Knott’s Scary Farm is back for its 52nd season, and once again, it proves why it remains a cornerstone of Southern California’s haunt scene. With two brand-new mazes, returning fan favorites, and the electric energy, Knott’s continues to bring nightmares to life on an epic scale. I was lucky enough to attend media night and, as always, this event reminded me why it holds such a special place in my Halloween-loving heart.

New Mazes

This year introduced The Zoo and Mary—two very different, but equally chilling, experiences.

The Zoo reminded me of my time exploring the abandoned Griffith Park zoo. My favorite detail in this maze were the interactive animal enclosures with buttons that begged to be pushed. The atmosphere was unnerving and, at one point, I screamed so hard my prescription glasses flew right off my head. That’s when you know a maze is doing its job!

Mary was exciting for me because Bloody Mary has always been one of my favorite spooky legends. This maze captured the folklore perfectly, unfolding like a slow burn of dread. The tension built room by room, keeping me on edge until the very end.

Returning Favorites

Knott’s Scary Farm thrives on its legacy, and many of this year’s returning mazes reminded me why I keep coming back.

Widows delivered some of the most visually unsettling sets of the night—dark, gothic, and dripping with atmosphere.

The Grimoire had its farewell season, and I’ll truly miss it. The campfire storytelling paired with the creative use of color (or lack of color) and lighting gave it a unique, eerie feel unlike anything else in the park.

Cinema Slasher was pure fun, especially for horror movie fans. I couldn’t stop grinning at the giant popcorn bucket character—it’s such a campy, delightful touch.

Room 13 cleverly played with scale, creating the illusion of bigger, higher spaces that pulled me further into its world.

Chilling Chamber remains a nostalgic favorite, holding onto that classic haunt vibe. It makes my heart sing to be reminded of many of the past mazes as I go on the journey down memory lane in this attraction.

Mesmer is another bittersweet goodbye. Circus-themed haunts are always a favorite of mine, and this one has been a highlight for years.

Origins felt stronger than ever this year, with an intensity that really delivered on scares.

Shows & Scare Zones

Of course, The Hanging is a Knott’s tradition. While this year’s show didn’t lean into politics quite as heavily as in past seasons, it was still a solid performance and a fun break from the mazes.

Le Magnifique Carnaval du Grotesque is quite the spectacle. Fast paced and exciting dance, acrobatics and more.

The scare zones were all strong this year, with dedicated monsters filling the fog and keeping the energy high throughout the park.

Unfortunately I ran out of time to see Conjurers when I attended, but I heard good things about it.

Knott’s Scary Farm continues to prove why it’s a must-visit haunt destination. From nostalgic callbacks to fresh frights, the event balances tradition and innovation in a way no one else can quite replicate. The artistry, improv, atmosphere, and heart behind this event shine through every scream-filled moment.

For me, Knott’s Scary Farm isn’t just another Halloween attraction—it’s one of my favorites of the season, and 2025 was no exception.

*Due to the explicit and frightening nature of the event, it is not recommended for children under 13. Website: knottsscaryfarm.com

Sensory notes:

Scary Farm uses significant amounts of fog in certain areas. You could encounter large crowds, loud noises, darkness, flashing lights, overwhelming stimulation, jump scares, strong scents, and even though the actors are not planning to touch you, other guests might.