Last week we partnered with Knott’s Berry Farm to experience their festive Christmas at Knotts Merry Farm Celebration. We’re here to tell you that Knott’s isn’t just about thrilling rides. It’s so much more. And right now it’s all about Christmas; from the decorations, to the fabulous shows, to Santa himself. Oh, and the food … the ever so delicious food!
Wow! Talk about a celebration! Christmas is everywhere! From the moment you step up to the entrance it’s a holiday celebration.
I am a fan of wreaths. I love them! At our house we hang several Christmas wreaths of various sizes. They adorn the front doors and nearly every window. That’s not even counting the wreaths on the inside! When I saw the beautiful Christmas wreaths decorating Calico Ghost Town, I knew I was in my happy place!
The decorations continue throughout the park. It truly feels as if you’ve walked back in time to the old west at Christmastime.
The holiday decorations are gorgeous. Just our style, simple, elegant yet rustic too.
Before we go any further, let’s talk about the shopping. The General Store is always a favorite of mine. And the grandkids love the old fashioned candy counter. You don’t want to miss the Christmas Crafts Village. There are booths set up all over Ghost Town with most every kind of hand made gift you can imagine. It’s absolutely delightful!
While our grandsons headed out to take in the thrill of Ghost Rider, Jaguar!,and anything else that would make them scream in delight, we grandparents relaxed in Ghost Town. We were looking forward to hearing the Calico Christmas Carolers, and they did not disappoint.
Video credit: Sara Hone
The Merry Christmas, Snoopy! Ice Show is fun to experience and very festive. The performers are incredibly talented. There were lots of “ohs” and “ahs” from the audience with all the amazing spins and jumps on the ice. Santa Snoopy was dressed in festive attire and the falling snow was a perfect touch. There’s something for everyone with a variety of skits and changing scenery. But my favorite was a particular vignette from the 40’s. The costumes and lighting were perfect! Set in the era of my parents, the story was very reminiscent of them, as it was acted out on stage, … er, ice!
Video credit: Knott’s Berry Farm
The Calico Saloon is always a fun and favorite spot to sit awhile. Especially with an ice cold sarsaparilla! The saloon shows are always a bit irreverent. With can-can dancers hootin’ and hollerin’ as they kick and twirl, they really add flair to the old west atmosphere. But remember, it’s always a family show! So, gather the family and head on over for the Calico Saloon Christmas Show.
Video credit: Daps Magic
The Bird Cage Theater is small and intimate. The performance we saw was about love and sacrifice. You’ll laugh and may even shed a tear or two. O. Henry’s A Gift of the Magi is an ageless story of heartfelt giving. You’re sure to feel the spirit of Christmas as it plays out onstage in the historic theatre.
There are also performances of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The story of Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, future and present. I’m thinking we need to make a trip back to Knott’s Merry Farm during the holidays so we can see it too!
Other festive shows not to be missed:
It’s the Merriest Christmas Show Ever, Charlie Brown on the Calico Mine Stage
A Peanuts Guide to Christmas at Camp Snoopy Theatre
Oh the stories this old steam train could tell. The Calico Railroad has been in operation at Knott’s since January of 1952. It’s always a bit breath-taking and romantic but at Christmas… just look at it! And the gorgeous wreath!
I believe these magnificent horses enjoy their work. They pull an original Butterfield Stagecoach. I love their look in the dark of night. Aren’t they beautiful?
Holiday Pizza … and …
Famous boysenberry pie … and …
Dellicious pumpkin pie …
And … chocolate covered cheesecake!
Food glorious food and more! Be ready to treat yourself throughout the day. The food and treats are absolutely delicious! Don’t miss stopping by Santa’s Christmas Cabin where you’ll find his favorites. That there Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake on a Stick? I blame the cheesecake for making us cheating vegans!
Merry Farm Food Locations
- Merry Farm Refillable Mug- All Participating Hot Cocoa & Coffee Locations
- Holiday Pizza- Hollywood Hits
- Chocolate Dipped Cheesecake- Santa’s Christmas Cabin
- Assorted Holiday Pastries- Santa’s Christmas Cabin
- Boysenberry and Nutella Crepe- Santa’s Christmas Cabin
- Beef and Chicken Tamales- Santa’s Cabin and Cantina
- Holiday Christmas Popcorn- Santa’s Christmas Cabin
- Gingerbread and Sugar Cookie Decorating- Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen
- Santa’s Milk and Cookies Shake- Grizzly Creek, Coasters
- Candy Cane Holiday Churro- Gourmet Churro Factory
- Holiday Turkey Sandwich- Boardwalk BBQ
- Smoked BBQ Wings- Boardwalk BBQ
- Christmas Stew- Ghost Town Bakery and Ghost Town Grill
- Open Faced Turkey Sandwich- Ghost Town Grill
- Open Faced Meatloaf Sandwich- Ghost Town Grill
- Salmon Dinner with Jalapeno Jam- Ghost Town Grill
- The Berry Gobbler- Ghost Town Grill
- The Farm sandwich- Ghost Town Grill
- Crispy Brussel Sprouts- Ghost Town Grill
- Holiday Vanilla Dippin’ Dots- Supreme Scream, Silver Bullet, Cave Inn
The incredible Cheesecake on a Stick is dipped in chocolate while you watch. I was so intrigued with the process that I didn’t even notice the creepy ‘video bomber’ until David told me later.
I’ve been in love with Santa’s Christmas Cabin for over 30-years! When the kids were little, I would pack them up and drive to Knott’s just to get pictures with Santa.
The Christmas atmosphere has always been a perfect setting for Christmas cards … and still is!
Our 14-year-old grandson Cody is still game for a photo op with Santa. I can’t help but wonder what he told Santa he wanted for Christmas!
Santa’s Christmas Cabin is warm, inviting and full of the Christmas spirit. Oh, and the food! Don’t forget Santa’s yummy treats!
When the sun sets in the west, Calico Ghost Town lights up the night.
As we mentioned, the Christmas decorations at Knott’s Merry Farm are beautiful. See that open door of the Miner’s Outfitting Department? If you listen closely it could be calling your name!
Make sure you meet up with the folks of Calico Ghost Town for the Christmas Tree Lighting. It’s fun and festive and inspiring. And the tree is simply lovely!
Several times during the night the lights of Calico Ghost Town dim as music fills the air. Within the glow of the dimmed lights the excitement grows. And then … it snows!
He says: What a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. The music, the food, the atmosphere all add a special touch to the season.
She says: I loved Knott’s Merry Farm! Everything about it! It’s like experiencing an old-fashioned Christmas. The shows, the carolers, the food… oh the glorious food!
Happy Holidays and Enjoy!!
~ The Nitty Gritty:
When: – , 2017
Who: Four of us. David, Cathi, Cody and James
What: Knott’s Berry Farm
Where: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Phone: (714) 220-5200
Website: Knott’s Berry Farm
Heather @ Kraus House Mom says
I have always wanted to go to Knotts Berry Farm. I love how places like this turn into a Christmas Wonderland. I would be double fisting the cheesecake on a stick, that is a brilliant idea.
robin rue says
I have always wanted to go to Knott’s Berry Farm. I just haven’t had time on any of my west coast trips, but hopefully next time I am out west I can FINALLY get there.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
We have been trying to get a trip together for Knott’s Merry Farm for a couple of years now. One day, we WILL experience the awesome!
Jeni Hawkins says
I grew up in California, and have NEVER been! This post makes me want to go back just for the holidays there! The food looks amazing, the decorations are gorgeous and OH! The entertainment..so fun!
Sinisa says
So much holiday fun. I love it
Autumn Reo says
That looks like a great day of rustic Christmas fun! That peppermint ice cream ~ yummm!!
reesa says
Everything looks so wonderful and fun! I would love to be able to go to to Knott’s one day!
TColeman says
This always looks like it is such a great time whenever I see people post about it. Such beautiful decor!
Kathy says
That looks like so much fun. This is something my family would love to do. I have heard so many great things about the Knotts Merry Farm too. I hope to go someday.
Pam says
It looks and sounds like Knott’s goes all out for Christmas. I love the festive decorations.
Liz Mays says
This is getting me so excited for Christmas! I’d love to see the Merry Christmas, Snoopy! Ice Show.
Amy Desrosiers says
This place looks gorgeous! I love the detail they have with all the trees, and lights.
Brianne says
What a cool and festive place this is. I so wish I lived closer, I would love to go to this!
Chelley Martinka says
Oh my gosh- that food alone! I love KNotts for the holidays- nothing else like it!
Ra'Nesha says
I can’t wait to go this weekend the images are so awesome so I can only imagine how things will be in person.
Janis says
Knott’s looks all decked out for the holidays, what a fun place to take the kids!
Sarah says
Everything looks so beautiful! I wish we could go to Knotts Berry Farms during the holidays. How magical!
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
Wow! This place looks like the best spot to celebrate the holidays with the family! Would love to visit soon!
Stacie says
Oh wow! What a gorgeous place to visit during the holidays. This really gets me in the Christmas spirit.
Tara says
I really need to visit Knott’s Merry Farm. There is so much to see and I really want to try those desserts. Hopefully someday soon.