The gates have opened, unleashing Knott’s Scary Farm’s highly anticipated 50th anniversary year, maintaining its place as one of the world’s best and most creative theme park haunts. After a shakey 2022 season, the celebrated innovator rallied, brought their A-Game, and kicked off a Knott’s Scary Farm worthy of being associated with the half-century milestone. Of course, there is a fly in the ointment, and we will get to that. But for the most part, 2023 is one of the best years that Scary Farm has ever had.
Entertainment
There are a total of four live shows offered during Knott’s Scary Farm. Each ranges from stylish to crude, as is expected. Speaking of crude, The Hanging is back and is actually pretty good. Really everything is worth a look, but one of the shows needs to make a very easy change that would take it from nearly unwatchable to a pleasant diversion.
Dr. Cleaver Returns
Situated in the intimate Birdcage Theatre, is the goofball humor of Dr. Cleaver. It seems that the choppy Doc has received a mysterious gift that he must then hide from a surprise trick-or-treater. With the help of his assistant, the two aim to undo an evil curse in the process of dealing with their guest.
This is broad, wacky humor with rapid-fire jokes that land more than not. As Dr. Cleaver and his assistant bumble through their farcical escapades, we couldn’t help but give into the silliness. It’s a short 15 minutes of foolishness that actually made us laugh out loud more than a few times. Do yourself a favor and try to check out this inane little gem. It was hilariously droll, short, and sweet.
The Hanging: Uncancelled
After a few years off, Jeff Tucker’s reboot of the beloved and much-derided THE HANGING is back and is actually pretty funny. The action has been moved from Calico Square to the Wagon Camp theatre at the front of the park. The Hangman and his assistant hobble out of crates after being locked in storage for a few years to again, find the source of evil that has caused the most suffering over the previous year and put them to death by hanging.
This is a comedy stunt show that lampoons the year in pop culture, so best not to analyze it too much. The jokes and references are delivered with the subtlety of a sledgehammer as targets include Barbie, Karen’s, and returning favorite target, Disneyland.
While I did have a lot of fun with this installment of the show, and laughed quite a bit, it felt as if Knott’s was very cautiously dipping its toe back into caustic humor with targets. Only a few of the jokes had the teeth that previous years did. Yes, we got the Gary Coleman Cooler and references to other Hangings from the past but aside from that things were pretty safe. Fun, but safe. I guess you can’t get a cease and desist every year.
Music, Monsters & Mayhem
For the 50th year of Knott’s Scary Farm, the entertainment department struck out on a new path to do something original with the new show Music, Monsters, and Mayhem. The idea was to create a review that would traverse the history of Knott’s Scary Farm in dance and song. At approximately 50 minutes, the show is far too long and sports a slew of solid musical numbers and a host who is not up for the job.
Here we are treated to lavish numbers that look back at the biggest hits of the past including Ghost Town, Jack the Ripper, creepy dolls, Voodoo, and the long-avoided depiction of demons and hell. The show is hosted by the painfully unfunny Mark Marciel who pops out in between musical numbers dressed as the various show hosts through the years including Seymour, Wolfman Jack, Dr. Cleaver, and Elvira.
Let’s start with the good. The concept is on point for a 50th year. It pays homage to the past while handing us something new. This was a tricky move and one that worked. I also found the performers to be more than up to the task. They are a talented ensemble that covers the stage with dance and fills the theater with strong voices. The material that they are given isn’t the most original. In fact, the songs are pretty pedestrian. That doesn’t matter too much though as this is a solid group that elevated the material sufficiently. Lastly, the sets are extravagant and beautifully designed. Very well done.
Now let’s chat about the bad. Much has been made recently of the content in a show that is VERY CLEARLY noted as being for mature audiences. Yes, the show is crude. But if you missed the warnings on the website, the maps, the ones outside the theatre, and the very clear announcements before the show begins, you have yourself to blame if you don’t just quietly leave the theatre if the material is questionable to you.
No, the problem here is the host. He is terrible. TERRIBLE with all-caps TERRIBLE. To prove the point, in recent years we have had foul-mouthed puppets and Elvira slinging tassels from her breasts and there was no uproar. Here, this feckless buffoon doesn’t just tell a dirty joke, he revels in it. During the performance we attended, he spent a good 2 minutes making banal jokes about masturbation and encouraging the audience to do so with their neighbors. How is that even funny?
The same joke in better hands, pardon the expression, might have come off with more effect. Here it was just crass and uncomfortable. The rest of his material didn’t fare much better with only a slight improvement during his Dr. Cleaver imitation. The other downside to the show is the length. The performance we attended clocked in at 50 minutes. The show was entirely too long and we have an idea of what can be cut.
Much to the disappointment of their loyal fan base, Puppet Up was not asked to return. They have easily been one of the highlights of Scary Farm Entertainment’s history. Here’s an idea; Get rid of this current host, and have the Puppet Up team do puppet versions of the iconic hosts from past shows. Trim the segways where possible and boom. Even if it still runs long at least we know it would be funny.
Into The Fog: A Scary Farm Tribute Art Show
Step into the mysterious realm of Into the Fog, an art exhibition thoughtfully assembled for the avid Scary Farm enthusiast. Located in the Factory Store, just beneath Knott’s Beary Tales, the exhibit houses a captivating array of original artworks crafted by exceptional and imaginative artists spanning the nation. This show draws inspiration from the illustrious 50-year legacy of Knott’s Scary Farm. You’re bound to discover a unique piece or print that beckons to be part of your collection. In addition to the Scary Farm art showcase, indulge in a treasure trove of souvenirs that will undoubtedly tempt any Halloween aficionado eager to grasp a piece of the eerie excitement.
Le Magnifique Carnaval du Grotesque (Show) – Calico Mine Stage
The Carnival Du Grotesque is back this year for another round of stylish and death defying acts. Step right up and walk into the mystique and darkness of the malevolent Le Magnifique Carnaval Du Grotesque. A collection of death-defying feats and carnival acts that will delight your darkest desires and fill your senses with terror and delight.
The 50th Anniversary Store
Located just between the footers of Ghostrider and the Knott’s Marketplace is the Scary Farm 50th Anniversary Store. Part walkthrough, part shop, the expansive retail space boasts an impressive collection of merchandise that plays heavy on the heartstrings of haunt fans. The event store will be open to Knott’s Marketplace visitors and Haunt guests during the event.
Attractions
Timber Mountain Log Ride: Halloween Hootenanny (Attraction Overlay) – 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.
Calico Candy Mine Ride
Once again the Calico Mine Ride has become a confectionary wonderland for… Scary Farm? The Silver and Gold have all been magically transformed into Candy by the Pink Fairy and kids are flocking to the scene to take a ride. Of course, this is all a nefarious trap and, at the right time, the Pink Fairy delivers more trick than treat.
This is a strange creation that seems to want to really work for both the Spooky Farm and Scary Farm crowds, but it pleases neither. Unlike the Halloween Hootenany, which strikes a consistent whimsical tone, the Calico Candy Mine Ride is either a full-on sugary wonderland or a ghastly Grimm Fairytale. It just comes off as weird.
One note; On our ride through this attraction, a key effect failed to work, making the storyline invisible, literally. Consider this when evaluating our opinion.
Scare Zones –DO NOT MISS
It is so refreshing to have five VERY SOLID scare zones in one amazing haunt. Each invites visitors to wander or to linger in the swirling fog. This year a classic is resurrected, to join the powerhouse roster, leaving no chance to avoid a scare. For the first time ever, I can honestly say that each scare zone is a DO NOT MISS.
The Gauntlet
The Gauntlet makes a long-awaited return to Knott’s Scary Farm for the 50th Anniversary. Lurking in the blue fog are maniacal jesters, barbarians, wizards, and other denizens of the dark. Knott’s has done well to listen to the fans and revive a zone that has been so dearly missed. Just one word of advice. If you do encounter the King or Queen, you must pay your respects or suffer the wrath of The Gauntlet.
Ghost Town Streets
This is where it ALL began. Visit Ghost Town streets to experience the origins of fear. Visit Fog Alley. Watch out for Sliders. Spot the Bride. And maybe, just maybe, you will survive an encounter with the Green Witch as she makes her return. If Knott’s Scary Farm had a heart, it would be Ghost Town Streets.
The Gore-ing 20’s
Easily one of the best new Scare Zones in years, The Gore-ing 20’s returns to terrify and entertain with a mix of flippant brutality and dazzling show scenes. Each and every performer here gives it their all. This results in a chaotic, vibrant nightmare of sinful decadence. Between the Flappers, the Gangsters, and the live music, you could spend an hour here and not get enough.
CARNEVIL
Why did it have to be Clowns, right? Yes, CARNEVIL is back and more tenaciously terrifying than ever. The performers in this space have an uphill battle as the area is fully lit and devoid of fog. Hence, you can see the monsters coming and they still manage to make a jumpscare happen. Take the time to wander through. Chances are you will be followed.
Forsaken Lake
The lake under Silver Bullet recedes to reveal Forsaken Lake. Here Gothic creatures wander in a perpetual funeral procession, looking for one more victim. This area features wonderful performers and beautiful costume designs. Slow down and take a stroll through Forsaken Lake.
MAZES
For Knott’s Scary Farm’s 50th anniversary, Knott’s Scary Farm pulled out all of the stops in regards to their world-class mazes. In a normal year, we might see 2 new creations. This year they delivered three all-new maze walkthroughs and the good news is that they are all great. Two of them, however, are masterpieces.
Cinema Slasher (NEW) – DO NOT MISS
At the center of the park, is the all-new Cinema Slasher. Here, guests are invited inside the Mystical Midnight Theater to catch a trilogy of movies featuring The Slasher. The smell of popcorn floats invitingly in the air and we make our way to the concession stand. Something isn’t right though. Chipper lobby music struggles to stay upbeat and the cracks are beginning to show in the walls. There is a brilliant lighting and sound effect here that creates a pretense of hospitality while hinting at dangers ahead. Amazing.
We enter the first movie theatre and are to see “Slasher Dark”. But we aren’t just going to watch. We are going to BE the movie. crossing through the screen we are thrown into murder and mayhem at a sorority house as The Slasher attacks. The pattern continues as we venture through other slasher movie settings like a summer camp or a butchery warehouse.
The talent here is wonderful. All of them kept the energy high and engaging. I would say that I could have used a bit more menace from The Slasher himself, but perhaps I am jaded. The set design did a phenomenal job at keeping a high concept very clear, letting the audience know when and where they were. Added to that were wonderful sound cues and we were kept at the center of the terror non-stop.
Knott’s really knocked this one out of the park.
The Chilling Chambers – DO NOT MISS
The Chilling Chambers is easily one of the best mazes ever to arrive at Knott’s Scary Farm. A loving homage to the past, we arrive at the hallowed home of Scary Farm past. Presided over by the event’s icon, Sinister Seymour, he invites us in to experience the horrors from previous years. The name, an homage to Knott’s Scary Farm’s very first maze, Chilling Chambers is an impeccably designed journey through Scary Farm’s past.
During the journey, we get to revisit such classic mazes as Killer Clown College, The Doll Factory (which brought a small tear to my eye), and Mangler Asylum. Each is padded by segway scenes through the Scary Farm archives and warehouse. Here the designers pack in even more easter eggs and references to previous beloved mazes like The Timothy E. Leary Time Machine, Bates Motel, and Camp Gonnagetcha.
This is one big, nostalgic trip that shows love to the lifelong fans of this amazing event while initiating the newcomers with consistent, glorious sets (no black walls here) unbridled talent, and perfect execution. I haven’t felt this strongly about a maze since the debut of Origins, and really, this is easily my favorite maze of the event.
Room 13 (NEW) – DO NOT MISS
Nestled at the back end of the park is the all-new ROOM 13. Playing off of the brilliant scare zone GORE-ING 20’s just outside, we are invited into The Blind Tiger speakeasy as a mysterious drink known as The Devil’s Elixir, has triggered a violent rampage. We venture from the club and into the attached hotel to uncover the source of the mayhem.
Art direction and production design here alone are reasons to see this maze as it is a glorious tribute to 20’s Art Deco against savage brutality. There is plenty of gore in here and some lovely set pieces that will make guests cringe. On our trip through, however, the flow was a bit off and we trudged past actors desperately trying to keep energy high as they repeated their scare over and over. To their credit, they delivered and did it hard.
This one is a DO NOT MISS for design and for it being one of the three brand-new mazes. Wonderful work by all.
Bloodline 1842
With all due respect to the artistry and talent behind this creation, it just simply doesn’t work. Our advice, should you choose to queue up for this one, is to wait until dark. Many of the show scenes are dependent on darkness and it is a bummer that people are let into this experience when it doesn’t look its best.
The Grimoire
Another high-concept misfire from 2022, The Grimoire returns for Knott’s 50th. This lavish maze sports consistently beautiful sets, lovely production design, and a story that never quite comes through. The idea is that there is a book whose contents are the portal to evil when read. We begin with kids at a campfire who, of course, read from The Grimoire and thus unleash evil. But what the heck is happening? The Grimoire is a beautiful, stylish, and baffling experience.
MESMER: Sideshow of the Mind
Mesmer: Sideshow of the Mind is back. This wonderful, trippy experience lures guests into the clutches of an evil showman bent on madness. We enter the striped tent and are guided in by Mesmer himself to give in to the parade of oddities.
We love this maze for several reasons. It’s beautiful; The Depression Era, dustbowl aesthetic is a favorite of ours. Then there’s the parade of freakish denizens that taunt and cajole. Finally, the glorious sound design delivers to pick up the story when other elements can’t quite get it across.
Mesmer is not perfect, but it is an unsettling walkthrough with a steady throughline that is worth a tour.
Wax Works
On our visit through Wax Works, the talent was on fire. We were confronted with a barrage of unrelenting scares that left us giddy. Therefore the casting director at this attraction should be noted, whoever they might be.
Origins: The Curse of Calico – DO NOT MISS
The wonderful walkthrough, Origins: The Curse of Calico, returns for Knott’s 50th and rightfully so. It is easily one of the best mazes ever designed for the event and balances story, scares, and even fan service in perfect balance. The Maze is the story of the Green Witch. The townspeople of Calico turn on her only to discover her powers and gain her wrath.
On our walk through the lighting seemed a bit off. Several scenes were either over or under-lit. Add to that a stand-in for the Green Witch in the finale (yes, it happens) and the absence of a few other effects. No matter though as the ensemble and the solid story and design pulled through. This is a classic maze that will always be a DO NOT MISS.
THE DEPTHS (Final Year)
We return to THE DEPTHS for a final year of maritime madness. Here we are investigating the strange disappearances at a seaside town. We venture into the coastal mines only to discover a nautical society ready to attack. Described by many as “Spooky Goonies” we advise you to check your brain at the door and just enjoy the ocean-themed scares.
Dark Entities (Final Year)
We venture into space one last time with DARK ENTITIES. Here, a nefarious corporation is recruiting clueless guests to be relocated to their remote space station deep in space. Upon arrival, guests discover that an evil entity has laid siege to the crew of a ship and the technology isn’t helping.
It pains us to say that, while technologically beautiful, this maze never achieved the level of terror that it could have. We were never really given a clear idea of what the threat was. Was it a creature, an alien, an interstellar virus, or man’s trust in technology? Perhaps we are digging too deep. That said, what could have been a claustrophobic nightmare ala Alien, just survived as being the ONE space-themed maze. Such a missed opportunity.
Final Thoughts
Knott’s Scary Farm 2023 is easily one of their best yet. Management should be proud that, in the end, they delivered a collection of 10 beautiful mazes, five amazing scare zones that should not be missed, and a collection of entertainment that works for the most part. But we are serious about Music Monsters and Mayhem. The host needs to be cut or his material rewritten. Yes, it’s that bad.
Event Dates
This year, the event returns on September 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, October 1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 31. Knott’s Scary Farm is open 7:00 pm – 2:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays and 7:00 pm – 1:00 am on select Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. Due to the explicit and frightening nature of the event, it is not recommended for children under 13.
Policies
A chaperone policy will remain in effect for all Knott’s Scary Farm event nights. Under this policy, all guests ages 15 years old or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old in order to be admitted into the park. The chaperone must present a valid government-issued photo identification with date of birth at ticket entry. One chaperone may accompany no more than ten guests ages 15 or younger per day. In addition, the chaperone must accompany their party during entry, remain inside the park during their visit, and be available by phone throughout their stay. Guests 16 years of age or older may be asked to present a valid government-issued photo identification (Driver’s license, State Issued ID Card, Passport) with date of birth at entry to verify their age. If unable to verify proof of age, guests may be denied entry into the park. Guests ages 15 years old or younger who are found inside the park unaccompanied by a chaperone will be subject to ejection.
In addition, an updated bag policy will remain in effect for this year’s Knott’s Scary Farm. Clear plastic bags smaller than 12” x 12” x 6” as well as non-clear wristlets or clutches no larger than 5”x 8”x 2” are allowed at Knott’s Scary Farm. All bags are subject to search prior to entry.
With the impressive collection of shows, mazes, and scare zones, Knott’s Scary Farm’s 50th year does appear to show some promise. They seem to have learned from Disney’s knack for nostalgia and generational fandom by offering merchandise out the wazoo and offerings that are equal parts homage and innovation while playing on their learned strengths.
Check the article throughout the day for photo and video updates.
