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Knott’s Berry Farm to require chaperones after fights involving teenagers

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knott's berry farm

Guests aged 17 or younger without an adult chaperone will be “subject to ejection”.

Knott’s Berry Farm in California is now requiring adults to chaperone visitors who are 17 years old or younger after multiple fights involving teenagers broke out at the park.

The policy change comes after several altercations that caused the attraction to close early. According to Knott’s, guests aged 17 or younger without a chaperone will be “subject to ejection”.

“For decades, Knott’s Berry Farm has been a place where families and friends come together to enjoy our one-of-a-kind park,” Knott’s said in a code of conduct update.

“Millions of guests have counted on us for their daily dose of wholesome family fun, and we’re committed to keeping that promise going forward.”

Policy change at Knott’s in California

The policy requires that on Fridays and Saturdays, all guests who are 17 or younger must be “accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old to be admitted”.

Chaperones are required to stay with their party “at all times during their visit to the park” and can have no more than three minors with them.

The chaperone requirement applies to all ticket and season pass-holders at Knott’s Berry Farm and Knott’s Soak City Waterpark.

The update follows a weekend of fights involving numerous teenagers at Knott’s, leading the theme park to close three hours early on 16 July.

Brawls caused Knott’s to close early

“The safety of Knott’s Berry Farm’s guests and associates is always our top priority,” Knott’s tweeted after the incident.

“On Saturday evening, the decision was made to close the park three hours early due to unruly behavior and altercations involving a number of teenagers,” it said.

“This behavior did not align with our park’s values, and was not the experience we want any guest to have while visiting Knott’s Berry Farm.”

Knott’s Berry Farm is home to world-class coasters, family-friendly rides and interactive experiences. Operated by Cedar Fair, it recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.

Images: Cedar Fair

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Bea Mitchell

Bea is a journalist specialising in entertainment, attractions and tech with 10 years' experience. She has written and edited for publications including CNET, BuzzFeed, Digital Spy, Evening Standard and BBC. Bea graduated from King's College London and has an MA in journalism.

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