7 Things Not To Miss At Knott’s Merry Farm
Can you feel the crisp winter air sneaking up on us? Last year we skipped winter and did summer for an extra three months so I am very excited to pull out my sweaters and UGG boots. And what better place to wear my comfy clothes than at Knott’s Merry Farm!! The park has been transformed to a festive and bright holiday amazement full of of shows, decor and delicious food! This year we saw some sights and tasted some bites that we didn’t see last year. It seems every year the event gets better and better. If you have plans to visit Knott’s Merry Farm in 2018, here are 7 must-see things!
Holiday Decor
Knott’s has completely turned the park into a winter wonderland. You just have to see it to believe it. The fountain at Charleston Circle has been decked out in led ICICLES, and there are beautiful swans swimming in the pond. It makes the most incredible back drop. Fun fact, that fountain was originally used in the film “Hello Dolly”! They also planted beautiful winter foliage and lines the streets with lighted trees. You can’t help but smile when you walk by.
Grab your friends and take a photo in front of the giant 65 foot Christmas tree in Calico Square. Each night they light it in a ceremony that will have your little ones eyes open as big as saucers! Don’t miss all the cute craft vendors nearby.
Calico Carolers
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. The carolers have the neatest costumes and they sound fantastic. Stop by and take a few pics!
Snow and Glow
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 “Let It Snow” while snow gently falls in this spectacular one-of-a-kind moment. Sounds of Frank Sinatra Float through the air while hundreds of children tilt their heads back in awe. It’s truly a sight to see!
Be sure to get the lantern that is sync’d to all the music at snow and glow. It will flicker along with the songs and it is only $15. You can find it at several locations in Ghost Town. Such a fun way to elevate your experience.
Calico Saloon Christmas Show
This show is a hidden treasure! Last year was my first time seeing it and I could kick myself for not watching it in previous years. The energy is infectious and I love how the whole cast interacts in the show. Even the piano player. The costumes are elaborate and the dancers are so talented!
Calico Train
Take a relaxing train ride on an authentic Denver and Rio Grande Narrow Gauge train used in the early 1900s. It boasts the highest crime rate in all of Orange County, as notorious Ghost Town bandits still hold-up every departure from the Calico Square depot. The train is all decked out in red and green with beautiful wreaths! There is just something nostalgic
Snoopy Ice Show: Merry Christmas Snoopy
This show is my all time favorite thing to see every year at Knott’s! It is incredible and I always feel like I am going to see a broadway show. The skaters are magnificent and the character skate with such ease! Sadly, my favorite couple is not performing this year but there is a brand new couple and they are adorable! There are a few tricks in the show that will give you a fright. I don’t want to spoil it so you just have to see for yourselves!
It’s The Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown
Back again this year, It’s The Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown takes place at the new Calico Mine Stage. The Peanuts gang is at it again, this holiday season they have put on the greatest Christmas pageant ever with Charlie Brown directing, of course. The best part about this show is that the stage is HUGE and you will have a great view no matter where you are standing.
Santa’s Christmas Cabin
This Cozy Cabin offers sweets and treats for everyone! Get hot chocolate, peppermint flavored churros, holiday danishes, cheesecake, and more! Then get your picture taken with Santa. They do a wonderful job keeping the line moving and Santa is warm and friendly. For those who would like to enjoy an ice cold beer or a glass of white wine, just step outside and there is a bar with a nice variety of beer and wine. They even have boysenberry cider! Watch my videos for a slideshow of all the delicious treats that are being offered.
The Thanksgiving Pizza is back this year. This unique and comforting pizza can be found at Hollywood Hits. It has soft dough covered with holiday toppings like sliced turkey, stuffing, turkey gravy and sweet cranberry sauce. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner all in one bite!
And let’s Knott forget those Turkey Balls. Smother them in gravy and ask for two forks and just may have a new best friend by the end of the day.
Back this year are the hand-made chicken and beef tamales and Knott’s world-famous holiday treats including delectable homemade holiday churros can be found throughout the park.
Cookie Decorating
Kids will also enjoy the cookie decorating workshop as well! Mrs. Clause has been sure to leave her trusted bakers to be in charge of making all the sweet treats at Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen at the Knott’s Merry Farm. Children can help to decorate any of the delicious cookies made by Mrs. Claus and her elves for just a small cost so they can bring their wonderful new creations home.
Christmas Crafts Village
Head over to Ghost Town to see it transformed into a shopping wonderland filled with dozens of local artisans selling their unique gifts. You can buy all sorts of cute crafts like custom ornaments, jewelry, wooden signs, makeup bags, hair bows, clothing and much more. You can even find yummy treats like mini lemon pound cakes and mini lemon gingerbread cookies.
Merchandise
This year the theme is focused on Buffalo check so you will see a lot of pattered red and black’s throughout the park. You can find everything from sweatshirts, to hats, to socks and more. Get some matching sweatshirts and take some pics for your holiday cards!! Happy Holidays!