Knott’s Boysenberry Festival: A World-Class Celebration of Flavor and Fun
Prepare your senses for an unforgettable culinary journey and vibrant entertainment experience at Knott’s Berry Farm. The annual Boysenberry Festival transforms the historic theme park into a springtime wonderland, celebrating the humble yet extraordinary berry that started it all: the boysenberry.
Discover the Essence of Spring at Knott’s Boysenberry Festival
As spring breathes new life into the air, Knott’s Berry Farm comes alive with its most anticipated annual event – the Boysenberry Festival. This mouthwatering celebration, typically held for several weeks, invites guests to indulge in a diverse array of boysenberry-inspired dishes, drinks, and delightful treats. Originally a testament to Walter Knott’s pioneering spirit, the festival has grown into a major attraction, enchanting visitors with its unique charm and delectable offerings.
Mark your calendars for a springtime adventure unlike any other. While the specific dates may vary each year, the 2017 festival, for instance, expanded to an impressive three weeks, running from April 1st to April 23rd. This extended duration allowed ample time for families and foodies alike to explore over 70 one-of-a-kind boysenberry creations, sip on craft brews and wines in the dedicated tasting garden, and immerse themselves in a lively atmosphere brimming with entertainment.
The festival is a cornerstone event for Knott’s Berry Farm, highlighting its heritage as a berry farm before it became the thrill-packed theme park we know today. It’s a tribute to the boysenberry, a hybrid fruit developed by Rudolph Boysen and popularized by Walter Knott, which blossomed into a key part of the park’s identity. Every dish, every drink, and every moment of entertainment during the festival pays homage to this iconic berry, offering an authentic taste of Knott’s history combined with modern culinary innovation.
A Gastronomic Adventure: Savoring Over 70 Boysenberry-Inspired Dishes
At the heart of the Boysenberry Festival lies an unparalleled culinary experience. Imagine a world where every bite and sip carries the distinct, sweet-tart essence of the boysenberry. With more than 70 unique food and beverage items, the festival menu is a testament to the versatility of this beloved fruit, pushing the boundaries of traditional theme park fare.
From innovative savory concoctions to irresistible sweet treats, there’s truly something for every palate. The chefs at Knott’s Berry Farm brilliantly infuse boysenberry into dishes you’d never expect, transforming classic recipes into extraordinary taste sensations. This commitment to variety and quality ensures that each visit offers new flavors to discover and old favorites to revisit.
The ultimate way to embark on this epicurean journey is by purchasing a festival tasting card. Available for a nominal fee (e.g., $25 in 2017) both online and at various locations throughout Knott’s Berry Farm, this card grants you access to a curated selection of signature boysenberry dishes and drinks. It’s a cost-effective and convenient method to sample a wide array of items without committing to full-sized portions, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family or for solo exploration.
Savory Sensations: Unexpected Boysenberry Blends
Prepare to have your perception of fruit-infused cuisine transformed. The festival’s savory offerings showcase the boysenberry’s surprising compatibility with a range of bold flavors. Highlights from past festivals have included:
Ghost Town Grill: Enjoy a refreshing Boysenberry Salad, a light yet flavorful start to your culinary tour.
Spurs Chop House: Indulge in tender Boysenberry Short Ribs over Rice, a succulent dish where the berry’s sweetness beautifully complements the rich meat. Also look out for the delightful Boysenberry Ravioli, a new favorite introduced in 2017, offering a unique blend of savory pasta with a hint of boysenberry tang.
Sutter’s Grill Stand & Roaster: Feast on Finger-Lickin’ Boysenberry BBQ Wings, perfectly glazed with a sweet and tangy boysenberry barbecue sauce. Don’t miss the Corn on the Cobb, elevated with a dollop of Boysenberry Butter and a smear of Boysenberry Mayonnaise for an unexpected burst of flavor.
Calico Fry: For the adventurous palate, try the crispy Deep Fried Alligator & Fries, served with a zesty Boysenberry Aioli that adds an unforgettable kick.
Fireman’s BBQ: Experience the delightful Boysenberry & Apricot Pulled Pork Sandwich served in a Boysenberry Bun Combo, a popular new item from 2017. Enhance any regular menu item, such as chicken, ribs, or flank steak sandwich, with a choice of Boysenberry BBQ Sauce, Boysenberry Butter, Boysenberry Relish, or Boysenberry Mayonnaise toppings.
The Bank of Calico Stand: Grab a Marinated Boysenberry Meatball on a Stick, smothered in Boysenberry BBQ Sauce, for a convenient and flavorful bite.
Wagon Wheel Pizza: Challenge your taste buds with the Boysenberry Pizza, a unique creation often featuring arugula and goat cheese, proving that boysenberry can be a delightful addition to savory pies.
Strictly On A Stick: Try the Boysenberry Corn Dog, a fun and unexpected twist on a classic carnival food, making its debut in 2017.
Sweet Indulgences: Dessert Dreams Come True
No festival celebrating the boysenberry would be complete without an extensive selection of sweet treats. These desserts are designed to satisfy every craving, from light and fruity to rich and decadent.
Ghost Town Grill: Quench your thirst with The “Walter Knott” (Ice Tea & Boysenberry Punch), or indulge in a creamy Boysenberry Milkshake, Boysenberry Ice Cream, traditional Boysenberry Pie, or a slice of rich Boysenberry Cheesecake. For adult guests, Boysenberry Wine is also available.
Spurs Chop House: Delight in a Chocolate Covered Boysenberry Cheesecake on a Stick, a new and highly popular item from 2017, offering a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and chocolatey goodness. Also, savor the Boysenberry Nutella Crepes, another new addition that year, marrying the hazelnut spread with the tangy berry.
Spurs Patio: Relax with a refreshing Boysenberry Beer or Boysenberry Wine.
Churro Factory: Experience the warm, comforting taste of a Boysenberry Stuffed Churro or the decadent Boysenberry Churro Sundae topped with Boysenberry Ice Cream. The freshly-baked Boysenberry Fry Bread, introduced in 2017, is also a must-try.
Mix-It-Up: Cool down with a vibrant Boysenberry ICEE, a Boysenberry ICEE Float, Boysenberry ice cream cones, or a delightful Boysenberry Cookiewich Sandwich.
Judge Roy Bean: Grab a refreshing Boysenberry Cream Soda, a new and popular drink from 2017.
Pemmican Pickle & Popcorn Cart: Enjoy the whimsical sweetness of Boysenberry Cotton Candy.
Ghost Town Grub: Indulge in unique fried delights like the Fun Bun – a Fried Cinnamon Roll with Boysenberry Cream Cheese Topping, the Fun Stick – a Fried Cheesecake on a Stick with Boysenberry Sauce, and savory-sweet Boysenberry Flautas.
Ghost Town Bakery: Take home a taste of the festival with Boysenberry Pie (available by the slice or whole), Boysenberry Tart, Boysenberry Turnovers, Boysenberry Cheesecake, Boysenberry Panna Cotta with Almond Crumble, and Boysenberry Trifle.
Cordelia’s Pie Kitchen: Get creative with Build-Your-Own Mini Boysenberry Pies, a fun and interactive experience for families.
Gourmet Coffee Hut: Start your day or enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up with a Boysenberry Latte and assorted Boysenberry Pastries.
Non-Stop Fun: Live Entertainment and Family Festivities
The Boysenberry Festival isn’t just a feast for your taste buds; it’s a celebration for all your senses, offering a rich tapestry of live entertainment and engaging activities included with park admission. The air buzzes with energy, music, and laughter, creating an immersive experience that complements the culinary journey.
Snoopy’s Boysenberry Jamboree: A Peanuts Celebration
A highlight for families is the all-new interactive, musical revue, “Snoopy’s Boysenberry Jamboree!”, typically staged at the iconic Calico Mine Stage. Join Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and the entire beloved Peanuts gang as they lead an energetic show filled with singing, dancing, and playful antics. This whimsical, high-energy celebration of springtime is designed to get families involved, creating cherished memories with their favorite characters and talented performers.
Family Fun at Camp Snoopy and Ghost Town
Beyond the main stage, the festival extends its lively atmosphere throughout the park. In Camp Snoopy, younger guests have the fantastic opportunity to meet the Easter Beagle and his pals, making for perfect photo opportunities and heartwarming interactions. The Camp Snoopy Theatre often showcases the PEANUTS gang with special singing, dancing, and storytelling performances, ensuring that even the littlest visitors are thoroughly entertained.
Throughout Ghost Town, the spirit of a country fair comes to life. Engage in lively line dancing, watch or even participate in hilarious pie eating contests, and enjoy interaction with the local Ghost Town townsfolk who add character and charm to the festivities. As evening descends, the festival ignites with a vibrant night time dance party, inviting everyone to move and groove under the starlit sky. These diverse entertainment options ensure that there’s never a dull moment, appealing to guests of all ages and interests.
A Full Day of Adventure: Knott’s Berry Farm Beyond the Boysenberry
While the Boysenberry Festival offers an incredible array of unique experiences, it’s important to remember that it’s all set within the thrilling landscape of Knott’s Berry Farm, America’s First Theme Park. Your admission to the festival seamlessly includes access to a full day of world-class roller coasters, classic family rides, and captivating attractions across its themed areas: Ghost Town, Camp Snoopy, Boardwalk, and Fiesta Village.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to conquer the towering drops of GhostRider or a family seeking gentle adventures in Camp Snoopy, Knott’s Berry Farm provides a comprehensive entertainment package. The festival simply enhances this already fantastic experience, offering a seasonal layer of unique culinary and cultural immersion.
To maximize your enjoyment and allow ample time to savor every boysenberry delight and experience every thrilling ride, Knott’s often features extended park hours during the festival period, typically from 10am to 10pm. This provides guests with extra flexibility and ensures they can take full advantage of all the limited-time offerings and permanent attractions.
Take Home a Piece of the Boysenberry Magic
The Boysenberry Festival experience doesn’t have to end when you leave the park. Knott’s Berry Farm offers a delightful selection of boysenberry-inspired products available for purchase, allowing you to bring the unique flavor and charm of the festival right into your home. These make for perfect souvenirs or gifts, extending the joy of your visit.
Past selections have included an enticing range of products such as fragrant boysenberry soap, moisturizing boysenberry lip balm, and the famously delicious boysenberry rock candy – a sweet and tart treat that captures the essence of the berry in every crystal. Explore the various shops around the park to find jams, jellies, sauces, and other gourmet items that will let you recreate a touch of boysenberry magic in your own kitchen.
Planning Your Perfect Boysenberry Festival Trip
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary annual event that truly captures the spirit of spring and the unique heritage of Knott’s Berry Farm. Gather your family and friends for a day, or even several days, of delicious food, thrilling rides, and unforgettable entertainment.
Event Dates (Example from 2017): April 1-23
Location:
Knott’s Berry Farm
8039 Beach Blvd.
Buena Park, CA 90620
For the most up-to-date information on festival dates, opening hours, ticket prices, special discounts, and a comprehensive list of all available food and entertainment offerings, always visit the official Knott’s Berry Farm website. You can also download the newly updated Knott’s Berry Farm mobile app for your smartphone to navigate the park, check wait times, and find specific festival events with ease.
Join the vibrant conversation and share your boysenberry-filled adventures on social media! Use the official hashtag #BoysenberryFestival on Twitter and Instagram to connect with other festival-goers and share your favorite moments and discoveries.
Stay connected and follow Knott’s Berry Farm on their official social media channels for continuous updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and more boysenberry fun:
The Knott’s Boysenberry Festival is more than just an event; it’s a cherished annual tradition that combines culinary innovation, family-friendly entertainment, and the rich history of Knott’s Berry Farm into one spectacular springtime celebration. Make sure it’s on your must-do list!