Posts By: Braedon

Knott’s Berry Farm Celebrate’s 75 years of Ghost Town

Posted on November 3, 2015 by - Uncategorized

 

Knott’s Berry Farm’s Ghost Town will celebrate its 75th anniversary with two major offerings next summer. The centerpiece of the summer 2016 celebration is the interactive entertainment experience, Ghost Town Alive!, which immerses guests in new stories and adventures in the familiar town of Calico. The west is about to get even wilder when GhostRider returns from a major restoration project with all new trains that will gallop along over 4,500 feet of new wooden track.

In summer 2016, Ghost Town Alive! will allow guests young and young at heart to live the west through inventive new ways to interact with characters and environments as each day, a different story will unfold throughout all of Ghost Town. From pledging one’s allegiance to notorious bandits, to saving the day alongside courageous cowboys, guests play an active role in shaping the events of the day. Every evening, the day’s story culminates with a town wide celebration of 75 years of Calico.

Walter Knott’s love for the Wild West was evident in the attention to detail that he put into the peek-ins peppered throughout town. Next summer, select peek-ins will be transformed into authentic working establishments, and guests will be welcomed to step inside. At the Barber Shop, guests can walk in and meet Calico’s trusted barber who’s rife with town gossip.

In the Sheriff’s office, guests can try their luck at a game of cards with the sneaky Sheriff and other Calico townsfolk. Here, guests can also decide whether they join the lawmen to hunt down the bandits or choose the criminal life and end up with their face on a handmade wanted poster.

In the heart of Ghost Town, the Barn will close on April 4, and when it reopens for Ghost Town Alive!, it will have been transformed into a working horse stable where guests can visit with Calico’s friendly equestrian team.

Construction is underway on a new Calico Stage, which will open across the train tracks from its current location, in the area Screamin’ Swing formerly occupied. The stage, themed after an old abandoned mine, will feature an all-new show for summer 2016. The standing viewing area for the new stage is nearly twice as large as the current viewing area, ensuring even more guests can enjoy seasonal live entertainment. The new venue is scheduled to open in Spring of 2016. When the new Calico Stage opens, the space that the existing stage and viewing area currently occupy will become Calico Park. Here, guests will enjoy a shady respite from the hustle and bustle of the Town, with a small stage for live performances, and twinkling lights adorning the trees after the sun sets. Calico Park is set to open in Summer 2016.

Adjacent to Calico Park stands the iconic Calico Saloon, which will feature a raucous new show next summer. A new western stunt show in Wagon Camp will also debut in summer 2016. Both the Calico Saloon and Wagon Camp will close in early 2016 in for renovations and new show preparations.

Ghost Town Alive! will take interactive storytelling to new heights when it debuts next summer, and for guests really seeking to achieve some heights, they should look no further than to the return of the beloved classic wooden roller coaster, GhostRider. Since 1998, GhostRider has been giving white-knuckle rides to even the toughest cowpokes. It still looms over Ghost Town as the longest, fastest and tallest wooden rollercoaster on the West Coast.In September 2015, work began to completely restore and preserve this classic wooden rollercoaster. The project is a partnership with Great Coasters International and includes re-profiling and a complete woodennre-tracking of the entire 4,533 ft. long track. All of the coasters trains will be replaced with state of the art new Millennium Flyer trains designed to look like mining cars, each with gold, silver, or copper accents. As part of the construction, the mid-course brake run will be removed, allowing riders to enjoy a relentless, ride from the moment the train descends the first 108 ft. drop to the moment it returns to the station’s new, smooth magnetic brake run. “GhostRider was the last attraction commissioned by the Knott family, and this restoration project ensures that the family’s final gift to the park will continue to thrill generations of thrill seekers to come,” said Raffi Kaprelyan, Knott’s Berry Farm’s vice president and general manager. “Seventy five years ago, Walter and Cordelia Knott created a place where guests could live out their dreams of the Wild West, and I think they’d be very proud of how it continues to resonate with guests of a new generation.”When GhostRider re-opens, the queue will snake past Panning for Gold, which returns to its original Ghost Town home next summer. The return to its former location will allow for a more spacious panning experience, which means a more comfortable experience and better photo ops to capture the moment when a loved one strikes it rich! In 1940, Walter Knott looked for a way to entertain and educate hungry guests waiting for hours to dine at the iconic Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant.

Ghost Town was born from Walter’s passion for providing restaurant patrons with unique entertainment and fondness for Wild West. The area celebrates the California-bound pioneers that crossed the desert by covered wagon, just as Walter’s family had back in 1868. Brick by brick, building by building, the old west town of Calico came to life in 1941 and has been visited by millions for the past 75 years. While reflecting on Ghost Town in a letter written in December 1954, Walter Knott wrote, “I [am] very proud of this place we have built. You know we never fully enjoy the things we love until we share them with those we love.”Next summer, Knott’s invites families to share in Ghost Town’s anniversary celebration with the ones they love, and make new memories in the old west.

GhostRider MF Train Render 1 GhostRider MF Train Render 2 GhostRider MF Train Render 3 GhostRider MF Train Render 4 GhostRider MF Train Render 5 Knott's Ghost Town Calico Stage_Rendering

Hallween Horror Nights: Universal Studios Hollywood Opening Night

Posted on September 21, 2015 by - Blog, News, Uncategorized

Universal Studios Hollywood Rolls Out the Red Carpet to Celebrate

“Halloween Horror Nights,” Kicking Off Today and Continuing on Select Nights

Through November 1, 2015

Universal City, CA, September 18, 2015 – Universal Studios Hollywood marked the opening of the highly anticipated “Halloween Horror Nights” with a celebrity-laden red carpet premiere, as Southern California’s most extreme horror event brought together the sickest minds in horror to immerse guests in a living, breathing, three-dimensional world of terror.  “Halloween Horror Nights” continues on select nights through November 1, 2015.

Attending celebrity guests included actors Tyrese Gibson, David Arquette, Barry Bostwick, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Frankie Grande, Tara Reid, Dylan Minnette and Ty Simpkins as well as recording artist Travis Barker, who were joined by Insidious cast members Leigh Whannell, Lin Shaye and Stefanie Scott, and members from the award-winning hip hop-dance crew Jabbawockeez, who will debut an all-original show as part of this year’s event.

“Halloween Horror Nights” 2015 features a slate of new mazes, an exciting hip-hop dance show, a new cutthroat Terror Tram experience and terrifying Scare Zones, including “Guillermo del Toro Presents Crimson Peak: Maze of Madness,” inspired by the visionary filmmaker who directed, co-wrote and produced the upcoming Legendary and Universal Pictures feature film; “The Walking Dead: Wolves Not Far,” inspired by season 5 of AMC’s critically-acclaimed, Emmy Award®-winning television series; “This is the End 3D,” the first-ever 3D horror-comedy maze, based on the hit movie starring James Franco, Seth Rogen and Jonah Hill; “Insidious: Return to the Further,” based on the bone-chilling Insidious film trilogy; “Halloween: Michael Myers Comes Home,” inspired by the original classic slasher film, Halloween, directed by renowned horror filmmaker John Carpenter; “AVP: Alien vs. Predator,” back by popular demand and inspired by Twentieth Century Fox cult sci-fi franchise; and an all-new backlot experience “Terror Tram: Survive the Purge,” inspired by Universal Pictures’ popular franchise film series. An electrifying all-new show featuring the highly-accomplished, hip hop dance group, Jabbawockeez, universally recognized as America’s best dance crew also debuts.

Adding to the event’s intrigue, Universal’s most popular rides and attractions also will be open to guests, including “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem,” “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” “Jurassic Park–In the Dark,” “The Simpsons Ride” and “Revenge of the Mummy–The Ride.”

A unique element to the this year’s “Halloween Horror Nights” is the premiere of the demonic short film One Night in Hell, featuring an original soundtrack by Brian May, legendary guitarist and songwriter for rock group Queen. The video will be screened for guests in the queue lines as they await entry to the mazes.

Tickets to this year’s event are available for purchase at www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com/hollywood, including a Front of Line ticket option that enables guests to enjoy priority access at each “Halloween Horror Nights” maze, Terror Tram and theme park attraction.  Advance purchase is recommended as event nights will sell out.

For more information about “Halloween Horror Nights” at Universal Studios Hollywood, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.  Join the “Halloween Horror Nights” conversation using #UniversalHHN on Facebook at Halloween Horror Nights – Hollywood and Instagram; Twitter and Periscope @HorrorNights.  Add username HorrorNights on Snapchat for nightly live content, and watch the terror come to life on Halloween Horror Nights YouTube.

“Halloween Horror Nights” dates are: September 18, 19, 25, 26, 27, October 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, and November 1, 2015.

Universal Studios Hollywood, The Entertainment Capital of L.A.SM, includes a full-day, movie-based theme park and Studio Tour; the CityWalk entertainment, shopping and dining complex, the Universal CityWalk Cinemas and the “5 Towers” state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue. World-class rides and attractions include the renowned, behind-the-scenes Studio Tour featuring the intense “King Kong 360 3-D” attraction and the all-new “Fast & Furious—Supercharged” thrill ride as the Studio Tour’s grand finale.  Other popular rides include the 3D-HD adventure, “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” and immersive “Super Silly Fun Land,” the critically-acclaimed mega-attraction, “Transformers™:  The Ride-3D,” “Revenge of the MummySM—The Ride,” “Jurassic Park® —The Ride” and “Springfield,” hometown of America’s favorite TV family, adjacent to the award-winning “The Simpsons RideTM” and the “Nighttime Studio Tour” which runs on select evenings.

Halloween Horror Nights: Universal Studios Hollywood 2015 Review

Posted on September 19, 2015 by - Blog

 

Yesterday we visited Universal Studios to once again visit Halloween Horror Nights. This year boasting 6 mazes, 4 scare zones and a Jabbawockeez show, it was bound to be a great night ahead. The crowds for the evening were absolutely massive with the inevitability of them only getting longer as we progress closer to Halloween. Most mazes were between 80-110 minutes most of the evening. If visiting prepare yourself for a lot of hanging out with your friends in line.

There was some improvement from last year as far as the heavy amount of walking that took place last year. They had added a tram to the back lot where Alien Vs Predator and Crimson Peak is now located. This helped take the walking out of the event a little bit. There was also no shortage of walking for the Purge Terror Tram either. Bring comfortable shoes, something to stay hydrated, and be prepared to hoof it again this year, but not as much as last year fortunately.

Halloween: Michael Myers Comes Home

This maze was located in the upper lot by Mels Diner. You enter into the Halloween house and then wind your way through the Halloween story. This maze was of course well done as far as sets and costumes go. Michael looked as Michael as ever and also even had some appearances of the ghostly costume Michael wore for part of the film as well. there are some fairly graphic scenes in here and will satisfy those looking to feel they are being hunted by Michael himself. I have never been a fan of the Universal Studios trick where they hit a button, a sound effect and strobe light goes off, followed by the talent jumping out at you. This maze had a lot of those but to my surprise had some legitimate scares with out the gimmick. There is also a semi finale with a maze room full of Michaels which is surely going to fool most of the maze visitors. Overall I give this maze a Solid 9 out of 10. 

Insidious: Return To the Further

This maze was created and inspired by the Insidious 3 film. I am not personally familiar with the 3rd film but I am a big fan of the first film. This maze definilitly had the creepy vibe of the movies. This maze even possesed one of my favorite maze scenes I have ever seen involving a long dark hallway, a creepy speaking topless over weight man speaking in a not so welcoming voice. Sure to give most visitors a good chill, or to horror fans, a huge smile in appreciation of how great this paticular part came together. There was a really smelly room (Universal loves this gimmick) with what I believe was an our door dirt scene. The smell will absolutely choke you. Its dreadful. There are some great jump scares and a violent disturbing scene involving choking and violently thrashing around the victim. Not for the weak at heart. There once again were alot of those Push button scares with minimal non strobe light sound effect scares. Over all I give this maze a Generous 8 our of 10

This Is The End: 3D

This maze was inspired by the the film, This Is the End, a Horror Comedy film. Now when this was announced everyone’s initila reaction what “how in the world is this going to work”? I stayed optimistic to see a maze that was thinking out of the box. When I arrived to the maze I was greated by a Michael Cera skewered to a street light and asking “Who took my F&*#$@ cell phone man”. They had played real audio tracks from the movie. Once I saw this I got pretty excited and knew that this was going to be fantastic. What I forgetting is this maze is going to be in 3D. This is where I think it went wrong for them. The maze looked like pretty much every single 3D clown maze we have seen before, and was lightly themed to This is the End. I was delighted to see that in deed do a great scene with the posession of Jonah Hill. Sad to see there was not a Backstreet Boys finale though. I was told by the Creative Director, John Murdy, that this was due to Copyright Restrictions. I will not give away anymore spoilers but this maze to myself was a bit of a disaster. I see what they were trying to do and it would of worked MUCH better without the 3d gimmick and all the florescent paint. I am sad to report I give this maze a 6 out of 10.

The Walking Dead: Wolves Not Far

I was not impressed with last years The Walking Dead maze at all so I did not have much faith in this years. It seems as though they have once again learned from their past mistakes and brought them back into this maze. I believe they said this is their largest and most monster filled maze. There were zombies in every corner waiting to pounce. there was a mix of Push button scares and real life jump scares. I was really impressed with this years. The zombies looked like zombies as they always do, but there were some really well put together scenes that were impressive. Particularly a woman that appeared to be a pile of goo, cadavers hanging on hooks, feeding frenzies, and creepy. Of all the mazes this was my favorite maze. This is the highlight of the mazes this year and I urge you to brave this new maze. You will not be disappointed.I give this maze a Celebratory 10 out of 10. 

Crimson Peak: Maze of Madness

This maze was inspired by the new movie from Guillermo Del Toro. This movie has not yet been released. This was great because the only thing we have seen of this movie has just been movie trailers. Its pretty much the freshest, non familiar IP that the park had this year. This maze was a haunting, creepy, Gothic maze filled with creepy characters I would only assume to be from the first film. There were bloody covered women in dresses, a spooky/creepy lady that was murdered in a bath tub that will give you the eebie jeebies. I don’t want to give away to much about this maze but it is a great addition to this years event and is a well themed maze. I give this maze a Creepy 8 out of 10.

Alien Vs Predator

This maze is themed based on the film. This is a returning Maze from last year. It is a highly themed maze with Predator costumes that are almost dead on and some pretty good Alien creatures. I was really happy with this maze last year with this year being no exception. Great maze as always all though again, I cant stand the boring button push scares. I think there is only a small hand full of scares that is 100 percent the character in the maze. With that said its still a fun maze for fans of the film. I give this maze an 8 out of 10

Terror Tram: Survive The Purge

This was maybe the worst thing at the park. Its a misleading attraction. This has always been true. I wish they would do something with the actual Tram. They stick everyone in the Tram, take you back to the Bates Motel, drop you off, and then you find yourself on what seems like a 2 mile foot long trek. There are LOTS of dead spots on this walk where absolutely nothing is going on. Its just too much out in the open. This was almost exactly the same as The Walking Dead Terror Tram from last year. Even some of the props were reused.  It doesn’t feel scary, or spooky. It just feels almost like a waste of time. I really really really hope they do something about this attraction at some point. Overall I give this a 5 out of 10

 

Scare Zones

This year Universal had 4 themed Scare Zones. The best zone of them all is again Dark Christmas , followed up by the Purge Scare Zone. The other Zones this year were Corpz and Exterminatorz. The problem I have always had with Universal Scare zones is they just are way to small. They call them Zones when infact they just be called “Scare Spots”. They are really short and do not really spread over a far distance with the exception of The Purge. The Purge you must walk through to get to the lower mazes. This was the longest of the mazes and the best Scare Zone of the 4 that they had this year. Dark Christmas is a twisted evil Christmas Scare Zone, the Exterminatorz Scare Zone is like bugs gone bad. Humanoid bugs roaming the area by the front of the park with flame throwers over head as you enter the park. Corpz looked as though it is a themed military area with dead mutant soldiers running around.

Coprz 6 out of 10

Exterminatorz 7 out of 10

The Purge 8 out of 10

Dark Christmas 9 out of 10

 

Jabbawockeez

The Jabbawockeez have joined Halloween Horror Nights this year. The excitement of having the dance group at the park was definitely heard through out the park. The show was a fun show that was a Dream Sequence of one of the dancers who goes on a journey through some random and odd adventures who inevitably returns back to where he started from. The dancing was great, entertaining and worth the wait, I just think that it does not fit a Halloween themed event at all. Fun show but its a bit out of its element at this event. 8 out of 10. 

Out side of all of the main attractions one big complaint I have about this event is there just is a lot of walking in the park. Nothing going on. No monsters, No themeing. Just dubstep and heavy metal playing. I am a fan of this music so its not the music that is the problem. It is the lack of Halloween going on. Lots and lots of walking around in empty unthemed areas of the park.

Over all I Give this event a 7.5 out of 10 this year. I do enjoy this event and I think it is a must due to anyone who is a fan of Halloween Events, I just feel this year was not their year.

 

-B

 

Knotts Berry Farm: 2015 Announcements

Posted on August 27, 2015 by - Blog, News

 

NEW EVIL RISES AT KNOTT’S SCARY FARM THIS HALLOWEEN SEASON
Whatever You’re Imagining, It’s Here…Including All-New Mazes And The Return Of Elvira

BUENA PARK, Calif. (2015) – The 43rd annual world renowned event, Knott’s Scary Farm, returns for 24 horrifying nights September 24 – October 31 and conjures up never before seen experiences and show-stopping entertainment including three new bloodcurdling mazes, Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, in an all-new stage show and the return of the groundbreaking Special Ops: Infected – Patient Zero.
Three new terrifying attractions will debut this year, with more astounding special effects and richer back stories than ever, including:
PARANORMAL, INC. – Case #1 – The Haunting of Hayden Hill (New for 2015): Featuring high flying aerial stunts and scares, in the groundbreaking new maze, 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 hunt for new patients to torture.
My Bloody Clementine (New for 2015): There is no tale more vicious and vengeful than that of My Bloody Clementine. Take a grim ride through the Calico Mine where Clementine and her father were brutally murdered centuries ago. Their wretched spirits roam the tunnels in search of those who killed them. This year the ride through maze will feature live monsters out for revenge at the train track’s every turn.
The Dead of Winter (New for 2015): Escape the icy grasp of the chilling Snow Queen in the all new maze. Backed by with a ravenous beastly army of resurrected Viking warriors, she is hell bent on avenging her beloved family’s murder, and preys upon any unsuspecting visitors who enter the borders of her icy domain. Guests with a Skeleton Key will have the opportunity to unlock a bone chilling surprise.
(New for 2015) Prowling the darkest corners of Knott’s midways and scare zones, the Green Witch and her Deadly 7 is a sadistic crew guilty of more terror than meets the eye. Each of the monsters represent one of the seven deadly sins and make terrifying surprise appearances throughout the park each night.

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Returning Favorites
Back by overwhelming demand, guests can enlist to fight the zombie apocalypse in an all-out war against the undead in the interactive experience, Special Ops: Infected – Patient Zero. In 2014, the ambitious new attraction was the first of its kind in North America and in 2015 continues to be the largest infestation of zombies nationwide. In 2015, the highly sought-after attraction will include more blood thirsty zombies, new missions, brand new high-tech laser guns, and more.
Special Ops: Infected – Patient Zero seamlessly integrates interactive gaming technology with an immersive mountainous landscape, delivering a breakthrough interactive haunted experience that is as terrifying as it is challenging. Missions lead by brave Squad Leaders will take guests through a variety of wilderness terrains, including the unpredictable barrel bridges across the rushing river, through the dark caverns, and through mysterious backwoods. Groups must work together to fend off zombies and complete various missions before time runs out. Six acres of the theme park is now home to mutinous, scream-inducing zombies, and the time has come for a harrowing Special Ops survival mission (limited spaces available).
Elvira, the legendary Mistress of the Dark, returns to Knott’s Scary Farm in a spectacular all new show, Elvira’s Asylum, featuring insane dance and comedy performances.
In honor of Elvira’s return to Knott’s Scary Farm, the Nautilus merchandise shop will temporarily become Elvira’s Boo-tique, where fans can purchase stylish apparel and sinfully fun products featuring and inspired by the Legendary Mistress of the Dark. Each night, a limited number of guests who spend at least $50 at Elvira’s Boo-tique during Knott’s Scary Farm will get a chance to meet Elvira between performances of Elvira’s Asylum and collect her signature on one of the purchased items. Knott’s Scary Farm is the only place Elvira can be seen this Halloween season, and Elvira’s Boo-tique offers fans a once in a lifetime meet and greet opportunity!
Black Magic: Houdini’s vengeful spirt continues to wreak havoc on the Faux Theater, where the veil between the living and the dead is severed. Houdini’s ghost comes alive and ushers a host of demonic illusions to play tricks on anyone who intrudes, only to finally meet Houdini in a show-stopping finale. Back for its third year, Black Magic is one of the most popular mazes at Scary Farm.
Forevermore: Follow the destruction of the “Forevermore Killer,” one haunting tale after another, as the slayer makes his way through one of the longest mazes ever created in Knott’s Scary Farm’s history. With a Skeleton Key, guests can witness the work of the Forevermore Killer firsthand.
The Gunslinger’s Grave: A Blood Moon Rises: Deadly howls and a full blood moon mark your impending doom as werewolves overrun the crime stricken old west town. Walk in the bloody footsteps of a betrayed and left for dead gunslinger on his path of retribution against the Skinwalkers.
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Pinocchio Unstrung: Years have passed since the blue fairy denied him his final wish, but Pinocchio has returned with an army of murderous marionettes intent on killing his former masters. Meander your way through the carnage-riddled village and an all new sinful Pleasure Island and Skeleton Key Room. Revenge comes with no strings attached.
The Tooth Fairy: This twisted tooth fairy steals more than just baby teeth as he drags his victims out their bedroom window and into a world of deranged dentistry. Unbelievable special effects include a blackout room through which guests must feel their way out, a disorienting x-ray strobe light room, and new this year, an all-new Skeleton Key room…says aahhh.
Trick-or-Treat: Take a brave step forward and ring the witch’s doorbell…trick or treat, which will it be? After surviving her grisly welcome, wander into the Green Witch’s never before seen potion room and bewitched attic. But don’t leave too soon; you’re the special guest at the Green Witch’s deadly dinner party where she and her menacing Tricksters await your arrival.
Voodoo – Order of the Serpent: The haunting legend of Papa Legba continues as guests follow him on his foreboding journey to conjure the serpent demon goddess in the outskirts of New Orleans. Trudge cautiously through the cursed swamps of the Deep South, where creatures search the murky bogs for their next bloody sacrifice and demons curse the innocent with Voodoo hexes. Guests who are brave enough to venture through the Skeleton Key room may fall prey to a defiled ritual.
The Hanging®: A live stage show in Calico Square irreverently looks back at the year’s pop culture with killer comedy. Notorious for its special effects, pyrotechnics and high-flying stunts, The Hanging is a no-holds-barred assault on pop culture’s most infamous moments of the past year. A must see parody!
160 Acres of Scare Zones
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.
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 startling sliders, who lunge from in every fog-filled corner of the land. Fiesta De Los Muertos fuses dance music, colorful costumes, and larger than life stilt walkers in a dance party scare zone. It’s the ultimate late night celebration of Dia de los Muertos. On the Boardwalk clowns crave your undying attention in the CarnEVIL scare zone.
More Ways to Scream This Season:
⦁ Selling out in its inaugural year, the Knott’s Scary Farm Pass returns in 2015 and offers unlimited visits to all 24 event nights. Current 2015 Knott’s Berry Farm Season

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Passholders can purchase the pass at the limited time price of $70, now through Sept. 20 (while supplies last, plus applicable fees); the general public can purchase the pass for $80 (while supplies last, plus fees). New for 2015, Season Long Parking is valid for Knott’s Scary Farm nights.

⦁ Single night tickets are $39.99 – $49.99 depending on the event night when purchased online (plus applicable fees). Knott’s Season Passholders receive discounts on single night tickets when purchasing online. Tickets purchased at least 24 hours in advance at the theme park ticket booths are $49 for all nights, and day-of-event tickets purchased at the ticket booths are $69.

⦁ Fright Lane with Skeleton Key offers unlimited priority access to all mazes and unlocks five Skeleton Key rooms filled with unnerving terrors, interactive secrets and exclusive scenes. Guests will also receive a commemorative lanyard and collectible keychain. Fright Lane with Skeleton Key passes start at $70. (Separate theme park admission required, and not included)

⦁ Combo Tickets, offering admission and Fright Lane with Skeleton Key are an especially great value offering savings of up to $34, versus purchasing each item separately at the ticket booths.

⦁ Fast Lane offers unlimited priority access to many of Knott’s world-class coasters for as little as $35.00 (when four or more are purchased online). Fast Lane is valid during regular Knott’s Berry Farm operation and for Knott’s Scary Farm operation on the date of intended use. (separate theme park admission required, and not included)
Hotel Packages are available at the Knott’s Hotel for Knott’s Scary Farm fans who wish to turn a night of thrills into a full-service weekend getaway.  All packages are based on double occupancy and are subject to availability.  Guests can purchase the special packages by visiting knottshotel.com or by calling the Knott’s Hotel at (866) 752-2444, please reference the package names below:
⦁ Bare Bones Packages (Starting at $179) includes hotel accommodations and tickets to Knott’s Scary Farm for all registered guests.
⦁ Haunted Dreams Packages (Starting at $279) includes hotel accommodations, Scary Farm tickets, buffet dinner at the hotel, all you can eat breakfast buffet, exclusive t-shirts, souvenir key cards, and early admission to Scary Farm for all registered guests.
⦁ Haunted Supreme Packages (Starting at $339) includes hotel accommodations, Scary Farm tickets, Knott’s Berry Farm tickets, buffet dinner at the hotel, all you can eat breakfast buffet, exclusive t-shirts, souvenir key cards, and early admission to Scary Farm for all registered guests.
⦁ Gruesome Package (Starting at $479) includes hotel accommodations, Scary Farm tickets, buffet dinner at the hotel, all you can eat breakfast buffet, exclusive t-shirts,

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souvenir key cards, early admission to Scary Farm, and Fright Lane with Skeleton Key for all registered guests.
Boo-fet dinner at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant and Spurs Chophouse invites guests to feed the beast before Knott’s Scary Farm opens each night. Meals include a collectible 2015 souvenir cup, which includes unlimited complimentary refills on the event night and $0.99 refills for the rest of the 2015 season. After dinner, enjoy early entry into Knott’s Scary Farm a few minutes before it opens to other mortals. Boo-fet dinner is $26.99 +tax when purchased online and $32.99 +tax when purchased at the door. (Separate theme park admission required, and not included)
Knott’s Scary Farm parking is $20 per vehicle and can be purchased online (plus applicable taxes and fees) or at the parking booth upon arrival.
Knott’s Scary Farm has welcomed millions of visitors over the past 42 years and has become an institution in the Southern California theme park landscape. This year, the event returns September 24, 25, 26, October 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 28, 29, 30, 31. Knott’s Scary Farm is open 7:00pm – 1:00am Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays and 7:00pm – 2:00am Fridays and Saturdays. With more than 1,000 monsters roaming the park and lurking in the fog – whatever you’re imagining, it’s here…
For more information on Knott’s Berry Farm, including admission, park hours and events, visit knottsscaryfarm.com or download the Knott’s Berry Farm app for your smart phone. Join the scary conversation by using #ScaryFarm on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

 

Universal Studios Hollywood Debuts, Fast and the Furious: Supercharged

Posted on June 26, 2015 by - Blog, News

Fast and Furious debuted to the world this June 24th with mixed reviews. I personally was able to check out the attraction yesterday and I think its a great new finale to the tour. Its not anything to jump on a plane and fly across the country to see but definitely a cool thing to check out. I cant wait to see some of this technology they used in future attractions soon. Another good tip is to try to get in the front car as that seemed to be the best seat for finale. We don’t want to give away any spoilers as the ride just opened but until then enjoy some fun videos we put together for you guys. Ride reactions from Vin Diesel, Tyrese Gibson, Michelle Rodriquez and an appearance by Jason Statham in the following videos.

 

 

-B

 

Haunt Review: Six Flags Magic Mountain Fright Fest 2014

Posted on December 9, 2014 by - Blog

HAUNT REVIEW: Six Flags Magic Mountain Fright Fest (Presented By Snickers)

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This year I made it out to Magic Mountain to see if they have improved from their past less than amazing years of Halloween celebration. Lets take a recap of the Mazes scare zones and other highlights of the event. This year your annual pass gets you into the park and you can enjoy any of the rides but not the mazes. The mazes were a bracelet purchase. $20 for standard bracelets and $30 for VIP line access for non pass holders. $5 discount on any bracelet if your an annual pass holder. We chose the VIP to avoid standing in line all evening. The park is open from 10:30am to 1-am on weekends and 10:30am to 11pm on Sundays. The park offers a “No Boo” necklace to keep the monters away for an additional $5. It is just a glow stick that you wear with the worlds “No Boo”. This is an idea I have seen parks who do have guests who are just there to ride coasters and not do the mazes. I think though if you have a “No Boo” necklace you should not be allowed into any of the mazes. It can ruin the experience for the guests behind you. 20141024_202924

First thing I guess we can start to talk about is they advertise “Terror Track – Rides in the Dark”. This was not true as most of the coasters had lights on. Some had a lot of lights on. I would say no different than a normal operating evening. If you are planning to attend this event just for coasters in the dark I would just plan an evening at the park to experience the “darkness”.20141024_220734

X2: Area 19. This was an attempt to re theme x2 for Halloween. They say it is a Journey through an abandoned facility captured by aliens. This was very scarcely themed. They had a big alein on the first level of the station and don’tblink because you may miss it. They updated the video in the station with a space theme as well as changed the audio soundtrack on the ride itself. The sound track on the ride its self was the most significant update and was pretty cool when you could actually hear it.

As far as shows go they had the stage by Full Throttle hosting Voodoo Nights which was music being played by a DJ and a live drummer through out the evening. Guest would stop to watch or maybe dance a little bit. We did not make it to the High Sierra Hypnotist as we did not have enough time.

They do offer a few cool events for the kids during the day which include Witch HazelPumpkin Patch crafts, Looney Tunes trick or Treat Masquerade and Looney Tunes Character meet ups. These events are offered from 12-5 during the day which is pretty neat and gives the kids something to do. This event is free to attend and is included with our general admission ticket or annual pass.

Regular Show Fight Fest Zone II- This is a fun photo op booth setup over by the theatre. We stood in line FOREVER. well about 45 minutes….they would do 2 people ever 10 minutes or so. It was painfully slow of a line. We tried to get in there but our patience wore too thing and we jumped out of line. They play cartoons on a screen outside to entertain you which is what helped ease the pain of standing in line for what seemed like forever. We did get a cool pin out of the deal though.

SCARE ZONES. I am not going to break down each scare zone as there was not a lot of theming or very specific details to get into. They had a vey themed areas. They had a zombie themed area, The wastelands, and an area on top of the mountain by Garden of Darkness. The Garden of darkness area was the best of the bunch. It was dark and had the most talent running around. I did see one of the best uses of Stilts at any haunt ever. The actor would crouch way down over by a garbage can and wait for the guests to walk by. They would then spring up and stand over the guests and this monster of a Scharacter was now standing over you. Very cool effect. Bravo.

MAZES

The Willoughby’s Darden of Darkness: This maze was located at the top of the mountain in the old Sky bucket ride house. The entire maze was covered in green shredded material. You wondered your way through the maze wondering where everyone was. I kept looking for people to scare you but they were no where to be found. Finally towards the end of the maze you finally seen some talent inside to scare you. They were also covered in the green shredded material. I am not sure how this was suppose to be a garden. It was just green material all over the place. There were some good ideas of hiding people in the green material but you could obviously see them as a large bump in the wall (for those of us looking perhaps). Just wish it had more garden elements. It was the worst maze of the park so it only gets better from here on out. Over all rating: 4

Chupacabra: This maze was located up in the plaze by Panda Express. It was a mexican themed maze with the urban legend, Chupacabra. There were Scharacters dressed up as humanoid Chupacabras and there were even some small models of the Chupacabra in the maze as well. It was not covered by a roof and you were walking through walls mainly. It was not a total wreck of a maze but it was not very well done. The talent behind the scenes had good intentions but they hopefully over the years will get more practice and we will see something better from them in the coming years. Lets just hope this is something they will move on from.  Overall Rating is: 520141024_191945

Reds Revenge: This wasa twist on the classic story Little Red Riding Hood. You had a pres how where youwere showing a bit of the history of Red and at the end are surprised by a loud explosion of air and rumble of subwoofers in the floor. The maze wonders through the woods of Werewolves and little villages. They had really stepped up their game here. Lots of great detail was put into this maze as well as the costumes. I was disappointed with the talent and they were not doing too great of a job of entertaining or scaring. There were a few good moments in this maze and was one of their best mazes of the evening. Overall rating 7.5

Toyz of Terror 3D: This maze was a 3d maze and guess what…..FREE GLASSES! Way to go six flags. This is your typical florescent black lit Halloween maze but this was with Toys. People dressed up as toys, dolls and decorated with toyz through out. It had one of my favorite elements of a fun house. The spinning room with the bridge. I love this effect. It gets me every time. They did had some creative uses with the paint and the 3d worked well here. Overall rating 720141024_192205

Vault 666: This was a maze based on an old abandoned facility that has recently been discovered with years or secrets. Lots of mutations and other type scharacters were through out this maze. I would almost say it has an Asylum feel. The girl in the beginning told us that they were doing human and animal experiments and I think that was part of the look of the scharacters inside as well. It had some great moments in this maze. I remember a guy running out of no where right into an electric fence and they had an actual electric shock effect fire up and shocked the guy coming at us. With a great pre show and great set design it was one of the better mazes in the park. Overall rating: 8

Willoughbys Resurrected: This is a big fancy scary mansion themed maze. It was well themed and was a fun little walk through. Did not see very many scharacters unfortunately when I had went through. There were bedrooms, libraries, and other types of rooms. It had a unique grey look through the whole maze which was different than most mazes I had seen before. I had a great experience in line for this maze. A creepy wet haired very short lady was moving EXTREMELY slow. She was stalking down a girl in front of us in line. She moved slow and with a creepy motion under the gates up around us for the line. She bent and contorted into strange positions. Very entertaining and very dedicted. Overall rating: 7.5

The Aftermath: This was a post Apocalyptic themed maze. It had a really nice entrance built up and you entered into a hallway full of fog and a light pointed right at you to blind the guests. This was perfect use of light and fog and wish who ever lit this did more work through out the park. This is how its done. The rest of the maze was placed right in the middle of the stunt show stage. It was wide open and you walked through old cars, storage bins and other wasteland type props. Zombies would jump out to scare you here and there but was very scarce. After the entrance with that awesome fog and light effect the rest of the maze fell flat to immerse you into darkness of into a scary environment. Was a bit of a let down. The whole maze had no roof so it is hard to immerse your guests and you must figure out another way to make that work. Just wish they had because It had all the right intentions. Overall Rating: 620141024_200330

Total Darkness: This maze is exactly what it sounds like. PITCH BLACK walk through. groups ofeight get in a line and are told to hold on to a rope. I had the pleasure of being the first one to lead everyone through the darkness. The maze twists and turns and you must find your way through. They have night vision on inside so they can monitor what guests are doing. They will whisper “this way” to help get you through. Pretty cool expierence. It even had one of my favorite maze elements, the inflatable claustrophobia hallway! I think this maze lacks a few things. Maybe some strange material on the walls that changes to freak out your guests as they work their way through the maze as well as some actual scares. Its such a strong concept I wish they would do just a little bit more with it.  Overall Rating 8

Reflecting back on this trip it was a pretty well done Halloween event in a few of the areas of the park. It is a large park and hard to put all your energy through out the park. I think over the years we can expect to see more from Magic Mountain as they have already proved to us that they are improving each year. Great Job you guys and keep up the improvements!

-B

Haunt Review: California’s Great America

Posted on December 2, 2014 by - Uncategorized

Haunt Review: California’s Great America, Santa Clara, CA

During my Journey’s of Haunt visits I made a visit up to California’s Great America. The Halloween Haunt event starts at 6pm and it is not a hard ticket event. That being that if you purchase a park ticket for the day ($38.99). California Great America is a nice fun park Located in Northern California and is right next door to the 49ers stadium.

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We visited the park on a Saturday and it was not too crowded during the day but at night is when all the craziness began. Around 7pm the park was starting to really show crowds through out the entire park and the lines for the mazes started to get insanely busy. Most of the Roller Coasters were an hour to a half hour long. Compare this to 20 min wait lines during the day time. Most of the mazes lines were 2 hours long all evening long. After being frustrated with how slow the lines were moving I decided to buy a “Fright Lane” pass. A Fright Lane pass will run you about $40, you gain access to the Skeleton Key Rooms and will allow you to jump right to the front of the line. After I purchased my Fright Lane pass I headed to my first maze and was surprised to see there was a very long and very slow moving line. I ended up standing in line for this maze for about 25-30 min. Even with the Fast Lane I was standing in line. The Skeleton Key rooms have seemed to be the big offender here. They can only take so many people per hour and it will really jam up the Fast lane line. You can ask to skip the Skeleton Key room and you wont have to wait as long but to even get close enough to an employee to request to skip the skeleton key room is even a challenge. Just a warning, if you are going on a Saturday, be prepared to stand in line! Also with this park your Fright Lane pass is only good for one jump to the front of the line and skeleton key room visit. They punch your pass as you visit mazes and your not allowed to revisit them unless you stand in the general line.

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The front entrance was decorated with I believe 8 HUGE pumpkins surrounding the lake and had very large fire explosions that would go off at random one pumpkin at a time. It would also die off and not do anything for a while then all 8 would explode bigger than ever and scare pretty much the whole front of the park. Pretty fantastic!

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The Gauntlet: The Gauntlet was a clown styled scare zone with your typical clown make up and a few on stilts. There was very to hardly any themeing in the area besides the Clowns themselves, a few Circus Carts, and music. As always, most people are terrified of clowns and delivers a few really good scares here and there. Nothing real amazing to report from another Haunt Clown style Scare Zone.  Over all Score for this zone 4

Ironworx: This was a steam punk styled zone and was only about 30 feet long. It was inside of a short covered bridge and had a few characters inside. There were a few things hanging around the bridge such as chain link and some gears. As always there were smoke machines filling the area and some music. It may be the shortest and smallest scare zones I have ever seen at a Haunt so far. Over all score for this Zone 4

Underworld Alley: This was located over by the Demon Roller Coaster and was sprawled out even past the area they designated for the talent. I had seen scharacters located a little outside of this area scaring guests. There was a covered Alley you could walk through with black rubber drapes, smoke, lights, some props, and music. I did not actually encounter any scharacters inside of this Alley in all my passes. It was an ok themed area. Overall rating 4

Mazes

Dia de los Muertos: This maze was themed in the Mexican Day of the dead with glowing paint through out the maze. You were given glasses (did not have to pay) for the fun 3d effects. There were some great use of the paint and the 3d effects and then other areas it fell flat. The maze layout was ok and the decorations were very limited in spots. Over all rating: 5

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Roadkill Roadhouse: This was a Hillbilly themed maze where they were cooking roadkill for their guest. A grotesque maze with blood gore and all the fixins of any good Hillbilly maze. The idea is not very original from any other parks previous Hillbilly/inbred/redneck style mazes. Over all rating: 6

SKELETON KEY SPOILERS! They bring you into a kitchen where we had a Paula Dean like Character tell us to eat one of two choices or we were not leaving the room. The choice was a shot of blood (Noway, especially after my experience at Kings Dominion) and Bugs. I took bugs and when we all went to take out shot of bugs or blood I just poured it down the front of my shirt. I did not want to be fooled again. Ya I chickened out but that blood experience has scared me from ever doing any of these eat this or drink that stunts ever again!

 

Carnevil: Another clown maze once again at a Haunt. Imagine that? this one was very empty. No one really around to scare you. I felt like I was just wondering through a poorly decorated clown maze. I really hope parks start to take into consideration of entertaining their guests through a maze. Especially after standing in line for over an hour. I am glad I had fast lane on this one. The Clown mazes are my least favorite of mazes at most parks. I did see one good one this year which I will report on in a later review. They had a Skeleton Key room but they had some how missed our whole group to wave in. 20141011_230042

Wax Museum Chamber of Horrors: I will give the park credit. This is a unique idea I have not personally seen at any park before. You walk through a museum like setup with frozen wax sculptures. Some of these sculptures turn out to be real and if your jumpy, will give you a good startled. There were different types of historical characters and fictional characters. Not a bad idea and plays on the classic “I didn’t know that was real!” reaction of most mazes. This one is just full of them.  Overall rating 7

Mirror Mirror: This is a maze made of complete mirror, once they allow so many people in they close it off and your trapped inside. You attempt to find an exit while scharacters track you down. You are inside with maybe 20 guests who are all trying to escape. Spoiler alert, there is no exit. They only allow you to exit when the time is up and they open the exit mirror. A great idea they had was to give all guests plastic gloves so they don’t smear the mirrors as they try to feel their way through the maze and see if their passage is a mirror or open. Not very comfortable gloves but makes the maze a better experience. I had done this exact maze before down at Knotts Berry Farm in the previous year but they did not have the gloves. Overall rating: 7

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Zombie High: A school has been over ran with Zombies and you have to make your way through the carnage. Not a bad designed maze. All cedar fair parks are now using this format at several parks. It seemed very familiar to the others I have visited. Students half eaten or infected jump out to scare you. You will see classrooms, janitor closest and a neat auditorium scene with a nice scare in there.  Overall rating: 7

Toy Factory: This was maybe the most obnoxious maze in the park. The music was so repetitive and just pulsates through out the maze. scharacters dressed up as stuffed toys and other kids toys wonder the halls to scare you. Bloody stuffed bears and rabbits nailed to walls, a room of dolls, lots of toy usage through this maze. Overall rating: 7

Skeleton Key Room SPOILERS! Its a large walk way with inflatables surrounding you.Also known as a claustrophobia room. It was half deflated in most of it and dead on the middle section sadly. I love these though and can be quite fun. This one was white in color as opposed to the blacks ones I am use to seeing. 

 

CornStalkers: This is a maze designed to look as though your walking through corn fields and farm type scenes. Most of this maze was way to open and the lighting was aimed terribly. I really hated this maze and I just walked through it bored. I do like these mazes when done right (Tons of parks do this design) and this was by far the worst. Lets hope next year they noticed their flaws and will fix them. This maze was a very very very long maze and if it was shortened up and condensed into a tighter area it would be much more a success. This maze had one of the longest lines in the park too and sure glad I wants in line for this one with everyone else. Overall rating: 5

Skeleton Key SPOILERS! You are asked to go into an area surrounded in corn stalks and two hill billies, one with his scalp half cut off, who instruct you to find the key in one of the pumpkins in the area. The pumpkins are full of goo and I dug through a fair good amount of them. Turned out he had the key on him the whole time and it was a big scam. Not sure if this is what happens every time but that’s what happened to me. 

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Madame Marie’s Massacre Manor: This was a maze designed to look like a creepy oldmansion. I don’t remember much more than that. A few scharacters popping out here and there to try to give you a good scare. I remember something with a girl sitting on a bed being creepy but that’s all I really remember. Not a bad maze though. Overall rating: 6

Skeleton Key SPOILERS! This was by far their best skeleton key room and possibly best thing they offered in the entire park. You are escorted into a room with a round table. On the table are 6 round white globes. You are instructed to put your hands on the globe infront of you and whatever you do do not take your hands off the globe. The host leaves and music starts to play. You hear some chanting and lighting effects kick in. The lights then die and you’re in complete darkness. Once the lights kick back on its a strobe light and their is a creepy girl on the table doing back bends and getting in the guests face. The room then goes dark and when the lights come back up she is gone. Really cool idea and really liked it!

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With the park being so busy I did not get a chance to see any of the shows so unfortunately I will not be able to give you any opinions on these. They offer 4 shows. Blades of Horror, NyteWalkers, Academy of Villains and Ghostly Glow Party. I did see Ghosty Glow Party and its basically a Dj and techno music in a small courtyard in the park where you can dance.

Fun House Express: This was a 3d motion show that shows through out the month of October. Its a wacky fun and dated show takes place in a large theater setting.  It does go on for a quite a while. I waited in line for a long long time even with fast lane. The capacity is tiny with the show being so long. Overall rating 5

The evening was ok and not a total drag but there were a lot of disappointing moments. The park is still figuring things out and I am hoping to see improvements from them in the coming years. The fact that the event does not cost any extra and passholders can enjoy the haunt with no additional charge is pretty fantastic. Making it one of the more affordable of the Haunts I have visited.  Find out where California Great America’s Haunt falls in the next few weeks when the ultimate show down of all the parks that I have visited get the big line of who was the best!

-B