Knott’s Berry Farm has its hands full on the present, while prepping for the future. They are now in the middle of creating another charming, down-home Christmas celebration for 2012. At the same time, gearing up for new attractions and green theming to the Boardwalk in 2013.
KNOTT’S MERRY FARM 2012
KNOTT’S MERRY FARM
Knott’s has announced their plans for Christmas 2012. Suffice it to say that all the comfortable offerings you have come to know and love will be returning. In fact, as Halloween is coming down, Christmas is already going up and should be in full swing on November 22nd through January 6, 2013.
The “It’s Christmas Snoopy!” ice spectacular will be back this season in the huge Charles M. Schulz Theatre. This show is one of our favorites and never fails to warm our hearts. Can’t wait to see it again. “It’s Christmas, Snoopy!” will be presented November 22-25; December 1-2, 8-9, 15-18, 20-24, 26 -31, January 1, 3-6, 2013.
We will also see the return of the Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village. In the past, the Crafts Village, while charming, has more resembled a swap meet than a feast of unique shopping. We fully expect the look of the event to be far more refined this year. Adding to the unique “Village” atmosphere are live performances of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and O. Henry’s “A Gift of the Magi” in the Bird Cage Theatre. But what is interesting about this event, is that it will be free Monday through Thursdays and runs from November 22 through December 24.
The “A Peanuts’ Holiday Parade” also returns this season and includes seven themed floats featuring the PEANUTS Gang. “A Peanuts’ Holiday Parade” will run from November 22-25; December 1-2, 8-9, 15 – 23, 26 -31, January 1-6, 2013.
The Calico stage (Halloween home of the Hanging) will play host to a nightly tree lighting with the Peanuts characters.
But what we are most excited about is the return of Elf Mountain Christmas. The Timber Mountain Log Ride will once again been transformed, giving guests an up-close-and-personal view into the world of Santa’s Elves. This attraction will remain open in its holiday version until Jan. 6, 2013.
BOARDWALK ADDITIONS FOR 2013
In an encouraging move, Knott’s announced plans for three new family-friendly attractions for the Boardwalk section of the park. Three new attractions will be taking up residence in the large area once home to the painfully slow loading Perilous Plunge boat thrill ride.
Additions to the Knott’s Boardwalk Area will include:
· Coast Rider The 52 foot height, 1,339 feet of track. Mad mouse style coaster.
· Surfside Glider – Flat-ride spinner
· Pacific Scrambler – Basic, flat-ride, scrambler attraction.
The attractions announced are not groundbreaking. In-fact, some might look at this announcement as a let down. But let us explain why we are thrilled with this news. To us, this this indicates that Knott’s is very interested in attracting more than just thrill-seekers. They are expanding their appeal to a wider audience, casting a larger net, so to speak, and giving guests more to do. In fact, these aren’t overly extreme attractions and are mostly fun for the whole family. But they nearly fill the void between kids attractions and thrill rides. You might say they target the tweens, though they are sure to have a much broader appeal.
Instead of a towering rust-heap with a limited audience, even lower capacity and a massive foot print, they are installing three separate rides that will churn through riders more effectively. But what has us every more excited is . . . green. Yes, Knott’s will be turning this once ugly concrete jungle into a more green space with gardens and a more pleasing look and feel. Knott’s is doing the smart thing and adding value to the park while enhancing the ailing Boardwalk theme.
What are YOUR thoughts on these additions? Do you like the idea of greening and expanding the roster of family friendly attractions? Do you think that a large roller coaster would have been a better choice?
It took them little time to remove Perilous Plunge.
This is the area now.
The leftover water area will be repurposed.
GHOST TOWN CONSTRUCTION
There are some interesting things happening in Ghost town. A few weeks ago, the area next to the school house was cleared. Now there is construction happening and structures being built. We’ve heard rumors about what this is, but are awaiting confirmation or official word.
In the space of the old playground, near the school house.
Also, the Haunt museum has remained intact, and, when staffing permits, it has been kept open and operating. We’d really like to see Knott’s keep it open year round and perhaps tease concept artwork for the coming season in this space. What do you think? Close it until next Halloween or keep it open?
PLEASE STAY OPEN YEAR ROUND
Never miss a chance to catch a gunfight in Ghost Town. Always a hoot.
WINDSEEKER CLOSED
Windseeker is still down and collecting dust, literally, as Cedar Fair works with the manufacturer to figure out how best to resolve some quirky bugs in the safety system which has repeatedly stranded passengers.
It’s a shame to see all of the Windseeker attractions sitting empty across the country, but better safe than stuck in the air.
KNOTT’S PUTS OUT HELP WANTED MESSAGE
Knott’s recently announced on their website that they are doing a tremendous amount of hiring. There are opportunities within the parks, in the hotel, and in entertainment. If you are looking for work, what better place to apply? Knott’s is a great place to work and creates a family atmosphere.
DEALS FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL AND VETERANS
Knott’s annual tribute to our Military, past and present, starts November 1st. FREE admission for Veterans or current serving military personnel and one guest with proper I.D. presented at turnstile. Plus purchase up to six additional tickets for just $19 each from November 1-21 and for $25 each November 22 through January 6. Military personnel may also purchase additional tickets at their local MWR ticket office.
Veterans and Active Military Personnel can also stay at the Knott’s Hotel at a discounted rate through January 6, 2013. Simply select the Military Tribute option when making your Reservations.
And that should do it for news from the farm for this week. We have a lot to look forward to for the holidays and even more next Summer. What caught your imagination this week? We’d love to hear from you in the comments section below.