Pasadena-Based Wescom Financial to Host Grand Opening Celebration at Knott’s Berry Farm Branch

Wescom Financial, headquartered in Pasadena, will celebrate the grand opening of its Knott’s Berry Farm branch on Tuesday, April 29, and invite members affected by recent wildfires to join the festivities.

The celebration comes as the Pasadena-based financial institution marks its presence as the first banking partner at the popular Southern California theme park that attracts more than five million guests each year.

“Being the first financial institution to open a branch at Knott’s Berry Farm marks a significant milestone for Wescom, and we’re thrilled to be able to share this moment with our very own Wescom team members and the Southern California communities we support,” said Ashley White, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Wescom.

The company has specifically invited members affected by wildfires, including those impacted by the Eaton fire near its Pasadena headquarters.

“With the Eaton fire raging nearby our Pasadena headquarters, we understand the devastating impact – those affected deserve a day of fun and positive memories with friends and family as they recover,” White stated in a press release.

The branch, located in Knott’s California Marketplace, first opened its doors in September of last year. The invitation-only event will include a lunch at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, theme park character meet-and-greets and access to rides and attractions.

Jon Storbeck, Vice President and General Manager of Knott’s Berry Farm, emphasized the partnership’s benefits.

“We’re thrilled to have a Wescom Financial branch at Knott’s Berry Farm. It benefits both our associates and our guests,” Storbeck said. “Wescom, like Knott’s, is an organization that values an exceptional guest experience. So, today we not only celebrate the formal grand opening, but also a great partnership.”

The celebration begins with an 11:30 a.m. ribbon-cutting ceremony featuring Wescom CEO Darren Williams and other executives, followed by a VIP lunch reception from noon to 2 p.m. From 12:30 to 6 p.m., select guests are invited to enjoy rides and attractions, complete with all-day dining and drinks throughout the park.

Wescom is also launching a promotional offer for its Knott’s Visa Credit Card, active as of April 21st and running through May 31, to support wildfire relief efforts. The company will match dollar-for-dollar on all Knott’s credit card purchases up to $10,000, with proceeds benefiting the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation.

Cardholders will also be automatically entered for a chance to win an unforgettable Knott’s experience — a four-pack of Gold passes and a one-night stay at the Knott’s Hotel — by making a Knott’s Visa purchase during this timeframe.

According to the press release, Wescom and its members have already raised more than $214,000 for Southern California wildfire relief efforts, including a $50,000 match from the institution.

Founded over 90 years ago, Wescom Financial operates 30 branches across Southern and Central California and was recently named one of “America’s Best Regional Banks and Credit Unions” by Newsweek in 2024 and 2025. The Wescom Foundation, its charitable arm, supports community-based organizations through strategic grantmaking and community engagement.