Knotts Berry Stand

Greetings family, friends and theme park buddies....... I hope that you enjoy this month's submission to the Bay Brea Garden Railroad Society newsletter highlighting Knott's Berry Farm's 100th Anniversary!

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MUSINGS OF A THEME PARK FAN

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 KNOTT’S BERRY FARM’S                                   100th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Walter Knott literally put down roots in Buena Park in December of 1920 after trying to homestead in the unforgiving Mojave Desert and share cropping on his cousins ranch in San Luis Obispo County. Melons, sweet potatoes, corn and blackberry’s were grown by Walter and Cordelia Knott on 20 rented acres along highway 39. Soon the crop was increased to include strawberries, rhubarb and new variety of berries that they delivered to awaiting commercial customers as well as sold from their roadside farm stand. Cedar Fair and Knott’s Berry Farm were all set for the summer of 2020 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the families arrival in Buena Park, however the COVID-19 pandemic struck, putting most everything on hold. Knott’s Berry Farm will be celebrating their postponed 100th Anniversary this summer through September 6th with festive decor, themed food items, new attractions and a loving tribute to the past that many off us remember growing up. A replica of the original farm stand has been recreated as well as an interactive Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair ride. Pop up Kiosks around the park recall Kingdom of the Dinosaurs, Wacky Soap Box Racers, Roaring 20’s Airfield, and classic Mystery Shack. Ghost Town is “alive” and well with a a cast of western “peek-in” characters and video’s activated by QR codes. Of course the theme park experience isn’t complete without exclusive anniversary merchandise, a gallery of original KBF artwork and a special 100th Anniversary Edition of “Knott’s Preserved” co-authored by Eric Lynxwiler, featured speaker at our 2016 National Garden Railways Convention.

Plan ahead if you are considering visiting Knott’s Berry Farm this summer! Advance reservations are required at the time of this writing as are other COVID-19 guidelines. Some rides and attractions may not be in operation.

From the postcard collection of Bill Ralph