Knott’s Scary Farm is Back to Haunt Southern California

Alexander Volz

Every October, Angeleno’s gear up for some of the best haunted houses in Southern California. One of the longest-running and most familiar scare thrills available for adrenaline junkies is certainly Knott’s Scary Farm. Now in its 42nd year, the event will transform the entire park with Halloween themes and eight scary mazes.

Since 1982, Knott’s employee Charlene Parker has played the role of the Green Witch, a true fan favorite. However, Scary Farm attendees may have trouble finding her — Parker prefers to lurk in the shadows instead of running up to guests like most Halloween performers. A Green Witch scare is allegedly responsible for the separation of more groups than any other scare, and her urban legend continues to grow.

Another Knott’s Scary Farm staple is the black comedy show “The Hanging,” which parodies pop culture. Despite being a regular event, “The Hanging” is considered controversial for its choice of public figures to lampoon and the macabre nature of death by hanging. Mistress of the Dark, Elvira will also make a triumphant return to Knott’s Scary Farm with “Elvira’s Big Top.” Elvira was released from her contract in 2001, as Knott’s wanted a more family-friendly approach, but the request of fans paved the way for her return.

This year, Scary Farm will feature new interactive mazes like “Voodoo,” where guest are allowed to pick their own path. “Special Ops: Infected” is considered the first maze of its kind, combining a haunted house with laser tag, a video game and a movie. It promises to be an all-scares experience as guests battle against zombies. “Trapped: Lock & Key” will be available at an additional cost, but Knott’s offers a package at $60 for groups of six or more. The attraction forces guests confront their fears as they solve a series of puzzles to escape the maze.

At the pre-scare Boo-Fet, attendees can fortify their mortal soul with a meal prior to entering Knott’s Scary Farm. Meals include a collectible 2014 souvenir cup for complimentary drink refills to quench your scream-parched palate (refills are unlimited during the first night of use, and 99¢ each for the rest of 2014). Hearts of darkness everywhere are rejoicing in anticipation of the horror Knott’s always delivers. Beat the rush and enjoy early entry into Knott’s Scary Farm before it opens to the public. If you’re a real scare addict, Knott’s Scary pass allows entry for all 24 nights for $75 or less (if you’re already a Knott’s season pass holder).

Meet all of the boogeymen hiding in the corners of your subconscious at Knott’s Scary Farm September 25 through November 1.