Knott’s Scary Farm is a huge Halloween event, especially for those of us lucky enough to live in Southern California to experience it. As a teen, I tried to make it to this event annually and when I was older, as mentioned previously, I worked the event as a Monster back in the early 2,000’s. This year, Knott’s Scary Farm will celebrate it’s 45th Halloween event and to celebrate Midsummer Scream has announced they are closing out the event with a special 45 Years of Knott’s Scary Farm presentation, hosted by author and historian Ted Dougherty.
This special 90 minute presentation will take place on the last day of Midsummer Scream, July 30 and will feature historical photos of Knott’s Scary Farm along with a “rotating panel” of presenters who were key to the creation of, and continued success of the Haunt that pioneered similar events at theme parks around the world. Presenters include:
- John Waite, the man responsible for decorating and designing Haunt scenes and gags for the Timber Mountain Log Ride and Calico Mine Ride in the 1970’s
- Diana Kirchen Kelly, the first Green Witch character to roam the streets of Ghost Town beginning in 1973.
- Vickie Yahn, who played the iconic witch in early Hanging productions
- Del Langdale, the former head of Knott’s Berry Farm Park Decor in the 70’s and 80’s
- Larry McCauley, the first individual hired as an official “maze designer” for Knott’s Scary Farm
- Ed Alonzo, a world-renowned magician who performed at the Haunt for over a dozen seasons
and many more.
“In 1973, Knott’s created an event that has become synonymous with Halloween here in Southern California,” says Rick West, Creative Director of Midsummer Scream. “For generations, countless visitors have walked through the mazes and scare zones at Knott’s; it’s the granddaddy of all theme park Halloween haunts. As Knott’s celebrates its 45th Scary Farm this fall, it’s only fitting that Midsummer Scream hosts a very special presentation to honor their huge milestone.”
This special presentation will be followed reception held in the lobby, which will allow attendees opportunities to meet and take photos with these haunt legends.
For a full panel list and additional details about 45 Years of Knott’s Scary Farm check out this recent article on Theme Park Adventure.
