Knott’s to Open Day With National Anthem

Launching a patriotic flair during Presidents Day weekend, Knott’s Berry Farm, under new owner Cedar Fair LP, will start playing the national anthem just before the gates open every day. It’s a routine all four other Cedar Fair parks share as the flag is raised.

“I want a tradition I can look forward to every day,” said Jack Falfas, who was named to the top job in December when Ohio-based Cedar Fair bought Knott’s, the nation’s first theme park. “It reflects the history of us here, and sets a family theme that’s crucial for us.”

Along with the anthem, the park is scheduling a July opening for a $9-million attraction that lets riders drop 300 feet, part of a plan to raise attendance by adding more thrill rides while retaining the park’s western-themed flavor. An estimated 3.6 million people visited the park last year.

Daryl Strickland covers tourism and small and minority business issues for The Times. He can be reached at (714) 966-5670, and at daryl.strickland@latimes.com