Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Spring in Southern California tastes a little sweeter thanks to the Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival, a limited-time celebration that honors the berry that started it all. 

Each year, the Knott’s Boysenberry Festival transforms the park into a foodie playground packed with bold flavors, seasonal entertainment, and family-friendly fun. 

With more than two dozen specialty dishes and returning fan-favorite shows, 2026 promises even more to savor. 

Keep reading for confirmed dates, ticket details, insider tips, and everything you need to plan your visit!

Knott’s Boysenberry Festival Dates & Schedule

The 2026 Knott’s Boysenberry Festival runs March 13, 2026 – April 12, 2026, taking place daily throughout the spring season. 

The festival is typically held seven days a week during this window, though regular park operating calendars apply and select ride closures may occur. 

Typical park hours during the festival are 10 AM–6 PM on weekdays, with extended evening hours on select weekends; last entry is generally one hour before closing. 

For lighter crowds, aim for weekday mornings right at opening. Note that the event operates rain or shine with entertainment schedules subject to change.

Tickets & Packages

Ticket Types

• General admission: Includes full-day entry to Knott’s Berry Farm plus access to all festival entertainment, shows, and the opportunity to purchase specialty food items.
• Timed entry: Not typically required for this festival; guests may enter anytime during regular park hours on the date selected.
• VIP/Fast Pass/Skip-the-line: Fast Lane passes are available for select rides and attractions but are separate from festival food experiences.
• Kids/Seniors/Military: Children ages 2 and under receive free admission, while guests ages 3 and up require standard admission. Seniors purchase the same regular admission tickets, as there is no separate senior-only festival discount. Exclusive discounted tickets are available for active and retired military members, veterans, and first responders with online verification.

Where to Buy Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival Tickets

The festival is included with regular Knott’s Berry Farm park admission, so no separate event ticket is required. 

Booking directly through the official website gives you access to the 2026 Season Pass with flexible payment options and unlimited visits through 2026. 

Passholders enjoy valuable perks like no blockout dates, Bring-A-Friend discount tickets, and admission to seasonal events including the Boysenberry Festival. 

If you’re planning a single visit, purchasing a dated park ticket online can offer significant savings compared to gate rates and guarantee entry on your selected day.

Ticket Tips

• Buy ahead for weekends and spring break dates, as attendance rises quickly during peak times. 
• Choose earlier entry times for lighter crowds and shorter food lines. 
• Review what’s included with admission versus paid add-ons like tasting cards or Fast Lane upgrades before you arrive.

Getting to Knott’s Berry Farm

Directions & Address

• Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
• Arrival Tips: The main entrance is directly off Beach Boulevard near La Palma Avenue, and drivers coming from I-5 or CA-91 should follow signage for Beach Blvd exits to avoid neighborhood detours.

Parking & Pricing

• General Parking: Onsite parking is available in the main lot for a daily fee (typically around $30, subject to change).
• Best Lot: The main Beach Boulevard lot is closest to the front gate and offers the shortest walk to security.
• Accessibility: Designated handicap parking spaces are located near the entrance with valid placards.
• Shuttles: On high-capacity days, trams may operate from farther sections of the lot to the main gate.

Pro Tip: Purchase parking online in advance to streamline entry and head straight to the designated prepaid lanes.

Rideshare & Public Transit

• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft drop-offs are typically directed to the main entrance turnaround area along Beach Boulevard.
• Public Transit: OCTA bus routes service Beach Boulevard with stops within walking distance of the park entrance.

Pro Tip: If using rideshare after closing, walk slightly past the main exit toward the designated pickup zone to avoid surge congestion right at the gate.

What to Expect at Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival 2026

The Main Experience

The festival is a park-wide celebration combining food booths, stage shows, family activities, and artisan vendors. 

Guests explore themed areas like Ghost Town and Calico Park while sampling limited-time dishes and enjoying rotating entertainment.

2026 Highlights

• Over Two Dozen Specialty Bites: Come hungry and taste your way through limited-time sweet and savory boysenberry creations you won’t find any other time of year.
• Ghost Town Craft Fair Finds: Stroll through 15+ local artisan booths and shop for unique, berry-inspired treasures to take home.
• Pie Kitchen Games & Contest Fun: Join the action in Calico Park and cheer on brave competitors at the annual Boysenberry Pie Eating Contest.
• Knott’s Preserved Live Music Show: Grab a seat at the Calico Mine Stage and experience this high-energy musical tribute to the park’s rich history.
• Stage Shows & Street Entertainment: Follow the music, catch a performance, and let the lively atmosphere pull you into the fun around every corner.

Crowds & Atmosphere

Crowds are moderate on weekdays and busy on Saturdays, especially during spring break periods. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with music drifting through the park and families filling dining patios.

Pro Tip: Eat your must-try specialty dishes between 11 AM and 12 PM to beat the peak lunch rush.

Who is Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival Best For?

• Families: Perfect for kids ages 5+ who can enjoy rides, farm-themed attractions, and interactive shows.
• Couples: Great for a spring date night with shareable desserts and nostalgic Ghost Town vibes.
• Groups: Ideal for friend groups who want to split tasting items and explore together.

How Long to Spend at Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival

• Typical Visit: Plan for 5–7 hours to enjoy rides, shows, and multiple food stops.
• Express Route: Focus on the tasting booths in Ghost Town, catch one marquee show, and ride a top attraction like GhostRider.
• Full Experience: Take your time, schedule show breaks, and pace food sampling throughout the afternoon.

Pro Tip: Catch major stage shows earlier in the day for better seating without long waits.

Food & Drinks

Onsite Dining Options

• Vendors: Expect barbecue, loaded fries, specialty desserts, funnel cakes, pies, savory sandwiches, and boysenberry-infused sauces and sweets throughout the park.
• Alcohol Policy: Yes, alcoholic beverages like craft beers are available in designated areas for guests 21+ with valid ID.

Dietary & Nearby Dining

• Dietary Restrictions: Select vegetarian options are available, and guests with allergies can review ingredient information upon request.
• Nearby Restaurants: If you prefer a sit-down meal, The Cauldron Spirits & Brews and Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant are popular nearby choices.

Pro Tip: Visit food booths mid-afternoon around 2–4 PM for the shortest specialty item lines.

Know Before You Go

Essential Rules & Policies

• Bag Policy: Standard security screening applies; no large coolers or outside food permitted except for special dietary needs.
• Re-entry: Yes, re-entry is allowed with a valid hand stamp or digital verification.
• Pets: Only trained service animals are permitted inside the park.
• Payment: Most locations accept major credit cards and mobile payments; some areas may operate cashless.

Accessibility & Convenience

• Strollers: Strollers are allowed, and rentals are available near the entrance; pathways are primarily paved.
• Wheelchair Access: Accessible routes are available throughout the park, and ECV rentals can be reserved onsite.
• Sensory Notes: Expect amplified music and crowd noise near stages, with quieter areas around less-trafficked sections of the park.

Weather & What to Wear

• Rain Policy: The festival operates rain or shine, and refunds are generally not issued for weather.
• Comfort: Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Take: Is Knott’s Berry Farm Boysenberry Festival Worth It?

Absolutely. This seasonal celebration blends nostalgia, creativity, and bold flavors into one of Southern California’s most anticipated spring events.

Top Reasons to Go:

• The Variety: Dozens of limited-time menu items plus artisan vendors make every visit feel unique.
• The Entertainment: From stage shows to roaming performers, there’s something happening around every corner.
• The Atmosphere: It feels like a hometown harvest party with theme park thrills built in.

Don’t Miss Out Peak spring break dates and Saturdays can feel especially busy, and waiting to buy tickets at the gate may mean paying more or facing availability limits.

Taste Spring at Its Sweetest: Ready to plan your visit? Secure your tickets early, explore Tripster’s vacation packages, and bundle attractions, shows, and hotels for a seamless Buena Park getaway.