Amid a turbulent week of immigration enforcement in Southern California, a viral Reddit post has sparked growing alarm in the theme park community. The post alleges that Knott’s Berry Farm, America’s first theme park, is “working with I.C.E.” and that immigration agents are expected to be allowed “onto the property and into the parks in the coming days and weeks.”
The warning, posted anonymously, reads:
“Knott’s Berry Farm management is working with I.C.E. and will be allowing I.C.E. onto the property and into the parks in the coming days and weeks. Be careful. Be cautious.”
It continues with pointed accusations against park leadership, calling them “scary people who do scary things because of their politics,” and referencing the park’s visible patriotic and conservative identity:
“Knott’s security is very much involved. The head of security Michael Bagosian is a dick and thinks all of what’s going on is funny. Because of their politics refers to the fact that Knott’s Berry Farm is a ridiculously conservative business, literally why they have an entire independence hall across the street… Just know that you were told.”
At this time, there is no official confirmation from Knott’s Berry Farm or its parent company Cedar Fair regarding any collaboration with ICE. However, the viral nature of the post—and the tense political and social climate across California—has led to a flood of online concern and speculation.
A Region on Edge
The timing of the warning is impossible to ignore. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has conducted high-profile raids in the Los Angeles area this week, leading to widespread protests, mass arrests, and even military involvement.
On Tuesday, about 700 active-duty Marines arrived in the greater L.A. area, joining 2,100 California National Guard troops deployed under a controversial directive from President Donald Trump. Their presence is reportedly meant to support federal law enforcement—including ICE operations—although legal challenges to the deployment have been mounting.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, along with city and state leaders, has decried the move as “illegal and immoral”, filing lawsuits and denouncing the militarization of sanctuary cities like Los Angeles. Mayor Karen Bass issued curfews in parts of downtown L.A., while the LAPD, CHP, and other law enforcement agencies confirmed over 850 protest-related arrests, some linked to clashes with ICE agents outside hotels and government buildings.
Notably, ICE was recently spotted near Disneyland, according to verified reports, though there have been no confirmed arrests or park involvement there. That sighting now adds fuel to concerns that other Southern California theme parks—especially those with historical or political affiliations—could be the next focus of federal immigration enforcement.
“If You Feel Uncomfortable, Leave”
Related: Guests Scared of Universal Studios Vacation After ICE Raids
The Reddit poster’s language is deliberately emotional and cautionary, urging theme park guests to trust their instincts and prioritize safety:
“If you see something at the park and you feel uncomfortable, LEAVE… Take my warning to be cautious how you want. Just know that you were told. If you choose to ignore what I’m warning you about, that’s on you.”
The mention of Knott’s Berry Farm’s replica Independence Hall, a park landmark that celebrates American founding ideals, is cited by the poster as evidence of the business’s deeply conservative roots. While this detail is not new, it has taken on renewed significance in a climate where politics, immigration, and entertainment are increasingly intertwined.
The Bigger Picture
With immigration protests escalating, the presence of ICE in tourist areas is a deeply unsettling possibility for many visitors and families. For undocumented individuals, the idea of I.C.E. agents showing up at a family theme park—where tickets can cost upwards of $80 per person—is not just terrifying, it’s paralyzing.
Federal agencies, for their part, maintain that Title 10 status guardsmen are not authorized to participate directly in immigration arrests. However, they “can and have accompanied ICE on missions,” leading critics to claim that the line between support and enforcement is intentionally blurred.
Meanwhile, Governor Newsom has accused the Trump administration of weaponizing federal forces for political gain.
“What Donald Trump wants most is your fealty, your silence, to be complicit in this moment,” he said. “Do not give in to him.”
No Comment, No Clarity
As of publication, Knott’s Berry Farm has not issued a statement in response to the viral post or the broader concerns about federal agents potentially entering park property. The lack of confirmation or denial leaves questions unanswered.
Reddit users have continued to debate the credibility of the claim, with some expressing concern and others demanding more evidence. While it’s unclear whether ICE will actually enter Knott’s Berry Farm, the fear alone is proving to be enough to change guest behavior.
In an era where no public space feels immune to political volatility, even a beloved family theme park may no longer be a place of escape.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available. Guests visiting Knott’s Berry Farm this week are advised to remain aware of their surroundings and follow all safety instructions provided by park security.
