Christmas lights wrapped around every tree, the smell of holiday food in the air, and you’re walking into Knott’s Merry Farm with your crew, trying to figure out what to hit first – the ice show, the rides, or Santa himself. From November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026, you get a full-on winter wonderland in the middle of Orange County, with live shows, glowing decorations, festive eats, and those classic Knott’s vibes that turn your regular night out into a legit holiday tradition.
What You Can’t Miss at Knott’s Merry Farm
With thousands of twinkling lights illuminating the park throughout the season, Knott’s Merry Farm quickly earns a permanent spot on your holiday must-do list. From the moment the lights come on, every land feels alive with seasonal energy. You’ll want to carve out time for the holiday ice show starring Snoopy, take in the Snow and Glow in Calico, visit Santa at his Christmas Cabin, and wander through the Christmas Crafts Village at least once—though chances are you’ll loop back more than once.
Of course, no Merry Farm visit is complete without mixing in a few classic rides, indulging in seasonal food offerings like the beloved meatball hoagie with cranberry gastrique, and warming up with a cup of gourmet hot chocolate. Before you know it, you’ve unintentionally built the perfect Merry Farm itinerary.
Broadway-Caliber Holiday Entertainment
One of the standout reasons Knott’s Merry Farm continues to shine year after year is its fabulous live entertainment, which truly feels Broadway-caliber in both production value and talent.
As you stroll through Ghost Town, the Calico Carolers fill the streets with classic holiday harmonies, creating a nostalgic soundtrack that feels straight out of a vintage Christmas postcard. Inside the historic Bird Cage Theatre, guests can enjoy The Gift of the Magi and A Calico Christmas Carol, both presented in an old-fashioned vaudeville style that perfectly matches Knott’s heritage. These shows are charming, funny, and heartfelt—timeless performances that appeal to all ages.
The evening festivities continue with the ’Tis the Season Tree Lighting Ceremony, a heartwarming moment that officially ushers in the holiday spirit as the park glows to life. And then there’s Home for the Holidays, a true showstopper. This Broadway-style production features powerhouse singing, impressive choreography, and a massive, jaw-dropping set that opens up to reveal the inside of a beautifully decorated home. It’s the kind of performance that makes you pause and think, “This is included with park admission?”
Yummy Treats and Festive Drinks
There’s something about the holidays that makes every snack taste just a little better—especially when it’s enjoyed under a canopy of twinkling lights. From Ghost Town to Santa’s Christmas Cabin, Knott’s Merry Farm feels like a park-sized holiday menu. Warm, sugary, savory, and seasonal treats tempt you at every corner, making it nearly impossible to say no to “just one more bite,” even when you’re already full.
Crafty Fun for Everyone
Five minutes after you wander into Ghost Town, you realize you’ve basically stumbled into an open-air holiday workshop, because every corner of the Christmas Crafts Village pulls you into something hands-on. You watch chainsaw artists carving 6-foot bears, glassblowers shaping ornaments right in front of you, and then you’re suddenly picking out hand-painted signs or custom leather goods with your family name on them. Kids are busy with DIY projects, you’re hunting for gifts, and somehow it all feels like you stepped into a little hometown market plopped in the middle of Knott’s.
What’s Cooking in Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen?
Over 1,000 cookies a day come rolling out of Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, and you get to jump right into the sugar-frosted chaos. You can grab a giant sugar cookie or classic gingerbread, then pile on red-and-green sprinkles, frosting, and candy bits however your kids like it – or you, no judgment. Because it’s open select days between November 21 and January 4, you’ll want to plan this stop so nobody melts down before the icing does.
A Holiday Tradition Worth Keeping
Knott’s Merry Farm perfectly captures the magic of the holidays by leaning into nostalgia while still delivering fresh experiences each year. From Broadway-quality shows and glowing streets to festive food and hands-on crafts, it’s easy to see why this event has become a cherished seasonal tradition for so many families. This year’s Knott’s Merry Farm is one you won’t want to miss—and one you’ll be talking about long after the lights come down.
