Knott's Merry Farm 2026 Holiday Celebration

Get ready for a little Holiday Magic at Knott’s Berry Farm! Every year, Knott’s transforms its Buena Park theme park into a festive winter wonderland for Knott’s Merry Farm. From thousands of twinkling lights and holiday entertainment to visits with Santa, Christmas shopping, seasonal treats, and plenty of family-friendly rides, it's one of Orange County's favorite places to celebrate the holidays.

Knott’s Merry Farm returns November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027, bringing back beloved holiday traditions along with seasonal food, festive entertainment, and special experiences throughout the park.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a fun holiday date, or just want an excuse to enjoy some Christmas treats and see Snoopy on Ice, here's everything you need to know before visiting Merry Farm this holiday season.

Knott's Merry Farm 2026 Details

Dates: November 20, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Location: Knott's Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, CA 90620
Hours: Vary by date. Check the official park calendar.
Admission: Included with regular Knott's Berry Farm admission on participating dates
Parking: Additional fee
Ages: All ages

Website: Knott's Merry Farm Official Website

When Is Knott's Merry Farm 2026?

Knott's Merry Farm runs from November 20, 2026, through January 3, 2027.

The holiday celebration takes place throughout Knott's Berry Farm, with festive entertainment, seasonal decorations, holiday dining, and special activities available on select dates.

Park hours and entertainment schedules vary throughout the season, so check the official calendar before planning your visit.

❄️Find More Winter Holiday Events❄️

What to Expect at Knott's Merry Farm

During Merry Farm, Knott's gets a full holiday makeover. Thousands of twinkling lights, miles of Christmas garland, oversized snowflakes, and festive decorations transform the park into a Christmas wonderland.

You'll find holiday entertainment, seasonal food, Christmas shopping, and special experiences tucked throughout the park.

Here are some of the highlights to look forward to.

Christmas Lights, Snow & Glow

One of the best parts of Merry Farm is simply wandering through the park after dark.

Enjoy the beautiful holiday decorations, glowing Christmas displays, and festive atmosphere throughout the park. Calico also comes alive with the Snow and Glow experience, where falling snow and holiday music create a charming wintertime setting.

Don't miss the nightly Parkwide Holiday Lighting Moment, when the park comes together for a little extra Christmas magic.

Holiday Shows & Entertainment

Knott's Merry Farm brings back holiday entertainment for guests of all ages, including seasonal stage productions and its popular holiday ice show.

Knott's Merry Farm Stage Show — Photo by Heidi Deal / Enjoy Orange County

Home for the Holidays

Enjoy a festive musical revue featuring classic Christmas songs, holiday lights, dancing toys, and dazzling snowfall on a transforming wintertime stage.

Peanuts Holiday Ice Show

Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang return for a holiday ice show featuring world-class ice skaters. It's a seasonal favorite and a fun opportunity to see everyone's favorite beagle celebrate Christmas.

Show schedules and availability vary by date. Check the Knott's mobile app for current showtimes during your visit.

Santa's Christmas Cabin

Santa is making a holiday stop at Knott's!

Visit Santa's Christmas Cabin, located inside Wilderness Dance Hall, where families can meet Santa and enjoy festive treats. Fresh cookies, pastries, gourmet hot chocolate, and other holiday goodies are available.

Santa's Christmas Cabin generally opens about 30 minutes after park opening. Photos are available for purchase.

Christmas Crafts Village

If you enjoy holiday shopping, make time to visit the Christmas Crafts Village in Ghost Town.

The streets of Calico transform into a Christmas shopping village featuring dozens of local artisans selling unique gifts, handmade items, and holiday decorations.

You can also watch demonstrations from talented craftspeople, including chainsaw wood carving and glass blowing. It's a fun place to find something a little different from the usual holiday shopping selections.

Additional fees may apply for select activities.

Mrs. Claus' Kitchen

Little bakers can get in on the holiday fun at Mrs. Claus' Kitchen. Kids can decorate their own festive cupcakes and take home their creations. This is a fun seasonal activity for younger visitors, although a small additional fee applies.

Mrs. Claus' Kitchen is open on select days, so check availability before visiting.

Merry Farm Holiday Food & Drinks

One of the best reasons to visit during the holidays? The food! Knott's brings out a special seasonal menu featuring creative takes on traditional holiday favorites, festive desserts, and plenty of warm drinks to enjoy while exploring the park.

Some of the featured 2026 seasonal menu items include:

Savory Holiday Eats

Prancer's Pot Roast Tater Tots – Braised beef with brown gravy and garlic aioli.
Sausage & Spiced Apple Pizza.
Tinsel Tinga Fries – Fries topped with chicken tinga, lettuce, sour cream, and cotija cheese.
Crafty's Christmas Country Fries – Chicken tenders, mashed potatoes, country gravy, corn, and cranberry sauce.
Picadillo de Res – Ground beef in chipotle adobo sauce with vegetables.
The Ornaments Pizza – Pesto, chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella.
Bacon, Mac & Cheese Turkey Dog.
Cranberry Bacon Jam Cheeseburger with crispy onions.
Beef Burgundy Potato or Bread Bowl.
Cranberry, Mint & Goat Cheese Flatbread.

Holiday Desserts & Sweet Treats

Save room for dessert! Seasonal sweets include:

Cookie Butter & Brownie Funnel Cake.
Red Velvet Italian Love Cake.
Apple Crisp with Bourbon Caramel & Vanilla Ice Cream.
Hot Chocolate Churro.
Peppermint Sugar Cookiewich.
Cookie Butter Shake.
Guava Coconut Snowball Cake Bar.
Salted Dark Chocolate Pomegranate Tart.
Gingerbread Swiss Roll Cake.
Santa's Milk & Cookie.

You'll also find hot cider, gourmet hot chocolate, and other festive drinks throughout the park.

Menu items and availability are subject to change.

For the complete seasonal dining menu, visit the Knott's Merry Farm Food Guide.

Rides & Attractions

Of course, Merry Farm isn't just about Christmas decorations and holiday treats. You're still visiting Knott's Berry Farm!

Regular park attractions and rides are part of the experience, including family-friendly rides, roller coasters, and classic Knott's attractions.

It's a great opportunity to combine a day of theme park fun with an evening of holiday entertainment.

Keep in mind that individual ride availability and operating hours can vary.

Knott's Merry Farm Lights — Photo by Heidi Deal / Enjoy Orange County

Knott's Merry Farm Tickets & Admission

Admission to Merry Farm is included with regular Knott's Berry Farm admission on participating event dates. You do not need a separate ticket to enjoy the experience.

Daily admission prices vary depending on the date and ticket type. Online tickets are advertised starting at $65 per person, before applicable taxes, with savings compared to gate pricing. It's a good idea to purchase tickets online in advance and check the price for your preferred visit date.

Tickets and Season Passes: Purchase Knott's Berry Farm Tickets

Additional purchases may be required for food, drinks, merchandise, photos, and select holiday activities.

Knott's Merry Farm Parking

Knott's Berry Farm is located at 8039 Beach Boulevard in Buena Park.

General parking is available in the park's designated parking areas for an additional fee. Preferred parking may also be available for guests who want to park closer to the entrance.

Parking rates can change, and special event pricing may differ from regular park rates. Check the official Knott's Parking Information before your visit.

Tips for Visiting Knott's Merry Farm

A little planning can make your holiday visit much more enjoyable.

Visit after Thanksgiving: If you want to see the park in full Christmas mode, a visit after Thanksgiving is a great choice.
Check the show schedule: Some entertainment and seasonal experiences operate only on select dates. Plan your day around the shows you don't want to miss.
Stay after dark: The lights, decorations, and Snow and Glow experience are especially fun once the sun goes down.
Make time for the food: There are plenty of seasonal treats worth trying, so don't fill up before you arrive!
Visit the Christmas Crafts Village: It's a fun place to browse handmade gifts and watch artisan demonstrations.
Check Santa's schedule: If meeting Santa is on your holiday wish list, check the park schedule and plan accordingly.
Download the Knott's app: The official app is useful for checking showtimes, park information, directions, and other updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About Merry Farm

When does Knott's Merry Farm start in 2026?

Knott's Merry Farm begins November 20, 2026, and runs through January 3, 2027.

Is Knott's Merry Farm included with regular admission?

Yes. Merry Farm activities and entertainment are included with regular Knott's Berry Farm admission on participating dates. Some food, merchandise, photos, and special activities cost extra.

Can you see Santa at Knott's Merry Farm?

Yes! Santa visits Christmas Cabin inside Wilderness Dance Hall. Guests can meet Santa, enjoy holiday treats, and purchase photos.

Does it snow at Knott's Merry Farm?

Yes! The Snow and Glow experience brings a festive snowfall atmosphere to the streets of Calico, accompanied by holiday music.

What shows are at Knott's Merry Farm?

Holiday entertainment includes Home for the Holidays, a Christmas musical revue, and a seasonal Peanuts ice show featuring Snoopy and the gang. Show schedules vary by date.

Is Knott's Merry Farm good for young children?

Absolutely! There are family-friendly rides, holiday shows, Santa visits, seasonal treats, Christmas decorations, and activities such as cupcake decorating.

How much are Knott's Merry Farm tickets?

Tickets are date-dependent, with online admission advertised from $65 per person before taxes. Check the official website for current prices and special offers.

Where is Knott's Merry Farm located?

Knott's Merry Farm takes place at Knott's Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Park, California 90620.

How long should you plan to spend at Knott's Merry Farm?

Plan on spending most of the day if you want to enjoy the rides, holiday shows, food, Santa's Christmas Cabin, and evening light displays. Arriving earlier gives you more time to experience the park before the nighttime festivities.

More Information

For additional details, tickets, entertainment schedules, and seasonal updates, visit the official Knott's Berry Farm website.

Please note: Event dates, operating hours, entertainment, menus, prices, and activities are subject to change. Confirm details with Knott's Berry Farm before visiting.

Find More Festive Fun In Orange County