Alright, listen up, because the Boysenberry Festival is back at Knott’s Berry Farm, and if you’re not prepped, you’re going to get overwhelmed. This isn’t just a handful of special snacks; we’re talking over 100 unique food and drink items. It’s a full-on berry-infused marathon, running from March 13 to April 12, daily.
I’ve seen my fair share of park festivals, and Knott’s really dials it up with the Boysenberry. It’s their heritage, after all, and they lean into it hard. This year, they’re not just bringing back favorites, they’re throwing in some wild new twists. On the savory side, you’ve got spicy boysenberry bulgogi over steamed rice – think sweet, spicy, and tangy all at once. Or how about a reuben ball, which already sounds delicious, paired with a spicy boysenberry thousand island dressing? That’s the kind of unexpected genius I’m here for.
For those with a sweet tooth (and let’s be honest, that’s most of us), there’s a boysenberry-pineapple upside-down cake that screams spring, and a boysenberry meringue tart that’s probably going to be a light, fluffy dream. And the drinks? They haven’t forgotten you. From a boysenberry paloma that sounds perfect for a warm afternoon, to a boysenberry-kiwi lemonade, and a boysenberry tequila sunrise – you’ve got options to wash down all that berry goodness.
Now, here’s the crucial bit, the insider tip that’ll save you both money and stomach space: **get the tasting card.** Seriously. With over a hundred items, trying to buy everything individually will break your bank and put you in a food coma by lunchtime. The tasting card gives you six selections from participating booths, and it’s absolutely the smartest way to sample the goods. Buy it online before you go, or grab one at the park, but don’t skip it.
It’s not all just about stuffing your face, either. Knott’s always brings the entertainment. You’ve got the Boysen Bear’s Pie Kitchen Games in Calico Park, where you help stop those mischievous coyote pups, Moxie and Brawny, from stealing pies before the legendary Pie Eating Contest. Over at the newly renovated Birdcage Theatre, catch ‘The Great Bank Robbery,’ a family-friendly show that’ll have you cheering and booing. They’re even bringing back ‘Knott’s Preserved,’ a musical trip through the park’s history, and Old MacDonald’s Barn is open for those who want to meet some actual farm animals.
Take a minute to hit up the History of the Boysenberry Museum at Town Hall – it’s actually pretty cool to see how this one berry became such a phenomenon. And don’t forget to wander through the Boysenberry Festival Crafts Fair in Ghost Town, where local artisans are selling all sorts of berry-inspired bits and bobs.
My advice? Go on a weekday if you can, especially in the afternoon. Pace yourself with that tasting card – maybe split it with a friend if you’re not ravenous. And don’t be afraid to try something unexpected. That’s where the real magic (and flavor) of the Boysenberry Festival truly shines. It’s a lot, but it’s worth it if you go in with a game plan.