So, you're thinking about hitting Buena Park for Veterans Day? Most people assume it's just a one-day thing. Honestly, that’s where they’re wrong. Knott’s Berry Farm Veterans Day isn't just about November 11th; it’s part of a massive, weeks-long event called Military Tribute Days.
Basically, the park stretches the gratitude out. Instead of cramming every veteran in Southern California into Ghost Town on a single Monday, they open up specific windows in November and December. For 2025, we’re looking at dates like November 3 through November 20 and December 1 through December 18. It's usually a Monday-through-Thursday deal. Why? Because the park wants you to actually enjoy the rides without a three-hour wait for GhostRider.
The $25 Ticket Reality Check
Let’s talk money. Theme parks are expensive. We all know it. But during these Tribute Days, active duty, retirees, and veterans can snag tickets for $25. That is a steal. You can buy them at the booth, but honestly, just do it online. It saves you from standing in that first line before you even get to the security check.
You’ve gotta use ID.me for the online purchase. It’s a bit of a hoop to jump through if you haven't set it up yet, but it’s the standard now. If you’re old school and want to buy at the gate, bring your DD214 or a government-issued ID with that VETERAN designation. Don't forget it. They are strict.
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- Who gets in? You and up to five guests.
- The catch? The military member must be there.
- Exceptions? Only for spouses of deployed or deceased personnel with the right paperwork.
Why the Timing Matters (Merry Farm Overlap)
If you time this right, you get the best of both worlds. Around late November, the park transitions into Knott’s Merry Farm.
Walking through Calico when it’s decked out in Christmas lights while paying a fraction of the price? That’s the pro move. If you go during the December window (Dec 1–18), you’re right in the thick of the holiday season. The "Snoopy on Ice" show is usually running, and the crafts village is set up.
It gets crowded. Kinda.
Reddit is full of people arguing about how busy it gets. Some say it's a "walk-on" experience for every ride. Others warn that because schools might be out or people are using their 2026 Season Passes for the first time, it can get packed. Generally, if you stick to those Monday or Tuesday slots in early November, you’ll have the place to yourself.
The Hotel Secret
If you’re coming from out of town, don't just book a random motel on Beach Blvd. The Knott’s Hotel usually runs a "MILVET" promo code. Sometimes the rate drops as low as $119 a night.
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The kicker? Many of these tribute hotel packages include a free 1-day admission for the veteran.
Think about that. You stay on-site, walk to the park, and your ticket is basically covered by the room rate. It makes the whole "Knott's Berry Farm Veterans Day" trip feel less like a chore and more like an actual vacation.
What Most People Get Wrong
A lot of folks show up on Veterans Day itself expecting a parade or a massive ceremony. Knott's keeps it more low-key and respectful. There is usually a flag ceremony in the morning near the entrance. It’s quiet. People stop. The national anthem plays. It’s a nice moment of silence before the screaming starts on Silver Bullet.
Also, don't confuse this with the Fire & Law Tribute Days. Those overlap in December but are a separate thing for first responders. If you happen to be a veteran who is also a firefighter, congrats—you basically own the park in December.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
- Verify your ID.me account now. Don't wait until you're in the parking lot with bad cell service.
- Target the Tuesday or Wednesday of the first week of November for the lowest crowds.
- Download the Knott’s app. It shows real-time wait times. If Xcelerator is down, you’ll want to know before you hike across the park.
- Check the weather. Buena Park gets weirdly cold in November once the sun goes down. Bring a hoodie.
- Eat the chicken. Seriously. You’re at Knott’s. Go to Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant outside the park. It’s a rite of passage.
The whole point of these Tribute Days is to give back. It’s one of the longest-running traditions in the theme park industry, starting way back when the Knott family still ran the show. It’s less about the marketing and more about the history of the place. Just make sure you have your ID ready, pick a weekday, and enjoy the boysenberry pie.