The fog of Knott’s Scary Farm has dried away until next year … but the twinkling lights of Knott’s Merry Farm will turn on just days from now. After the scaled-down food festival-turned craft fair of Taste of Merry Farm last year, Knott’s is bringing back the whole holiday event filled with all-things festive. Merry Farm will run from November 19 through January 2, and will see the return of many of the event’s iconic offerings, including numerous shows, crafts and creations, and yummy treats. Here’s a look at this year’s Merry Farm!

Front gate of Knott's Merry Farm
Front Gate of Knott’s Merry Farm ©Cathy LaFever

Knott’s Merry Farm Entertainment

Knott’s Merry Farm is not skimping on the entertainment this year and there will be many different shows and performance groups for the event. Home for the Holidays returns to the Calico Mine Stage this year, with a performance that will evoke memories of timeless holiday traditions and well-known music — we really loved this show when it debuted in 2019 and can’t wait to see it again. 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic
This heart-warming show takes place on the Calico Mine Stage and features a large cast of singers and dancers

The Peanuts Gang will also get in on the action, with the return of Merry Christmas, Snoopy! at the Walter Knott Theater. This ice-dancing show has been a favorite holiday entertainment offering from the park. You wouldn’t expect to see ice skating at a theme park, but Knott’s does a beautiful job of it every year! Our recommendation is if you only have time for a couple shows, you should definitely plan to watch Home for the Holidays and Merry Christmas, Snoopy.

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

The Peanuts Gang can also be found at the Camp Snoopy Theatre again this year, where they will present A Peanuts Guide to Christmas, a musical show that features the Peanuts’ unique take on the holidays. Following the show, guests can also enjoy a meet and greet opportunity with select members of the Peanuts Gang. 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

Knott’s Merry Farm also has some performances that will transport guests back in time. This year, Marley’s Wings — a sequel to A Christmas Carol — returns to the iconic Bird Cage Theatre, where the ghost of Jacob Marley checks on Ebeneezer Scrooge to see how much he’s changed since his last visit. The show features unique musical numbers that evoke the spirit of Charles Dickens’ classic tale.

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

The presence of the Calico Carolers in Ghost Town will also bring guests back to that gorgeous Victorian Era as they sing classic Christmas carols. Last year for Taste of Merry Farm, they performed above the streets of Ghost Town, and we imagine that something similar could be the case for this year as well.

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

Knott's Merry Farm Christmas Clock
Merry Farm Christmas clock

Merry Farm will also feature numerous musical groups this year. In addition to the Calico Carolers, guests can enjoy a cappella music from The Sleigh Bells in Calico Park, or can listen to the legendary Bluegrass Duo at Fireman’s BBQ. More music performances can be found at Wagon Camp, with the down-home stylings and comedy of Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies and at the Fiesta Plaza stage at the South of the Border show featuring music from the Mariachi Angelitas. Guests can also find some musical performances at the Boardwalk, with the Rockin’ Reindeer, a duo that will add the perfect ambiance to a meal at Boardwalk BBQ. 

Knott's Merry Farm Calico stage
The Calico stage at Knott’s Merry Farm

Also at the Boardwalk, guests will be able to once again hear the comedic gold of Wayne Deer and Ginger Snaps, ’50s radio personalities who have taken over the KNOT studio. And if some would rather get their dancing shoes on, the Boardwalk Ballroom will feature swing bands and an open floor for anybody to take advantage of. 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic
Wayne Deer and Ginger Snaps from KNOT Radio on the Boardwalk

Knotts Merry Farm Food

Entertainment is just one part of Knott’s Merry Farm. There are also delectable eats and treats that can be found throughout the park. From the cult classic Turkey Dinner Bites (believe us, this is something you HAVE to try) to fresh-baked cookies, there’s something for everyone. (Hot tip: the Turkey Dinner Bites are ALREADY available in the park as of yesterday!)

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

At the Wilderness Dance Hall, the area is transformed into Santa’s Christmas Cabin. There, guests can meet Santa Claus as well as enjoy pastries, fresh-baked cookies, and seasonal drinks, including gourmet hot chocolate and marshmallows. Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen also features some baked goods, and guests can decorate and bring home some cookies for an upcharge.

Santa Claus meet and greet
Meeting Santa Claus at Taste of Merry Farm last year

Other traditional Merry Farm treats are back this year as well, including the crispy breaded turkey bites filled with stuffing and cranberry sauce, and funnel cake with pumpkin pie or maple syrup sauce. Guests can also find gingerbread cookies, chocolate and cranberry macarons, and apple pie spiced loaves throughout the park. 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic
We really hope this Eggnog Cheesecake on a stick makes a reappearance this year

Knott’s Merry Farm Christmas Crafts Village

The Knott’s Christmas Crafts Village has also returned this year and will feature many local artisans selling their unique creations. Guests can find a wide variety of gifts there, ranging from glass-blown items to wood carvings made with a chainsaw, and also apparel and confections to take home. 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

Snow and Glow

To cap off the night, Merry Farm will once again feature the Snow and Glow experience taking place throughout Ghost Town. This festive light show filled with falling “snow” really energizes the area — there’s a reason that it’s so popular. Although Knott’s may not have a big fireworks show like other parks, this can feel a lot more intimate and special. This light show is best while enjoying a hot chocolate and a cookie, just saying…


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Let’s Hear From You

Are you looking forward to enjoying Knott’s Merry Farm this year? What are you most excited to see return? Is there a food item you’re hoping returns from Taste of Merry Farm last year? Let us know in the comments below! 

, Knott’s Merry Farm Returns with Down-Home Holiday Magic

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Caitlyn Wisser
Caitlyn is a seasoned writer, editor, and content creator who specializes in all things entertainment. A video game enthusiast, she spends her spare time streaming a variety of things for her online following. She loves stories and theme parks and can be found spending her off-hours traveling to various tourist destinations around the world.