Hersheypark Christmas Candylane Guide 2026
Celebrate Holidays in Hershey With Lights, Rides, and Reindeer Through Jan. 3, 2027
'Tis the season for holiday magic in Hershey, Pennsylvania! Hersheypark Christmas Candylane opens Nov. 13, 2026, and runs select dates through Jan. 3, 2027 (closed Christmas Day).
For more than 40 years, the merriest event of the year at Hersheypark has delighted guests with a festive blend of only-in-Hershey holiday experiences, including the most lights of any amusement park in Pennsylvania, one of the only places in the Northeast to see all nine of Santa’s live reindeer, unique seasonal rides and coasters, seasonal eats and signature hot chocolate.
You won't want to miss this USA TODAY 10Best-nominated Theme Park Holiday Event for 2026!
Plan your visit with this guide to the top things to do at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane to make the season merry and Hersheypark Happy.
Most Holiday Lights at a Pennsylvania Amusement Park
More than five million sparkling lights deck the halls of Hersheypark this year, including the guest-favorite NOEL presented by Highmark. This light show features dancing lights choreographed to Christmas music along Spring Creek. NOEL starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 15 minutes in The Hollow region.
The 50-foot Kissmas Tree is located at the Chocolatetown Fountain right inside the front gate in Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, making for a sweet photo opportunity.
Holiday Thrills on Select Coasters
Oh, what fun it is to ride! Select family attractions and six coasters are open, weather, temperature and maintenance permitting during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. New this year, the seasonal event features four new festive cars and all-new light displays along the Twin Turnpike and a festive soundtrack on Holly Jolly Laff Trakk.
- Wildcat’s Revenge featuring a holiday light package
- Candymonium featuring a holiday light package
- Jolly Rancher Remix with a holiday overlay and seasonal scent
- Holly Jolly Laff Trakk is decorated for the holidays, featuring a large Christmas tree at its center and a new, curated soundtrack
- Wild Mouse
- Cocoa Cruiser
To add to the Park's merry ambiance, some coasters that are closed for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane still boast holiday decorations. Visitors can see holiday light packages on Skyrush and Lightning Racer, as well as a Santa sleigh light display on the lift hill of Comet. Please note that soopdooperLooper is closed for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane as construction continues on a new station ahead of the coaster's 50th anniversary in summer 2027.
Tip: Temperature thresholds for the coasters and rides are listed on the website FAQs. Generally, temperatures must be at least 38 degrees and rising to begin the day and stay above 38 degrees at night for select rides to operate. If inclement weather causes the majority of major rides to close for more than 60 minutes, a FREE return visit voucher may be issued.
Family Attractions and Kiddie Rides
A unique blend of family-friendly and kiddie rides is open for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, weather, maintenance and temperature permitting. Dry Gulch Railroad is a must-ride, as the steam-powered train takes riders through areas of Hersheypark completely blanketed with lights. The railroad features a Christmas overlay with various displays that are only viewable from the ride, including the “12 Days of Christmas.”
There are also a few signature rides worth adding to the must-do list that provide dazzling views of the lights from above, versus walking all 121 acres:
- Twizzlers Twisted Gravity: The world's tallest Screamin' Swing feautres holiday lighting and provides a unique overhead view of NOEL presented by Highmark light show
- Kissing Tower: This iconic attraction takes guests 250 feet up in the air to the highest point in Hershey for an aerial 360° view of Hersheypark and the town built on chocolate while learning about its history.
- Ferris Wheel: With its festive light package, this amusement park staple is more than just an iconic photo spot during the holidays. The family attraction is also a popular option for guests of every height category to enjoy the beautiful views from nearly 100 feet above.
- Hershey Triple Tower: Drop in for a unique, bird's-eye view of the holiday lights. The attraction features a light package to add to the holiday spirit in the Kissing Tower Hill region.
Tip: We recommend downloading the Hersheypark app for a real-time listing of ride availability and wait times.
Photos With Santa at the Mary N. Bright Airfield
Don't forget to make your list and check it twice because Santa Claus has come to town! Guests can see Santa and all nine of his live reindeer at the Mary N. Bright Airfield, located inside Fahrenheit Catering at Hersheypark. Santa’s favorite candy-stocking stop before his holiday ride is home to the Yule Lounge, where guests can get a photo with Santa and share their list with him through Dec. 24.
Tip: The Mary N. Bright Airfield may experience a high volume of travelers, so we encourage guests to head there first.
All Nine of Santa's Reindeer
For more than 25 years, Rudolph and his friends have made a special stop at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane! Guests can see the reindeer up close from behind a gated area in Hangar 96 during all hours of operation through Jan. 3, 2027. Hersheypark is one of the only places in the Northeast offering this magical experience, featuring all nine of Santa’s reindeer.
Tip: Reindeer specialists from ZooAmerica are on-site to answer guest questions.
Expanded TREEville Presented by HERSHEY'S
TREEville trail is bigger, brighter, and sweeter than ever! Venture to The Shore attraction in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park, and walk among a magical grove of Hershey’s candy-themed trees to take in the lights, lasers, and swirling fog. Plus, satisfy your sweet tooth with two festive treat stops along your walk, available to guests of all ages. TREEville opens to the public Nov. 14.
All 2026 Bite, Full, King and Giant Size Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive an exclusive first look at TREEville presented by Hershey’s on Nov. 13 as part of their perks.
Estate of Evil Holiday Open House
Step inside the Estate Of Evil house to see how the staff has decorated the rooms with terrifying holiday flair. Take a stroll through sinister sights and eerie seasonal sounds while the staff is away. The Estate Of Evil Holiday Open House opens to the general public on Nov. 14 and runs each Hersheypark Christmas Candylane operating date beginning at 5 p.m.
Please note that scare actors will not be present within the Estate Of Evil Holiday Open House. The experience is scare-free and features holiday decor. All 2026 Bite, Full, King and Giant Size Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive an exclusive first look on Nov. 13 as part of their perks.
All-New Fire & Ice Experience
On select dates through Dec. 27, experience a winter wonderland featuring custom-crafted sculptures and an all-new light and fire show. Watch icy lights and blazing flames illuminate the night, perfectly synchronized to an atmospheric score. The Fire & Ice Experience is located in the former Tidal Force Basin and is offered on Fridays and Saturdays from Nov. 27 through Dec. 27. The experience runs every 15 minutes, starting at 5:15 p.m. and ending at 8:45 p.m.
Twinkling Thru Time Holiday Show
Guests of all ages can relive their favorite holiday memories in Twinkling Thru Time stage show in the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue! Step into this returning fan-favorite show as Granny Anne takes you on a musical trip through the decades packed with classic, toe-tapping Christmas hits.
Tip: Showtimes are listed on the Hersheypark app. On Hersheypark operating days that begin at 5 p.m., there will be three shows at 5:45, 7 and 8:15 p.m. On Park operating days that run from 12-8/9 p.m., there will be four shows at 1, 2:30, 5 and 7 p.m. On Christmas Eve, there will be three shows at 12:30, 2:15 and 3:30 p.m.
Holly Jolly Hershey Character Sweet Greets
Visitors can snap a selfie with select Hershey Characters donning their coziest winter apparel at a new location under the old Carrousel pavilion in Founder’s Way region.
Tip: Check the Hersheypark app for appearance times. Characters are subject to change based on availability.
Hot Chocolate and Seasonal Eats
No visit to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane would be complete without festive treats and sips. Guests can indulge in a variety of seasonal food and beverage offerings, including:
- Savory Eats: For savory options, three specialty Holidogs hot dogs are available at Berks Hot Dog Stand. Plus, on select days after Thanksgiving, Overlook Food Court will feature a pop-up station with specialty holiday offerings, including Chicken Pot Pie Fries, a Gobbler Sandwich and more.
- King Size Shakes: Perfect for sharing, Simply Chocolate offers three King Size Shakes: Frozen Hot Chocolate, Reese's Peanut Butter and Birthday Cake in honor of the tenth birthday of this iconic dessert. Milton's Ice Cream Parlor and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen also have seasonal desserts.
- Hot Chocolate: Guests can warm up with four specialty hot chocolate flavors, topped with baked goods, at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar or boozy hot chocolate for those 21 and older at Estate Of Evil Bar and TREEts and Libations Bar. Specialty cocktails, including Winter Gin Fizz and an Ornament Old Fashioned, are available for purchase at The Porch Bar for guests 21 and older.
- Kissmas TREEts Collectible: Back by popular demand, get your hands on the Kissmas TREEts Collectible sweets container, featuring multiple-layered compartments filled with handmade goodies, including kettle corn, chocolate covered pretzels and a meringue Kiss. It is available for $19.99 plus tax at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen, Milton's Ice Cream Parlor, TREEts and Libations Bar and Estate Of Evil Bar.
For a complete overview of all the season's eats, treats and sips, view our Christmas Candylane Foodie Guide.
Tip: As a special holiday perk, 2026 King and Giant Size Pass Holders can enjoy FREE refills on hot chocolate and coffee during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane with the Hot Beverage Program. Present your valid 2026 King or Giant Size Season Pass to receive your hot chocolate and coffee refill in a disposable cup.
Our Friends From The Sea
Guests can see the seals and sea lions during the Our Friends From The Sea Show in the Aquatheatre at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., when Hersheypark Christmas Candylane opens at 12 p.m.
For animal lovers interested in getting up close and personal with the mammals, the Touch & Feed program is offered at 3 p.m. for $125 per person. Participants have the opportunity to feed and give a back rub to one of the seals or sea lions, take a commemorative photo, tour off-exhibit areas and receive preferred seating for the show.
Zoo Visits
ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). The holiday season is a great time to visit the 11-acre Zoo, as many North American animals in the outdoor habitats, such as the gray wolves and Canada Lynx, are more active when the temperature drops.
ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during Park hours. Separate Zoo tickets are available for purchase online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building.
Tip: Please note that the Zoo naturalists care for the reindeer at Hersheypark, so a Hersheypark Christmas Candylane ticket is required to view them.
Holiday Shopping
Hersheypark is home to more than one dozen retail locations that feature a blend of new collections and vintage designs for holiday gift-giving. Guests can give the gift of happiness or take a piece home as their own souvenir.
- Hersheypark Supply Co. is a premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store where guests can browse the largest collection of apparel, gifts, toys and more exclusive to Hersheypark. A Hersheypark ticket is not required to visit Hersheypark Supply Co. During Christmas Candylane operating days, the store is open from 10 a.m. until the Park is closed (closed Christmas Day).
- HP Collections is located inside the front gate and features a collection of curated premier brands and styles, including johnnie-O, Vuori, Adidas, Corkcicle and Lululemon.
- Prancer's Presents is located across from the Mary N. Bright Airfield and features exclusive Hersheypark Puppie Love merchandise.
- Candylane Emporium is a seasonal retail experience located right outside The Boardwalk, offering unique Christmas-themed apparel, gifts and more.
- Christmas Memories in Founder's Way, located next to Kettle Corn, is filled with Hersheypark and chocolate-themed holiday décor.
Tip: Interested in giving the gift of experience? An e-gift card or 2027 Season Pass makes a sweet gift!
Buy Online and Save
Hersheypark Christmas Candylane Pre-Sale tickets are currently $46.99 plus taxes and fees and available online. The tickets purchased during the offer are valid through Jan. 3, 2027, and, like all other admission types, include access to more than 40 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), more than five million twinkling lights, Santa and all nine of his reindeer, and other festive entertainment.
Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane as part of their year-long perks. 2027 Season Passes are on sale now and include unlimited visits and perks to Hersheypark for the remainder of the 2026 operating year and all of 2027 - a great gift idea, too!