Are you looking for the ultimate survivor’s guide to Halloween at Knott’s Scary Farm?
If you are like me, originally, you had no clue that Knott’s had a haunt event, let alone that it was easily one of the top 5 haunt events in the entire country.
Knott’s Berry Farm, located in Buena Park and only 10 minutes from Disneyland Resort, has the longest-running theme park haunt in SOCAL.
It’s in its 53rd year since its 1973 debut.
The houses, along with their stories and details, are truly a crown jewel for the haunt and should have been more widely recognized, in my opinion.
Nonetheless, I’m thrilled to share with you everything there is to know about this ghastly event.
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO. Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
2026 Knott’s Scary Farm at a Glance:
- Knott’s Scary Farm runs from September 17 to October 31, 2026!
- Tickets start at $69
- You can purchase the Fright and Fast Lane, starting at $139, to skip the lines for the houses
- There will be 10 haunted houses and 5 scare zones
- Capture the most incredible photos with a group of your beloved Hipster Friends
- Don’t miss the NEW shows: Occultum and Voodoo: Bayou’s Edge
- Be sure to grab the latest spooky merchandise
- Eat your way through the haunted event with the ghoulish cuisine (my favorite thing to do)!
Keep reading to get a full guide on how to conquer this fall event like a pro!
What is Knott’s Scary Farm?
Knott’s Scary Farm is Southern California’s take on the Halloween season.
What allows Knott’s Scary Farm to stand apart from other haunts is that its scare zones take over the whole park!
There generally is no safe place, and most of the scare zones are spread out.
This means that the actors can come at you through the fog, easily sneak up on you, or even tag team you to give you a double scare.
I witnessed a couple get a triple scare while in Ghost Town.
Keep this in mind, as I’m sure they will come out with something spectacular for this year.
Save $31 on your Knott’s Berry Farm Theme Park Ticket TODAY!
When does Knott’s Scary Farm start?
California’s Knott’s Scary Farm is a specially ticketed event that tends to sell out its popular dates fast, with select nights from September 17 – October 31, 2026.
Below are the dates for the 2026 season, and as I always say, the closer to Halloween, the higher the price.
Map
In particular, I chose a Sunday to attend, as I find that, with haunt events, these are the easiest days to manage. In this case, Thursday might be a great option as well.
Knott’s Berry Farm Halloween Dates for September 2026:
- Thursday, 17th
- Friday, 18th
- Saturday, 19th
- Sunday, 21st
- Thursday, 24th
- Friday, 25th
- Saturday, 26th
- Sunday 27th
Knott’s Berry Farm Halloween Dates for October 2026:
- Thursday, 1st
- Friday, 2nd
- Saturday, 3rd
- Sunday, 4th
- Thursday, 8th
- Friday, 9th
- Saturday, 10th
- Sunday, 11th
- Thursday, 15th
- Friday, 16th
- Saturday, 17th
- Sunday, 18th
- Thursday, 22nd
- Friday, 23rd
- Saturday, 24th
- Sunday, 25th
- Thursday, 29th
- Friday, 30th
- Saturday, 31st (Halloween)
What time does Knott’s Scary Farm start?
Knott’s Scary Farm runs from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. on event nights, with select nights extending later. Check the official calendar for the closing time on your specific date.
2026 Knott’s Berry Farm Halloween Tickets, Tours and Prices
With an event of this caliber, you would be surprised to learn how fairly affordable it is and the options they have available for guests.
Admission should be bought as far in advance as possible and will vary in price based on the date you plan on attending.
While there are fees and taxes on top of the Knott’s Scary Farm ticket price, you can get a discount if you are a:
- Season Passholder
- Military (whether that be active, inactive, or retired with your ID)
As a Cedar Fair Platinum Passholder, which allows you to go to any Cedar Fair theme park, you are eligible for a discount.
There are also discounts for eligible Six Flags Prestige passholders and members, and eligible Six Flags West Region Gold passholders and members. Military discounted prices start at $65.
How much does it cost to go to Knott’s Scary Farm?
General Admission tickets to Knott’s Scary Farm start at $69 and can cost up to $89 (Halloween night) when you purchase online.
Knott’s Scary Farm Tickets 2026
- Single Night Admission starts at $69
- Admission and Meal Bundle starts at $80 (available online only)
- Scary Farm Ultimate Bundle starts at $200 (available online only)
- Fright and Fast Lane starts at $139
- 2026 Scary Farm Pass starts at $164
- Very Important Monster Pass VIP Experience starts at $499
- Knott’s Scary Farm Boo-Fet Dinner starts at $49
WATCH NEXT: 13 Weird (but true) Halloween Horror Nights Secrets 🎃 (History of HHN)
Fright and Fast Lane Upgrade
You may want to consider Fright and Fast Lane for the event, which allows you unlimited priority access to the mazes and priority boarding on the attractions running that evening for the event.
The Knott’s Scary Farm Fright and Fast Lane starts at $139.
Boo-Fet Upgrade
Another add-on to consider, which came highly recommended by a friend who was able to do it, is the Boo-Fet + Early Entry deal.
The Boo-fet gives you a buffet spread of food, which is served at 5:30 p.m. and 6 pm which you choose at the time of your purchase.
The coolest perk is that you get early access to select haunted mazes and GhostRider beginning at 6:30 p.m.
You’ll also get some awesome photo-ops (one digital photo download) with a Knott’s Berry Farm monster at the Boo-fet.
It also includes a Drink Plus wristband, which gives you refills of Coca-Cola fountain beverages, ICEEs, hot chocolate (available seasonally), and coffee (available seasonally) as often as every 15 minutes on the night of your visit for redemption.
Save up to 87% off exploring the attractions in Anaheim with Groupon TODAY!
How much is the Boo-Fet at Knott’s Scary Farm?
The cost for the Boo-Fet starts at $49 and does not include your Knott’s Scary Farm ticket.
Hipster Power Tip: Get to check in as early as possible, and don’t forget that it comes with a souvenir bottle to take with you.
Knott’s Scary Farm Halloween Tours
One would also consider doing one of the Knott’s Scary Farm tours, The Very Important Monster Tour.
The Very Important Monster Tour
This is slightly new and includes a private tour guide for up to 6 hours and your park admission, general parking, the Boo-Fet dinner and a photo with a monster, Drink Plus wristband with refills, and a Knott’s Scary Farm t-shirt.
You will get priority access to mazes, select rides, and shows too. Something to note is that is that you have to book a minimum of 2 guests per tour.
How much is The Very Important Monster Tour at Knott’s Scary Farm?
The cost starts at $449, depending on the date, with the price changing depending on the night you choose.
This means you’ll be paying about $900, not including taxes and fees (and a tip). Once booked, you will be contacted to schedule a time.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
Scary Farm Beyond the Fog Tour (Postponed in 2026)
Then there is the cheaper option called the Scary Farm Beyond the Fog Tour.
At $79.99 (postponed in 2026), and running during the park’s normal operating hours, the three-hour tour takes you on a journey to learn about the history of Knott’s Scary Farm and get a chance to walk through the mazes with the lights on.
You will be given a Knott’s Scary Farm pin, lanyard, and light refreshments.
Scary Farm Beyond the Fog Tour times range between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and you can choose your tour date and time at the time of purchase. (As of this post, the event is postponed for 2026.)
How much is parking at Knott’s Berry Farm?
If you plan on driving to Knott’s Berry Farm, parking can be purchased in advance for $45 online.
Get Your Discounted Disneyland Tickets here TODAY!
What is Included at Knott’s Scary Farm?
Now that you know what Knott’s Scary Farm is, how much it costs, and the upgrades, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and start with the mazes.
Knott’s Scary Farm Houses 2026
It’s time to get into the good part, and that’s the house (or mazes) at this Halloween event in California.
The haunted houses at Knott’s Scary Farm are incredible, and you’ll see why below!
1. Mary-The Haunting of Worth Home
This year, why not check out that spooky house at the end of the street? It’s got a pretty scary secret tucked away inside.
Seriously, no one who’s been brave enough to step in there has ever made it back out. But hey, maybe this time will be different, right?
Just a heads up, don’t get too lost in those mirrors; you never know what might be looking back at you!
It’s creepy, yet fun, and I know that you will love it!
Scare Rating 8/10
2. Inked (NEW)
This haunted house brings Mortimer Morbid’s twisted cartoons to life, turning his final Halloween creation into a nightmare filled with sinister characters and plenty of surprises.
The incredible attention to detail and creative visuals are sure to make this one of my favorite houses of the night!
Scare Rating: New for 2026
3. The Zoo
Something has taken over the abandoned zoo. What was once a lively showcase of exotic animals has been transformed into a terrifying laboratory of animal/human experiments.
Hybrid creatures have turned on their creators, and the compound is crawling with mutant soldiers thirsty for revenge.
Rumors are swirling that the mutated monsters are planning something that will change everything!
It is a fascinating concept that we felt needed a bit of fine-tuning. The good news is that there was a bunch of mutants to guide you.
Scare Rating 7/10
4. Unearthed (NEW)
This new haunted house at Knott’s Scary Farm for 2026 takes you into an abandoned excavation site where something ancient has been awakened.
As you make your way through the maze, you’ll uncover what happened to the team that was there before you and what has been unleashed.
I’m really excited to see the sets and special effects in this one! The underground excavation theme sounds like it could make for some really creepy and immersive scenes.
Scare Rating New for 2026
5. Widows
I’m excited this house this is back again this year, since it’s on the dark and demented side of things.
The spider-loving folks at the nursing home are setting up a cozy spot just for you. Step into their web and give in to their wicked wishes.
Scare Rating: 8/10
6. Origins: The Curse of Calico
This is another returning maze that debuted in 2019. I personally was a big fan of it due to the way it immersed aspects of Knott’s Berry Farm folklore.
It follows a witch who was hunted down and hanged to death. As she is about to be hanged, she curses the town and disappears!
This is where we all go into the story as we watch the dark forces take over the Town of Calico.
The Origins maze was filled with insane special effects that made me want to go through again!
Scare Rating 7/10
7. Eight Fingers Nine: The Boogeyman
This returning maze at Knott’s Scary Farm takes place in a colonial township that makes you think that you’re stepping inside of a fairy tale!
The story goes on to say that when night falls, Eight Fingers Nine creeps out, on the lookout for his next snack.
His deadly bite hits hard, leaving his victims frozen in fear while he takes his time munching on them.
You’ll need to stay sharp and watch out for the darkness—otherwise, you might end up as his next dish!
Scare Rating: 9/10
8. Cinema Slasher
Embarking on an adventure within the enchanting Midnight Theater, you will be transported into a series of three slasher films.
Immersed in the realm of gothic horror, you’ll assume the roles of the movie characters as they strive to evade the menacing Slasher.
The ultimate question remains: will you make it out alive, or will you be forever trapped in a decaying world of yesteryear?
With a mischievous flair, the Midnight Theater beckons the courageous to purchase a ticket for Cinema Slasher!
This house is just downright fun and a great addition to Knott’s Scary Farm back in 2024.
Scare Rating 9/10
9. Chilling Chambers
The “Chilling Chambers” is a haunting new attraction at Knott’s Scary Farm that pays tribute to the park’s first-ever maze.
Led by The Keeper, the eerie curator of the conservatory of horrors, visitors will be taken on a spine-chilling journey through a menacing cathedral that delves into the terrifying maze themes from Knott’s Scary Farm’s past.
Brace yourself for a scream-inducing experience as 50 years of fright are unleashed in The Chilling Chambers.
Scare Rating 7/10
10. Room 13
The Blind Tiger, a popular establishment on Memory Lane during the Prohibition era, is shaken by a series of violent murders.
The source of this chaos appears to be a tantalizing new cocktail called The Devil’s Elixir, but its origins remain shrouded in mystery.
Clues to this enigmatic green drink may be found within the opulent Argive Hotel, where Room 13 has become a foreboding space that no guest has ever left.
Scare Rating 7/10
Knott’s Scary Farm Scare Zones 2026
As I mentioned before, the scare zones are spread out throughout the park, so nowhere is really safe, especially in the fog.
The creatures can range from sneakily coming up on you and growling, or they will come at you hard and fast!
Knott’s Scary Farm scare zones here are truly unmatched to their haunt events!
Here are the five Halloween Scare Zones at Knott’s Berry Farm:
- Gore-ing 20s: This zone was actually really fun and not terribly scary! They have live musicians and performers in the zone that make it very lively! It is filled with otherworldly gangsters, flappers, and more!
- Ghost Town Streets: This is the ONE! This is the zone that brings people back year after year. You will not be safe in this zone, and the actors in this zone are the absolute best! The ghosts of this town are out and about.
- CarnEVIL: As I’m sure you can tell from the name, the freaks do in fact come out at night in this scare zone.
- Forsaken Lake: This was by far my favorite, which might shock those who love the Ghost Town scare zone. It is eerie and gives off 1800s Victorian gothic vibes mixed with watery doom. It is the music that really sold me! I could legit stay there all night!
- The Gauntlet: You’ll come face to face with the King and Queen of the land, mischievous jesters, fierce barbarians, wicked wizards, and rebellious peasants.
Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!
2026 Entertainment and Shows at Knott’s Scary Farm
I was pleasantly surprised with the entertainment offerings! They definitely offer some sort of relief from the scares and are certainly unique!
The store also sells some event merchandise, which we will look at briefly in this guide.
2026 Knott’s Scary Farm Shows
- The Hanging: The Lawman is back, ready to hunt down the most wicked wrongdoers of the previous year in this action-packed parody show that celebrates popular culture.
- Occultum (NEW): Prepare to be enthralled and terrified in equal measure as your senses are heightened during this showcase of illusions and surprises to keep you guessing.
- Voodoo: Bayou’s Edge (NEW):: Get ready for a haunting journey into the world of voodoo! This new show brings eerie music, dancing, fire, and a creepy cemetery atmosphere together for a performance that feels like the dead have come back to life.
Meet and Greets
Be sure to get your spooky photos with some of the wickedest characters roaming Knott’s Scary Farm, such as the:
- Conductor
- Ghost Town Creep
- Meet the Creep
- Green Witch and more!
What rides are open at Knott’s Scary Farm?
Unless it is on the attractions refurbishment list, most of the rides will be open for the event and will have Fast Lane available.
The following rides are open at Knott’s Scary Farm for Halloween (selections subject to change at any time):
- Jaguar
- Coast Rider
- Ghost Rider
- Calico River Rapids
- The Calico Mine Ride
- Wave Swinger
- Pony Express
- Silver Bullet
- Supreme Scream
- Sierra Sidewinder
- Sol Spin
- La Revolucion
- Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the fair
- Timber Mountain Log Ride
Don’t forget to experience all of the rides with a haunted twist!
Timber Mountain Log Ride: Halloween Hootenanny (Final Details Pending)
The Halloween Hootenanny at Timber Mountain brings together the residents and the mysterious creatures that inhabit the woods and caves.
As you venture through the Ride’s interior, you will encounter surprises such as the Calico Coffin Creeper band, the town’s green witch, and a thrilling journey through Skull Mountain, surrounded by a labyrinth of jack-o-lanterns.
The experience is enhanced by an original soundtrack performed by Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies.
2026 Knott’s Scary Farm Food and Drinks
There is a great selection of food, treats, and beverages!
What I didn’t know until I was chatting with a Team Member is that a lot of the Scary Farm offerings are available during the day!
The Best Halloween Food at Knott’s Scary Farm 2026
- Voodoo Fries
- Loaded Pastrami Fries
- Cemetery Churro Bites
- Poison Apple Funnel Cake
- Birria Flautas/Esquites Negro
You can take a look at the full menu here. I was very fond of the Crabby Sushi Roll and the Jack-O-Lantern Cheesecakes in past years!
Knott’s Scary Farm Halloween Merchandise 2026
When it comes to the event merchandise, you can find the standard apparel, drinkware, posters and more!
You can also find art pieces and other amazing items too that are limited edition including merchandise as well.
Inside the Legacy Store you can often find tributes to Knott’s Scary Farm’s horrific past, such as the Green Witch’s house, CarnEvil creeps, a cemetery filled with maze memorials, and a portion “dead-icated” to the granddaddy of all scare zones, Ghost Town.
Plus there is the 2026 Interactive Lantern that activates spooky features around the park. Color Collect is new for 2026 where you collect all six colors. and then redeem your voucher in the park on your visit.
Save up to 65% off exploring the attractions in Los Angeles with Groupon TODAY!
7 Beginner Tips For Knott’s Scary Farm
Now that you have all the basics down for Knott’s Scary Farm, let’s go through a few of the best tips for your trip!
1. Download Map PDF in Advance
If I may be frank, the map in the Knott’s Berry Farm app is garbage!
It isn’t very easy to follow and so this tip came from a Team Member and that was to download the PDF of the Knott’s Scary Farm map in advance.
The map is more detailed than the app’s version. I have taken the liberty of leaving it here for you!
2. Consider Attending on Halloween
As crazy as it sounds, in my research, I have discovered that you can actually get most of the tickets, tours and more for a decent price on that night!
3. Go Cashless
Knott’s Berry Farm is now a cashless park meaning they only take credit and debit cards or Samsung, apple or google pay. Cash is no longer accepted.
4. Get Fright Lane and Buy Tickets Online
Buying your Knott’s Scary Farm ticket online can save you between $40-$50 at the gate and actually guarantees that you can get in before tickets for your particular date sells out.
If you are determined to do every house, then you have to invest in the Fright Lane pass.
5. No Re-entry
Once you leave the event, you cannot come back in so make sure you have everything you need.
6. Know the Bag Policy
Guests can only bring, 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.
Also, all bags will be subject to search.
Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!
7. Get Familiar with the Chaperone Policy
As of today, 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.
Overall, is Knott’s Scary Farm worth it?
Very quickly into the night, I discovered why Knott’s Scary Farm is considered one of the absolute best haunt events in the whole country.
The scare actors are absolutely fantastic, and the mazes are freakishly creative, unique and offer visitors amazing storytelling and memorable experiences.
The best part is the fact that this event is very affordable while not skimping on anything for their guests.
I left extremely impressed and cannot say enough good things about it besides the fact that i wish i could have done a tour and Boo-Fet!
Make sure to add this to your theme park haunt to-do list this season.
What did you find the most intriguing about Knott’s Scary Farm? Let us know in our Facebook Group!
Contributors
About the Author
Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.
She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.
She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home.
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a mother and a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
UP NEXT: Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood Full Guide: Tips, Tickets, and more!
Theme Park Travel Guidebooks
(Original Article Date: October 20, 2022/Updated by Editor on September 22, 2026)