The History of Knott’s Scary Farm

by Ted Dougherty, Neil Patrick Harris (Foreword)

A nightmare come true!
The incredible story on how Knott’s Berry Farm’s annual Knott’s Scary Farm became the “world’s largest and scariest Halloween party” is told in the hauntingly striking book – The History of Knott’s Scary Farm, narrated by author, Ted Dougherty.

The shrouds of mystery as to how the world-famous Southern California Halloween tradition became a monster of an event are lifted as Dougherty demonstrates how “America’s First Theme Park” conjured a three-day affair in 1973 and created a legacy that has become a worldwide phenomenon.

“This is a joy for anyone who wants to relive their childhoods at Knott’s, and a jackpot for readers looking to understand (and revel in) the amazing phenomenon of October terrortainment” states Halloween historian and author of Halloween Nation, Lesley Pratt Bannatyne.

Through a fascinating display of meticulously researched ghoulish details, Knott’s Scary Farm expert and industry designer, Ted Dougherty screams to life the riveting history of an event that has terrified millions of helpless victims for over five decades. The History of Knott’s Scary Farm is an audiobook to die for!

240 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2023

Reviews

[Robbie Shofner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Halloween events are designed to be temporary, and as such, their histories are difficult to capture. In his book, Ted Dougherty successfully documents the entire 50 year history of the world’s first and best Halloween overlay of a theme park. “The History of Knott’s Scary Farm” will appeal to people with a wide range of interests. Halloween lovers, amusement park fanatics, horror host enthusiasts, and history buffs will all find something to love about Dougherty’s work.

[Becca Hester · Rating 4 out of 5]

For the niche audience into the nitty gritty of theme park haunts this was interesting and fun. If you aren't already in that niche audience, this is too deep to be an entrance point.