In honor of the 75th Anniversary of the beloved Peanuts franchise, Snoopy and the Peanuts Gang will return to Knott’s Berry Farm on weekends from Feb. 8 to March 9.
The 75th-anniversary celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm features new Peanuts offerings, including the musical “Let’s Celebrate!” on the Calico Mine Stage and the limited-time exhibit “The Life and Art of Charles M. Schulz” at Calico Town Hall. Exclusive merchandise such as pins, backpacks, and t-shirts will also be available to commemorate the occasion, said visitor and senior Nelah Yamashita Guests can enjoy Peanuts-themed entertainment, including the Peanuts on the Go Cavalcade, Peanuts Cowboy Jamboree, and Peanuts Sketch School.
“There were banners up, more characters were out, especially in the morning and during night time,” Yamashita said. “They had a really big concert that went on for like an hour and it was really entertaining to even see for just a couple minutes.”
Aside from the new celebrations, the park will host its annual Peanuts Celebration Farm with a lineup of returning shows, photo ops, food and character appearances inspired by the “Peanuts” comic strip.
Since Charles M. Schulz published the first Peanuts comic in 1950, Snoopy and his gang have risen to fame, growing from a humble dog to a nationwide sensation, according to Schulz Museum. As the comics gained popularity, the cartoon style evolved, eventually becoming the lovable black and white beagle that fans recognize today, according to Peanuts fan and sophomore Nathalie Hong.
The minimalist charm of the newer Snoopy design lured both young and old Peanuts fans alike, according to Snoopy fan and freshman Meini Pang. Younger kids were drawn by the fun, cartoony and silly side of the show, in addition to characters that were all kids. For the older demographic, the appeal fell in Snoopy’s nostalgia and iconism as a relatable and fun cartoon character, according to Snoopy fan and junior Paris Vuong.
“The biggest part about Peanuts is that they have a wide variety of characters,” Vuong said. “Snoopy has a huge family and for younger fans, [whether] they’re watching the newer Snoopy show or the original Peanuts show, there’s a whole variety of characters to choose from. For young fans, it’s important for them to find a character that they resonate with.”
Looking ahead, Knott’s Berry Farm will host its annual Boysenberry Festival celebrating the historic roots of the boysenberry within the park from March 28 to April 27. Festivities will feature an array of new and returning boysenberry themed food and drinks, including unique specialty desserts and beverages. In addition to the refreshments, the festival will also offer a selection of live shows, local crafters and fun activities for all guests to enjoy.
