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Celebrate the Halloween Season at Knott’s Spooky Farm Starting September 25

/ Family Fun, Knott's, Orange County

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

Knott’s Spooky Farm is back for 2021! This spooktacular family-friendly, daytime Halloween event invites families with little ghouls ages 3-11 to celebrate the delightfully spooky season as the park transforms with themed décor and wicked fun around every corner. The fall Season of Fun offers Halloween-themed activities that celebrate the season, including trick-or-treating, a line-up of original shows, pumpkin decorating and the brand-new Calico Carnival Costume Cavalcade. Knott’s Spooky Farm takes place on weekends, September 25 – October 31.

You can find Charlie Brown, his best friend Snoopy and the beloved PEANUTS Gang celebrating the spooky holiday with their own Halloween costumes at special meet & greets and fun photo encounters throughout Camp Snoopy. Kids ages 3 -11 can participate in a memorable trick-or-treating experience available along Ghost Town’s Main Street and Schoolhouse Road. During trick-or-treating, kids will interact with an array of spooky but friendly shopkeepers as little ones have the opportunity to show off their festive Halloween costumes. In Ghost Town, Stanley Scarecrow has opened the Livery Stable for guests of all ages to get close and personal with the Creepy Critters of Calico.Whimsical jack-o-lanterns surround Calico Park as it changes into an enchanting Pumpkin Patch location for families to enjoy the atmosphere of the season with photo ops and crafters. Miniature pumpkins or Halloween cookies will be available for decorating for a nominal fee. Linus can be spotted at the pumpkin patch, helping little ones pick out their very own perfect pumpkin. Gals and ghouls are in for a treat as new fun Halloween-themed shows are in store with the Bob Baker Marionette Theatre Show at Birdcage Theatre. These peculiar puppeteers will amaze all with a spooky puppet show.

At Camp Snoopy, families can hop aboard the Grand Sierra Railroad, joining Linus in the Pumpkin Patch as he and Sally await the arrival of The Great Pumpkin because Halloween isn’t complete without this timeless tale from the Peanuts Gang. Additionally, The Camp Snoopy Theater is debuting the Great Pumpkin Palooza show, where you’ll get more than a rock as you join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the Peanuts Gang for a high-energy music tribute to the best holiday ever, Halloween.

The residents of The Timber Mountain Log Ride will celebrate the Halloween Hootenanny, which adds a family-friendly seasonal twist to a park favorite. Mysterious creatures of Timber Mountain that live out in the woods and caverns join the citizens as they honor the season at the Halloween Hootenanny. The ride’s interior will feature fun surprises as guests venture past the Calico Coffin Creeper band, the town’s green witch and splash down Skull Mountain through a labyrinth of jack-o-lanterns. The seasonal ride will also feature an original song performed by Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies. At Camp Snoopy, families can hop aboard the Grand Sierra Railroad to experience a one-of-a-kind adventure with A Trip to Camp Spooky as riders travel with the PEANUTS Gang® and spot 2D and 3D Halloween themed characters and effects along the trail. The fun continues for little ones at the Calico Mine Ride with the newly added ride overlay at Calico Candy Mine Ride every Halloween as it mysteriously transforms from silver ore to pure candy. Grab a seat with your little one on the mine train for a sweet trip through a candy-filled dream. Little ghouls are also encouraged to strut their stuff and show off their Halloween Costumes in the Calico Carnival Costume Cavalcade hosted by the Calico Mayor and Cameo Kate at the Calico Mine Stage.The Halloween fun is park-wide as Día de Los Muertos, ¡ViVir! takes over the Fiesta Plaza Stage. This festive show pays tribute to the Hispanic cultural celebration and traditions of Día de Los Muertos.

Knott’s Spooky Farm runs weekends, September 25 – October 31 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and is included with regular park admission. For more information on all the exciting things that are going on at Knott’s Berry Farm and to purchase tickets, please visit knotts.com and follow the conversation on social using #KnottsSpookyFarm.

Images and logo are property of Knott’s and used with permission. 

Knott’s Scary Farm Returns for its 48th Season Tickets Now on Sale

/ Family Fun, Knott's, Orange County

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own.

Knott’s Scary Farm Returns for its 48th Season with Mesmerizing New Nightmares

Southern California’s largest immersive Halloween experience, Knott’s Scary Farm, returns with innovative new scares and bone-chilling thrills for its 48th frightful year. Terror comes to life as the theme park shifts into your worst nightmare, with horrifying monsters and hair-raising scares looming around every turn. This year, guests will have to confront their greatest fears with 15 haunted attractions, including five sinister scare zones, eight mesmerizing mazes, and two seasonal ride overlays to some of your favorite park attractions. Knott’s Scary Farm returns for 27 terrifying nights from September 16 – October 31.

There is nowhere to hide as endless scares await guests around every corner, with the debut of our newest captivating maze, an all-new spine-chilling scare zone, and a frightening lineup of new shows. These new haunted experiences add to the original scares that can’t be found anywhere else.Here are the new offerings for 2021:

Mesmer: Sideshow of the Mind (Maze) – The newest haunted maze has arrived; Mesmer: Sideshow of the Mind. Within the canvas tent lies the secret of the most potent force in the universe: the human mind. Give in and succumb to the hypnotist Mesmer and his sinister sideshow, as it preys on your hidden fears. Release your inner thoughts and descend into a world of madness, torture, and eerie enlightenment. There you will uncover the grotesque secrets hidden as you brave through the most terrifying show ever created.The Gore-ing 20’s (Scare Zone) – Step back into the dark decadence of a by-gone era as the newest scare zone, The Gore-ing 20’s, terrorizes even the bravest and most brutal souls. Here gangsters run illicit hooch for the ghostly revelers as the otherworldly musicians play the music of the damned. Tell the Bouncer the secret password, and you’ll have the time of your life for as long as it lasts.

Carnaval du Grotesque (Show) – Calico Mine Stage
Grab a seat as the show is about to begin! Your mind will melt at the sights and sounds of the Carnaval du Grotesque. Live bands provide the soundtrack for the creepiest company of performers to ever disgrace the stage.

Invitation to Terror (Show) – Mystery Lodge
Invitation to terror is a digital illusion horror show which tells the story of Millionaire Tom Shackleford, he is set to unveil the secret project that he promises will change the world. Set in Calico 1986, guests are invited to the debut of Futuretronics, the world’s top technology creator, latest technological advancement. It’s going to be a killer party with plenty of terrifying surprises no one will ever see coming.

Wicked Drums (Show) – Camp Snoopy Theater
Deep within The Hollow, The Witches summon you to a percussion ritual to awaken the dead. Hosted by the evil Hag of the Hollows, Wicked Drums, high energy drumming collides with ancient witchcraft in a sensory overload sure to raise your spirits. It’s a Halloween activity worth witnessing.

Doce de la Noche (Show) – Fiesta Plaza
The night comes alive at the stroke of midnight when our electric dance group takes the Fiesta Village stage. Dressed in colorful and vibrant colors, the lively dancers dazzle all with their moves set to high-energy music, which takes over all senses and has everyone dancing their feet off.

Returning Mazes:

Wax Works – Mysterious lights and strange noises have begun to emanate from the eerie abandoned wax museum. It’s rumored that blood-curdling screams can be heard echoing through the halls of Wax Works as victims are horrifyingly submerged into a scorching hot cauldron of bubbling wax. The once prominent plastic surgeon, Dr. Augustus Scratch, has been seen tinkering at night and is now ready to show off his beautiful yet terrifying life-like masterpieces of hot molten wax and bloody flesh. Take a closer look at his gruesome works of art and try to escape his deadly grip or become the newest masterpiece to add to his collection.

Origins: The Curse of Calico – Pierce the veil of time and discover the secret of the evil fog that hangs over Knott’s Scary Farm in Origins: The Curse of Calico. Unearth the sinister paranormal activity that plagues the town as Sarah Marshall is put on trial for her suspected crimes of witchcraft. All will be unveiled when the Green Witch rises and curses the townsfolk, transforming all who have accused her into a wicked horde of malicious creatures with an eternal quench for the living.

PARANORMAL, INC. – The Haunting of Hayden Hill: Paranormal Inc. maze reopens its doors one final time to those brave enough to uncover a bizarre and supernatural adventure. Guests investigate a haunted hospital where the patients were tortured for decades by deranged doctors and nurses. Demonic spirits of the murdered victims have been detected throughout the mysterious halls, while evil medical staff prowl for new patients to torture.

Pumpkin Eater – Survive the wrath of the murderous 7-foot tall creature that haunts the old woods surrounding The Hollow in the Pumpkin Eater maze. The notorious creature is on the prowl, hidden within the dark confines of the haunted town he once terrorized. To escape the sinister Pumpkin Eater’s wrath, all who enter must go on a quest through the silent town of victims, face a cave of crawling insects and solve the labyrinth of thorns that blocks the way out.

Dark Ride – Journey through an abandoned carnival ride where cruel carnie folk still linger in the shadows in Dark Ride: Castle of Chaos. The carnival has become a refuge for freaks and carnies. Now those shunned performers have created a dark world of terror which they plan to unleash on those who enter. Dark Ride will lead brave visitors through a treacherous path and into the bowels of a long-neglected attraction, as sinister shadows and horrifying scenes cast the gloom over the once pleasant ride. It’s everyone’s worst nightmare, being helplessly trapped inside an abandoned carnival ride without a way out.The Depths – A heavy fog drapes over an abandoned port village where ancient creatures lurk inside the pitch-black underground caves hidden below the seaside shores. The Nightwatch Mining Crew has mysteriously disappeared, and village rumors point to the eerie tunnels the town sits upon. But be warned, all who have entered have never resurfaced. Myths of the terrifying horrors that lurk within the cave have often been whispered but never confirmed. Did the crew meet their demise at the hand of vicious creatures that live within the cave? Journey into the ominous caverns to discover if the superstitions revolving around the cave are true or not.Dark Entities – Teleport beyond earth into a realm where the darkness is absolute. In the depths of space, a lone station faces terror beyond all imagination. An extraterrestrial mutation has invaded the station, and it’s on the prowl for new hosts. The unearthly inhabitants’ force increases as it feeds on its unwilling victims. Escape the dark entities before their deadly force eliminates all living forms aboard the station. There’s nowhere to escape when time is running out!Halloween Hootenanny – The Timber Mountain Log Ride residents celebrate the Halloween Hootenanny, which adds a seasonal twist to a park favorite. Mysterious creatures of Timber Mountain that live out in the woods and caverns join the citizens as they honor the season at the Halloween Hootenanny. The Ride’s interior features surprises as guests venture past the Calico Coffin Creeper band, the town’s green witch, and splash down Skull Mountain through a labyrinth of jack-o-lanterns all set to an original soundtrack by Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies.

Knott’s Scary Farm is far more than a collection of haunted attractions.Every night monsters spill out onto the streets and turn theme park midways into murderous scare zones. From the world-famous Ghost Town Streets to the Boardwalk area filled with evil clowns, there’s nowhere to hide in Knott’s Scary Farm.
Here are the returning Scare Zones: 
-Ghost Town Streets is the original and largest, most terrifying scare zone that started it all. Bands of half-human, half-animal monsters prowl the streets and inhabit the fog, and beware the notoriously stunning sliders, who lunge from fog-filled corners of the land.

-On the Boardwalk, deviant clowns crave your undying attention in the CARNEVIL scare zone.

-The Hollow scare zone will terrorize guests as the Witches of the Hollow, and their armies of creatures have risen once again to battle with the Witch Hunter.

-The Lake underneath Silver Bullet recedes to reveal the Forsaken Lake scare zone, where gothic creatures ravaged by the dark and murky waters wander from their crypts preying on unsuspecting visitors, looking for victims to drag back to their watery graves.

Here are the returning shows for 2021:

Puppet Up! Uncensored (Show) – The Walter Knott Theater – Returning nightly to Knott’s Scary Farm for the 2021 season, Puppet Up! Uncensored is an outrageous, off-the-cuff show featuring a combination of improvisational comedy and the magic of puppetry performed by a cast of world-class comedian puppeteers from The Jim Henson Company. Created by legendary puppeteer and award-winning director Brian Henson and directed by Patrick Bristow (Ellen, Seinfeld, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Whose Line Is It Anyway?), Puppet Up! – Uncensored is no ordinary puppet show. The content is driven by audience suggestions and participation in proper uncensored form, topped with the zany antics and naughty shenanigans of the colorful and brazen puppet cast. Puppet Up! – Uncensored will be performed three times each night at Knott’s Scary Farm and is intended for mature audiences.

Conjurers (Show) – Bird Cage Theater
You won’t believe your eyes when our skilled Illusionist takes the stage in the heart of Calico. Get there early as seats have been known to vanish.

Knott’s Scary Farm Admission & Offerings

– Single night tickets – Buy tickets at KnottsScaryFarm.com and save up to $39 off the regular main gate price of $89. Knott’s Season Passholders receive a discount on single-night tickets. Applicable taxes and fees apply to online orders.

– Fright & Fast Lane – Ride and scream all night long with unlimited priority access to all mazes plus priority boarding on all Fast Lane rides. Fright & Fast Lane starts at $99 and varies by night. Separate Scary Farm park admission required and not included.

– Knott’s Scary Farm Boo-Fet – Offered at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant and Spurs Chophouse. Meals include a 2021 souvenir bottle, which gives unlimited complimentary refills on the event night and $1.00 refills for the rest of the 2021 season. After dinner, enjoy early entry into select areas of Knott’s Scary Farm a few minutes before it opens to other mortals. Boo-fet early entry will be to Paranormal Inc., Dark Entities, The Depths and Wax Works, and exclusive photo opportunities with the monsters. The Knott’s Scary Farm Boo-fet dinner is $45 + applicable taxes and fees when purchased online. Separate theme park admission is required and not included.

All Season Long Parking is valid for Knott’s Scary Farm nights. – Knott’s Scary Farm General parking is $25 per vehicle and can be purchased online or at the parking booth upon arrival. Applicable taxes and fees apply to online orders.

Knott’s Scary Farm has welcomed millions of visitors for over 47 years and has become an institution in the Southern California theme park landscape. This year, the event returns September 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30 and October 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30 and 31. Knott’s Scary Farm is open 7:00 pm – 1:00 am on select Thursdays and Sundays, and 7:00 pm – 2:00 am Fridays and Saturdays. Due to the explicit and frightening nature of the event, it is not recommended for children under 13. This year’s Knott’s Scary Farm experience is Where Nightmares Never End!

For more information on Knott’s Scary Farm, including admission, park hours, and events, please visit knottsscaryfarm.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smartphone. Join the scary conversation on social using #ScaryFarm.

Images and logo are property of Knott’s Scary Farm and used with permission. 

The All-New Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween Begins September 25

/ Family Fun, Knott's, Knott's, Knotts, Orange County, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are 100% my own.

Have you heard what’s next at Knott’s Berry Farm? The All-New Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween is set to start on September 25th and will offer safe family outdoor activities, themed food and treats & a special trick-or-treat trail in celebration of the Halloween season!

While the theme park remains closed, Knott’s Berry Farm introduces its newest family-friendly outdoor food and retail experience celebrating the Halloween season and the flavors of Fall with Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween. Taking place Fridays through Sundays beginning September 25th, Knott’s pays tribute to the year’s spookiest season with a Fall food experience unlike any other. The spirit of Halloween comes to life with a cornucopia of Harvest and Halloween décor that will transform the park for the season. Guests of all ages can dress up in their most festive costumes* to experience one-of-a-kind themed food and treats, exclusive event merchandise including specialty items from local crafters, an all-new “Into the Fog” art show with over 45 new art pieces celebrating the scary season, and so much more. Plus included with a junior tasting card, young guests will have an opportunity to take a trip through the fully themed Camp Snoopy Trick-or-Treat Trail presented by Hershey, loaded with multiple treat stations and special spooky decorations. All Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween activities will be conducted at a safe and socially distant space for families to enjoy.

Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween will take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, September 25 -November 1. The only way to experience the limited time Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween is with a tasting card purchased in advance at knotts.com (a tasting card is required for event entry). Event hours will be Fridays and Saturdays from 12pm -9pm and Sundays from 12pm to 8pm. Regular tasting cards (ages 12+) are priced at $35 (plus tax) and will include five food tastings and Junior tasting cards (ages 3-11) are $20 (plus tax) and include three tastings plus a trip through the Camp Snoopy Trick-or-Treat Trail. Tasting cards are date specific and must be purchased online at knotts.com or through the Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app prior to the date of visit. Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween hotel packages are also available at Knotts.com. In order to manage proper physical distancing of guests, Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween tasting cards will be limited each day and may sell out.

As Knott’s Berry Farm continues to follow state, local and CDC health guidelines, these are the continued safety measures and operational changes we have established to ensure the safety of guests:

  • · Tasting cards are limited each day to ensure proper physical distancing
  • · Upon arrival, guests will be required to enter a temperature screening and security checkpoint at the main gate
  • · All associates and guests must wear a facial covering while visiting Taste of Fall-O-Ween or the Knott’s California Marketplace store locations and restaurants – masks are not required while sitting at a table or bench to eat
  • · Frequently touched surfaces are disinfected daily and sanitized frequently. This includes but is not limited to cash counters, scanners, EMV readers, pens at cashier counters, register screens, store fixtures, door handles, and shopping baskets
  • · Signage is present to aid guests in the proper direction of travel and as a reminder to practice social distancing
  • · Seating is spaced out throughout the Taste of Fall-O-Ween event footprint
  • · Hand sanitizing stations are available throughout the event area
  • · All associates will be screened, including temperature and symptom checks using CDC guidelines before being allowed on the property to work
  • · Associates have been trained on the importance of handwashing, physical distancing, and overall hygiene
  • · Separate entrances and exits will appear at some store locations
  • · Store occupancy is limited to less than 50% of the normal building capacity Queue lines outside of store locations are marked with six-foot markers where needed.

Knott’s Berry Farm is located at:
8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620

Please note: While guests are encouraged to come dressed in their most festive costumes, approved face coverings still are mandatory. Costume masks are not allowed as a substitution for required face coverings.

For more details about Knott’s Taste of Fall-O-Ween and the park’s current health and safety screenings, please visit knotts.com.

 Join the conversation on social using #Knotts #TasteofFallOWeen.

Images used with permission. 

All-new ‘Magic Happens’ Parade to Debut at Disneyland Resort 2/28 with Magical Moments from Beloved Disney and Pixar Stories

/ California, Disney, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

Disneyland Resort will debut its all-new “Magic Happens” parade at Disneyland Park on Feb. 28, 2020. The incredible “Magic Happens” daytime spectacular celebrates the awe-inspiring moments of magic that are at the heart of so many Disney stories! This new parade, led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films as they are brought to life on a grand scale with stunning floats, artistic costumes and a surprising and energetic musical score combined with beloved Disney tunes.

“When you come to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, there are so many ways to
immerse yourself in our stories, but a parade is a unique experience because it’s the only way
for you, as the audience, to stay in one place and have so many stories, characters and magical
moments pass right in front of you. We’ve designed the ‘Magic Happens’ floats so that characters, scenes and surprises are revealed a little at a time, making each float a journey of discovery” – David Duffy, creative director for Disney Live Entertainment

“Magic Happens” includes something for everyone and will be enjoyed by guests of all ages.
This new parade features nine newly designed floats, highlighting magic from classic Walt
Disney Animation Studios tales such as “The Sword in the Stone,” “Cinderella” and “Sleeping
Beauty,” to more recent stories including “Frozen 2,” “Moana” and “The Princess and the Frog,”
as well as Disney and Pixar’s “Coco.” The new floats were created as pieces of moving art, with
their lines and aesthetic design working to tell a story along the parade route, while also evoking
a sense of magic.

In addition to the stunning floats, the parade route along Main Street, U.S.A., will be filled with
dynamic performers and more than two dozen Disney and Pixar characters. The parade’s
costume design draws inspiration directly from modern runways, making each costume look
fashion-forward, yet uniquely Disney. Many performers and characters in “Magic Happens” will
don all-new costumes, specifically made for this parade.
Watch this sneak peek of “Magic Happens”:

While the music and stories seen in “Magic Happens” are rooted in iconic Disney lore, the
soundtrack and choreography are heavily influenced by today’s pop culture designers, putting a
contemporary spin on the classic Disney hits. “Magic Happens” features an energetic musical
score and new songs, co-composed by singer-songwriter, Todrick Hall. “Magic Happens” is a whimsical and joyous procession that allows the Disney magic to shine through. The parade features distinct stories with a mix of characters, making it feel contemporary and classic, fun and regal, and surprising and familiar – all at the same time.
Highlights of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade include:

  • Mickey Mouse leads the way, gliding along on glistening swirls of magic emanating from
    a giant, iridescent magical hat. Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto and Chip ‘n
    Dale join in, dancing along with a group of eclectic and artsy performers representing
    stylized aspects of magic.
  • On her voyager canoe, Moana journeys forth on the crest of a towering wave, inspired
    by beautiful koa wood carvings, and inset with dazzling, animated glimpses into the
    magic the ocean holds. This is the first full-scale “Moana”-inspired float to be created for
    a Disney park.
  • Joining Moana on her journey is Maui, who travels along on his own magical piece of the
    islands with Moana’s adorable pet pig, Pua. Maui makes his official Disneyland Resort
    debut in “Magic Happens.”
  • Miguel appears in person for the first time, celebrating the magic that happens when he
    strums the guitar of Ernesto de la Cruz in the Disney and Pixar film “Coco.” This
    spectacular float connects the Land of the Living and the Land of the Dead with a vibrant
    marigold bridge, and fantastical alebrije spirit animals join the procession, along with
    Miguel’s dog Danté. This is the first time the film “Coco” has inspired a float for a Disney
    Parks parade.
  • From “Frozen 2,” Anna and Elsa explore the mysteries of the Enchanted Forest
    protected by the Nokk, the mystical water spirit, as their friends Kristoff, Sven and Olaf
    tag along.

The regal grand finale of “Magic Happens” celebrates magical moments from several
classic Disney stories. The start of the finale brings together a collection of many iconic
magical characters, including Genie, Aladdin, Tinker Bell, Peter Pan, Blue Fairy,
Pinocchio and Fairy Godmother. These characters lead the way as more floats are
introduced, each highlighting the moments of magic that changed the characters’ lives.

  • From “Cinderella,” guests watch the moment of “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” as
    Cinderella is seen inside a grand pumpkin, just as it magically transforms into a
    glistening carriage to whisk her off to the ball.
  • From “The Sword in the Stone,” Merlin wisely leads the way for young Arthur,
    who finds the magic within himself as he pulls the sword from the stone, claiming
    his place upon the throne.
  • Tiana and Naveen from “The Princess and the Frog” are seen amidst a swirl of
    golden flowers where they share a kiss, completing their transformation back into
    human forms.
  • The happily-ever-after scene from “Sleeping Beauty” features the three good
    fairies and Princess Aurora, whose gown shimmers between hues of pink and
    blue.

Spring is a great time to visit the Disneyland Resort and experience the new “Magic Happens” parade, as the resort is offering special, limited-time ticket and hotel offers. Kids everywhere* along with Southern California residents** may visit the theme parks for as low as $67 per person, per day with 3-day, 1-park per day tickets through May 21, 2020, which you can read more about HERE.Are you as excited as I am about the debut of the all-new “Magic Happens” parade  at Disneyland Resort? Tell me about your plans to visit and experience it.

Some images and video are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Disneyland Resort Announces Limited-Time Ticket Offers for Kids Everywhere and SoCal Residents

/ California, Disney, Disney, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 

It’s back! Once again, for a limited time, Southern California residents can visit the Disneyland Resort theme parks for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. (Park Hopper options also are available.) The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020.

Eligible guests may purchase up to five tickets per person, per day, and prices are the same for adults and children. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission to select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. Southern California residents may redeem their tickets on any three separate days through May 21, 2020. These special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent.

Special Ticket Offer for Kids Everywhere
For families visiting from outside of Southern California, there’s a special value for kids. For a limited time, guests can save on Disneyland Resort park tickets for children ages 3 to 9 for $67 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket. Park Hopper options also are available. The tickets are available for purchase Jan. 7 through May 18, 2020. Guests may purchase up to eight tickets per person, per day. This special ticket also includes one Magic Morning, which gives admission into select attractions on select days at Disneyland park one hour before the park opens to the general public. This three-day ticket expires 13 days after first use or on May 21, 2020, whichever occurs first. Purchase these special tickets may be purchased HERE or through a travel agent. Do YOU have a visit planned soon to the Disneyland Resort? If not, why not plan one around these great offers?

*Characters image property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Disneyland Resort’s Lunar New Year Celebration: the Year of the Mouse January 17 to February 9, 2020.

/ California, Disney, Disneyland Resort, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post All opinions are my own. 
This Lunar New Year, Disneyland Resort will celebrate “the Year of the Mouse” at Disney California Adventure Park from January 17 through February 9, 2020. The 24 day, multicultural celebration, will have exciting live entertainment and musical performances, including “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” and the return of the heartwarming “Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration” prior to the “World of Color” nighttime spectacular, for guests to enjoy.This unique Lunar New Year celebration comes alive with a touch of Disney magic as transformative Asian celebrations dedicate the new year. Guests will experience inspired food, music and entertainment with loved ones as they celebrate the Year of the Mouse together. Lunar New Year, traditionally celebrated within Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, celebrates the celestial journey of the sun and the moon on their journey towards another year. Highlights of the Lunar New Year celebration this year at Disney California Adventure include:

  • “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” is a celebratory parade led by Mulan that honors Lunar New Year and dedicates the new year’s blessings to family and friendship. As a special treat for the Year of the Mouse, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse join the procession in new celebration attire, along with Goofy in his “god of Good Fortune” attire and Chip ‘n’ Dale in their red vests. Talented performers bring dance, martial arts and drumming to enhance the beautifully colorful procession. “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession” will run several times, daily.
  • “Hurry Home – Lunar New Year Celebration”, is a heartwarming nighttime water show at Paradise Bay prior to “World of Color” which tells the tale of a little lantern’s quest to reunite with family for the annual celebration of good luck and fortune. Guests will be delighted to see Mulan as a part of the little lantern’s journey.
  • Beloved characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will don new festive Lunar New Year attire this year as they greet guests at Paradise Gardens. Other characters guests may find in this area include Mulan, Pluto, and the Three Little Pigs who also join in the Lunar New Year celebration.
  • Guests will enjoy four festive marketplaces to experience delightful food and beverages inspired by Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, including the new smoked beef bulgogi short rib and the peach sojito, as well as many other new and returning favorites. The popular Sip and Savor pass* is available for any guest to purchase if they wish to get the best value as they taste their way through the festive Asian marketplaces, Longevity Noodle Co., Lucky 8 Lantern, Prosperity Bao & Buns and Red Dragon Spice Traders.  A special Lunar New Year menu at Paradise Garden Grill offers items inspired by traditional Asian fare, plus a Festival Cart inside Paradise Gardens and special food options at Lucky Fortune Cookery in Pacific Wharf.
  • Live, daily performances by authentic Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese dancers and musicians will take place throughout Paradise Gardens Park.
  • Enjoy areas for guests to try complimentary arts and crafts. One area features a complimentary dragon’s pearl coloring craft, and another features Chinese calligraphy with local artisans. Plus, new face painting opportunities have been added to the Lunar New Year celebration, available for purchase.
  • A Lucky Wishing Wall, located in Paradise Gardens, is where guests may write down wishes and tie them to the wall in hopes for a prosperous future.
  • The educational art walls provide guests with information about the festival, including fun details such as “What Year Are You?” as well as the unique story of Lunar New Year in each culture that celebrates the sun and moon festival.
  • Inspiring Lunar New Year décor symbolizes good luck, fortune and happiness in bold red and brilliant gold. Guests will see ornamental lanterns and banners wishing guests a Happy Lunar New Year in English, Chinese, Korean and New Lunar New Year merchandise inspired by different cultures of East Asia will be available for purchase. This year, guests will find all-new spirit jerseys, fun bobble-head figures with Chip and Dale, a traditional red envelope set, themed Minnie Mouse ear headbands and more.

In addition, the Disneyland Resort is offering special hotel offers during the Lunar New Year celebration, making this an ideal time for guests to visit Disney California Adventure. Guests may find more information at Disneyland.com.

*Sip and Savor Pass entitlements may only be redeemed during regular Lunar New Year celebration operating hours, and the Pass expires on February 9, 2020. Each coupon may be redeemed for one (1) food or nonalcoholic beverage item at a participating Marketplace location. Excludes novelties including souvenir tumblers. No discounts apply. Nonrefundable, nontransferable, may not be redeemed for cash (in whole or in part), no substitutions and no change given. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required.

Some images are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Knott’s Announces the Return of Knott’s Beary Tales Attraction for Summer 2020

/ Family Fun, Knott's, Orange County, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. all opinions are my own.

I am SO excited to hear the latest news from Knott’s Berry Farm! One of my childhood favorites is returning to the park this summer: Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair! Obviously it’s going to be a modernized version as it returns as an all-new adventure in Summer 2020.

As part of the 100th anniversary celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm, this 4D interactive dark ride will bring to life a continuation of the story from the classic attraction. Guests will climb aboard ride vehicles equipped with “Jelly Blasters” and be immersed in the world of the Bear-y Tales characters to try and recover the stolen boysenberry pies from Crafty Coyote and his brood of pups. Families can ride through and take in the expansive surroundings or compete for the hightest score. With all of the classic scenes reimagined including the Pie Factory, Frog Forest, and County Fair, this will be a journey like never experienced before!

Does anyone else remember this ride? Am I dating myself here? Well, stay tuned for more news as Summer 2020 nears!

Some images are property of Knott’s Berry Farm and used with permission. 

“Mickey’s Happy Holidays” Joins Holiday Entertainment Lineup at Disney California Adventure

/ California, Disney, Disney, Disney, Family Fun, Orange County, SoCal Fun, Travel

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 
With the Holdiays at Disneyland Resort just around the corner beginning November 8, there’s more exciting news for guests visiting the resort. Just announced today, “Mickey’s Happy Holidays” will be a part of the holiday entertainment lineup at Disney California Adventure. This character celebration will include Mickey Mouse and pals. Guests will dance and sing along with Mickey Mouse and friends during the all new *“Mickey’s Happy Holidays” celebration. Mickey is joined by favorite Disney and Pixar characters as they dance along to high-energy music, led by the merry rhythms of the Holiday Toy Drummers. Mickey, Minnie, Chip n’ Dale, Goofy and Clarabelle all don new Festival of Holidays attire, specifically for the “Mickey’s Happy Holidays” celebration. The Country Bears and the Pixar characters also sport fun seasonal overlays for the show.
Returning in 2019 is the dazzling “World of Color – Season of Light,” a holiday-themed production of this nighttime spectacular that features lights, lasers, water, fire and hundreds of fountains bringing animation to life.
Disney Festival of Holidays brings the spirit of the season to life through lively entertainment, festive food and beverage and special traditions. Children will enjoy craft stations and everyone will appreciate the delicious food at Festival Foods Marketplace, featuring a mix of holiday dishes and beverages that bridge many diverse cultures and family traditions.

The Holiday Sunset Concerts features new music this year from The Suffragettes, who rock holiday chart-topping hits from favorite musical artists (Sunday, Monday and Tuesday nights). This new band joins the explosive energy of Phat Cat Swinger, the West Coast’s “Little-Big Band” that plays a swinging selection of irresistible holiday music, presented with a fresh new twist (Wednesday through Saturday nights).

Additional Festival of Holidays entertainment includes musical and dance performances by Mostly Kosher, Blue13 Dance Company, The Sound and the GRAMMY® Award-winning Mariachi Divas.

The Three Caballeros host the popular “Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party” celebration, featuring folklórico and samba dancers, live musicians, and Mickey and Minnie in their fiesta best.

Disney Festival of Holidays begins on November 8 and continues through January 6, 2020. For more information, including showtimes, pleae visit

*“Mickey’s Happy Holidays” will run twice daily, with show moments at Paradise Gardens Park and Carthay Circle.

Some images and logo are property of Disneyland Resort and used with permission. 

Celebrate the Season at Knott’s Merry Farm Beginning November 22

/ Family Fun, Knott's, Knott's, Orange County, SoCal Fun

This is not a sponsored post. All opinions are my own. 
It’s almost time to celebrate the merriest of seasons at Knott’s Berry Farm as the park wondrously transforms into Knott’s Merry Farm, a Christmas celebration for all ages. You can come spend the most wonderful time of the year with your family at Knott’s Merry Farm enjoying thrilling holiday attractions, live entertainment, a Christmas Crafts Village, festive food, lavish holiday decorations, and nightly snow in Ghost Town, all beginning November 22!

I feel so lucky to live in Southern California where I can celebrate the holidays while still enjoying the beautiful sunny weather outside. I am all about making the most of this time of year with my family and Knott’s Merry Farm is an annual tradition for us. I’m not even sure if I’m most excited about the festive treats, the special holiday entertainment, visiting Santa (because he is there, too.) or just going on all of my favorite rides? Also, I get so excited to see what’s new each year.

Here are the special entertainment offerings you’ll find this year at Knott’s Merry Farm:

“Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” Ice Show (in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre) -Snoopy, the Peanuts, and a cast of world-class ice skaters perform in the spectacular ice show, “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” in the Charles M. Schulz Theatre. During the show, filled with whimsy and spectacular skating, Snoopy enjoys all of the best parts of the season, including trimming the Christmas tree, awaiting Santa’s arrival, and attending the festive Christmas Ball! “Merry Christmas, Snoopy!” is performed on select days.“Home for the Holidays” (at the Calico Mine Stage) -Home for the Holidays is a joyous music review filled with singing, dancing and merriment of Christmas days of yore, including some of the best-loved perennial holiday tunes including, “There’s No Place Like Home For The Holidays,” “Sleigh Ride,” “Jingle Bells,” “Here We Come A-Caroling,” and many more. The Calico Mine Stage depicts a Winter Wonderland directly out of a Currie & Ives painting and is the ideal version of an old-fashioned holiday dream. The year is 1915 and the sounds and feelings of the holiday season surround the air. Home for the Holidays is the story of family, friends and holiday traditions.

“A Peanuts Guide to Christmas” (at the Camp Snoopy Theater) – The Peanuts Gang offer their take and unique wisdom on surviving the holidays, while singing you a mashup of their favorite holiday tunes. After the show, head right next door to the Peanuts Meet and Greet Area to take a picture with your favorite character.“Charles Dickens’A Christmas Carol” and “Marley’s Wings” (in the Bird Cage Theater)- Knott’s melodrama company brings to life Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol and Marley’s Wings performances available on select dates during Knott’s Merry Farm. In Marley’s Wings, the Ghost of Jacob Marley returns to a wonderful new holiday musical that is destined to become a classic! One year ago, Marley appeared and appealed to Ebenezer Scrooge to mend his ways lest he suffer eternal torment in the form of chains forged by a life of greed and avarice. If Scrooge could truly change his ways for an entire year, Marley would not only be free of his chains; he would also gain his bona fide Angel’s Wings! On the surface, Ebenezer seems to have seen the light and made the necessary adjustments, with one glaring exception. Scrooge is struggling with finding and holding the true meaning of Christmas in his heart. He must grasp this essential message by midnight, or Marley will be grounded for all eternity. The Bird Cage piano will come alive with great new songs like “Raise the Rafters,” “Christmas in Heaven,” and “The Bah Hum Bug” to name a few. Marley is on a mission! With the help of this wonderful new musical score and audience energy, Scrooge’s transformation unfolds before our eyes. Will it be soon enough to deliver Marley’s wings? The clock is ticking…

Calico Saloon Christmas Show (Calico Saloon) – Cameo Kate and Dakota Dan invite you to their musical turn of the century holiday celebration. Head into the Calico Saloon, grab a boysenberry beer or sarsaparilla and watch a classical Old West revue show. Get ready for plenty of laughs and audience interaction in this toe-tapping, knee-slapping journey.

Snow and Glow Show (in Calico Ghost Town) – Every night during Merry Farm, when the sun sets on the Farm, the buildings and paths in Ghost Town’s Main Street and School House Road are filled with glow and snow! Thousands of sparkling lights dance to the beat of Christmas music while snow gently falls in this spectacular one-of-a-kind moment.

Calico Carolers (strolling throughout Ghost Town) – Be transported back in time to a Victorian Christmas by the Calico Carolers, Knott’s own vocal quartet, as they perform the songs of the season throughout Ghost Town. Warm up your vocal chords and join in on the fun by singing along to both classic and contemporary Christmas music presented in a timeless way.

Festive Eats and Treats at Knott’s Merry Farm
Every holday season, it seems like the Knott’s culinary team steps up their festive treats game even more. At Knott’s Merry Farm, you’ll not only find traditional favorites such as Mrs. Claus’ milk & cookies, hot cocoa with candy cane topping, roasted nuts, and but there are also offerings such as tamales, Christmas pizza, and candy cane churros!Knott’s is the perfect place to spend many a day together with friends and/or family creating new memories together, which is a great reason to grab a 2020 Knott’s Season Pass. They make great holiday gifts and include one free visit to Knott’s in 2019, unlimited visits in 2020 with no blackout dates, discounts on select food and merchandise,  and access to exciting year-round seasonal events.For more information about Knott’s Season Passes, including information about their payment plans, please visit knotts.com.