Please note: Admission to Knott’s Scary Farm is not included with Fast & Fright Lane. 

 

 


There are also hotel packages available at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel, which is adjacent to the Park. You can “Scream and Dream” with a Knott’s Scary Farm Hotel Package. Play late and stay just steps away from the park. Nightmares are guaranteed. Click HERE to learn more about package details, pricing and availability.
This year, Knott’s Scary Farm runs select Thursday – Sunday nights through October 31. There are also 2 Wednesday evening dates on October 24 and October 31. The event hours are as follows:

  • Thursday nights – 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
  • Friday/Saturday/Sunday nights – 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.
  • Wednesday October 24 & Wednesday October 31 – 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.

To view the Knott’s Scary Farm calendar with remaining 2018 event dates, please go HERE.

Some images and logos are property of Knott’s and used with permission. 

 

 

 

Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is Happening Now + $30 Boysenberry Tasting Card

I was invited to a media tasting in order to write this post. All opinions are my own. 

There are SO many things I love about this time of year at Knott’s but most of all, the start of the Boysenberry Festival! The festival runs from March 16 through April 8 and this year’s festival is better than ever!knotts-boysenberry-festival-facadeIf you’ve never experienced it before, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is a must-do! This annual food-inspired event celebrates the park’s historic roots by highlighting the little berry that started it all…the boysenberry. knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-funnel-cakeThis year’s festival will feature over 75 new and returning boysenberry-inspired creations crafted by Knott’s amazing culinary team.knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-boba-teaPark guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a tantalizing lineup of treats ranging from savory foods with a boysenberry twist to refreshingly sweet and tangy. There are many one-of-a-kind specialty desserts that can only be found at Knott’s Berry Farm during this time of the year, which is why I seriously recommend heading to the festival at least once before April 8.knotts-boysenberry-festival-berry-place-and-ghost-townDid you know that the boysenberry is a cross between a loganberry, red raspberry and blackberry and is named after its originator Rudolf Boysen. The Knott family was the first to successfully harvest and sell the boysenberry on the land that is now known as Knott’s Berry Farm.knotts-boysenberry-festival-crateGuests at Knott’s Boysenberry Festival will find boysenberry specialty food and drinks throughout the park and can navigate their taste buds using the Event Guide. knotts-boysenberry-festival-guideA great option for guests to indulge in a variety of new and returning food items during the festival is the tasting card.
knotts-boysenberry-festival-tasting-card-1Priced at just $30, the tasting card is a great value and offers 8 of the new food options per card and! Here’s another cool part about it, if there’s something on the tasting card you might not care to try, you can use the tasting card vouchers for a different item on it. I may have used mine to get not 1 but TWO of the boysenberry coconut macaroons on my visit! Mmm! Please note: Signature boysenberry items not offered on the tasting card are available for purchase a la carte.knotts-boysenberry-festival-culinary-teamLet’s take a closer look at each of the 8 offerings on this year’s festival tasting card!

Slow Cooked Boysenberry Short Rib – Slow cooked to perfection, this juicy meat is smothered in boysenberry hoisin sauce served over butter basmati rice and complete with chopped green onions will leave guests asking for more.knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-short-ribBoysenberry Pierogies – These are new for this year and are like little pillows filled with cheddar cheese and topped with onions, bacon and boysenberry sour cream. The pierogies are a bursting a combination of sweet and savory flavors.knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-pierogiesBoysenberry Chicken Wings – The guest favorite and finger-lickin’ boysenberry chicken wings will be available during the festival; the irresistible wings are smothered in the delicious and popular boysenberry BBQ sauce which is made exclusively at the Farm.knotts-boysenberry-festival-wingsBoysenberry Coconut Marcaroon –  Sweets and desserts are a key part of the festival and this year the culinary team is introducing the scrumptious, perfectly bite-sized boysenberry coconut macaroons, dipped in a decadent chocolate ganache, which are great to enjoy while strolling through the park. knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-coconut-macaroonBoysenberry Elote – The boysenberry elote is one of the satisfying treats guests will be able to find in the streets of Ghost Town. The lightly grilled corn is smothered in fresh boysenberry butter, mayo and perfectly topped off with cotija cheese.

knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-eloteBoysenberry Hummus with Grilled Pita Bread – a new vegetarian/vegan option like the highly enjoyable boysenberry hummus served with pita bread and prepared with garden-fresh boysenberries.knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-hummusBoysenberry Cheese Quesadilla – Another new item for this year is the first ever boysenberry quesadilla!  Made with a boysenberry-infused flour tortilla, prepared with boysenberry salsa, boysenberry sour cream, sprinkled with cotija and mozzarella cheese, it’s so delicious!knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-quesadillaBoysenberry Sausage on a Bun – This is a popular item for meat lovers! This very filling boysenberry grilled sausage on a bun prepared with a freshly farm-baked roll and topped with boysenberry ketchup, relish and mustard.knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-grilled-sausageTasting cards for the Boysenberry Festival are available for purchase online at Knotts.com or else inside the Park.

knotts-boysenberry-festival-merchandise-1In addition to the tasty treats, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival offers a wide selection of daily entertainment, live music and fun activities for guests of all ages to enjoy. Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is just another great reason to consider grabbing a Knott’s Season Pass for everyone in your family. With no blackout dates, you can go back and visit the Boysenberry Festival several times before it goes away after April 8!knotts-boysenberry-festival-boysenberry-plantFor more information about Knott’s Boysenberry Festival, please go here. Connect with Knott’s on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and join in the conversation on social media by using and following #BoysenberryFestival!

 

Guide to Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration Weekends Through 2/25

I was invited to attend a media event in exchange for coverage. All opinions are my own.

The Seasons of Fun at Knott’s Berry Farm got even more exciting this year. Kicking off 2018 with the addition with something brand-new-to-Knott’s, the PEANUTS Celebration, takes place weekends starting January 27 through February 25, 2018, plus Presidents’ Day.kbf-peanutscelebration-logo-black

This special celebration debuted last weekend and we were lucky enough to be there to experience it.knotts-peanuts-celebration-signDuring Knott’s Peanuts Celebration, guests can encounter The Peanuts Gang in the park, including Charlie Brown, Lucy, Sally, Snoopy, Woodstock and a couple others. Also, for the very first time at Knott’s, the Peanuts Gang is joined by their friend PigPen, everyone’s favorite messy pal!knotts-peanuts-celebration-pigpenThe all-new Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration is uniquely dedicated to celebrating the beloved PEANUTS characters. The park celebrates the world Charles M. Schultz created and is currently. adorned with PEANUTS inspired décor. Guests can check out new character experiences, comic strip inspired photo opportunities, deliciously themed-treats and new whimsical shows.knotts-peanuts-celebration-snoopy-backdropknotts-peanuts-celebration-backdrop-2One-of-a-Kind Peanuts Photo Opportunities
As you enter the park, you’ll see some of the new photo backdrops set up and available for photos. For your convenience, Knott’s photographers are on hand to take your photos, which are also available for purchase through Knott’s Pix program. You are also welcome to use your own camera and mobile device to take photos.knotts-peanuts-celebration-photo-with-pigpenIn addition to the photo backdrops created especially for this celebration, you’ll find other photo opportunities throughout the park with the Peanuts characters. If you’re looking for PigPen, you can find him in the PigPen’s Pig Pen, located in Ghost Town, (a.k.a. the Livery Stable) with his animal friends. PigPen is available for photos throughout the day.knotts-peanuts-celebration-pigpens-pig-pen-signSpecial Peanuts Celebration Entertainment
During Knott’s Peanuts Celebration, there’s a complete lineup of whimsical entertainment. The shows are offered a few times a day throughout the day so you can fit them all into your day.

Peanuts Balancing Act – In this show, over in the Camp Snoopy Theater, watch Lucy and Charlie put their talents to the test. knotts-peanuts-celebration-camp-snoopy-theaterThe Music Goes ’round and ’round – Join in on the daytime fun, held on the Calico Mine Stage, as Sally and Schroder host a retrospect of music and have guests dancing in the aisles! .
Peanuts Cowboy Jamboree – Franklin and Linus are on a Western escapade as they transform into cowboys. They’re also looking to challenge guests with some of the rootinest, tootinest games in Calico. Join in on the fun in Calico Ghost Town.
Lucy and Sally’s Fiesta Fantasy – Uncover hidden fun as Lucy and Sally take a journey south of the border. Enjoy lively music, traditional costumes and live performances on the Fiesta Village Stage. knotts-peanuts-celebration-peanuts-fiesta-fantasyWoodstock’s Music Festival – This nighttime festival is held on the Calico Mine Stage and features the Peanuts Gang as they’re joined by the family-friendly indie band The Jelly of the Month Club. This high energy rock concert is fun for the whole family. .knotts-peanuts-celebration-jelly-of-the-month-clubPeanuts Sketch School
The PEANUTS Sketch School was one of our favorite highlights of our visit. It’s held in the Bird Cage Theatre and is hosted by a resident art teacher. The class starts with step-by-step instructions on how to draw the perfect PEANUTS masterpiece. Paper and pencil are provided as you enter the theatre. (We got to draw Lucy.) knotts-peanuts-celebration-sketch-school-2As you go through the drawing lesson, the instructor also provided fun and interesting facts about the character. After class is dismissed, a special showing of a classic PEANUTS television special is shown. If you are bringing children, I suggest arriving a little early so they can get a seat on the stage. There is plenty of seating available though for all guests.knotts-peanuts-celebration-sketch-schoolPeanuts Celebration Treats 
One of my most favorite parts about any visit to Knott’s is always the treats! I was amazed at all of the special treats that the Knott’s culinary team came up with for Knott’s Peanuts Celebration. knotts-peanuts-celebration--cookiesThere are 16 special Peanuts Celebration treats offered throughout the park including Charlie Brownies, Charlie Brown cotton candy, Peanuts Characters cupcakes, Chocolate Covered Apples, Charlie Brown Marshmallow Pops, Snoopy Cookies, and more. After sampling many of them, I cannot wait to go back and try some more.

knotts-peanuts-celebration-peanuts-cupcakes

knotts-peanuts-celebration-charlie-brown-marshmallow-popsknotts-peanuts-celebration-chocolate-covered-applesknotts-peanuts-celebration-charlie-brown-cotton-candyHave you had a chance to experience Knott’s Peanuts Celebration yet? If not, be sure to do so before it ends on February 25. It’s absolutely adorable and I can assure you, you’ll have a great time!knotts-peanuts-celebration-peppermint-patty

The best way to enjoy every weekend of the all-new Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration and all of the other Seasons of Fun is with a 2018 Season Pass. A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to Knott’s Berry Farm with no blackout dates, and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and the newly expanded Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Regular passes are just $94 or six easy payments of $15.66 and Gold Passes are $113 or six payments of just $18.83. These offers end April 8, 2018. Applicable taxes and fees apply online. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.

Logo is property of Knott’s and used with permission. 

Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration Begins January 27

Our family will be attending a special media event in exchange for providing this coverage. All opinions are my own. 

I always get excited about news coming out of Knott’s! Have you heard that they’re kicking off the new year with an all-new offering? Yes! The Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration! kbf-peanutscelebration-logo-blackThis all-new Seasons of Fun event is uniquely dedicated to celebrating the beloved PEANUTS characters and invites guests to step inside the pages of a Charles M. Schulz comic strip as the characters take over the entire theme park for the very first time.knotts-peanuts-celebration-charactersThe newly introduced event will take place on weekends beginning January 27th through February 25th plus President’s Day, February 19th. The limited time celebration unites fans of all ages to join in on the fun and friendship of the most adventurous group around by introducing new ways for guests to play and interact with the PEANUTS Gang throughout the park.

The event will feature:

  • special PEANUTS inspired décor
  • new social media worthy comic strip photo ops
  • new character experiences
  • live shows
  • exclusive merchandise

…and deliciously themed treats will complete this whimsical celebration!knotts-peanuts-celebration-pigpenHave you heard? For the first time ever at Knott’s, guests will have the opportunity to meet PigPen from the PEANUTS Gang! He’ll be over in the Livery Stable with his new animal friends! knotts-ghost-town-75th-celebration-livery-stableOur family is so excited to check out the Knott’s PEANUTS Celebration on opening weekend and will be sharing more photos, videos & info about it on my Facebook page, Instagram and Twitter, so be sure to follow along. Will you be stopping by Knott’s to check out the all-new PEANUTS Celebration? For more information or to purchase park tickets ahead of time, please visit here.

Some images are property of Knott’s and used with permission. 

Celebrate the Holiday Season at Knott’s Merry Farm

I was invited to attend a media event at Knott’s. All opinions are my own. 

I get as giddy as a little girl when I spot signs of the holidays at Knott’s Berry Farm. From decorated Christmas trees to holiday music and all of the festive treats, I consider myself lucky to live in Southern California where you can celebrate the holidays while still enjoying the beautiful sunny weather outside. I am all about making the most of this time of year with my family and Knott’s Merry Farm is an annual tradition for us. knotts-merry-farm-family-1I think one of the things I love most about visiting Knott’s Merry Farm each holiday season is knowing I can expect some of my usual favorites to be there but I also to get excited for what’s new each year, in addition to all of the regular attractions we normally enjoy on our visits.knotts-merry-farm-hot-cocoaThis holiday season, it looks like the culinary team at Knott’s stepped up their festive treats game, more than usual, to catch the eyes and the palettes of all the visiting foodies. Not only will you find traditional favorites such as Mrs. Claus’ milk & cookies, hot cocoa with candy cane topping, roasted nuts, and but this year, you can feast on such offerings as tamales, Christmas pizza, and candy cane churros!knotts-merry-farm-tamalesknotts-merry-farm-christmas-pizzaMmm!  There were so many yummy treats to try, you should definitely bring an appetite with you, I almost forgot about the attractions and entertainment!knotts-merry-farm-candy-cane-churroHere are the special entertainment offerings this year at Knott’s Merry Farm:

  • “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” (in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre) – This festive ice show continues to be a favorite, year after year and is perfect for guests of all ages. The show stars the Peanuts Gang and a cast of world-class ice skaters. Watch Snoopy enjoy all of the best parts of the season including trimming the Christmas tree, awaiting Santa’s arrival, and attending the Christmas Ball! “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!”is guaranteed to warm your heart.knotts-merry-farm-snoopy-on-ice-2
  • “It’s The Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown!” (at the Calico Mine Stage) – Audiences can dance and sing along to a live performance of this charming holiday show. It continues to delight audiences as The Peanuts Gang star in this toe-tapping, merry musical sure to bring out the Christmas joy in all.knotts-merry-farm-christmas-show-ever
  • “A Peanuts Guide to Christmas” (at the Camp Snoopy Theater) – The Peanuts Gang offer their take and unique wisdom on surviving the holidays, while singing you a mashup of their favorite holiday tunes.
  • Charles Dickens’A Christmas Carol and O. Henry’s A Gift ofthe Magi (in the Bird Cage Theater)- Knott’s melodrama company bring classics to life.knotts-merry-farm-decorations-birdcage
  • Snow and Glow Show (in Calico Ghost Town) – After the sun sets, enjoy this show with nightly falling snow set to thousands of sparkling lights and traditional Christmas music. knotts-merry-farm-snow-and-glow

Don’t forget to look for The Calico Bell Choir, strolling throughout Ghost Town, singing the songs of the season! knotts-merry-farm-carolers-2

If you’re looking for Santa  you can find him, along with many festive holiday treats, inside of Santa’s Christmas Cabin. Commemorative Santa Photos are available for purchase.knotts-merry-farm-christmas-treeKnott’s is the perfect place to spend many a day together with friends and/or family creating new memories together, which is a great reason to grab a 2018 Knott’s Season Pass. They make great holiday gifts and include one free visit to enjoy Merry Farm in 2017, unlimited visits in 2018 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise,  and access to exciting year-round seasonal events.knotts-merry-farm-holiday-decorA Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to Knott’s Berry Farm and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and the newly expanded Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Now at the lowest price of the year, Regular Season Passes start at just $92.00 or six easy payments of $15.33 and Gold Season Passes are $110 or six payments of just $18.33.These offers end January 7, 2018.Applicable taxes and fees apply online. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.
knotts-merry-farm-trainHave you been to Knott’s Merry Farm before? If so, share your favorite memory with me in the comments. Happy Holidays! knotts-merry-farm-family-2

 

Family Guide to Knott’s Spooky Farm Weekend Days Through Oct. 29 and Halloween

I was invited as a guest of Knott’s Berry Farm to spend a day in the Park and received media tickets in exchange for this post All opinions are my own. 

One of our most favorite places to visit is Knott’s Berry Farm. Referred to as “American’s 1st Theme Park” Knott’s is located in the heart of Orange County and offers a variety of seasonal family friendly offerings in addition to dozens of rides, shows, roller coasters, and attractions in 5 themed areas. knotts-spooky-farm-logo
This time of year, you’ll find family friendly fun at Knott’s during Halloween time. Knott’s Spooky Farm is an annual datytime family-friendly celebration that takes place on weekend days through October 29, as well as Halloween day. This kid-inspired “spooky” celebration offers a a variety of fun activities, geared towards children ages 3-1, throughout the park ,which are included in the price of your regular park ticket. (or Season Pass) (Please note: some activities may be offered at a nominal fee.)knotts-spooky-farm-entranceWe spent a day there last weekend and it was so much fun. Since the weather is almost always perfect here in Southern California, it really turned out to be the perfect “Sunday Funday” for us, between all of the Knott’s Spooky Farm activities to the regular attractions, included water rides. Since there’s still plenty of time to head to Knott’s Spooky Farm this year, I want to share about all of the fun things you can explore on your visit. Here’s my family guide to Knott’s Spooky Farm, which includes all of the things I think you won’t want to miss!knotts-spooky-farm-witchGo Trick-or-Treating in Ghost Town
Children, ages 3-11, are invited to trick-or-treat throughout Ghost Town and will receive a Knott’s trick or treat bag upon entrance to the Park. There are different trick-or-treat stations, which you can find on the Knott’s Spooky Farm map. knotts-spooky-farm-candyChildren will be able to interact spooky (but very friendly) shopkeepers and ghosts in Ghost Town. Children are welcome to dress up in costumes. Adults are too. (no masks please.)knotts-spooky-farm-trick-or-treatingVisit the Creepy Crawlers of Calico in Livery Stable
This year, Stanley Scarecrow has opened his Livery Stable to guests of all ages to come in and get up close and personal with the Creepy Critters of Calico, if you dare! You’ll find insects and other creepy crawlers, rats, and even a white python! The horses at the stable are also dressed up for the occasion.knotts-spooky-farm-livery-stable-rats

knotts-spooky-farm-livery-stable-horsesEnter the Peanuts Costume Contest 
Be sure to head over to Camp Snoopy Theatre for the Peanuts Costume Contest. Children in costume are welcome to enter. The costume contest will be held each weekend day at 3:45 p.m.  Afterwards, stay and dance with your favorite Peanuts characters at their dance party.knotts-spooky-farm-peanutsCatch a Performance of “The Monsters Are Coming, Charlie Brown” Stage Show 
Also in the Camp Snoopy Theatre, catch a performance of “The Monsters Are Coming, Charlie Brown” on stage. Watch the Peanuts Gang perform this fun story. They’ll have you singing and dancing right along with them to classic Halloween tunes! Several shows a day are offered. This year, Camp Snoopy Theatre is presented by HERSHEY’s.knotts-spooky-farm-mapTake “A Trip to Camp Spooky” on The Grand Sierra Railroad in Camp Snoopy
While you’re visiting Camp Spooky, be sure to take a ride on the Grand Sierra Railroad. This year, special for Knott’s Spooky Farm, guests will find added 2D and 3D Hallowen themed characters and effects as The Grand Sierra Railroad has been transformed into a one-of-a-kind experience that will take riders on an adventure to Camp Spooky, along with the Peanuts Gang.knotts-spooky-farm-trick-or-treating-2Take a Ride on Halloween Hootenanny
This Halloween season, the Timber Mountain Log Ride mystically converts into the Halloween Hootenanny by adding a new family friendly twist to a park favorite. Every year the citizens of the Timber Mountain invite the mysterious creatures that live out in the woods and caverns of the area to join them as they celebrate the season at the Halloween Hootenanny. The ride’s interior will feature new fun surprises as guests venture past the Calico Coffin Creeper band, the town’s green witch and splash down Skull Mountain through a labyrinth of jack-o-lanterns. The seasonal ride will also feature an original song performed by Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies. Open for day and night guests, this is the perfect family experience for all to enjoy this Halloween season.

knotts-spooky-farm-halloween-hootenannyDecorate a Pumpkin in the Pumpkin Patch
Over in Calico Patch, you’ll find the Pumpkin Patch. For an additional fee, you can purchase a pumpkin to decorate for your own home, while you enjoy the atmosphere of the season!

knotts-spooky-farm-pumpkin-decoratingVisit the Ghastly Gallery
Cruise over to the Boardwalk Ballroom for a slate of entertaining activities including a live show and opportunities for your little ghouls to participate in drawing their best “monsterpiece.”

Join the Dia de Los Muertos Celebration
in the Fiesta Stage area for an interactive, non-scary, educational celebration of the season. The themed area offers a walk through village filled with photo ops, educational activities and face paintings at a nominal fee.knotts-spooky-farm-dia-de-los-muertos-1knotts-spooky-farm-halloween-hootenannyA 2018 Season Pass is the best way to experience Knott’s Spooky Farm. With a 2018 Season Pass you will get to enjoy all of the Seasons of Fun next year but will also receive one free admission to use in 2017. You can get your Season Pass now at the Best Offer of the Year! A Regular Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to Knott’s Berry Farm with no blackout dates, and a Gold Season Pass includes unlimited admission in 2018 to both Knott’s Berry Farm and the newly expanded Knott’s Soak City Waterpark with no blackout dates. Regular passes are just $92 or nine easy payments of $10.22 and Gold Season Passes are $110 or nine payments of just $12.22. These offers end October 29, 2017. Applicable taxes and fees apply online. Payment plans are only available at knotts.com.knotts-spooky-farm-city-hall-porch

knotts-spooky-farm-treat-bag-2017Knott’s Spooky Farm runs weekends September 30 – October 29 from 9:00am to 4:00pm, Halloween Day from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and is included with regular park admission. For more information on all the exciting things that are going on at Knott’s Berry Farm, click here. You can also follow the conversation using #KnottsSpookyFarm.
knotts-spooky-farm-costumesA very special thank you to Knott’s for hosting our family. 

Knott’s logo is property of Knott’s and used with permission.