We were invited to check out a media preview of the goings on for the holidays at Knott’s Berry Farm and we were surprised to find a really awesome seasonal alternative to the Happiest Place on Earth. Although rain washed us out this past Sunday during our visit we were still able to get a great look at some of the highlights that transform the classic location into Knott’s MERRY Farm.
“Merry Christmas, Snoopy” Ice Show
A true unique treat to enjoy at Knotts are the fantastic ice skating shows and this year’s Merry Christmas, Snoopy is no exception. With Charlie Brown and Linus as our hosts, we are taken on a merry tour of the holidays with a really great mix and flow of classic and upbeat twists on classic Christmas songs.
An amazing roster of talent carve the ice and are even joined for several routines by none other than Snoopy himself. The show is always a big hit and even offers a magical moment with snow falling in the theater.
Santa’s Christmas Cabin
If you remember the now distant memory of Disneyland’s holiday roundups at the Big Thunder Ranch then you’ll have an understanding of what’s going on at the Wilderness Dance Hall when Santa Claus comes to down.
Find gifts and goodies and tons and tons of sugary treats to get a taste of the holidays. From Boysenberry Beer to a Mint Chocolate Port and from warm roasted nuts and fresh baked cookies, you’ll find a ton to enjoy in here. We also got a sampling of a mini Boysenberry Pie and couldn’t turn down an adorable Santa Snoopy Christmas cookie.
And of course, no visit to Santa’s Christmas Cabin can be truly complete without visiting jolly old St. Nick himself. Get your picture taken with the man in red and drop off your Letters for Santa in the marked mailbox at the center of the room.
Evening Magic
The Snow and Glow in Ghost Town takes place a few times a night and is an understated little offering that brings snow to old western locale. Set to the beautiful “Carol of the Bells”–which, thanks to Home Alone is pure instant Christmas magic–it’s a magical experience to stroll through Ghost Town listening to the song and taking in the snow.
The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is a special little moment that is great to take in if you happen to be in the area (like right after you enjoy the Calico Saloon Christmas Show) but isn’t big enough a spectacle for which to wait around… unless you really like the anticipation of that moment when the tree begins to glow.
More Merriment
The Candy Cane Can Can is back once again this year courtesy of the Calico Saloon Christmas Show which brings live singing and entertainment to the bar-top. There’s also the nearby evening-time It’s the Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown which is sure to delight.
Other fun offerings include the Bird Cage Theater stories of A Christmas Carol and the Gift of the Magi which, in their simplicity, are charming ways to enjoy a slower pace of the holidays. With the focus of late on technology and over-the-top dazzle-bombs, it’s actually refreshing to enjoy the unpretentious and simple plays in the little theater.
The Christmas Crafts Village in the Ghost Town brings a ton of vendors offering various goodies, gifts, and decorations for the holidays. Find hand-crafted trinkets, hewn sculptures, and more. The Christmas in Calico celebration in Ghost Town and Calico Town Hall brings festive celebrations to the old west. Meanwhile at Camp Snoopy, there’s the cute little Peanuts Guide to Christmas show for the little ones.
See It For Yourself!
All in all, there’s quite a special magic at Knott’s Merry Farm. If you haven’t been for a while, it might well be time to come and and stay for a spell!
Visit the official site for tickets and information.
Act now and you can take advantage of their newest 2017 Season Pass promotion which offers 364 (closed on Christmas Day) days of fun for as low as just 6 payments of $15! What’s more, you can take advantage of that offer NOW as new Season Passholders receive one free visit to Knott’s Merry Farm for the 2016 season.
