Hold onto your cowboy hats—summer at Knott’s Berry Farm is back with some fresh fun. Once again, the park has bundled fan-favorites Ghost Town Alive and Summer Nights under the “Knott’s Berry Farm Summertime” banner, running select dates from June 12 to August 30, 2026. You can still immerse yourself in Calico’s Wild West by day and rock out by night, all included with park admission. For this year, a snazzy new Asian street market joins the lineup, and the Calico Saloon show returns with an updated flair. 

NEW: Spirits and Shenanigans at the Calico Saloon

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

For many years, we’ve lamented the loss of the Calico Saloon show. It’s a remnant of the golden years of Knott’s Berry Farm, an intimate venue with a quaint stage and can-can saloon girls to entertain the patrons. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Spirits and Shenanigans at the Calico Saloon is the newest iteration of this show, and it sparkles with new set dressing and lighting design. Much like the recent extensive refurb at the Bird Cage Theater, the updates here create a gorgeous, modern stage show… while retaining its down-home charm. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Cody Taylor with Cecilia and Marilyn

The new Saloon show stars manager Alice Tyler and bartender Cody Taylor, along with the Schuler Sisters, Cecilia and Marilyn, in a toe-tappin’ show that’s sure to pack the house. And note that all three showtimes are different. So there’s a lot of repeatability for this venue. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Alice Tyler

Spirits and Shenanigans also uses the entire space. The performers use the bartop during the show, but they also have a peculiar pre-show… 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Before hopping on stage, the performers mosey around the saloon, interacting with guests for several minutes, feather dusting the place before the show.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott’s has found a way to incorporate the characters in a very Ghost Town Alive style, which I appreciate. Each one plays a particular role in the saloon, either managing, pouring drinks, or handing out drinks. The pre-show establishes for the audience that they’re watching Calico Saloon employees putting on a show, not just some random, nameless entertainers. Clever. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Of course, the finale is a patriotic display to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States

Spirits and Shenanigans is a huge win for the summer lineup, one that I wholeheartedly recommend. It’s such a pleasure to see the return of what was once a staple of Knott’s entertainment.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

NEW: Summer Nights Market

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Last year, we were a bit disappointed by what appeared to be the end of the Summer Nights food festival. In a surprise addition this year, a bustling Summer Nights Market has been added to what is normally a bit of a dead space on Mission Row. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Based on traditional Asian markets, the Summer Nights Market blends several different Asian styles into one intimate market full of food, shopping, and the return of another previously retired Summer Nights element… a DJ! 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

We were pleasantly surprised to see just how much effort was expended here. Hanging lanterns, extensive lighting, and every booth is themed to a different country. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Multiple vendors have also moved into the area, selling Asian snacks, drinks, toys, and jewelry. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
The boba drink vendor makes a mean Ube Banana milk tea paired with Boysenberry popping pearls

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The name suggests that the intention was for guests to visit in the evening, but with so many people enjoying the area, you can visit the market for most of the day. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Even as park closing loomed, it seemed people were drawn to the extensive lighting, the delicious smell of food, and the sounds of the DJ spinning popular tunes. The booths are clustered close together in a small section of Mission Row near the entrance to Silver Bullet, but this is an inspired design. With everything so close together, the area feels exciting and bustling, held together by an energetic DJ at one end. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

This new location, far removed from the chaos of Calico Park and the Calico Mine Stage, creates an exciting vibe that has guests sticking around, dancing, and eating right up to park closing. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The Night Market is a big win for Summer Nights. The attention to detail is great, even down to the neon-style lighting added to the booths. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott’s Summer Nights Market Food

We tried several items from the booths and were pleasantly surprised to find all of them delicious. While no items are included on the meal plan, the standard Passholder discount applies. We hope that in the future, some sort of tasting card will be available.

Lucky Bistro

  • Chicken Potstickers With a Chili Soy Dipping Sauce

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Garlic Minced Beef with Stir Fry Noodles
  • Fortune Cookie
  • Lychee Martini

Rising Sun Izakaya

  • Cali Bowl (deconstructed California Roll)

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Miso Tofu Ramen 
  • Japanese Cheesecake
  • Spicy Mango Sake Rum Cocktail

Seoul Jumak

  • Beef Bulgogi Tacos

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Kimcheese Fried Rice
  • Mango Bingsu
  • Soju Watermelon Cocktail

Mama Do’s Kitchen

  • BBQ Pork Banh Mi

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • BBQ Pork Noodle Salad
  • Sesame Balls
  • Spiked Vietname Coffee

Knott’s Summertime: Ghost Town Alive

Welcome to the annual Calico Founder’s Day, the celebration of the founding of the mining town of Calico. This is the setting of Knott’s Berry Farm’s live-action role-playing experience, Ghost Town Alive, set in the heart of the park. All summer, Ghost Town comes to life with the spirit of the Wild West, led by a kooky cast of characters. The citizens of Calico invite everyone to interact and immerse themselves in the evolving interactive storyline (from 10am to the big hoedown finale at 4:30pm). 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Ghost Town Alive is a unique experience without rival in Southern California. It’s a major feat that Knott’s has managed to build this entertainment event into something spectacular, while continuing to expand every thrilling season.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott’s pulls this off with a choose-your-own-adventure format that’s as surprisingly accessible as it is remarkably adaptable. The whole event is spearheaded by the peculiar cast of Calico townsfolk, who bring their own backstories and motivations to the table. These characters are adept at crafting personalized experiences for each guest, ensuring no two visits are quite the same.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

With lawmen, outlaws, post office workers, newspaper reporters, trappers, bankers, miners, teachers, and many others, there are countless paths to explore. The stories are often more spontaneous and dynamic than one might expect. With each year of Ghost Town Alive, new faces are added…

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

…while familiar ones return for another season. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Each year’s new storyline builds off the last. Last year, the mine had run dry, mirroring the actual town of Calico that the park’s Ghost Town is based on. It seems like the town’s search for a new industry has been temporarily sidelined by the discovery that not only did the Mayfields once own the town, but they had sold it to the Flumvasser family! 

If you’re ever lost in the story, feel free to strike up a conversation with any of the characters or check out the Calico Gazette. It’s the best place to get caught up. You can find the Gazette in the middle of town, next to the General Store. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Ghost Town Alive feels like tackling a series of side quests in a role-playing game, except the main storyline keeps barging in to spectacularly derail your plans. It’s a genuinely dynamic setup. Each character drops unique improvised nuggets of information that can drastically alter your path and personalize the experience just for you. After speaking with several townsfolk, I learned quite a lot of conflicting things about Gordy, the new character running the Calico Historical Society. Or, well, “new” depends on who you ask. When pressed on the subject, they apparently “have been here the whole time.” It seems no one noticed until they put up a sign by the Bank. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Gordy has quite an extensive artifact collection and shared a few with me. For those following along since the beginning of Ghost Town Alive, quite a few items are from previous years. It’s like one big easter egg in a corner behind the bank where no one will find them… if not for that big sign that initially led me here. I do hope that people make it back to see this gem of a space. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Gordy shows off some of Professor Watts’ equipment

Perhaps the most peculiar of the Historical Society’s items is a time capsule that was buried in the Calico Mine by the founder of Calico, Don Alberto Fernando Reyes De Ortiz Vallamonte. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Of course, all the writing is in Spanish, and Gordy has had a hard time getting any of the Spanish-speaking citizens to translate it. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Mixed in with the excitement of the time capsule was the arrival of the Flumvassers, the owners of the Timber Mountain Logging Company. June Flumvasser was hanging around the town’s hotel and filled me in on how her family had, at some point, purchased the deed to the town. They had proposed that the townsfolk vote on what the town should do next. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

I also caught her and the new Fire Chief having an intimate moment. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

If you’re interested in just how deep the storyline goes, check out my previous Untold Stories articles from previous years, where I shot everything on vintage film cameras and dissected the narrative and characters of Calico.

The Untold Stories of Knott’s Ghost Town Alive 2025 – Echoes of the Past

The Untold Stories of Knott’s Ghost Town Alive – Calico Revealed!

Right in the middle of Ghost Town Alive, Miss Cameo Kate is still the star of the recently renovated Bird Cage Theatre. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The Western Burle-Q Revue is largely the same toe-tappin’, rip-roarin’ western musical revue that we’ve loved from previous years.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

There’s plenty of dancing, singing, and even a live band that doubles as a musical act and comedy routine.  

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

To top it off, what’s a Cameo Kate show without can-can dancing?

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Ghost Town Alive’s storyline wraps up with the 4:30pm Founder’s Day Hoedown— although every day’s events play out just a little differently based on guest participation. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Each proprietor now has a little flag to carry into the Hoedown

To round everyone up for the finale, some of the characters put on a little Promenade, picking up stragglers and bringing them to Calico Park. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Live music for the hoedown provided by the Ghost Town Miners

As the hoedown unfolds, loose ends are tied up, and the story concludes for the day (and restarts the following morning). The results of the town vote are revealed, prompting cheers from the crowd as the winners—and their honored guest assistants—take a well-deserved bow.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

This is also where all the twist reveals happen…

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Ghost Town Alive continues its tradition of balancing chaos, dynamism, choreography, and place-making. The interactive theater experience has once again been tightened up, polished, and given just enough room for improvisation to create a one-of-a-kind experience for everyone who joins in— regardless of how much they choose to participate.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

For anyone who hasn’t experienced their own Wild West adventure, the barrier to entry is low… just say hello to one of the citizens of Ghost Town and see where it goes from there. For those returning to Calico for another Founder’s Day Celebration, there’s enough newness to satisfy every cowpoke willing to play along. 

Knott’s Summer Nights

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

After experiencing Ghost Town Alive, head over to Knott’s Summer Nights, a diverse concert series. The focus this year has been shifted away from favorite summer foods to live entertainment throughout the park. 

Knott’s Summer Nights Entertainment 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The Summer Nights stages in the heart of the park are where the magic happens, featuring a rotating cast of artists who keep the vibe electric. Tomasina was rocking the Calico Mine Stage with her distinctive spin on classic rock for opening night.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The smaller Calico Park stage is a musical chameleon, effortlessly switching from classic rock to jazz, swing, and more throughout the summer. Latin sensation Adelaide Pilar was commanding the stage for opening night, coaxing everyone into an impromptu dance party.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to EatKnott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Upcoming dates include quite a variety of music, something a little different every day of the week. We were informed that four new bands are joining the lineup. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

In addition to the main stages, there are many other acts throughout the park like the long-standing favorite Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies, the Ghost Town Miners, and rotating artists in Fiesta Village. Latin Pop Rock band Junio was playing in Fiesta Village on opening day.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott’s Summer Nights Food

When Summer Nights began, I described it as “the coolest backyard BBQ you’ve ever been to.” Unfortunately, Knott’s has all but abandoned that portion of the event. Although the Summer Nights Market is a step towards what could be a refreshed version of the concept. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Archive photo of the Seasonal Sausage and Chili in a Cornbread Bowl

Every year, I lament the loss of the chili in a cornbread bowl and the fudge-dipped apple—victims of the same increased prices and decrease in unique items that have happened in some small part to every Knott’s food festival.

Fortunately, there are still seasonal food offerings throughout the park, many of which are on the dining plan. Knott’s did not create a summer guide this year, so we have collected all the options here for your convenience. If we missed anything, let us know in the comments below. 

*Available on the Knott’s Berry Farm Dining Plan

Calico Saloon

  • Porch Swing Peach Tea infused with Honey and Whiskey
  • Hot Honey Margarita

Grizzly Creek Lodge

  • Doritos Cool Ranch Burger*
  • Frito Pie Pizza*
  • Carrot Cake Cookie

Papas Mexicanas

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Carne Asada Walking Taco*
  • Chile Relleno Fries*

Casa California Restaurante

  • Chicharrón En Chile Verde
  • S’mores Concha
  • Mazapan Panna Cotta

Baja Taqueria

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Aguachiles*
  • Fresa Con Crema

Boardwalk BBQ

  • Chicken Mango Sausage*
  • Mediterranean Bean Salad*
  • Orzo Salad with Roasted Veggies*
  • Blueberry Bramble Bake

Coasters Diner

  • Greek Tzatziki Chicken Wrap*
  • Greek Tzatziki Chicken Salad*
  • Cherry Milkshake

Prop Shop Pizzeria

  • Roasted Poblano Cream Pasta*
  • The Speakeasy Fiesta Pizza*
  • Cucumber Caesar Salad with Chicken*
  • Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad with Chicken*
  • Orange and Vanilla Truffles

Prop Shop Bar

  • Campfire Cream Soda
  • Vanilla Bourbon Cream Soda
  • Strawberry Basil Mojito Shaker

Charleston Circle Coffee

  • Strawberry Shortcake Latte
  • Cherry Vanilla Iced Latte
  • Pistachio Coconut Macaroon

Strictly-on-a-Stick

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

  • Loaded Esquite Corn Dog*

Sutter’s Grill

  • Fajita Queso Burger with Hatch Chile Queso Dip*

Calico Tater Bites/Pizza

  • Dill Pickle and Bacon Pizza with Garlic Cream Sauce*

Ghost Town Bakery

  • Mango Strawberry Sunset Cupcake
  • Crumble Cake Cup
  • Blueberry Bramble Bake
  • Carrot Cake Cookie
  • Orange and Vanilla Truffles
  • Pistachio Coconut Macaroon

Wilderness Dogs and Drinks

  • LA Street Dog*
  • Wilderness Dirty Fries*

Log Ride Funnel Cake

  • Funfetti Confetti Cupcake Pop-Tarts Funnel Cake

Sutter’s Funnel Cake

  • Banana Split Funnel Cake
  • Strawberry Crunch Brick

Gourmet Churro Factory

  • S’mores Churro Sundae

Ghost Town Grub

  • Key Lime Funnel Cake

Chowhouse Mix It Up

  • Orange Cream Cookiewich
  • Wild Cherry ICEE Float

Now for a little bit of park news…

MonteZOOMa’s Revenge Construction

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

After several years of delays, MonteZOOMa’s Revenge is finally nearing completion. Vehicles have been out testing; we’re just waiting for Knott’s to finally announce an opening day. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Knott’s has reimagined its beloved 1978 Schwarzkopf shuttle loop coaster as MonteZOOMa: The Forbidden Fortress, and the update is substantial. While the ride’s signature 76-foot vertical loop remains, what’s new is a randomized launch system. Riders won’t know if they’re going forward or backward until they’re already moving.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat
Looks like a new marquee

The coaster retains its status as the only remaining Schwarzkopf Shuttle Loop in the United States and an official ACE landmark. Surrounding the experience is an all-new Aztec-themed queue and station built around the conceit of Montezuma’s hidden fortress, complete with boobytraps, ruins, and the implied fate of previous treasure hunters.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The intimidating new ride vehicles were sitting on the track during our visit. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Beagle Scout Badge Quest

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Adding to Knott’s recent foray into interactive toys, Camp Snoopy is home to an extensive merit badge quest. All throughout the land, there are tap points to participate. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

The points require a small badge that can be purchased in the Camp Snoopy store. They come with a lanyard so kids can wear them and (hopefully) not lose them during their quest. 

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Six Flags Pass Program

Now that Knott’s Berry Farm is officially part of the Six Flags family following the Cedar Fair/Six Flags merger, the park is introducing some new pass options worth knowing about. For the first time, Knott’s passholders can buy into a multi-park pass that gives access to parks across the combined Cedar Fair and Six Flags network, something that simply wasn’t possible before the merger.

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat

Three tiers are available: the Knott’s 2026 Season Pass covers Knott’s Berry Farm only, much as it always has, if Knott’s is your home park and you have no interest in visiting other Six Flags properties, this one might be fore you. Step up to the Six Flags Gold Pass and you get regional access across California, Arizona, and Mexico, including Magic Mountain, Discovery Kingdom, California’s Great America, and Six Flags Mexico. The Six Flags Prestige Pass goes all the way, covering all 40+ parks in the combined network and is the only tier that includes free general and preferred parking. Season Pass and Gold Pass holders can add parking separately, along with a range of other add-ons including dining plans, drink plans, unlimited photos, and Fast Lane access.

One important distinction: the new Membership program and the traditional Season Pass are not the same thing. Season Passes are a one-time upfront purchase that expire at the end of the operating year. Memberships are monthly subscriptions with a 12-month commitment that renew automatically until you cancel. 

Full details and pricing are at Knotts.com.

Let’s Hear From You About Knott’s Summertime!

Summer is one of the best times at Knott’s Berry Farm, largely thanks to the top-notch entertainment they manage to rustle up. Now, over to you! What’s your must-see summer show at Knott’s? Are you all about the immersive shenanigans of Ghost Town Alive? Got a favorite moment or character? Do you go for the food? Any other Knott’s traditions you’d like to see return? Spill the beans in the comments below!

Knott's Berry Farm Summer, Knott’s Berry Farm Summer 2026 Guide: What’s New, What’s Back, and What to Eat Fellow MiceChat photographer Brian Pinsky was quite entertained by the Carne Asada Walking Taco just being inside a Tostitos bag. Pro-tip: it’s better if you crunch up the chips a bit and shake the bag!

Scott Attula
Scott Attula
http://www.scottattula.com/
Author, photographer, videographer, Disney Cast Member. Scott comes from multiple Disney generations and disciplines, including his Grandpa Fred and father at Imagineering and his Grandpa Bill and mother in Live Entertainment. For MiceChat, Scott focuses on other SoCal parks like Knott's Berry Farm and Universal Studios. He can be found at theme parks on a semi-frequent basis trying to get that perfect angle. Need a photographer? Scott is available for creative shoots in Southern California. Check out his portfolio and contact him via Instagram or email.
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