Today we have the first of a few updates from this years Knott's Scary Farm. 

We attended all 3 nights of opening weekend and we are pretty confident when we say that this is one of the best years of Halloween Haunt ever (yes, we know it's not called that any more). 

Let's head into the fog and check out this years event. 

After our almost 3 1/2 hour drive down on Thursday afternoon (yeah) it was nice to check into the Knott's Hotel and enjoy some relaxing time at Amber Waves prior to media check in. 

We ran into some friends 

Amber Waves looks great all decked out (and the service was amazing all weekend) 

Technically taken Friday morning, but we have to share the entrance. =) 

We're all checked in and ready to get our scare on

The fountain display is amazing this year 

Let's start our walk-through of the mazes, because they were amazing this year. 

I honestly don't have enough adjectives to describe how amazing this maze is. It's got everything. Amazing talent. Incredible sets. A stellar story. Easter Eggs galore. 

This maze tells the story of Sarah Marshall (not that Sarah Marshall) and the curse she set on Calico with her transition from human to, well, the green witch of course. 

Even the queue line looks amazing

Picture slide-show of Origins 

In ANY other year, Wax Works would have been the maze of the year, probably even moreso than my beloved Dark Ride during it's first year. 

I've always been a fan of Daniel Miller's work, and I think it's safe to say this may be the best maze he's ever done. It's creepy, exciting, tells a great story and has so many hidden things in it that you have to go through multiple times. 

​We will be posting a tour we had of this maze in a couple of days. 

Now in it's 3rd year, Dark Ride shows no signs of slowing down on the amazingness. Quite a few new things this year, including our favorite on-ride photo ever. We really do wish this was something we could buy. 

Also waiting to see if there are any complaints on this yet. 

Now in it's second year, Gus Krueger's Dark Entities is setting itself up as one of the strongest mazes of 2019. In fact, our last trip through this maze on Saturday night was easily our best time through this maze ever. And may be the most fun we've had in any maze so far this season. 

Don't sleep on this maze, the talent is finding it's stride and there are a lot of great new lighting effects this year. 

In it's second year, the stand-out new maze from 2018 is also not showing any signs of letting up on the fun and scares. Some new additions this year including a pre-show that may make waits a bit longer than they normally would be. So get to this maze early. 

In fact, later in the night on Saturday they were skipping the new show scene altogether. So it will be interesting to see if it makes it through the season. 

There are some mazes that are instant classics and yet others that kind of take a bit to hit their stride. Pumpkin Eater is one of those that really took about half way through it's opening season to hit all cylinders. But when it did, wow. This is a maze that has gotten better each and every year. 

We didn't go through Paranormal on media night so no video this year (we'll post last years below). There weren't any additions this year but the amazing ending from last year is more than enough to keep this maze one of our favorites. 

Still, we wouldn't be surprised if next year was the last go-round for this one. 

Now in it's final season, Shadowlands is still one of the most visually stunning mazes at the farm. This one suffers from being the first of the "new wave" of mazes that have taken over the past few years. Still, it's a lot of fun and we look forward to getting our last tours of this maze on upcoming visits. 

We didn't go through Infected on media night so no video on this one either. Infected is also in it's final season and again represents the first of the new wave of technological advances Knott's Scary Farm has implemented the past 5 or so years. 

When we went through on Saturday it just didn't seem like there were enough zombies in the maze. We walked out with 8 and 9 kills respectively. 

Our favorite video of Infected remains our "Gun POV" that we did a few years back. 

We'll start off with the Hanging, the proverbial "love it or hate it" show every year. 

I'll be honest, we're kind of in the middle this year. Unlike the last 2 years they didn't hang a "YouTube" or "Influencer" that 75% of the audience had to ask "who is that". So that was good. 

But this years show in particular has produced some interesting discussions as to what the ending could mean for the future of this show. We'll just have to see. 

Lastly, we want to take a second to talk about Puppet Up. 

I'll be honest, we had no idea what to expect from this show and even on media night we basically just wanted to sit down and take a rest so we decided to do it in the theater. We really aren't "theme park show people". 

So when we found ourselves back at the show the next 2 nights that should pretty much tell you how much we loved this show. 

Basically it's "Who's Line is it Anyway" but with Puppets, complete with dirty language. 

We love that Knott's has allowed the show to go all out. Hopefully there haven't been any complaints about the content because word is spreading about how good the show is. The crowds were bigger on each subsequent night. 

On media night here is a great improv on an audience suggestion of a "Tiki Bar Fire at Disneyland". You can tell the cast truly understands Disney culture as this has reference to Annual Passholders, Pin Trading and much more. 

The show also features some classic Jim Henson puppet acts. They seem to switch it up at each show, the early show is typically "I've grown accustomed to your face". 

So that's what we've got from our first Scary Farm update. We'll be putting together more pics and video from outside of the mazes and shows for our next update in a couple of weeks. The scare zones are amazing as always and deserve their own time in the spotlight. 

California’s Great America Makes Waves with Completely Transformed Waterpark, “South Bay Shores”

New attractions, cabanas and food anchor the expanded coastal-themed area, opening in 2020

SANTA CLARA, CA – Northern California’s premiere amusement park is getting bigger and better in summer 2020, when California’s Great America debuts the new South Bay Shores waterpark. Guests will be immersed in a completely transformed waterpark experience featuring seven new water attractions including four drop slides, two tube slides, and a new lagoon area. Guests will also enjoy new and upgraded food and merchandise locations, upgraded cabanas and a sandy beach play area – all richly themed to reflect the excitement and fun of the Northern California coast and South Bay regions.

This significant transformation:

• increases the waterpark’s acreage by approximately 50 percent (from 10.5 to 15 acres);
• nearly doubles the amount of attractions (from 10 to 18);
• doubles the amount of space to relax; and
• triples the number of dining options (from one to three).

New attractions coming next summer for water lovers of all ages will include:

• Shark Reef Plunge – part of the brand new Pacific Surge slide complex, this attraction features four six-story-tall body slides that will simultaneously send four guests – each in a separate enclosed launch chamber – on a nearly vertical free fall when the floor drops out from under them. The high-speed plunge into a series of flat loops and s-curves will provide an amazing adrenaline rush for maximum fun.
• Feeding Frenzy & The Barracuda – located on the same Pacific Surge structure, these two fivestory tube slides can accommodate guests riding alone or with a friend and will send them winding through an enclosed tunnel before shooting them back out into the sun, through intense drops and turns.
• Tide Pool – a new family lagoon with eight kid-sized water slides that line the perimeter of a zero-depth-entry pool will give children their own mini water thrills, while giving the grownups a chance to relax under shade structures and enjoy an oversized lounge and sun deck area.
• Barefoot Beach – this all new sand play and beach area will offer a place for guests to relax and enjoy the sun. Kick back on the beach that is just steps away from the rides and roller coasters of California’s Great America. 

For food lovers, the new Pier 76 Cafe will cook up delicious new offerings like fried shrimp and fresh fish tacos, plus park favorites including hand-breaded chicken tenders, sliders and waffle fries. Shaded outdoor seating will offer guests the perfect spot to enjoy a meal and cool off.

The waterpark’s top-to-bottom transformation into South Bay Shores will also bring a brand new entrance, new family changing/showering areas, more lounge chairs, additional shade and lush landscaping with native plants. The waterpark’s existing slides and attractions will receive makeovers as well, and will receive new names highlighting coastal theming of South Bay Shores.

Updated cabanas located near the Breakers Bay wave pool and new Tide Pool lagoon will be the perfect places for families and groups to relax. Upgrades include free Wi-Fi, charging stations, ceiling fans, TVs and dedicated food and beverage service.

“South Bay Shores represents the newest phase of a multi-year revitalization of California’s Great America, building on our nearly 50 year heritage of giving Bay Area residents even more reasons to call the park their favorite destination for fun,” said Manny Gonzalez, vice president and general manager of California’s Great America. “Along with the waterpark, recent investments such as the innovative RailBlazer roller coaster, new dining venues, and general park improvements are showing guests and the community that the park’s transformation is fully underway here in the South Bay.”

Construction on South Bay Shores is already in progress, and will continue throughout the winter.

Guests who want to get the most out of their summer with repeat visits to South Bay Shores will want to purchase a 2020 Gold Season Pass, which will be on sale on August 15. The Gold Season Pass includes unlimited visits to California’s Great America and South Bay Shores on every public operating day for the rest of 2019 and all of 2020, including Halloween Haunt and WinterFest, plus passholder-only perks like free parking, special events, early ride times, in-park discounts and more.

About California’s Great America and Cedar Fair Entertainment Company
California’s Great America is a 100-acre theme and waterpark located in Santa Clara, Calif. As Northern California’s premier amusement park, featuring thrill rides, live entertainment, and in 2020 the new South Bay Shores waterpark, California’s Great America is the top destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. California’s Great America is owned and operated by Cedar Fair Entertainment Company (NYSE: FUN), one of the largest regional amusement-resort operators in the world. Focused on its mission to make people happy by providing fun, immersive and memorable experiences, the Company owns and operates 11 amusement parks, four outdoor waterparks, an indoor waterpark and resort accommodations totaling more than 2,300 rooms and more than 600 luxury RV sites. For more information, visit www.cedarfair.com.

Yesterday we were invited out to Knott's Berry Farm for the Calico River Rapids Media Night. The latest "plussed" ride at Knott's definitely does not disappoint. And just like they did with the Mine Train, Log Ride and Peanut's Train, they've kicked up the rapids ride to the next level. 

Let's head in and have some fun!! 

As we usually do when there is an evening media night at Knott's, I took a half-day of work so we could at least beat "some" of the traffic down. And of course, have some fun in the park. 

While we were trying to figure out what to have for a late lunch, we headed over to the ride to get some daytime pics (we ended up having a fabulous meal at Boardwalk BBQ). 

The ride looks amazing!! 

Hi Walter The Salmon!!! (there is a story here, but that comes later) 

More on these later as well. =) 

After a quick lunch we decided to ride a few things since the park was pretty empty. 

We took a LOT of video during the day, the first was a slo-mo of HangTime. Because why the heck not. 

Hadn't done the Dragon Swing in a LOT of years, so decided to give it a spin. Great ride. 

The stage is set for the opening of the ride!! 

Before you even get to the ride, the queue is simply spectacular. So much to see. 

There were some questions about the height requirement, so here you go. 46". Not sure if this is the same as Bigfoot Rapids. Can anybody confirm? 

We did a walk-through of the queue of course. 

The detail is amazing, and the smell of fresh wood is everywhere. 

Bear Cub 

Campground 

Hey little guy!! 

Arooooooooooo!!! 

Remember the old switchbacks from Bigfoot Rapids? 

Well, this is them now. 

The cabin looks amazing 

So much detail to take in 

How much wood could a woodchuck chuck ... oh, woodpecker!! =) 

For when you need to take a nap (totally don't take a nap here)

Even the ride loading area got some love

Armed and ready to go for our POV's!! 

So the story behind Walter the Fish. 

The Citizens of Calico were out and about the entire night, showing off their new adventure and having fun with the media. Note, can't wait to see the interactions in this area for Ghost Town Alive. 

One of the interactive parts is exploding of "dynamite" (as you'll see in the video below). 

In talking to one of the citizens, they asked if we lost anybody on our voyage. And we of course said yes. Gabe (from Theme Park Duo) said his name was Walter and that he ended up in the mouth of a bear. 

And then, without missing a beat, the citizen asked if it was a Salmon. 

And thus, Walter The Salmon was born. 

They also had Pony Express open for us, and because it was Media Night, we were able to get a POV of this as well. Score!! 

As the sun went down we were able to get some nice night shots of the ride. 

As well as a quick interview with Garner Holt who talked about the ride and the other creations he's done for Knott's. 

To say we were impressed and blown away with the updates to the ride would be an understatement. 

I think with this one, the upgrades are definitely more jarring than they were with the Log or Mine Ride (because, let's face it, those rides have always had a great story). 

Bigfoot Rapids was always fun, but it's story was that it was just a Rapids Ride. Now? The ride fits squarely in with the rest of Calico and has a great story and theme. And it's still the fun rapids ride you remember. 

Lastly, we'll leave you with our Nighttime POV. Sure it's kind of hard to see, it's night and we're using GoPro's with no lighting. But SO fun to ride at night. We seriously can't wait to ride this on those warm summer nights. Or those scorching Knott's Scary Farm nights. 

Thanks again to Knott's for having us out, we had a blast as usual. We can't wait for Ghost Town Alive in a couple of weeks. Make sure you head out and ride Calico River Rapids!! 

Last weekend we were invited out to the Knott's Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival to take in the festivities and of course the food. 

The event is growing each year and is definitely popular. We of course had an amazing time, but we also do have a few things we'd like to see updated since the event is growing so much, things to alleviate some of the growing pains. 

I think this is the right place

Let's get to eating!! 

Our first stop was for a waffle and chips with ice cream. You know, for Breakfast. Both were good, although the Waffle needed something, and that something is the ice cream. We got the chips later in the day and they were just as good.

​Both are found at the Ghost Town Bakery. 

Three things we got to try at the tasting preview, and they were just as good, if not better than they were then.

​All Three are available at Wagon Wheel Pizza across from Ghostrider. 

Something that we didn't know was coming, and isn't on your tasting card, but is delicious, found in Spurs Chop House. 

They are made to order, which is nice. I will say though, if we got this again we'd get it without the Hummus. I think that's part of the Shawarma, but I think we would have preferred a bit less of it. 

After eating all that food, it was time to take in some of the sights. 

Spring has sprung 

Goatses 

The merch game was on point 

Definitely my philosophy 

Cannot recommend the Boysenberry Cobbler enough. It's super easy and super good. 

Yo, Yo, Yo ... that's my jam

Our faces all day

You can smell the boysenberries as you approach, so if you want to smell like boysenberries after a bath, get all this stuff. 

And then of course, wrap yourself in your boysenberry towel

The wine and Beer tasting was back, although we have to say the "pours" you'd get with the tasting card were very inconsistent. By the end of the day you'd pretty much get a "shot" of Boysenberry beer. 

The chili was a hit in our group (Outside Wilderness Dance Hall)

As was the sausage (also found Outside Wilderness Dance Hall)

It's not very often you could spend all day at a theme park, only ride 2 rides and feel like you had a full day, but you can at the Boysenberry Festival

Green Frog, Blue Frog, Green Frog ... 

Purple Fly? 

We didn't catch the Jam-Boree, but I'm sure it's great for those who are into that kind of thing

BOBA!!! (Starbucks inside the park) 

Let's get back to the food, skirt steak skewer (also towards the front of the park) 

Chicken Wings (by Ghostrider)

Chicken Skewer (Indian Trails) 

Pulled Pork Fries (Calico Fry Co) 

Alright, we have a bit of a Rapids Construction update below, but before we get to that, we also have our top 5 food items to share: 

Let's take a look at the Rapids construction, there are finally a few walls up

Not a whole lot of visible work in this area 

They are definitely doing some work in the queue 

Alrighty, that's gonna wrap it up. We will probably head back to the park for more Boysenberry food at least once more during the Boysenberry Festival, probably in a few weeks. Be sure you head out to the park to check it out. You won't be disappointed. 

More details about the Boysenberry Festival can be found here. 

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This past Tuesday we were invited out to Knott's Berry Farm for an evening of tastings featuring many new items that will be available at this years Boysenberry Festival. 

Among the delectable eats were some truly tasty treats, many flowing drinks and of course, all the fun that Knott's has to offer. 

We also have a quick park update before we get started on the food. 

Welcome to Knott's!! 

Every time we try and ride Jaguar it seems to go down. But we rode it hundreds of times during Coasting for Kids so we probably are good to not ride this again, ever. 

A must-ride, every visit. Usually more than once. 

Over at the Timber Mountain Log Ride, they've made some nice updates to the Fast Lane process. 

Previously Fast Lane would go through the exit, which created issues for those exiting the logs, and probably a safety issue as well. 

Now the entrance is through the regular line

The regular line gets held on the right under the sign, while Fast Lane goes to the left. 

They wait for the line to pass the cave before letting the next group go. 

It actually seemed to work really well, hopefully they're thinking of ways to make Fast Lane better at some of the other rides. Namely Montezoomas Revenge and the Rapids. 

Unfortunately HangTime was down all day. 

Pony Express was also getting some offseason love. 

Speaking of the rapids, some work is definitely going on, we could hear them pounding away at something. 

Could be another reason Pony Express was closed. 

Lots of room for new landscaping or other things. 

They were working on the queue 

Not sure how well you can see them, but there are ropes strung across in a few areas here. Not sure what they are for. 

The Galloping Goose was out, always a nice treat. 

Alright, let's get on with the food. 

The first of three videos where we talk about all of the food we tried. Don't worry, we cut out the part where we eat the food. Nobody needs to see that. =) 

Boysenberry Tostada with pulled pork. Super delicious. 

Boysenberry Salmon, nice and tasty. 

Boysenberry Habanero Mac and Cheese. This was a hit, and we can't wait to have it again soon. 

Jambalaya. It was quite good. Everything a Jambalaya should be. Didn't taste much Boysenberry, but that was ok. 

Chili in a Boysenberry Bread Bowl. Fantastic Chili. Yummy Bread Bowl. 

Chicken and Flank Steak skewers. We actually preferred the chicken, but both were very good. 

Boysenberry Pot Roast and Boysenberry Mashed Potatoes. 

Both were melt in your mouth good. Josh doesn't usually like Mashed Potatoes, but he loved these. 

Boysenberry Hummus. Think this is a carry-over from last year, but it was fantastic. The pita was perfect. 

Knott's also announced that an all new Boysenberry Pie Frozen Yogurt will be available at ALL Yogurtland locations (yes, that one down the street from you) beginning on March 18th. 

​It's so worth it. 

Lastly and certainly not least, is the Berry Beast. 

Be sure to check out the video on how this thing was born. 

Some great merchandise will be available as well

Back again is the Tied Up In Knott's display which showcases some great artwork featuring Knott's history. 

Some really fantastic art on display. 

This Walter Knott art is sure to go very quickly. 

Same with the Catawampus. 

This is all so good, we'd be surprised if it's not all sold the very first day of the Festival. 

Some great Beary Tales and Kingdom of the Dinosaurs art

Classic Knott's 

Thanks to Knott's for having us out, we had a fantastic time, ate too much, caught up with great friends and we can't wait to do it again soon!!