Halloween is fast approaching and with it all things spooky, creepy, and eerie. Theme parks around the country are no different and I have to admit–I love theme parks during the holidays! I love the decorations, I love the festive food, I love the limited shows… it just makes the holiday you’re celebrating more magical. Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California is the original California theme park and they really know how to do Halloween right. Not only are they celebrating 50 years of Knott’s Scary Farm in 2023, but they also have a family-friendly daytime event called Knott’s Spooky Farm. Both events have similarities and differences, so keep reading to find out all about Halloween at Knott’s. As a Knott’s Ambassador I’m here to share the latest information and my personal opinion and experiences with you. As a Get Way Today partner some links may contain affiliates.
Halloween fun at Knott’s
Knott’s Spooky Farm during the day
Knott’s Spooky Farm is the daytime Halloween event at Knott’s Berry Farm. It is entirely family-friendly. However, if you have extra sensitive little ones, you might want to prepare them ahead of time that they will be seeing some potentially scary Halloween decorations. There are even some vantage points where you can view some of the outdoor portions of mazes during the day (such as from the stagecoach ride and GhostRider). Apart from the Halloween and fall decor in the park, you’re able to choose how festive you want your visit to be. The Log Ride and Mine Ride have Halloween overlays. The Calico Candy Mine Ride isn’t scary during the day, however the Log Ride overlay may frighten sensitive children.
Spooky Secret: Your child can visit the trick-or-treat stops as often as they’d like! In addition, they are allowed to dress up in costume, but costumes are not required to trick-or-treat.
| Read: Seasons of Fun at Knott’s Berry Farm |
So what makes this event special for Halloween at Knott’s Berry Farm? Your kids will be able to trick-or treat through Ghost Town, meet their favorite characters all dressed up for Halloween, and enjoy other seasonal fun. In addition to all the rides being open, they’ll be able to enjoy the fun decorations and delicious seasonal treats. Some food options are available as an option for your dining plan and some are special treats and drinks. All options are available to peruse through the Knott’s Berry Farm app.
Spooky Secret: Some activities, shows, and food booths will only be operating on the weekends. Keep that in mind when planning your day.
Knott’s Scary Farm at night
Knott’s Scary Farm is a separate, ticketed event. This event is advertised as being for 13 years and older, however, you know your kids best. When Mike and I went a few weeks ago we did see some kids that appeared to be eight years old or so. The Calico Mine Ride has an added, eerie feature for Knott’s Scary Farm that isn’t present during the day. I don’t want to give it away!
Terror Tip: New for 2023, you can purchase a “No Boo” necklace. This is a light up necklace that signals to the scare actors not to target you when you walk through scare zones. Keep in mind this will NOT work in the mazes.
| Read: Ultimate Guide to Theme Parks at Halloween |
Knott’s Scary Farm happens Wednesday through Sunday evenings, as well as on Halloween. There are options for getting in early or having a meal (the BOO-fet) beforehand. These are great options to make the most of your Scary Farm evening. You can even purchase a season pass just for Knott’s Scary Farm. There are so many mazes and shows that are popular that it will be tricky to try and do everything in one evening! Shows fill up quickly, especially the very popular The Hanging: Uncanceled. My personal opinion as a parent is that although very entertaining, most of the shows are not appropriate for young children.
Terror Tip: Consider purchasing a Fright and Fast Lane. This will give you a front of the line pass not only to the rides, but also to all the mazes during Knott’s Scary Farm. This will make it much easier to see everything in one evening!
Details for Knott’s Scary Farm 2023:
- 10 mazes, including 3 all new ones!
- 10 Chilling Chambers Maze pays homage to 50 years of Knott’s Scary Farm mazes.
- 5 scare zones, including the return of a fan favorite–The Gauntlet.
- 4 unique shows, including the return of The Hanging: Uncanceled.
- Exclusive merchandise, including the brand new interactive lantern and the “No Boo” necklace.
- Legacy Haunt Store and Museum along the California Marketplace offers exclusive 50th merchandise and memorable pieces of Knott’s Scary Farm history.
Want to know more about the history of Halloween fun at Knott’s Scary Farm? Check out this article!
Which Halloween event at Knott’s Berry Farm would your family enjoy more?
