By Charly SHELTON

Summer is heating up in Buena Park, but Knott’s Berry Farm has found the perfect way to cool it down – by turning back the clock to 1885 and keeping the party going after dark. Knott’s brings back its classic summer celebrations – Ghost Town Alive and Summer Nights – for the season. These two limited-time events remind us that the real fun at Knott’s isn’t so much the rides but immersing yourself in the history and stepping into the story.

Ghost Town Alive is one of those experiences that sounds simple on paper but once you’re there you realize how immersive it really is. During the day, the streets of Calico spring to life with townsfolk, cowboys, outlaws and deputies all weaving an interactive story around the guests. You become part of a living, breathing western town where everyone has a part to play, whether it’s joining the Pony Express, voting for the next mayor or tracking down wanted criminals.

It’s not just for kids either. Adults get just as swept up in the storyline. And honestly, it’s even more fun than hitting the roller coasters. There’s something about strolling through Ghost Town, chatting with characters who stay in character no matter what you throw at them, that transports you right into an old western – minus the dust and rattlesnakes.

The day ends with a hoedown in the town square, to end all remaining storylines and celebrate the day. Then as the sun sets and the lanterns light, Summer Nights takes over with live music, food booths and that laid-back backyard party energy that Knott’s has perfected. We caught a concert at sunset and played lawn games around the Calico Park area as the heat of the day (finally) subsided. Between the band on stage, the cool breeze rolling in and the block party vibe, it was the perfect end to the day.

It’s easy to get caught up in the coaster-park aspect and forget that Knott’s has been doing themed entertainment longer than most parks have been in business. Ghost Town Alive and Summer Nights tap into that legacy, blending old-school charm with modern fun. Whether you’re wrangling outlaws, kicking back with a boysenberry sangria or just soaking in the live music, it’s summer done right – with a little Wild West flair. 

Knott’s summer events are on now through Sept. 1. Visit Knotts.com for more info.