Today Knott’s Berry Farm kicked off it’s 75th anniversary celebration of Ghost Town. What Walter and Cordelia Knott started out as a farm that had a berry stand eventually grew into a restaurant. The restaurant became so popular that Walter Knott decided to create a place that guests could enjoy while waiting and Ghost Town was born.
75 years later I find myself visiting Knott’s Berry Farm rather frequently. I know, it is surprising because I’m Mr. DAPs but… Knott’s Berry Farm has a certain charming appeal that continues to keep me returning. This charming appeal stems from what Knott’s Berry Farm is at its core: authentic.
The Experience
As I walked through Ghost Town today I couldn’t help but think about the history I was walking through. The buildings that make up Ghost Town aren’t made to look old, they really ARE old. Throw in a sheriff, his posse, some bandits, and town people and suddenly Ghost Town is a living breathing town that is as rough and tough feeling as visitors get to be a part of the story of Ghost Town Alive! Other days I’ve gotten to watch the show in the Calico Saloon or catch Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies. Sometimes it is fun just watch a person weave or the blacksmith work his trade. Whatever the experience, it is real and it brings everything to live.
The Food
I am an unapologetic fan of the food at Knott’s Berry Farm, especially when it involves Boysenberries. The Boysenberry Festival is one of my favorite special events of the year. A hot Boysenberry Latte… delicious! I certainly can’t forget the chicken dinner. I think what I love the most about that is that it could easily have been served by my grandmother from a recipe she learned when living on the Wyoming prairie as a child about a century ago.
Relaxing
Knott’s Berry Farm is relaxing. I never feel rushed there. I can wander around and look at the horses, ride the train, or just sit and enjoy the atmosphere. It is one of the best things about Knott’s Berry Farm, and specifically Ghost Town. When we live in a world that is always hustling and bustling, it is nice to be able to just slow down, relax, and enjoy some country hospitality.
As I return to the 75th anniversary celebration of Ghost Town at Knott’s Berry Farm, it is fun to look at all that has changed… yet how much also remains the same. Knott’s Berry Farm is so much like going home to Grandma’s house. It’s unapologetically authentic and as long as it maintains that authenticity, I’ll be unapologetically returning to it.
Make it a GREAT day!
- Mr. DAPs
