Read on to learn more about the story behind Reese's Depot Of Doom in our Behind The Haunt blog series below.

Overview of Reese's Depot Of Doom Storyline

Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?

The idea of an abandoned freight depot had long been discussed as a potential theme for a Dark Nights haunted house or scare zone. The only question was how to tie this setting into the history of The Sweetest Place On Earth, as so many other Dark Nights haunts do. Guests who venture beyond the railroad tracks will see many nods to Hershey history, whether they realize it or not, as they navigate this scare zone that can only exist in a place like Hersheypark.

Inspiration Behind the Reese's Depot Of Doom Concept

The railroad has always played an important role not only in the history of Hersheypark, but also in the history of The Hershey Company by supplying raw materials for the Hershey and Reese's factories. From the earliest days of each factory, cocoa beans and peanuts were supplied by rail. This connection between the railyard concept and the Reese's brand itself was a pairing to rival chocolate and peanut butter. It finally allowed the long-awaited train concept to be integrated into Dark Nights during year two of the Reese's and KIT KAT® partnership for the seasonal event.

The creative team behind Dark Nights worked closely with the Reese's brand team to determine which “era” the Depot would've been abandoned in. The 1980s were chosen for their iconic Reese's moments, including the “No Wrong Way To Eat A Reese's” campaign. The boxcar featuring the Reese's Depot Of Doom logo at the entrance was inspired by a 1990s-era Hershey toy train and is packed full of easter eggs about the history of Hersheypark and Reese's.

Many of the numbers and acronyms on the boxcar are also rendered as authentic graffiti, which was hand-sprayed throughout the Depot's set pieces. Be on the lookout for the following shipping abbreviations and graffiti markings that pay homage to various eras of Hersheypark and Reese's:

• HERX: Original Railroad Mark assigned to Hershey Chocolate Company rolling stock, ca. 1930's
• C-PB: Chocolate and Peanut Butter
• TGTTTGT-70: Two Great Tastes That Taste Great Together, 1970
• TNWWTEAR-88: There's No Wrong Way To Eat a Reese's, 1988
• HDYEAR: How Do You Eat a Reese's?
• 05301906: Hersheypark Opening Date
• 11151928: Establishment of Reese's
• 5182010ILRD: May 18, 2010 - the first “I Love Reese's Day”

A Scare Zone With A Unique Location

Construction of Reese's Depot Of Doom in The Boardwalk region of Hersheypark started during the final weeks of the Hersheypark summer season. The space, which is adjacent to Shoreline Sprayground in the summer months, has been transformed into a seemingly abandoned freight yard, complete with a richly layered soundscape, well-timed fog effects and a railroad station platform. The boxcar sporting the official scare zone logo also makes for a frightfully fun photo op. 

What sets this scare zone apart is the physical layout. Though shorter than the others, Reese's Depot Of Doom offers the feel of a haunted house with four “rooms” in a linear sequence where the only way out is through. Situated between the scare-free Avenue of the Afterlife and the candy-centric Treatville trick-or-treat trail, the Depot is in the perfect spot for guests of all scare levels to experience a haunt with a sweet spin.

Venture Beyond The Tracks Yourself

Dark Nights is open for immersive haunts on Fridays through Sundays, including Halloween night, through Nov. 1, 2026. The five haunted houses featuring evolved storylines and five scare zones - more than ever - open nightly at 6 p.m.

Guests can save on tickets for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, which include all haunted houses and scare zones, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail for children 12 and under, the Avenue Of The Afterlife path, Hershey Character appearances and more.

We'll meet you beyond the railroad tracks and in the fog for all the season's thrills and chills.

Weather-Protected Rides

Hersheypark offers more than 50 rides during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, many of which can operate in light rain. But, when heavy precipitation hits, thrill-seekers can still enjoy full-throttle thrills on several fully enclosed or covered attractions:

• Laff Trakk: Experience America's first indoor spinning glow-coaster, operating in complete darkness during all Hersheypark Halloween event hours for an added thrill
• Reese's Cupfusion: An interactive indoor dark ride where guests become agents to protect the factory and ensure the world is never deprived of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups
• Fender Bender: Classic bumper cars offering covered fun for friends and family
• Classic Carrousel: Take a nostalgic spin on the iconic 107-year-old Carrousel with all 66 original horses

Five Indoor Haunted Houses

Darkness descends upon Hersheypark (sometimes both literally and figuratively if storm clouds roll in) for Dark Nights each operating evening at 6 p.m. Guests seeking shelter from inclement weather can venture into the shadowy depths of five spine-chilling indoor haunted houses, all included with Hersheypark Halloween admission:

• Kill 'N Fill Garage (Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Navigate an abandoned, gore-soaked car wash and body shop where a ruthless group of killers strips victims for parts.
• Twisted Carnevil (Also located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Enter a never-ending hall of illusions ruled by The Hypnotist, where greasepaint drips like blood.
• Estate of Evil (Located in Tidal Force Catering across from the former Tidal Force attraction and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone): Explore a traditional haunted mansion filled with long-sealed, malevolent mementos and curated horrors. This haunted house does have an outdoor scene where guests venture into an open air garden before heading back inside.
• Auntie Mortem's Abattoir (Located next to Music Express and Laff Trakk in the Midway America region): Step into a sinister meat-processing shop where old family recipes blend with fresh stock.
• Haunted Coal Mine (Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse in the Pioneer Frontier region): Descend into a flooded coal mine as murky waters drag you down further and dark creatures emerge.

Meet Monsters Rain or Shine

When bad weather strikes Central Pennsylvania, park-goers can retreat inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre for the all-new Monster Meet & Shriek! Offered nightly from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., this fully covered meet-and-greet experience ensures Halloween excitement continues, rain or shine, as guests snap a sweet photo souvenir with a rotating lineup of Dark Nights monsters. It’s a spell-binding way to wait out a monstrous downpour!

High-Score Indoor Fun at the Arcade

Guests can play their way through an unexpected shower in the two climate-controlled arcades at Hersheypark, while winning prizes and enjoying competitive indoor fun. In the Pioneer Frontier region, Play Dome Arcade delivers hours of indoor entertainment with classic video games, claw crane machines and ticket redemption games. For even more undercover excitement, gamers can head over to Overlook Arcade in the Kissing Tower Hill region—the park's largest arcade, featuring fan favorites like Skeeball, alongside interactive games for all ages.

Delicious Dining Places to Recharge and Stay Dry

A brief rain shower provides the ideal opportunity to relax and recharge while visiting the amusement park. Hersheypark features a range of indoor and covered dining spots—including Overlook Food Court and Chick-fil-A (closed Sundays)—that allow guests to stay dry while fueling up. For an elevated, full-service dining experience, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio offers an ideal setting for lunch or dinner, complete with seasonal autumn options such as Butternut Squash Pasta and Sausage & Apple Flatbread. The restaurant is open daily, and reservations are strongly encouraged.

Spooky Souvenir Shopping

There are more than 15 shops open during Hersheypark Halloween, many of which are perfect for taking shelter when spooky storms brew or purchasing a poncho to brave the rain. Guests can visit Hersheypark Supply Co. at the front of the park to browse an eerie-sistible collection of apparel, gifts, toys and exclusive souvenirs. Those looking for seasonal fits with a haunting twist should pop into Dark Nights Emporium at the entrance of the Midway Of Misery scare zone.

Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica

Guests can grab their flashlight (and poncho, if needed) for the popular Creatures Of The Night event at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park starting Oct. 16, 2026. Running from 6–9 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Nov. 1, this Halloween-themed, after-hours experience offers plenty of covered ways to catch some "fangs" out of the storm. Admission includes a creepy-crawler room, animal encounters under a tent, and two darkened indoor habitats where guests can observe the nocturnal habits of North American animals.

Rainy Day Policy & Insider Tips

Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights! Grab a poncho, embrace the spooky atmosphere and brew up an unforgettable adventure in Hershey this season—rain or shine!

• Rainy Day Promise: If inclement weather conditions cause the majority of major rides and attractions to close for a continuous 60 minutes, a Return Visit Voucher may be issued for a return visit. Guests can present their ticket stub or receipt of purchase to any Guest Services location to receive a Return Visit Voucher with our Rainy Day Promise.
• Hersheypark App: Guests are encouraged to download the free Hersheypark app to track real-time ride availability, wait times and entertainment scheduled right from their phone.
• Rain Gear: Umbrellas are allowed to be brought into Hersheypark, but they are not permitted on rides for guest safety. Ponchos are available for purchase at Hersheypark Supply Co. and other stores throughout Hersheypark.

ZooAmerica will offer a special nighttime flashlight tour, animal enrichments and themed educational activities included with admission. Creatures Of The Night is the only time of year the 11-acre zoo in Hershey is open after dark, giving visitors a unique opportunity to bring a flashlight and explore the nighttime habits of nocturnal North American animals.

Check out this guide of activities and educational displays for the whole family during Creatures Of The Night, weather permitting.

Flashlight Tour of the Zoo

There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets than by flashlight! During Creatures Of The Night, guests of all ages can explore the zoo by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights or use their mobile devices for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including the black bear, Canada lynx, gray wolves, American elk and river otter. Flashlights are also available for purchase at the Admissions desk for added convenience.

A special bonus: guests can see the nocturnal animals in the Great Southwest building in “daylight,” a change from regular operating hours.

Scavenger Hunt

Guests of all ages can participate in fun, family-friendly quests such as finding hidden magic potion ingredients or uncovering history-themed clues scattered throughout animal habitats and buildings.

Animal Enrichment Activities

Guests can watch select animals, such as bobcats, gray wolves and desert species, enjoy special pumpkin-themed treats and enrichment items at 6:30 p.m. on each evening Creatures Of The Night is open.

• Friday night: Bobcats
• Saturday night: Gray wolves
• Sunday night: Great Southwest

Decorate a Luminary

Guests should bring their curiosity and creativity to ZooAmerica after dark! Children and families can help light up the night by decorating their own luminary bags in Big Sky Country, which are then placed on display inside the animal habitats. Supplies will be provided.

Furry Tales

Visitors can stop by a "spooky" tent on the bear patio to see furry friends, like ferrets or a skunk (animals will change nightly). They can also see and feel some of the food combinations given to the animals at ZooAmerica. Those who like arts and crafts can even color, with supplies provided.

Interactive Displays

Themed displays will be set up throughout ZooAmerica for guests to get an up-close look at some animals and learn about their survival.

• Creepy Crawler Display (Inside the Woodlands Classroom): Creepy crawler invertebrates will be displayed. Guests can see tarantulas, cockroaches, walking sticks, scorpions, mealworms and superworms.
• X-ray Station (Inside the Great Southwest Building): Back by popular demand from last year, guests can see an animal X-ray display. Team members will be on-site to discuss the various X-rays and answer questions.
• Wolf Artifact Station (Wolf Habitat): Visitors can see and feel various animal fur and paw prints. Team members will be on-site to talk to guests and answer questions about the gray wolves.
• Recycled Treasure Display (Across from Prairie Dog Habitat): Visitors can view a display of recycled treasures decorated by the ZooAmerica team.

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Separate admission, starting at $14.50 plus taxes and fees, is also available online for guests who plan to attend just Creatures Of The Night.

If you can’t make it to Creatures Of The Night, there are plenty of opportunities to visit ZooAmerica with daily operations this fall (closed Thanksgiving Day).

Front Gate, Chocolatetown

Your first photo stop comes as soon as you make your way to the main entrance of Hersheypark! The entrance plaza in Hershey's Chocolatetown has been lined with decorative pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns for the perfect fall vibe. Looking for a slightly more eerie aesthetic? Wait until dark and come back to see the overhead sign glow orange and white.

Hershey's Hangout, Chocolatetown

This iconic Chocolatetown location is normally home to Sweet Greets* with your larger-than-life Hershey's friends, but it's also a great location for pictures with your friends and family! By daylight, you can pose with characters like Hershey Bar and Miss Kiss directly on the patio of Hersh's Hangout. By night, the patio transforms with glowing lights to make a sparkling photo location - perfect for selfies.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Character appearances and times are subject to change.

Reese's Cup House, Founder's Way

Another staple location for Sweet Greets*, you'll find Reese and JR sporting their Halloween best all fall long at Reese's Cup House. Pose among the hay bales and spider webs both day and night for another sweet photo spot.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Character appearances and times are subject to change.

Monster Meet & Shriek, Music Box Theatre

Visit the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre nightly and come face to face with the monsters of Dark Nights during the all-new Monster Meet & Shriek experience. Guests can meet featured creatures from our haunted houses and scare zones, with a rotating lineup of characters available each night for a photo op.

Strike a pose for a creepy keepsake! This event is a Photo Pass Photographer location with professional photos available for purchase. It is also included with the Family Photo Pass. Guests are welcome to take their own photos.

Reese's Box Car, Reese's Depot Of Doom

Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?

Before you cross the train tracks, snap a selfie in front of the Reese's-branded box car. The numbers and acronyms are filled with easter eggs to the iconic candy brand and Hersheypark itself. Combine them with the signature orange and yellow for a sweet photo op.

The Cauldron, Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse

The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness. In this scare zone, you'll find the centerpiece cauldron is a perfect photo spot where each of the witches can cast a unique spell upon. You'll find them along with the cauldron behind the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre.

Fallout Zone Entrance and Reactor, Fallout Zone

Just beyond the entrance to Fahrenheit is a portal to the Fallout Zone. At night, the sign glows a radioactive green and emits a thick layer of fog. Capture your photo from an angle, and at just the right time, you may even get Fahrenheit running in the background of your shot!

Venture beyond the fog bubbles, and you'll find a glowing reactor that you can step inside for a unique photo. Just make sure the ghouls aren't waiting for you inside when you least expect it!

Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, Treatville

Located in The Boardwalk region of the Park, Treatville provides some sweet photo spots along a path of 10 candy stops. Day or night, there are plenty of photogenic places to pose, including within the hay maze and the pumpkin stacks. These backdrops are just another reason that makes Hersheypark the sweetest place to trick-or-treat!

Treatville is available each Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 6-8:30 p.m. on Fridays and at 2-8:30 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Avenue of the Afterlife, The Boardwalk

Also located in the water park, the Avenue of the Afterlife is home to scary-good eats, wicked-fun entertainment and plenty of photo landmarks! Grab a picture near the decorated entrance portal, get unique views of Lightning Racer and take in the high-energy street performances, including a DJ Dance Party featuring your favorite Hershey Characters, stilt walkers and more.

Drainage Pipe, Avenue of the Afterlife

The next photo-op is just beyond the entrance to Lightning Racer within the Avenue of the Afterlife. A former Dark Nights haunted house, The Descent: Catacombs of Decay, lives on as an interactive photo spot featuring a drainage pipe set piece that guests can actually step inside. Enhance your shot by waiting for Lightning Racer to pass behind!

Midway Of Misery Arch, Midway America

The Midway America region of the Park transforms into the Midway Of Misery scare zone for the fall. The red-glowing archway is a favorite photo spot among Hersheypark guests, with many posing with their favorite midway ghouls in front of the arches. Watch out - you never know when The Decayed Brigade may slide into your shot…

Slider Showcase, Midway Of Misery

The next stop in the Midway Of Misery leads guests directly to the viral Decayed Brigade sliders. Each night following their Slider Showcase - a high-energy show featuring thrilling displays of skill - parkgoers can grab photos with the sliders in the Midway. Guests are welcome to take their own photos, with professional photos available for purchase.

The Slider Showcase occurs in the Midway Of Misery under the fire arch at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 8:45 p.m. on Sundays, weather permitting.

Ferris Wheel, Midway Of Misery

One of the most iconic Hersheypark landmarks is the Ferris Wheel - and it's even sweeter during Halloween with a new light package! Grab your photo from within the Midway Of Misery and stand back far enough to frame the Ferris Wheel within the space between the arches.

Creature Cages, Darkstone's Hollow

The cages that once held the creatures of Professor Darkstone's mythical menagerie are open for photos in The Hollow region along Spring Creek near the Aquatheatre. Strike a pose from behind the bars, but be careful that you aren't added to the Professor's sinister sideshow!

Fire Moments, Various Locations

Dark Nights features TWO pyrotechnic set pieces within our scare zones. The first is in the Fallout Zone, where, after the alarm sounds, flames shoot high into the night atop the former Tidal Force bridge.

Next door, just past Laff Trakk in the Midway Of Misery, sits the flaming archway, a fire-shooting portal that blasts pyrotechnics synced to the music of the midway. These photo ops are for our most astute photographers, as you'll need perfect timing to capture the flames.

Where's Your Favorite Photo Moment?

We want to see your pictures from all of the photo locations! Tag us @Hersheypark on social media and use the hashtags #HersheyparkHalloween and #DarkNights in your posts. You can also tag your Instagram stories with @Hersheypark for a chance to be featured on our page!

Family-Friendly Attractions and Spooky Thrills

1. Hersheypark Halloween

Fridays through Sundays; Hours vary

Hersheypark Halloween is back at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. The USA TODAY 10Best-nominated seasonal event offers thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating for children 12 and under and the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone with a DJ dance party featuring some Hershey Characters.

New for 2026, guests can come face-to-face with the faces of Dark Nights during the Monster Meet & Shriek inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. Offered every Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 5 to 9 p.m., this family-friendly entertainment experience lets guests of all ages meet and pose for photos with featured monsters from the haunted houses and scare zones.

Prepare for all the spooky fun with our official Hersheypark Halloween family guide.

2. Dark Nights Presented by Reese's and Kit Kat®

Fridays through Sundays starting at 6 p.m.

If you love hair-raising thrills and blood-curdling frights during Halloween, then the fifth-annual Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® has to be at the top of your to-do list this fall. The fan-favorite event features five haunted houses and five scare zones, including the brand-new Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone. End your night with the Decayed Brigade in their iconic, high-octane style during a Slider Showcase outside of Laff Trakk at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays. Access to Dark Nights is included in every Hersheypark admission ticket.

Prepare for your haunting visit with our official Dark Nights 2026 guide.

3. Taste Scary Good Eats With The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass

Fridays through Sundays during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass returns for another year to give guests a taste of the ghoulish offerings available during Hersheypark Halloween operating hours only. Parkgoers can choose five frightfully tasty snacks, desserts and drinks from more than 30 specialty options available at 11 different locations throughout Hersheypark.

4. Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Open at 4:30 p.m. on all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will continue offering Spirit’s Rooftop Bar all month long. Guests who dare to venture to the transformed rooftop will find spirits both real and imagined with new cocktail and mocktail creations, spooky shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted. The kitchen closes at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. The patio bar stays open an hour later.

5. Creatures of The Night at ZooAmerica

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays starting Oct. 16 from 6-9 p.m.

The popular Creatures Of The Night event returns to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park with new themed activities. Guests of all ages can explore the 11-acre zoo in the heart of Hershey by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including a black bear, Canada lynx, gray wolves and a river otter. There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets!

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Guests can purchase tickets on the official ZooAmerica website.

Hockey, Comedy and Theatre Events

6. Derrick Stroup at Hershey Theatre

Sunday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m.

Alabama native Derrick Stroup delivers high-energy comedy packed with sharp observations of everyday life. He made his late-night debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in 2023 and returned for a second appearance last year. His first Netflix special, “Nostalgic,” premieres globally March 10 and dives into Stoup’s life as a ’90s kid growing up in rural Alabama.

7. Cinderella by The United European Ballet Company at Hershey Theatre

Sunday, Oct. 18, at 4 p.m.

Cinderella is presented in a dynamic, Broadway-style format that blends classical ballet technique with theatrical storytelling, making it engaging for audiences of all ages. Set to the enchanting music of Sergei Prokofiev, the production brings the beloved fairytale to life through expressive choreography, vibrant storytelling and a refined European artistic style.

8. Clue at Hershey Theatre

Friday, Oct. 30, through Sunday, Nov. 1; Hours vary

Murder and blackmail are on the menu when six mysterious guests assemble at Boddy Manor for a night they’ll never forget! Based on the fan-favorite 1985 Paramount Pictures movie and inspired by the classic Hasbro board game, Clue is the ultimate whodunit that will leave you dying of laughter and keep you guessing until the final twist.

9. Hershey Bears Home Opener vs Charlotte Checkers

Saturday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m.

The Hershey Bears are gearing up for their home opener against the Charlotte Checkers this month! All fans will receive a magnet schedule, courtesy of PNC Bank, to celebrate the start of the 89th season.

Additional promotional games happening this October include:

• Oct. 4 - Dark Nights Takeover: Select characters from Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween will leave the shadows of Hersheypark and prowl the concourse.
• Oct. 10 - B-E-A-R-Sapalooza Country Night: Get ready to have a yee-hockey good time at Country Night! The first 6,000 fans will receive a straw cowboy hat, courtesy of Pepsi.
• Oct. 17 - Penn State Health Pink the Rink Night: All fans are encouraged to light up their phones and join us in the fight against breast cancer, using a Pink the Rink Gel Phone Light Cover, courtesy of Penn State Health.
• Oct. 18 - Reese’s Trick-or-Treat Night: All fans 15 & under will receive a bag upon entry and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat around the concourse during pre-game and the first intermission.
• Oct. 24 - Christmas Candylane Pass Night: All fans will receive a 2026 Hersheypark Christmas Candylane ticket, valid for one-day admission through January 3, 2027.

Activities Around Town

10. Fall In Love With Pumpkin Spice Spa Treatments

Available Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

Enjoy a day of fall relaxation with Pumpkin Spice spa treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey! The Hershey spas are excited to bring back these guest favorite fall-inspired treatments and packages for a limited time. Treatments include a Pumpkin Spice Massage, Body Wrap, Mani/Pedi and more.

To schedule an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, visit ChocolateSpa.com or call 844-330-1797. For appointments at MeltSpa, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

11. Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens

Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hand-painted pumpkins, creepy creatures, gorgeous mums and unique fall displays return to Hershey Gardens this October for Pumpkin Palooza. Pumpkin Palooza will feature more than 200 hand-painted pumpkins and kids' trick or treat at four Hershey’s candy stations. Guests can also enjoy food trucks and hundreds of mums on display, including a colorful 9-foot mum tree.

12. Trick-Or-Treat Trail at Hershey's Chocolate World

October Weekends; Times Vary

Collect candy at four sweet stops inside Hershey's Chocolate World and stock up on your favorite Halloween treats, with an additional 10 stops at Treatville in Hersheypark! Candy is free for ages 12 and under.

13. Halloween-themed Chocolate Lab Classes at Hershey Story Museum

Daily in October; Hours vary

Create a delicious Halloween-inspired chocolate treat in the Chocolate Lab! Located inside The Hershey Story Museum, the Chocolate Lab explores the distinctive qualities of chocolate through fun, hands-on experiences and interactive educational demonstrations. This month, participants can choose from Batty Bar, Cobweb Creations and Spooky Bark (weekends only). Please visit HersheyStory.org for detailed class descriptions and a complete class schedule. Ticket purchase required; individuals must be at least 5 years old to enter the lab.

14. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Monday - Saturday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open for visitors to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. It is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane and East Governor Road (Rte. 322).

Overnight Getaways

15. Book A Fall Getaway

If you want to experience all the fun in The Sweetest Place On Earth this month, book a stay at one of our Official Resorts of Hersheypark. The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hershey Inn & Suites and Hersheypark Camping Resort are offering sweet resort packages perfect for a fall getaway.

All resort guests receive FREE resort benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free front-gate shuttle service to from, the Park and the best price on Park tickets and much more! Plus, enjoy family-friendly resort activities every weekend including Kids' Check-In, s'mores roasts and more.

Twenty nominees across the country were carefully curated by a panel of subject matter experts and USA TODAY 10BEST editors before being voted on by the public.

Thank you to everyone who voted for us!

All-in-One Ticket for Family Fun and Frights

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® are underway, with five weekends remaining to get in the Halloween spirit in Hershey, Pa. The one-price admission includes access to both family-friendly daytime Halloween attractions and nighttime haunted houses and scare zones in celebration of five years of frights:

• Five haunted houses with evolved storylines (starting nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Five scare zones, including the new Reese's Depot Of Doom (starting nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting)
• Lights-out coaster rides on Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Lightning Racer and Comet during the final hour of Hersheypark Halloween, plus dark rides on Laff Trakk all day long
• Trick-or-treating for children ages 12 and under on the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail
• Photos with Hershey Characters in Halloween costumes
• Live entertainment in the Avenue of the Afterlife in The Boardwalk and the new Monster Meet & Shriek at Chevrolet Music Box Theatre
• Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica starting Oct. 16 (included with Hersheypark admission via the bridge)

Feed Your Fears

Visitors can enjoy seasonal flavors throughout Hersheypark with more than 60 limited-time treats, savory eats, and cocktails available for purchase. Guests looking to sample these options can buy the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which includes five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts or beverages chosen from more than 30 specialty items across 11 park locations.

Additionally, Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier is open, showcasing a record 19 new cocktail creations served in multi-weekend phases! On the patio overlooking Chocolatetown, guests can also feed their fears with sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts.

Event Hours and Tickets

Event hours are as follows:

• Fridays: Hersheypark Halloween 5–10 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–11 p.m.
• Saturdays: Hersheypark Halloween noon–10 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–11 p.m.
• Sundays: Hersheypark Halloween noon–9 p.m.; Dark Nights 6–10 p.m.

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com, including a Family 4-Pack Bundle for $55 per person plus taxes and fees. We hope to see you there!

Indigenous Peoples' Day Weekend is a long weekend in The Sweetest Place On Earth, giving visitors extra time to experience all that the town built on chocolate has to offer in the fall.

Check out this guide of things to do from Oct. 9-12, 2026, in Hershey, Pa.

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Hersheypark is open Friday through Sunday for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® immersive haunt experience. The USA TODAY Top 10Best Theme Park Halloween Event features family-friendly offerings and frights - all included in the one-price admission.

Guests can enjoy five haunted houses and five scare zones, including the all-new Reese's Depot Of Doom, thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, chocolatey trick-or-treat adventures and the scare-free Avenue Of The Afterlife path featuring street performances and a DJ Dance Party with select Hershey Characters in their Halloween costumes.

Event Hours

• Friday, Oct. 9, from 5-10 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 10, from 12-10 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 11, from 12-9 p.m.
• Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after Hersheypark Halloween closes - Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

Tickets

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com. Check out our Family-Friendly Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and the Guide to Dark Nights for tips and tricks.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Guests who dare to explore Spirit’s Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio can order from a specially curated menu featuring limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred. The all-new menu features 10 savory items, including an Auntie Mortem’s Butcher Block and the return of the popular Carnevil Wheel. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted.

Event Hours

• Friday, Oct. 9, and Saturday, Oct. 10, from 4:30-11 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 11, from 4:30-10 p.m.

Hershey Bears vs. Texas Stars

Join Bear Nation at GIANT Center as the Hershey Bears take on the Texas Stars on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m. The team will be back on the ice on Sunday, Oct. 11, for a second home game.

Game Times

• Saturday, Oct. 10, at 7 p.m.
  • Country Night: The first 6,000 fans will receive a straw cowboy hat, courtesy of Pepsi.
• Sunday, Oct. 11, at 5 p.m.
  • Pennsyltucky Night: Grab your camo and safety orange, because we’re tipping our camo hats to Central PA.

Relax at the Hershey Spas

The long weekend offers a sweet opportunity for a reprieve at the spa.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa are excited to bring back pumpkin-inspired spa treatments available now!

This season, experience fall seasonal treatments like the Pumpkin Soufflé Hydrating Body Wrap and Great Pumpkin Facial at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. All appointments include complimentary access to steam rooms, saunas, relaxation lounges, an indoor pool and jacuzzi, a fitness center and more. To make an appointment, call 844-330-1797.

If you’re looking for a quick relaxation session, head to MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and experience the scents of the season with a treatment from the Pumpkin Spice Collection, or book a full day of pampering with the Ultimate Pumpkin Relaxation Package. For appointments, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

Extend Your Stay at the Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Guests can turn their visit into a weekend getaway at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark. Throughout the long weekend at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy seasonal dining on property, splashes at the heated indoor pool complexes and family-friendly resort activities, like s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances and Halloween-themed fun. Or, head to Hersheypark Camping Resort for a sweet camping trip and activities like Kids' Check-In, face painting, fall crafts, s'mores roasts and more. Our newest resort, Hershey Inn and Suites, is also available for the whole family and offers amenities like a complimentary hot breakfast, indoor pool, outdoor patio with firepits, and a 24/7 arcade!

Plus, save with Halloween packages like the Dark Nights 2-Night Package, which includes two nights of deluxe accommodations, 2-day Hersheypark Halloween tickets, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and Dark Nights Houses Fast Track for each guest. Resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan and free front-gate shuttle service to and from the Park.

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through Nov. 1 | Hours vary

Guests can experience another thrilling season of Hersheypark Halloween and the fifth-annual Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® as they play by day and fright by night at Pennsylvania's largest amusement park.

The USA TODAY 10Best-Nominated Theme Park Halloween Event includes family-friendly offerings with thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating for children 12 and under, the Avenue of the Afterlife with street performers and a Hershey Character dance party, and more.

At 6 p.m., the nightmare continues for Dark Nights with five haunted houses and five scare zones - more than ever - including the all-new Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone.

The seasonal event also features an elevated food and beverage scene with more than 60 scary-good eats and spell-binding drinks, such as Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets and the Pumpkin Roll King Size Shake, to satisfy any craving. Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass allows guests to taste five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and drinks from more than 30 specialty options available exclusively during Dark Nights.

Spirit’s Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through Nov. 1 | Hours vary

Located in Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio has dusted off the cobwebs for Spirit’s Rooftop Bar. Guests who dare to explore the haunted rooftop bar will find a dozen limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is open starting at 4:30 p.m. on all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted. A Hersheypark ticket is not required to enjoy Spirit's Rooftop Bar.

Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays from Oct. 16 - Nov. 1 | 6-9 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park will open after dark for its popular Creatures Of The Night seasonal event this fall to explore the nighttime habits of North American nocturnal animals. Guests are encouraged to bring a flashlight to explore the outdoor habitats under the cover of night. Included with admission, visitors can experience special Halloween-themed activities, animal enrichments and unique displays.

Tickets are available for purchase online. ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during posted Park hours.

Live Concerts and Shows

Dates and hours vary

Hershey Theatre and GIANT Center have a sweet lineup of shows coming this fall. Check out the full list down below!

• Sept. 25: Justin Willman at Hershey Theatre
• Sept. 27: Lenny Pearce: Toddler Rave World Tour at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 11: Derrick Stroup at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 18: Cinderella by The United European Ballet Company at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 24: Hershey Symphony Presents: Fire and Fantasy at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 25: The Phil Collins Story at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 29: Whose Live Anyway? at Hershey Theatre
• Oct. 30 - Nov. 1: Clue Live on Stage at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 4: Alice Cooper at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 6: Jim Gaffigan at GIANT Center
• Nov. 10 - 15: Dr. Seuss' How The Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 12: Chris Tomlin, TobyMac, Third Day at GIANT Center
• Nov. 14: John Crist, Henry Cho, Dusty Slay, Dustin Nickerson at GIANT Center
• Nov. 18: Jeff Dunham at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 21: for KING + COUNTRY at GIANT Center
• Nov. 22: Arabesque Charity Ballet Event: Fighting Childhood Cancer at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 24: Golden Girls: The Laughs Continue at Hershey Theatre
• Nov. 28: Christmas Together with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and CeCe Winans at GIANT Center

Hershey Bears Hockey Games

Dates and hours vary

Fall means Hershey Bears hockey is back! The oldest franchise in the American Hockey League will take the ice for its 89th season in a home opener at GIANT Center on Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. against the Charlotte Checkers.

Promotional games happening this fall include a Dark Nights Takeover on Oct. 3 and a Reese’s Trick-or-Treat Night on Oct. 18, where fans 14 and under will receive a treat bag upon entry and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat around the concourse during pre-game and intermissions.

Relaxation at the Hershey Spas

Dates and hours vary

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa are excited to bring back pumpkin-inspired spa treatments available now through Nov. 30.

This season, experience fall seasonal treatments like the Pumpkin Soufflé Hydrating Body Wrap and Great Pumpkin Facial at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. All appointments include complimentary access to steam rooms, saunas, relaxation lounges, an indoor pool and jacuzzi, a fitness center and more. To make an appointment, call 844-330-1797.

If you’re looking for a quick relaxation session, head to MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and experience the scents of the season with a treatment from the Pumpkin Spice Collection, or book a full day of pampering with the Ultimate Pumpkin Relaxation Package. For appointments, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

New Fall Menu Offerings

Dates and hours vary

The culinary teams across Hershey never fail to impress with delicious seasonal menus incorporating the warm, rich flavors of autumn. This season, visitors to our sweet destination can taste the many flavors of fall (including pumpkin, apple, maple and more) at one of more than a dozen unique and award-winning restaurants at our resort properties and around town. From fun family fare to fine dining and everything in between, visitors will find an ambiance and menu perfect for whatever experience they crave.

Hershey’s Chocolate World Seasonal Events

Dates and hours vary

Did you know the world's largest Hershey’s store is right next to Hersheypark? Hershey’s Chocolate World is filled with your favorite Hershey’s candy and fun attractions for the whole family. On weekends this fall, Chocolate World will host sweet seasonal events like the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, where guests can dress up in costumes and collect candy at four stops, or a Trick-Or-Treat Trolley ride, a seasonal variation of the original trolley show. Other popular activities include an opportunity to Create Your Own Candy Bar, a FREE Hershey’s Chocolate Tour and more.

Hershey Gardens Seasonal Events

Dates and hours vary

Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden, boasting a variety of autumn flora and foliage this season. During your visit, be sure to check out the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, which includes a year-round indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium featuring 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S. Special for the fall is the annual Pumpkin Palooza on Oct. 17, 18, 24 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., where guests can enjoy over 200 painted pumpkins, a unique 14-foot “pumpkin tree,” kids trick-or-treating and more.

The Hershey Story Museum Fall Offerings

Dates and hours vary

Visit The Hershey Story Museum to learn all about the life and legacy of our founder, Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where you can try your hand at chocolate pouring and decorating, or Chocolate Tastings, where you can try different chocolates from around the world.

Fall Getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Fall is a beautiful time of year for an overnight stay in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Resort options include a cozy cabin, RV or Tiny Home at Hersheypark Camping Resort or deluxe accommodations at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge or the new Hershey Inn & Suites. Overnight guests can take in the beauty of Hershey's fall foliage and enjoy family fun like s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo and Halloween-themed resort activities.

On weekends through Nov. 2, you can save on your getaway with Halloween resort packages, including the Dark Nights 2-Night Package, available at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge. This package includes two nights of deluxe accommodations, 2-day Hersheypark tickets, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and a Dark Nights Houses Fast Track for each guest. For a limited time, receive a $50 resort credit per night and get free breakfast for the kids when you book any of our Halloween resort packages!

All Official Resorts of Hersheypark guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free front-gate shuttle service to and from the Park, the best price on Park tickets, free admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story, and more!

Check out our fall guides to The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, Hershey Inn & Suites and Hersheypark Camping Resort to help plan for a sweet stay.

Make sure to share all your fun fall photos during your visit by using #HersheyPA!

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is available starting at 4:30 p.m. during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days through Nov. 1, 2026, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted. The kitchen closes at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. The patio bar stays open an hour later.

Dare to check out the Foodie Guide to Spirit's Rooftop Bar, featuring limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Cocktails

Guests who venture upstairs will find spirits both real and imagined. This year, Spirit's Rooftop Bar features a record nineteen new cocktail creations, which will be available in multi-weekend, film-themed phases!

Phase One: Opening Credits, Sept. 12 through Sept. 27

• Camper's Crush: Vodka, Freshly Pulverized Blood Orange, Starry Soda
• Out In The Shed: Peated Islay Scotch, Apple Eau-De-Vie, Crème De Menthe, Simple Syrup
• Static Noise: Cristalino Tequila, White Grapefruit, Lime, Agave
• Unplugged: Brown-Butter-Washed Bourbon, Salted Caramel Syrup, Black Walnut Bitters
• Don't Pick Up The Phone: Spicy Ghost Tequila, Lime, Pineapple Tepache
• Blood Test (Non-Alcoholic): A House-Made Lemon-Ginger Tonic, Fresh-Pressed Pomegranate Verjus

Phase Two: Plot Twist, Oct. 2 through Oct. 11

• Found Footage: Sauvignon Blanc, Melon And Apple Liqueurs, White Grape, Lime, Starry Soda - serves two
• Sanitarium Escape: Blanco Tequila, Crème De Mûre, Cointreau, Orange Bitters, Lime, Cinnamon Syrup
• Final Girl: McQueen and the Violet Fog Hibiscus Gin, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup, Sparkling Rosé
• They're Here: Chica~Chida Peanut Butter Agave Spirit, Rumchata, Spiced Brown Sugar Syrup, Cold Brew
• After School Special: Vanilla Vodka, Crème de Banana, Crème de Cacao, Soft Serve, Raspberry Coulis
• Lore & Legend (Non-Alcoholic): Tart Cherry Juice, Rosemary Simple Syrup, Lime, Ginger Beer

Phase Three: Curtain Call, Oct. 16 through Nov. 1

• Never Sleep Again: Smoke Wagon Bourbon, Coffee Liqueur, Dark Chocolate Liqueur, Frangelico
• Infestation: Cachaça, Velvet Falernum, Pineapple, Lime, Coconut Water, Blackstrap Rum, Blackberry Liqueur
• Cellar Light: Vanilla Vodka, St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur, Blanc Vermouth
• Cabin 13 Cooler: Dragonberry Rum, Dragonfruit Lemonade, Guava Nectar, Lime, Starry Soda - serves three
• Yes Or No?: Vodka, Yuzu Liqueur, Pomegranate, Lemon, Popping Pomegranate Boba
• Otherworldly Realms: Mezcal, Twizzlers-Infused Hot Honey, Lime, Agave, Grapefruit Bitters
• Shattered Mirror (Non-Alcoholic): Grapefruit Juice, Non Alcoholic Elderflower, Club Soda, Edible Sugar Glass

New this season, Spirit's Rooftop Bar will feature a lineup of non-alcoholic, themed coffees.

• The Secret You Kept: Dark Chocolate Mocha Espresso, Ube Cold Foam
• Playtime's Over: Vanilla Bean Cold Brew, Strawberry Sweet Cream
• Bee Immortal: Salted Caramel & Honey Espresso, Whipped Cream, Bee Pollen
• Happy Campers Only: Toasted Marshmallow Cold Brew, Chocolate Swirl, Marshmallow Cold Foam

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Shareables

Along with these new cocktails, the following selection of shareables is available to feed guests' fears all Hersheypark Halloween long.

• Junkyard Nachos: Nacho Cheese Chips, Bow Creek Farm Beef Chili, Smoked Cheddar Queso, Chopped Bacon, Sliced Jalapeños, Chipotle Chili Crema, Scallion
• Garden Estate Burrata: Tomato & Cucumber Salad, Everything Bagel Toasted Brioche, Garlic Jam, Leek Ash Oil, Pesto Drizzle
• Loco-Coco Tacos: Cocoa-Birria Shredded Short Rib, Pickled Red Onion, Queso Fresco, Cilantro, Corn Tortilla
• Marksman's Empanada: Duck Confit, Tomatillo Salsa Verde, Cherry Ancho Sauce
• Nuclear Fallout: Stuffed Bison Meatball, Marinara Sauce, Smoked Cheddar Polenta Grits
• Auntie Mortem's Butcher Block: Wagyu Brisket Pastrami, Duck Breast Prosciutto, Smoked Chicken Liver Pâté, Spicy Soppressata, Sweet Pepper Jam, Whole Grain Mustard, Crostini
• Diesel Smoked Wings: Black Garlic Soy Sauce, Kewpie Ranch, Sesame Seed, Daikon Radish
• Burnt Rubber Elote Dip: Chipotle Chili Butter, Queso Fresco, Lime Ash, Scallion, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips
• Witching Hour Flatbread: Ube Ricotta, Caramelized Pear, Candied Walnuts, Hot Honey
• Carnevil Wheel: Mozzarella Moons, Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas, Chicken Tenders, Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Desserts

Guests should save room for two all-new, dreadfully delicious desserts to satisfy their sweet tooth.

• Dessert Tacos: Chocolate Strawberry, Caramel Apple Cheesecake, Cookies n Cream
• Caramel Popcorn: Buttery Popcorn, Crisp Caramel Coating

Starting in October and adding to the spooky ambiance, horror movies are screened without sound on the patio.

To keep up with all the sweet and spooky food news, follow @thechocolatierrestaurant on Instagram and @TheChocolatierHersheypark on Facebook. During your visit, be sure to tag us on social media using #TheChocolatier, and let us know your favorite items this season.

Don't forget to check out the 2026 Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Foodie Guide for more than 50 other eats and treats available throughout the eight-weekend seasonal event.

For nearly 25 days, including Halloween night, guests can experience five haunted houses and five scare zones, featuring the new Reese's Depot Of Doom, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail and more. All of these family thrills by day and fright experiences at night are included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket - a great value for getting into the Halloween spirit!

The eight-weekend event will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of the popular Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, plus the Avenue Of The Afterlife path where guests will find a DJ Dance Party featuring the Hershey Characters, street performers and exclusive food and drink offerings.

When is Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Open?

Hersheypark Halloween is open for eight weekends from Sept. 12 through Nov. 1, 2026. Event hours are as follows:

• 5-10 p.m. on Fridays
• 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays
• 12-9 p.m. on Sundays
• Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after the Park closes, running Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

What to Expect at Dark Nights?

The fifth chapter of Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® at Hersheypark Halloween begins nightly at 6 p.m. In celebration of its fifth year of terror, Dark Nights features a new fifth scare zone, Reese's Depot Of Doom. The remaining haunted houses and scare zones feature evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity.

• Kill 'N Fill Garage (in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers has returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.
• Estate of Evil (in Tidal Force Catering): A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.
• Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir (The Whip): Auntie Mortem has a new partner and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.
• Twisted Carnevil (In the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.
• Haunted Coal Mine (Trailblazer Catering): Drip… drip… drip. Something dark is flooding the mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways will transform into five scare zones each evening, more than ever in celebration of the fifth year of the iconic haunt experience.

• NEW Reese’s Depot Of Doom (In The Boardwalk Water Park): Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?
• Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse (Behind the Cheverolet Music Box Theatre): The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness.
• Fallout Zone (Near Tidal Force): The green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise, and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.
• Midway Of Misery (In Midway America):The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade’s regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert, the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer and each spark and scrape brings louder screams.
  • Slider Showcase: Guests can see the viral Decayed Brigade, including Fryboy and Gas Can, slide through the night during their showcase of skills located in Midway Of Misery at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays.
• Darkstone’s Hollow (In The Hollow across the bridge): Darkstone’s victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and the creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

What's Included with Hersheypark Halloween?

Families can experience Hersheypark Halloween like never before as they play by day and fright by night! Each ticket includes thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating, the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone featuring a DJ Dance Party with the Hershey Characters and the original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park (starting Oct. 16).

Coasters and Rides
Weather and maintenance permitting, 50 rides are open during Hersheypark Halloween, with options for all Hershey height categories—from kiddie rides for the youngest guests to light-out coaster rides for thrill seekers. During the last hour of Park operation, the lights will go out for dark rides on some favorites, including Wildcat’s Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer coasters. As an extra treat, Laff Trakk will offer lights-out rides in total darkness during the entirety of each Hersheypark Halloween operating date.

Please note that select kiddie and family rides may close by 5 p.m. before the start of Dark Nights. These attractions include Granny Bugs, Monorail, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron, Sweet Swing, Tea Cups and Trailblazer. Guests can download the Hersheypark app for a map and real-time ride availability.

Trick-or-Treating Experience
There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children 12 and younger are invited to collect their favorite candy at 14 sweet stops on the Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail. The Trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four locations to Treatville in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 stops. Guests can enter Treatville across from Fahrenheit and experience fun photo backdrops, a hay maze and light displays at night.

Treatville is available beginning on Fridays at 6 PM and on Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM, concluding on each operating evening at 8:30 PM.

Avenue Of The Afterlife
For guests who want to avoid any scares, there is the Avenue Of The Afterlife path in the water park to skip the Dark Nights chills while enjoying the season's thrills. New in 2026, the scare-free zone features a DJ dance party with the Hershey Characters along with the return of wicked-fun street performers like the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers. Avenue of The Afterlife is also home to exclusive food and beverage offerings.

Hershey Character Photo Opportunities
Hersheypark is the only place where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. In addition to the DJ dance party at night in the Avenue of The Afterlife, photo opportunities are available during the day at Hersh’s Hangout and Reese's Cup House. Characters and show times are listed in the Hersheypark app.

Please note that character availability, location and appearance times are subject to change.

Our Friends From The Sea Show
Guests can see California sea lions, Atlantic harbor seals and a grey seal during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

Creatures Of The Night begins Oct. 16
Creatures of the Night returns to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park! The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this fall, with the Creatures Of The Night attraction running Friday through Sunday from Oct. 16 through Nov. 1 from 6-9 p.m. The Halloween-themed experience is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open after dark for visitors to explore the Zoo by flashlight to see their favorite nocturnal animals under the cover of nightfall and enjoy educational activities.

ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Guests interested in visiting ZooAmerica before Hersheypark opens will have to purchase separate Zoo admission here.

What Food and Beverage Options are Available during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights?

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights will feature an elevated food and beverage lineup with more than 50 scary good eats and spell-binding drinks.

Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass allows guests to taste items from more than 30 specialty options available at multiple locations throughout Hersheypark.

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio hosts Spirit’s Rooftop Bar, a rooftop rendezvous available during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days starting at 4:30 p.m. Located on the patio, guests can experience the haunted rooftop high above Hershey's Chocolatetown as they brave their way to the Dark Nights haunted houses or calm their nerves on the way out of Hersheypark with a nocturnal nightcap. The exclusive menu features 19 all-new limited-time spell-binding cocktails on a rotating schedule throughout Hersheypark Halloween, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Guests can also take home a piece of Dark Nights with event-exclusive branded merchandise at Dark Nights Emporium, Boo-tique store and Hersheypark Supply Co. The No-Boo Necklaces featuring a Reese’s bat make a great light-up souvenir for kids with a Hershey twist!

Where can I get Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Tickets?

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to all five of the Dark Nights haunted houses and five scare zones. Tickets are available for purchase online in advance. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders and 2027 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Guests can get to the fear faster with the Dark Nights Fast Track Unlimited program for the five haunted houses on the date of their visit.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

During the Halloween season, guests can extend their stay in Hershey, Pa., at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation including the The Villas at The Hotel Hershey experience, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites.

The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hershey Inn & Suites offers several Halloween packages, including a Dark Nights package featuring two nights of deluxe accommodations, a two-day Hersheypark ticket, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Passes for each guest.

All guests receive Free Resort Benefits like free front gate shuttle service and preview hours.

If you are a current 2026 Season Pass Holder or considering becoming a new 2027 Season Pass Holder, now is the time to buy and save the most on more summer days.

Learn more about the 2027 Season Pass options below and renew or purchase yours today for a year of Hersheypark Happy at the guaranteed best price!

An Overview of Season Pass Tiers

All 2027 Season Passes include unlimited visits throughout the 2027 operating year for all four seasons at Hersheypark, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. For the first time, new 2027 Full, King or Giant Season Pass holders will also receive unlimited visits and free parking to 2026 Hersheypark Halloween and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

Below is an overview of each Season Pass tier to help you decide which one is right for you.

Please note that Hersheypark does not offer family, military, junior or senior Season Passes, as they are already a discounted product. Military ticket offers may be available seasonally on ID.me. Each guest, age three and older, must have their own ticket or Season Pass to enter Hersheypark.

Giant Size Season Pass
A Giant Size Season Pass is the biggest, most perk-packed Hersheypark Season Pass tier and includes the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Single-Use, Single-Ride Fast Track each visit to skip the line on one participating Fast Track attraction, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• Two free Pre-K Passes valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Three free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2027 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Three free Single-Use Snack Vouchers
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• Access to the Exclusive Giant Size Pass Holder Lounge
• 45% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• Up to 50% off Unlimited All-Day Fast Track the day of the visit, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• $150 off All-Season Fast Track
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2027 Giant Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

King Size Season Pass
Hersheypark wrapped up everything Pass Holders love about Full Size Season Passes and added some King Size perks, including the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Two free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2027 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• 35% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2027 King Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

Full Size Season Pass
The Full Size Season Pass is packed full of perks, sweet discounts, a monthly rewards calendar and more, as noted below.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after January 1, 2022
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 27 through Sept. 6
• 25% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2027 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2027
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2027

Bite Size Season Pass
Bite Size Season Passes offer an introduction to the Hersheypark Season Pass program with unlimited admission. Please note that Bite Size Season Pass Holders DO NOT receive 1-hour early access with Hersheypark Sweet Start or access to Season Pass Holder events, even when accompanied by a Full Size, King Size or Giant Size Pass Holder. No exceptions.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season
• 50% off general parking when purchased in advance online through the Season Pass Portal
• 5% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark

Pre-K Pass Perk
Full Size and King Size Season Pass Holders receive one free Pre-K Pass, and Giant Size Season Pass Holders receive two free Pre-K Passes as part of their perks. The free Pre-K Pass is available for a child who is under five years old and born on or after January 1, 2022. The qualifying child will receive unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2027 public operating season, plus 1-hour early Sweet Start access during the summer season.

The Pre-K Pass activation vouchers will be loaded into the Season Pass Portal in early 2027. Pre-K Passes must be redeemed by August 31, 2027. Children 2 and under are eligible to redeem a Pre-K Pass but are not required to have an admission ticket for entry. Any guest wanting to use the Pre-K Pass to enter ZooAmerica prior to Pass redemption must show their confirmation email.

Unlimited Visits In 2026 Too!
New this year, guests who do not already have a 2026 Season Pass but want to enjoy the rest of 2026 and all of 2027 can purchase a 2027 Full, King or Giant Season Pass, which includes unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween, Dark Nights and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane in 2026 AND all public operating days in 2027. It's also a great option for 2026 Summer Fun Card Holders!

For the remainder of 2026, new 2027 Full, King and Giant Season Pass Holders can enjoy all the perks of a Full Size Pass, like free parking, discounts and access to exclusive Season Pass Holder events. Please note that any other perks based on the Season Pass tier selected, such as Hersheypark tickets, welcome bags and Drink Plans and cups, and a free Pre-K Pass, are not available until next year.

New 2027 Season Pass Purchases

2027 Season Passes are available for purchase now, starting at 10 monthly payments of just $10 after initial $49 down payment

Season Pass Payment Plan
Buying a Season Pass is even more affordable with a monthly payment plan. Guests must simply select their Payment Plan at checkout, and after an initial down payment, the monthly payment will be automatically deducted each month.

2027 Season Pass Renewals

2026 Hersheypark Season Passes are valid through Jan. 3, 2027. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can renew now at their same Pass tier for the lowest price on 2027 Season Passes.

2027 Season Pass Add-Ons

Select Dining, Drink and Fast Track plans are now available to add to a Season Pass, depending on the tier, when purchased simultaneously.

Please note that Season Pass Add-on(s) will only auto-renew if they were purchased together with a 2026 Season Pass. Any Dining Plan or Drink Plan purchased separately from the original 2026 contract will not be auto-renewed for 2027. Season Pass Holders can purchase them as separate add-ons in early 2027.

Season Pass Dining Plans
Hersheypark will offer two 2027 Summer Dining Plans: the Season Pass All-Summer Twice-A-Day Dining Plan and the Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan. Full Size, King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can add them to their Season Pass purchase or renewal now.

The Season Pass Twice-A-Day Dining Plan is valid for two meals per day, three hours apart, at 21 dining locations. These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Chickie’s and Pete’s in Pioneer Frontier, Subway in Pioneer Frontier, Berks, Nathan's Famous Truck, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill, Walking Taco Food Truck, Spring Creek Smokehouse, East Coast Burger Works, Philly Cheesesteak Co., Subway in Midway America and Chickie's and Pete's in Midway America. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

The Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan allows guests to purchase a lower-priced Summer Dining Plan valid for one meal per day at 14 locations throughout Hersheypark. These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Berks, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill and Walking Taco Food Truck. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

Season Pass Drink Plans
Hersheypark will offer a Season Pass All-Year Drink Plan to enjoy free refills in an exclusive 2027 souvenir cup on fountain drinks and Slush. The 2027 All-Year Drink Plan is included as a perk for King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders. This add-on will be available for Full Size and Bite Size Season Pass Holders to purchase separately closer to the start of the 2027 season.

Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and Photo Pass
The Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and All-Year Photo Pass will go on sale in early 2027. Program details, including pricing, will be available at that time.

As a perk, 2027 Giant Size Season Pass Holders may purchase the 2027 All-Season Fast Track for $150 off the regular rate at Ticketing Services on-property only starting in 2027.

Season Pass Next Steps

Hersheypark Season Pass Holders are encouraged to create a Season Pass Portal Account to access important information, purchase add-ons, link their family's passes, manage their payment method and more.

Please note that as of 2027, all Season Passes are digital, including Pre-K Passes, as printed cards will no longer be offered. Season Pass Holders have the option of printing a screenshot of the QR code from their digital Pass as a physical option.

New 2027 Season Pass Holders can upload their account profile picture using the link delivered via email shortly after completing your purchase. Be sure to take your profile picture in a well-lit area and that the photo is of yourself without anyone else in frame, centered on your head and shoulders. Please note that you must remove any hats or sunglasses and that photos of other photos are not acceptable. Once you've successfully uploaded a photo, your digital card can be added to your HPGO account in the Hersheypark App. Pre-K Passes are the only Season Pass type which will require in-person activation.

2026 Season Pass Holders who renew for 2027 into the same tier do not need to get a new Season Pass ID and can continue to use their physical Season Pass card from 2026.

We look forward to a sweet 2027 with our Season Pass Holder family!

Check out this guide to all of the sinister thrills lurking in the shadows this season at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania.

Scream your way through five haunted houses

Dark Nights features five haunted houses with evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity.

Kill ‘N Fill Garage

Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage following its grand opening in 2025, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers has returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.

Estate of Evil

Located in Tidal Force Catering across from Tidal Force and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone

Estate of Evil debuted at Dark Nights in 2024 as the first proper exploration of a traditional haunted “house” trope at Hersheypark. A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.

Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir

Located next to Music Express and Laff Trakk in the Midway America region

Auntie Mortem has a new partner at Auntie Mortem's Abattoir and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.

Haunted Coal Mine

Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse

Drip… drip… drip. Something dark is flooding the Haunted Coal Mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

Twisted Carnevil

Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

Step right up to Twisted Carnevil! The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.

Brave Five Scare Zones

As part of Dark Nights, the Hersheypark midways also transform into five scare zones - more than ever before - each evening. Guests can venture through them to come face-to-face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares.

Reese's Depot Of Doom (New for 2026)

Located in The Boardwalk Water Park

Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?

Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse

Located behind Chevrolet Music Box Theatre

The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness.

Midway Of Misery

Located outside Laff Trakk

The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade’s regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert, the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer and each spark and scrape brings louder screams.

Guests can see the Decayed Brigade slide in their iconic, high-octane style during a Slider Showcase outside of Laff Trakk at 9:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 8:45 p.m. on Sundays. Built for chaos, this stunt crew is sure to put on quite the spectacle. The Brigade doesn't just perform...they take over.

Fallout Zone

Located near Tidal Force

The green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise, and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.

Darkstone’s Hollow

Located in The Hollow across the bridge

Darkstone’s victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and the creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

Feel the rush on more than a dozen high-thrill rides

For those guests who crave more than the screams of the haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides from mild-to-wild are available during the Halloween season, weather and maintenance permitting. Sixteen of those Hersheypark Halloween rides are given a high-thrill or aggressive-thrill rating, making for plenty of screams aboard your favorite attractions.

Those looking for the ultimate intensity will find no shortage of high-energy thrills from the World's Largest Screamin' Swing, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, to the award-winning wood and steel hybrid coaster, Wildcat's Revenge. The Hersheypark Halloween season is also the last chance to enjoy rides on Skyrush, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Storm Runner and the family-friendly Comet and Trailblazer (closes at 5 p.m.) before they close for the holiday season.

Please note that all roller coasters and rides close at the conclusion of Hersheypark Halloween operating hours.

Take a coaster ride in complete darkness

A uniquely Hersheypark experience, the Halloween season is the ONLY time of year when coaster fans can ride some of their favorite roller coasters in total darkness. During the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation each evening, the lights go out on Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer. As an extra special treat, Laff Trakk will provide lights-out ride all day long each Hersheypark Halloween operating date. Nothing matches the intensity of a dark ride on some of the most iconic Hersheypark coasters.

Scare your taste buds with dreadfully delicious eats and treats

No Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights visit would be complete without indulging in the season's exclusive food and beverage offerings including seasonal King Size Shake varieties at Simply Chocolate dessert shop and the return of smoked Turkey Legs at the fan-favorite Spring Creek Smokehouse. Guests can sample the most terrifyingly tasty treats with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which includes a choice of up to five specialty menu items from more than 30 options throughout the Park. Options include the all-new Brisket Cuban Sandwich, the returning Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, a refreshing Pumpkin Horchata, fan-favorite Spirellos and more.

The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass is $39.99 and can be purchased online or in-person at Guest Services locations. New this year, Tasting Passes are digital only for guest convenience. Guests will receive a barcode via email that can be easily scanned five times.

Sip at Spirits Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Parkgoers can shift gears for a ghastly good time with spirits both real and imagined at Spirit’s Rooftop Bar on The Chocolatier patio, weather permitting. Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy limited-time-only, theatrically cocktail presentations, such as drinks served through a vintage TV screen, in beakers and syringes and more along with wicked-good eats like the Auntie Mortem's Butcher Block with wagyu brisket pastrami, duck breast prosciutto, smoked chive liver pâté, spicy soppressata, crostini and dips.

The haunted rooftop bar is available during all Hersheypark Halloween operating days starting at 4:30 p.m., weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted.

Stroll through the Avenue Of The Afterlife

For those guests who want to experience Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue Of The Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance and dine amongst the soulless who wander through the fog. Guests can purchase exclusive food, join a DJ dance party with the Hershey Characters and watch wicked-fun street performances including the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers - all while skipping the scares!

Save on tickets

Great ticket deals are available on Hersheypark.com, with Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, giving guests the flexibility to visit on any Hersheypark Halloween public operating day. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Hersheypark Halloween tickets include 50 rides (weather and maintenance permitting), five Dark Nights haunted houses, five scare zones, thrilling dark ride opportunities and Halloween entertainment.

Get to the thrills faster

Guests wishing to get to the thrills and fear faster and skip the lines during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights can add a Fast Track program to their admission ticket. Limited quantities are available, so guests are encouraged to buy online today. Please note that Hersheypark admission tickets are sold separately and are required for entry to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

• Hersheypark Fast Track + Dark Nights Haunted Houses Unlimited - Skip the regular line all day long on participating coasters and rides, plus all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Hersheypark Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line for each of the participating attractions all day long.
• Hersheypark Fast Track - Skip the regular line once per day on participating coasters and rides.

Dare to join?

Hersheypark Halloween—recognized as one of the top Halloween events in the country by USA TODAY 10Best—delivers plenty of daytime fun for families before the immersive haunt experiences start at 6 p.m. Visitors can enjoy kid-friendly rides, sweet trick-or-treat stops, festive Hershey Character meet-and-greets, and much more. Families visiting with little ghouls and goblins can rely on this guide of family-friendly things to do at Hersheypark Halloween to help plan their perfect spooky season visit.

1. Rides for Every Age Group

Hersheypark Halloween tickets include access to 50 rides, weather and maintenance permitting. The park caters to every Hershey height group, offering more than 40 family and kiddie attractions along with more than a dozen thrilling coasters.

Thrill seekers in the family are in for a real treat, as the lights go out for dark rides on Candymonium, Comet, Lightning Racer and Wildcat's Revenge during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation. For even more Halloween fun, Laff Trakk will feature lights-out rides during the entire operating day.

This event also serves as the final opportunity to experience select high-thrill coasters before they undergo winter maintenance in preparation for the 2027 season.

Please note that select family and kiddie attractions—including Granny Bugs, Monorail, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron, Sweet Swing, Tea Cups and Trailblazer—may close at 5 p.m. prior to Dark Nights. Visitors are encouraged to download the Hersheypark mobile app to check real-time attraction availability and view the park map.

2. Trick-or-Treating for Kids (12 and Under)

There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children ages 12 and under can put on their favorite Halloween costumes* and explore 14 fun-filled candy stops along the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail. The trail starts with four stops at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction and continues into The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region, where 10 additional stops await in Treatville.

Treatville opens at 6 p.m. on Fridays and at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays and closes each operating evening at 8:30 p.m., including Halloween night on Saturday, Oct. 31. The path begins at The Boardwalk main entrance across from Fallout Zone and Estate of Evil and winds throughout the water park with fun photo spots and a festive hay maze.

*Costume Policy

• All guests: Costumes that may cause confusion between the Dark Nights actors and guests are not permitted. Additionally, except as otherwise noted below, costumes are permitted on attractions provided they do not interfere with the restraint system, proper riding position, or cause a hazard to guests, employees, and/or the attraction. The loose articles policy for each attraction can be found under the “Additional Restrictions/Accessibility” link located on the information pages for each attraction on Hersheypark’s website, in the Rider Safety & Accessibility Guide, and on the Height Signs located at each attraction. Failure to adhere to the Hersheypark Costume Policy may result in the costume not being permitted or guest removal from the Park.
• Guests age 12 and under: Costumes and costume masks that provide unobstructed peripheral vision at all times with openings that allow the eyes to be fully seen may be worn. Costume masks are not allowed to be worn on any attractions. Having a fully painted face is permitted. This applies to guests who come to Hersheypark in makeup and also to guests who have their faces painted by the Park’s face painters.
• Guests age 13 and older: Costumes may be worn but must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, revealing, objectionable, violent, or otherwise disrupt the general safety of guests or employees. Costumes may not contain any props or accessories that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon. Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest. Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening. Costumes may not drag on the ground as they could be a trip hazard. Costume masks are not permitted, but guests may have up to half of their face painted provided that it does not alter their identity.

3. All-New Monster Meet & Shriek

New this year, guests can come face-to-face with the monsters of Dark Nights during the Monster Meet & Shriek inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. Offered every Hersheypark Halloween operating day from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., this family-friendly entertainment experience lets guests of all ages meet and pose for photos with featured monsters from the haunted houses and scare zones. Guests are welcome to take their own photos, but a dedicated Photo Pass photographer is also available on-site to capture spooky memories.

Daily character appearances are noted in the Hersheypark app but are subject to change based on availability.

4. Sweet Greets with Hershey Characters

Hersheypark is the only amusement park where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. Sweet Greet opportunities are offered at Hershey’s Hangout with Hershey Bar and Miss Kiss, and at Reese's Cuphouse with Reese and JR. Check the Hersheypark app for full schedule details, and remember to share your pictures on social media using #HersheyparkHalloween!

5. Scare-Free Avenue of the Afterlife

For guests who want to experience the Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue of the Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance, dine and celebrate the season with a crew of family-friendly creatures. Guests can purchase exclusive food, watch the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers, and join a DJ Dance Party, now featuring select Hershey Characters - all while skipping the scares!

6. Our Friends From The Sea Show

Parkgoers can see California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

7. 60+ Seasonal Food and Drink Options

Visitors often come for the rides, but they stay for the sweet treats at Hersheypark, and Halloween is no exception. Hersheypark offers a taste of fall with more than 60 limited-time snacks, savory eats and specialty drinks during Hersheypark Halloween. Instagram-worthy items include Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, a Brisket Cuban Sandwich and three Halloween-themed King Size Shakes—signature milkshakes topped with baked goods celebrating a decade of popularity in 2026!

Additionally, guests sample a variety of scary-good culinary offerings available during Dark Nights with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. The pass lets visitors eat their way through Hersheypark by choosing up to five specialty items from more than 30 food and drink options. Priced at $39.99 plus tax, it can be purchased online prior to a trip or at Guest Services locations in the Park.

The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass is $39.99 and can be purchased online or in-person at Guest Services locations. New this year, Tasting Passes are digital only for guest convenience. Guests will receive a barcode via email that can be easily scanned five times.

Explore our 2026 Foodie Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights to plan your culinary adventure through Hersheypark.

8. Haunted Houses and Scare Zones

If your family wants to give the scares a try, Dark Nights returns for its fifth year with an expanded lineup of frightful fun starting at 6 p.m. Admission to Dark Nights is included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket or 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass, granting access to five haunted houses with varying levels of intensity and five spine-tingling scare zones.

New in 2026, brave visitors can follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom scare zone. But they must beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?

Note: Some aspects of the experience may be too intense for children younger than 13. Parental discretion and guidance are advised.

9. Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica (Starting Oct. 16)

Guests should bring their flashlight and curiosity, because ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is getting in on the Halloween action with Creatures Of The Night! The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this fall, with the Creatures Of The Night event running Fridays through Sundays from Oct. 16 to Nov. 1. The Halloween-themed experience from 6-9 p.m. is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open after dark for visitors to explore the 11-acre Zoo by flashlight, see their favorite nocturnal animals under the cover of nightfall and enjoy educational activities.

ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween when accessed from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Guests interested in visiting ZooAmerica before Hersheypark opens will have to purchase a separate Zoo admission.

10. Overnight Fall Getaway

Visitors looking to treat the family to a Halloween weekend in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book the perfect fall getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, with rates available online.

The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites offer several Halloween packages, including a Dark Nights package featuring two nights of deluxe accommodations, a two-day Hersheypark ticket, breakfast each day, Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Passes and Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Passes for each guest.

All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at the Park with Preview Plan and free front-gate shuttle service to our exclusive resort drop-off location.

Save On Halloween Visits

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to the Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides and attractions, Hersheypark Halloween entertainment and much more fun for the whole family. Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets are available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day on www.Hersheypark.com. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, giving guests the flexibility to visit on any Hersheypark Halloween public operating day. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Spanning nearly 25 days and including Halloween night, a single ticket grants guests access to more than 50 rides and dark coaster experiences, Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail, live entertainment, five haunted houses and five scare zones. Visitors can also indulge in exclusive seasonal food and beverage offerings—including themed menu items along the Avenue Of The Afterlife path—or opt for the fan-favorite Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass.

Hersheypark Halloween is recognized as one of the top Halloween events in the country. The seasonal experience was just nominated for the USA TODAY 10Best Theme Park Halloween Event for 2026, with daily voting open through Sept. 21 at noon. 

Hersheypark Halloween event hours are 5-10 p.m. on Fridays (beginning Sept. 18), 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays and 12-9 p.m. on Sundays. Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after the Park closes, running Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

Dark Nights Presented by Reese’s and Kit Kat®

Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween returns for its fifth year of spine-tingling haunts nightly at 6 p.m. Dark Nights features five haunted houses with evolved stories.

• Kill ‘N Fill Garage: The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers has returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.
• Estate of Evil: A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.
• Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir: Auntie Mortem has a new partner and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.
• Twisted Carnevil: The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.
• Haunted Coal Mine: Drip… drip…. drip. Something dark is flooding the mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways will transform into five scare zones - more than ever before - each evening for guests to come face to face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares.

• NEW Reese’s Depot Of Doom: Follow the fractured tracks of the Reese’s Depot Of Doom, but beware. The freight yard may look abandoned, but it comes alive at night with shadowy trespassers starving for company. Navigate the fog-drenched boxcars with caution. Will you escape the Depot, or will you be doomed forever?
• Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse: The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It’s true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness.
• Fallout Zone: The green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise, and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.
• Midway Of Misery: The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade’s regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert, the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer and each spark and scrape brings louder screams.
• Darkstone’s Hollow: Darkstone’s victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and the creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

Hersheypark Halloween

For more than 40 years, the fall season has meant sweet Halloween fun at Hersheypark. Guests of all ages can experience Hersheypark Halloween as they play by day and fright by night with the following family-friendly offerings:

• Thrills on more than 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting)
• Dark rides on select coasters during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation, plus lights-out rides on Laff Trakk indoor coaster during all Hersheypark Halloween operating hours
• Trick-or-treating with 14 stops (10 in Treatville region and four at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction) for guests 12 and under
• Meet and greets with select Hershey Characters dressed in their Halloween costumes at Hershey’s Hangout and Reese’s Cuphouse during the day
• NEW Monster Meet & Shriek show offered nightly in the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue to meet featured creatures from the haunted houses and scare zones
• Avenue of the Afterlife to dance, dine and celebrate the season with Hershey Characters (new location) and a crew of family-friendly creatures

The original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour will also return to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park for three weekends starting Oct. 16. The Halloween-themed, after-hours experience features a special nighttime flashlight tour and new themed activities included with admission.

Limited-Time Culinary Creations and Retail

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights will feature an elevated food and beverage scene with more than 60 scary good eats and spell-binding drinks. Guests can taste five frightfully delicious snacks, desserts and drinks with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. New items include Flamin' Hot Cheetos Corn Dog Nuggets, Brisket Cuban Sandwich, Tres Leches Cake and Pumpkin Horchata. Stay tuned to the Hersheypark social media channels for official reveals in early September.

Located in the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will bring back Spirit’s Rooftop Bar, a rooftop rendezvous available during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days. The all-new menu features 10 savory items, including an Auntie Mortem’s Butcher Block with wagyu brisket pastrami, duck breast prosciutto, smoked chive liver pâté, spicy soppressata, crostini and dips. Back by popular demand is the Carnevil Wheel, with new items including Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas and Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, to name a few.

Guests ages 21 and older can also enjoy theatrical cocktail presentations, such as drinks served through a vintage TV screen, in beakers and syringes, inside decanters brimming with heavy fog and illuminated by black light, or in a retro cooler with red party cups. Select beverages feature dramatic touches like theater-style kettle corn, a flaming sugar cube, or swirling silver luster dust designed to mirror the look of a flickering television set.

Visitors can bring home a ghostly keepsake from Dark Nights with new, event-exclusive branded merchandise to be unveiled as the season approaches.

Ticketing Information

Hersheypark Halloween admission includes access to the Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones, more than 50 rides and attractions, Hersheypark Halloween entertainment and ZooAmerica when guests enter through Hersheypark during Park hours. Hersheypark Halloween pre-sale tickets are available now, starting at $36.99 when you pick your day on Hersheypark.com. One-Day Any Day Halloween tickets are also available for $54.99, giving guests the flexibility to visit on any Hersheypark Halloween public operating day. Current 2026 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.

Guests can get to the scares faster with Fast Track program, enhance their experience with Halloween Cabanas and enjoy limited-time food and beverages with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass - all available for purchase now.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

During the Halloween season, guests can extend their stay in Hershey, Pennsylvania, at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark: The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, including The Villas at The Hotel Hershey experience, Hershey Lodge resort, Hersheypark Camping Resort campground and the all-new Hershey Inn & Suites. All guests receive Free Resort Benefits like free front gate shuttle service and Preview Plan hours. Overnight guests of Hershey Lodge receive exclusive access to Hershey’s Water Works at Hershey Lodge indoor pool complex. Hersheypark Halloween One-Day and Two-Day packages, and a Dark Nights Two-Night package are now available.

Based on height (age is not a factor), guests are assigned a Hershey’s brand category that identifies the set of rides they can experience during a visit to Hersheypark. Continue reading to discover your candy-themed ride height category and get a sneak peek at some of the rides you’ll be able to enjoy. You can even print your own height chart! 

Hershey's Miniatures Height Category

The Hershey's Miniatures height category at Hersheypark is for any guests under 36”. There are 28 kiddie rides and family attractions in this category for the youngest thrill-seekers at the amusement park. Some favorites include:

• Carrousel: One of the most historic rides in the Park sits in an illustrious home in Hershey’s Chocolatetown! Every member of the family can experience a ride on a moving horse, a stationary horse or a chariot on the 107-year old Carrousel.

• Convoy: This caravan of trucks moves at a low speed to ensure the precious cargo is delivered safely and sweetly to the Kissing Tower Hill area.

• Minty Bees: Originally known as Bizzy Bees, this buzzing attraction was rethemed in 2019 to complement the opening of the nearby interactive dark ride, Reese's Cupfusion, adding a refreshing minty twist for riders of Hershey’s Miniatures height (0-36”) through Hershey's Chocolate height (48-54 inches).

• Tiny Tracks: This mini train chugs along a track in the Midway America region. Riders can choose to relax in the caboose or ring the bell in the engine!

• Traffic Jam: Beep, beep! Children can ride motorcycles, cars and buses around the circle at a slow speed in the Founder's Way region of Hersheypark.

Hershey's Kisses Height Category

The Hershey's Kisses height category is for guests between 36" and 42" tall. There are 41 rides that fall into this category, including all of the Hershey’s Miniatures attractions, plus a few more moderate thrill rides and two roller coasters! 

• Frog Hopper: If a little one is not quite ready for the thrill level of Hershey Triple Tower, Frog Hopper is the perfect stepping stone. This ride lifts passengers, then "hops" them back down in the Kissing Tower Hill area.

• Cocoa Cruiser: The perfect first steel coaster, Cocoa Cruiser races around a bright yellow track for two fun-filled minutes.

• Reese's Cupfusion: Mint the Merciless has breached the Reese’s factory and come for the Crystal Cup. Do you have what it takes to stop him and The League of Misfit Candy during this interactive gaming ride?

• Swing Thing: This swing ride is the perfect way to introduce young guests to the feeling of flying through the air!

• Trailblazer: The second-oldest coaster at Hersheypark, Trailblazer features a helix that circles four times through Pioneer Country.

Reese's Height Category

The Reese’s height category is for guests 42” to 48” tall. This height category is the entry point for ridership on some high-thrill roller coasters, such as Comet and sooperdooperLooper. Guests measuring at the Reese’s height category can enjoy 56 attractions, which include most rides in the lower height categories. 

• Comet: Celebrating 80 years in 2026, the oldest coaster at Hersheypark is best known for delighting generations of families with several airtime-producing bunny hills.

• Laff Trakk: The first indoor, spinning, glow-coaster in the United States takes riders on an exciting adventure of sights and sounds, complete with glimpses of colorful characters, a dizzying hall of mirrors and more.

• Mix’d Flavored By Jolly Rancher: This ride begins by spinning 360 degrees, then shifts into gear and mixes in lifts, drops and never-before-seen views while dodging the other riders.

• sooperdooperLooper: Visitors of Reese's height category and above can experience the first-ever modern looping coaster on the East Coast! After a ride, don't forget to pick up an "I survived the sooperdooperLooper" shirt.

• Whitecap Racer: Located in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park, this mat racing slide features an industry-first of double looping tunnels with a Rally Point where neighboring competitors can be seen and heard. It is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.

Hershey's Height Category

At the Hershey’s height category of 48” to 54”, guests can enjoy 65 attractions, including more iconic coasters and thrill rides! 

• Hershey Triple Tower: The first choose-your-thrill triple tower in the United States drops guests from various heights. 

• Jolly Rancher Remix: This reimagined coaster takes riders and their senses forward and back on the same flavorful track, as they blast through a flavor tunnel, invert six times in 90 seconds and jam to sweet tunes.

• Lightning Racer: This double-track wooden roller coaster features two staggered lifts and a thrilling element of competition.

• Twizzlers Twisted Gravity: Opened in 2025, the world's tallest Screamin' Swing ascends 137 feet and swings at speeds reaching 68 mph over Spring Creek in The Hollow region.

• Wildcat's Revenge: The wood and steel hybrid coaster climbs a 140-foot hill, hits a max speed of 62 mph, dives into an 82-degree drop, inverts four times, and stalks prey through the World's Largest Underflip on three custom trains.

Twizzlers and Jolly Rancher Height Categories

The final height categories are Twizzlers and Jolly Rancher. Twizzlers is for guests measuring 54-60", while Jolly Rancher is for guests over 60". At these measurements, guests can enjoy more than 50 must-do rides and coasters.

• Candymonium: The tallest, longest, fastest and sweetest coaster at Hersheypark spans seven acres in Hershey's Chocolatetown.

• Fahrenheit: Riders climb a steep, 121-foot lift hill before plummeting down the signature 97-degree drop.

• Great Bear: This inverted steel coaster leaves riders' feet dangling as it lifts 90 feet off the ground and launches into a thrilling, yet graceful course of drops, loops, corkscrews and a zero-g roll.

• Skyrush: This roller coaster takes a First Class flight 200 feet into the air before flying downhill at 75 mph. Riders experience four high-speed turns and five zero-G airtime hills - all from an upgraded, winged-seat coaster train!

• Storm Runner: The East Coast's only remaining hydraulic launch coaster launches riders from 0-72 mph in two seconds flat.

Additional Ride Information for Guests

Please read through the following ride information to help you plan your visit to Hersheypark.

Guests with a cast or brace: Casts are not permitted on Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Hershey Triple Tower, Skyrush, sooperdooperLooper and Twizzlers Twisted Gravity. There are signs posted at each ride indicating its restrictions. In most cases, your own discretion is suitable for whether or not you wish to ride a certain ride.

Guests accompanied by service animals: Service animals are welcome at Hersheypark and ZooAmerica. Service animals are limited to dogs and miniature horses that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the individual with a disability. Although service animals are discouraged from riding any attraction, service animals will be permitted on the Monorail, Carrousel (chariots only), Kissing Tower, Dry Gulch Railroad, Ferris Wheel, Sunoco Classic Cars, and they will be permitted to enter The Boardwalk attractions up to the water’s edge. 

Hand-held infants: Guests should check the entrance to every Hersheypark attraction or the additional restrictions and accessibility section under each ride listed online for information. Each ride will indicate whether hand-held infants are allowed. Select rides include Monorail, Carrousel (chariots only), Dry Gulch Railroad, Ferris Wheel, Shoreline Sprayground and others based on restrictions. A hand-held infant is a child who is unable to walk to the attraction independently or maintain independent seated postural control.

Guests with medical conditions or expectant mothers: Guests can explore eligibility in the Attraction Accessibility Program at Accessibility Services, located outside the front gate, or at any in-park Guest Services location, where guests will be asked to complete and sign an Attraction Accessibility Questionnaire. Based on the questionnaire responses, guests may receive an Attraction Boarding Pass listing attractions they may enjoy. 
 

Whether you're the ultimate coaster conqueror or a gentle thrill seeker, Hersheypark has the perfect ride lineup for guests of all ages, heights and thrill levels with something for everyone to enjoy!

Save big on Hersheypark tickets now when you purchase online and get ready to find your Hersheypark Happy! 

As we gear up for a sweet 2026, let's pause to look back at our top 10 moments in The Sweetest Place On Earth this year.

January 2025: The Hershey Bears Hosted Record-Breaking Teddy Bear Toss

We kicked off the year with sweet, cuddly mayhem in Hershey, Pa. The Hershey Bears, the oldest and most decorated team in the AHL, established a new hockey world record during its annual GIANT Teddy Bear Toss on Jan. 5, 2025. The Bears collected 102,343 teddy bears and stuffed animals, surpassing the club's previous hockey world record of 74,599, which was set in 2024.

April 2025: 1933 Restaurant & Tavern Opened at The Hotel Hershey

On Apr. 17, 2025, The Hotel Hershey, one of the finest Historic Hotels in America, opened its newest dining experience, 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. The full-service restaurant and tavern combines culinary classics with modern comfort and pays tribute to the unique history of The Hotel Hershey. 

Expanding the former Harvest Restaurant, the menu features an approachable steakhouse menu, elevated pub fare, signature cocktails, and curated draught beer and wine selections. The first new restaurant at The Hotel in 15 years is open daily for lunch and dinner, as well as Sunday brunch.

May 2025: Twizzlers Twisted Gravity Opened at Hersheypark

Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, the world's tallest Screamin' Swing, officially opened to the public at Hersheypark on May 24, 2025. The high-thrill pendulum attraction manufactured by S&S Worldwide features the newest candy to join the skyline at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. 

Riders ascend 137 adrenaline-pumping feet, defy gravity at speeds reaching 68 miles per hour and experience multiple mind-bending zero G moments as they swing high above Spring Creek in The Hollow region of Hersheypark. 

Following its summer debut, Twizzlers Twisted Gravity was open for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane for its first holiday season. The record-breaking attraction continues to receive rave reviews. 

Summer 2025: Hersheypark Stadium Hosted Record-Breaking Summer Concert Series

From classic rockers to country hitmakers, boy bands to the halftime performer at the Big Game, summer 2025 marked another unforgettable season of live music under the stars in Hershey, Pa. Hersheypark Stadium hosted 16 concerts, its most ever in a series, with something for all musical tastes. 

The 2025 Hersheypark Stadium Summer Concert Series kicked off on May 28 with a return visit from superstar Post Malone, followed by an impressive lineup that featured Avril Lavigne, Kendrick Lamar and SZA, Luke Bryan, Phil Wickham and Brandon Lake, and more! The lineup ended on a high note with a performance from Twenty One Pilots on Sept. 27. It was the first time the band returned to Hershey in almost a decade. 

August 2025: The Hotel Hershey Opened 19 New Villas

The Villas at The Hotel Hershey expansion was officially completed in August 2025! Driven by consumer demand, The Villas doubled in size this year to 19 Villas, introducing nine new Villas and 50 additional sleeping rooms. This expansion follows the 2024 reimagining of the original 10 cottages with 48 rooms as The Villas. 

Representing the second-largest investment in the historic Hotel Hershey’s 90-year history, The Villas At The Hotel Hershey offers even more luxury as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and the most premium Hersheypark experiences. The sweet perks include Hersheypark admission for each day of stay, One-Day Fast Track pass per person allowing guests to skip the line once on each participating attraction, and a dedicated shuttle stop for front gate transportation - a tremendous value! Guests of The Villas also enjoy personalized service and luxury through the Villas Lounge, which includes daily continental breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, desserts, beer and wine, and more.

August 2025: Hershey Bears Named a New Head Coach

The Hershey Bears announced that Derek King was named the 29th head coach in franchise history on Aug. 4, 2025. King brings a wealth of coaching experience in both the American Hockey League (AHL) and the National Hockey League (NHL) to Hershey. The native of Hamilton, Ontario, joined the Hershey Bears after spending the last four seasons with the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks.

September 2025: Hersheypark Opened New Haunted House and Scare Zone at Dark Nights

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Presented by Reese’s and Kit Kat® returned to Hersheypark for eight weekends from Sept. 12 through Nov. 2, 2025. The popular Halloween event featured five haunted houses, including the all-new Kill ‘N Fill Garage, and four scare zones (more than ever before) with the new Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse. Guests brave enough to explore these offerings experienced haunting special effects and unique set designs that brought the only-in-Hershey storyline to life.

Tickets also included 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail, a Monster Ball with the Hershey Characters and other entertainment in the Avenue Of The Afterlife. 

September 2025: Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk Debuted for Hersheypark Halloween

In Sept. 2025, fans of Laff Trakk indoor coaster experienced the ride like never before as it evolved into Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk for the Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Presented by Reese’s and Kit Kat® season. This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company's Shaq-A-Licious brand featured glowing visuals, amped-up audio and immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit. 

The fun continued into Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. A special holiday overlay combined the Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk visuals with signature holiday Laff Trakk elements, like the iconic Christmas Tree in the center. 

In celebration of the first-of-its-kind ride overlay for Hersheypark, Shaquille O’Neal made a sweet stop in Hershey on Oct. 6, 2025. The basketball legend brought his larger-than-life energy—and his Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies—to Hershey for a day filled with inspiration and fun, surprising students at Milton Hershey School (MHS) and recording his podcast at his gummy-inspired ride inside Hersheypark. 

October 2025: ZooAmerica Celebrated 45th Anniversary of Creatures of the Night 

The popular Creatures Of The Night event returned to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park for its 45th anniversary starting on Oct. 3, 2025. The Halloween-themed, after-hours experience ran on more dates than ever through Nov. 1, 2025.

In celebration of the event's anniversary, ZooAmerica offered a special nighttime flashlight tour and new themed activities, including a history-themed scavenger hunt and a creature kitchen where visitors could learn about animal diets. Decorating a luminary, a creepy crawler display, animal enrichments and other guest-favorite activities were also offered during the event.

November 2025: Hersheypark Debuted New Holiday Stage Show for Christmas Candylane

For the first time since 2019, guests of Hersheypark Christmas Candylane enjoyed a holiday stage show inside the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre on select dates in November and December. Twinkling Thru Time made its debut as a bright and heartwarming celebration of laughter, love and the magic of Christmas. The show featured iconic holiday hits to add to the sweet storyline.

Also new during the seasonal event was the location of the iconic Kissmas Tree within the Hershey’s Chocolatetown region of the Park. Guests could view the Kissmas Tree as soon as they passed through the main Park gates, or from aboard the Candymonium roller coaster.

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane has been a holiday tradition for more than 40 years. 

BONUS: Looking Ahead to 2026

There is no doubt that Hershey, Pennsylvania, will be a must-visit destination in 2026. The Sweetest Place On Earth is centrally located within easy driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, making it an accessible and attractive getaway for travelers of all ages.

The centerpiece of any visit is, of course, Hersheypark, which offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions and the sweet atmosphere that only Hershey can provide. The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will kick off its 120th season on April 3, 2026.

New lodging and dining options will also debut across the destination in spring 2026. 

Hershey Inn & Suites

Hershey Inn & Suites, the first select service property as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, is slated to open in spring 2026. Located at 1300 West End Avenue in Hummelstown, just minutes from Hersheypark, Hershey Inn & Suites will feature 130 rooms with seven suites, each space combining comfort and convenience with signature Hershey hospitality. Reservations are now open with rates starting at $149.

Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar

Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar will also open in spring 2026, located near the iconic corner of Cocoa and Chocolate Avenue in downtown Hershey. Hershey Social will bring bold flavors, signature cocktails and over-the-top desserts inspired by Hershey’s chocolate roots to the vibrant downtown area. The reimagined space will feature a casual setting and an expanded bar, perfect for families and friends to sip, savor and socialize. Hershey Social Restaurant + Bar will join Hershey Entertainment & Resorts’ 14 other restaurants throughout Hershey.

Stay tuned for more details on what’s new across our sweet destination! 

Read on for more details on four of the most popular Hersheypark Christmas gift options (still available to buy online for last-minute shoppers).

2026 Hersheypark Season Pass

A 2026 Season Pass offers a full year of fun with more than 70 rides including 15 thrilling coasters (the largest collection in the Northeast), The Boardwalk At Hersheypark water park (open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend), and ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo, only by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during public operating hours. 

The 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass program features four tiers and allows for unlimited visits throughout the 2026 operating year, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town - all for less than the cost of three visits. 

2026 Season Passes are available for purchase now with the best price before 2026! 

Gifting Season Passes

Follow these simple steps to ensure your gift of a 2026 Season Pass remains a sweet holiday surprise:

• Select the Season Pass tier you think is best for the recipient
• Enter the recipient's name, phone number and home address
• Use your own email address to receive the confirmation (to indeed keep it a surprise)
• Print off the confirmation email and add a card (we have one below to use)
• When the recipient comes to take their photo and receive their physical pass, they can update the email address on file

Free Printables

If you are also looking for a way to brighten up your gifts, our free holiday printables add a sweet touch to any present. You can download and print a gift tag and three versions of wrapping paper to let your recipient know they have a year of happiness ahead. 

2026 Hersheypark Summer Tickets

Are you planning a visit to Hersheypark next summer? 2026 Summer tickets are available for purchase this 2025 holiday season to cross off of your list early. Summer tickets are valid starting Apr. 3, 2026, through Sept. 7, 2026. These tickets include access to all rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), seasonal entertainment, The Boardwalk water park (open Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend) and ZooAmerica by entering through the Hersheypark bridge during public operating hours. 

The Sweetest Hersheypark Merchandise

If your family member, friend or coworker is a Hershey enthusiast, Hersheypark has got you covered for gift-giving with Hershey plush, winter apparel to deck any parkgoer from head to toe, exclusive drinkware, coaster collectibles and everything in between. The Hersheypark online store offers Christmas shipping and free in-store pick-up is also available at Hersheypark Supply Co., the premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store in the Hershey's Chocolatetown region. 

For those who prefer to shop in person, Hersheypark is home to more than one dozen retail locations featuring the perfect blend of new collections and vintage designs for fantastic gift options. Take a look at some of the unique shopping opportunities during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, which is open daily starting Dec. 18.

• Hersheypark Supply Co. (outside of the Hersheypark front gate and open even when the Park is closed): The largest collection of apparel, gifts, toys and more exclusive to Hersheypark
• HP Collections (inside the front gate): A collection of curated premier brands and styles, including johnnie-O, Vuori, Adidas, Corkcicle and more
• Prancer's Presents (across from the Mary N. Bright Airfield): Features exclusive Hersheypark Puppie Love merchandise
• Candylane Emporium (outside The Boardwalk): Seasonal retail experience for unique Christmas-themed apparel and gifts
• Christmas Memories (in Founder's Way next to Kettle Corn): Full of Hersheypark and chocolate-themed holiday décor

Hersheypark Gift Card

A Hersheypark gift card is a great way to let the recipient choose their own gift. Gift cards for Hersheypark, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, restaurants, resorts and more can be purchased in-store or online. E-gift card purchases are delivered either digitally or via a physical gift card in the mail.

Now is the perfect time to get a gift card for the foodies on your holiday list. Now through Dec. 24, buy $50 or more in gift cards, and get a $10 dining voucher toward your next meal at The Chocolatier. For an extra serving of fun-to-table, from Dec. 15-17, you will receive two $10 vouchers when you purchase $50 in gift cards from The Chocolatier in-person only.

Please note that Hersheypark gift cards cannot be used to purchase tickets or Season Passes online. The gift card recipient can call the Guest Experience team at 717-534-3900 for assistance. 

Looking for other great gift ideas in The Sweetest Place On Earth? From concert and hocket tickets to holiday spa treatments, dining and more, there's something for everyone on your list. Happy holidays!

The USA TODAY  Top 10Best theme park Halloween event continues to offer kid-friendly rides, chocolatey trick-or-treat adventures, festive Hershey Character experiences and more for families as part of Hersheypark Halloween before the immersive haunt experience begins at 6 p.m. Guests with young ghosts and goblins can use this guide of family-friendly things to do at Hersheypark Halloween to help plan their last visits of the spooky season. 

1. Enjoy a Thrill on Attractions for All Ages

Hersheypark Halloween tickets include access to 50 rides, weather and maintenance permitting, with options for all Hershey height categories, from more than 40 kiddie and family rides to over a dozen thrilling coasters. 

Thrill seekers in the family are in for a real treat, as the lights go out for dark rides on Candymonium, Comet, Lightning Racer and Wildcat's Revenge during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation. This is also the first Hersheypark Halloween season for Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, the World's Tallest Screamin' Swing, which features a special light package to get your nighttime adrenaline pumping. 

This weekend is also the last chance to get rides on select high-thrill coasters before they close for winter maintenance ahead of the 2026 operating season. Check out this list of the coasters that will give their final rides of the year on Nov. 2 and won't return until the start of Spring Weekends.

Please note that select kiddie and family rides may close by 5 p.m. before the start of Dark Nights. These attractions include Granny Bugs, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron and Trailblazer. Guests can download the Hersheypark app for a map and real-time ride availability.

2. Take a Ride on the All-New Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk

New for 2025, fans of Laff Trakk indoor coaster can experience the ride like never before as it evolves into Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk for the Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights season. This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company's Shaq-A-Licious brand features glowing visuals, amped-up audio and immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit. The themed overlay of Laff Trakk includes graphics, lighting and enhanced audio-visual treatments, including curated voice-over provided by Shaquille O’Neal, marking the first-of-its-kind coaster overlay.

3. Go Trick-or-Treating (for Guests 12 and Under)

There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children 12 and under are invited to wear a Halloween costume* and enjoy 14 sweet stops on the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail. The Trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four stops to Treatville at The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 candy stops, including an exclusive Shaq-A-Licious treat location.

Treatville is open at the start of each operating day until 8:30 p.m., including Halloween night on Friday, Oct. 31. The path begins at The Boardwalk main entrance across from Fallout Zone and Estate of Evil and winds throughout the water park with fun photo spots and a hay maze. 

A sweet surprise - all guests regardless of age can trick-or-treat through Treatville on Halloween, Oct. 31!

*Costume Policy

• All guests: Costumes that may cause confusion between the Dark Nights actors and guests are not permitted. Additionally, except as otherwise noted below, costumes are permitted on attractions provided they do not interfere with the restraint system, proper riding position, or cause a hazard to guests, employees, and/or the attraction. The loose articles policy for each attraction can be found under the “Additional Restrictions/Accessibility” link located on the information pages for each attraction on Hersheypark’s website, in the Rider Safety & Accessibility Guide, and on the Height Signs located at each attraction. Failure to adhere to the Hersheypark Costume Policy may result in the costume not being permitted or guest removal from the Park.
• Guests age 12 and under: Costumes and costume masks that provide unobstructed peripheral vision at all times with openings that allow the eyes to be fully seen may be worn. Costume masks are not allowed to be worn on any attractions. Having a fully painted face is permitted. This applies to guests who come to Hersheypark in makeup and also to guests who have their faces painted by the Park’s face painters.
• Guests age 13 and older: Costumes may be worn but must be family-friendly and may not be obstructive, offensive, revealing, objectionable, violent, or otherwise disrupt the general safety of guests or employees. Costumes may not contain any props or accessories that resemble or could easily be mistaken for an actual weapon. Costumes may not contain sharp objects, pointed objects or materials that may accidentally strike another guest. Layered costumes or costume props that surround the entire body are strongly discouraged and may be subject to additional security screening. Costumes may not drag on the ground as they could be a trip hazard. Costume masks are not permitted, but guests may have up to half of their face painted provided that it does not alter their identity.

4. Dance with the Hershey Characters at Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball

Join the Hersheypark ghosts and ghouls for the time of their afterlives as they choose the Monster Of The Year at the third annual Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball. Hersh takes the mic and leads the creatures through a spooky pageant that includes three new musical sections. 

Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball is offered each day of Hersheypark Halloween inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre, with three times on Fridays and four times on Saturdays and Sundays. Showtimes on Fridays are 6, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Showtimes on Saturdays and Sundays are 4, 6, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.

View our Guide to Family Entertainment for more details. 

5. Snap a Family Photo with the Hershey Characters

Hersheypark is the only amusement park where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. Sweet Greet opportunities at Hershey’s Hangout with Hershey Bar, Miss Kiss, Reese, Ice Breaker and Kit Kat are listed in the Hersheypark app. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos using #HersheyparkHalloween!

Explore other top photo spots throughout the Park, including the final curtain call for The Descent. 

6. Stroll Through Avenue of the Afterlife

For guests who want to experience Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue of the Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance and dine amongst the soulless who wander through the fog. Guests can purchase exclusive food, join a DJ dance party and watch wicked-fun street performances, including fire breathers and acrobats - all while skipping the scares! 

View our Avenue of the Afterlife Guide for showtimes and more details.

7. See Aquatic Animals at Our Friends From The Sea Show

Guests can see California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

8. Satisfy Your Cravings with New Dining Experiences

Guests often come for the rides but stay for the sweets at Hersheypark, and Halloween is no different. Hersheypark offers a taste of fall with more than 50 limited-time treats, savory eats and cocktails available during Hersheypark Halloween. Instagram-worthy items include a Halloween-themed King Size Shake topped with baked goods, KILLbassa bowl, Fall Out Fries and so much more! 

View our 2025 Foodie Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights to eat your way through Hersheypark.

Guests can also sample some of the frightfully delicious food offerings available during Dark Nights with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which includes a choice of up to five specialty menu items from more than 30 food and beverage options throughout the Park, such as the Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles, Bee Sting Wings and more. The Tasting Pass is $37.95 plus tax and can be purchased online before a visit or at any Guest Services location throughout the Park. Please note that the last day to use the Tasting Pass is Nov. 2 - don't miss out on the hauntingly good eats!

Check out our Guide to the 2025 Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass.

9. Explore Dark Nights Haunted Houses and Scare Zones

If your family wants to give scare a try, the nightmare continues for Dark Nights in its fourth year with new, blood-curdling frights lurking about beginning nightly at 6 p.m. A Hersheypark Halloween ticket or 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass includes Dark Nights admission with five haunted houses and four spine-chilling scare zones that vary in intensity. 

New in 2025 is the Kill ‘N Fill Garage Haunted House. Fueled by evil, killers have taken over the abandoned Kill ’N Fill Garage, and what goes on behind the rusted chain link fence is sure to send sparks flying. Also new is Path of Shadows Coven's Curse, a scare zone featuring three mysterious witches. 

Some aspects of the experience may be too intense for children younger than 13. Parental discretion and guidance are advised. 

Explore the Haunt Guide to Dark Nights for more details.

10. Visit ZooAmerica for Creatures of The Night (Starting Oct. 3)

Guests should bring their flashlight and curiosity, because ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is getting in on the Halloween action as they celebrate the 45th anniversary of Creatures of the Night! The Zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this fall, with the Creatures Of The Night event running five weekends on Fridays and Saturdays from Oct. 3 to Nov. 1. The Halloween-themed experience from 6-9 p.m. is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open after dark for visitors to explore the Zoo by flashlight to see their favorite nocturnal animals under the cover of nightfall and enjoy educational activities. 

View the Creatures Of The Night 2025 Guide for more details. 

ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Guests interested in visiting ZooAmerica before Hersheypark opens will have to purchase a separate Zoo admission here.

11. Book a Fall Getaway

Visitors looking to treat the family to a Halloween weekend in The Sweetest Place On Earth can book the perfect fall getaway at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, with rates available online. 

The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge offers several Halloween packages, including a Dark Nights package featuring two nights of deluxe accommodations, a two-day Hersheypark ticket, breakfast each day, Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Passes and Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Passes for each guest. 

All guests of The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge or Hersheypark Camping Resort receive FREE Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra hours at the Park with Preview Plan, and free front-gate shuttle service to the all-new exclusive resort drop-off location. 

Great ticket deals, including a Family 4-Pack, are available on Hersheypark.com. Hersheypark Halloween tickets include 50 rides (weather and maintenance permitting), five Dark Nights haunted houses, four scare zones, thrilling dark ride opportunities and Halloween entertainment. 2025 Season Pass Holders enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights as part of their year-long perks.

If you are a current 2025 Season Pass Holder or considering becoming a new 2026 Season Pass Holder, now is the time to renew or buy to save up to $130 through Nov. 2, 2025.

Learn more about the 2026 Season Pass options below and renew or purchase yours today for a year of Hersheypark Happy at the best price!

An Overview of Season Pass Tiers

All 2026 Season Passes include unlimited visits throughout the 2026 operating year for all four seasons at Hersheypark, including Spring Weekends, Summer, Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Depending on the Pass type, Season Pass Holders can also enjoy free parking, a free Pre-K Pass, other sweet perks, exclusive Season Pass Holder events and great discounts around town. 

Below is an overview of each Season Pass tier to help you decide which one is right for you. 

Please note that Hersheypark does not offer family, military, junior or senior Season Passes, as they are already a discounted product. Military ticket offers may be available seasonally on ID.me. Each guest, age three and older, must have their own ticket or Season Pass to enter Hersheypark. 

Giant Size Season Pass  
A Giant Size Season Pass is the biggest, most perk-packed Hersheypark Season Pass tier and includes the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2026 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Single-Use, Single-Ride Fast Track each visit to skip the line on one participating Fast Track attraction, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• Two free Pre-K Passes valid for children born on or after July 1, 2021
• Three free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2026 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Three free Single-Use Snack Vouchers
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 21 through Sept. 7
• Access to the Exclusive Giant Size Pass Holder Lounge
• 45% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2026 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• Up to 50% off Unlimited All-Day Fast Track the day of the visit, excluding Boardwalk attractions and Dark Nights haunted houses
• $150 off All-Season Fast Track
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2026 Giant Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2026
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2026

King Size Season Pass  
Hersheypark wrapped up everything Pass Holders love about Full Size Season Passes and added some King Size perks, including the following benefits:

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2026 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after July 1, 2021
• Two free 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets valid for the 2026 public operating year
• The All-Year Drink Plan with one Season Pass Holder Souvenir Cup
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 21 through Sept. 7
• 35% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2026 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• 2026 King Size Season Pass Holder Bag
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2026
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2026

Full Size Season Pass  
The Full Size Season Pass is packed full of perks, sweet discounts, a monthly rewards calendar and more, as noted below.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2026 public operating season
• Free parking and access to a Season Pass Holder parking lot on a first-come, first-served basis
• One free Pre-K Pass valid for children born on or after July 1, 2021
• Hersheypark Sweet Start 1-hour early access from May 21 through Sept. 7
• 25% off the full gate price on up to twenty 1-day regular Hersheypark tickets for friends and family during the 2026 operating year when purchased through the Season Pass Portal
• 15% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark
• 15% off games with a Hersheypark Games Card
• Special monthly discounts, exclusive offers and sweet rewards with the Monthly Rewards Program in 2026
• Access to all exclusive Season Pass Holder events in 2026

Bite Size Season Pass
Bite Size Season Passes offer an introduction to the Hersheypark Season Pass program with unlimited admission. Please note that Bite Size Season Pass Holders DO NOT receive 1-hour early access with Hersheypark Sweet Start or access to Season Pass Holder events, even when accompanied by a Full Size, King Size or Giant Size Pass Holder. No exceptions.

• Unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2026 public operating season
• 50% off general parking when purchased in advance online through the Season Pass Portal
• 5% off food, drink and retail at Hersheypark

Pre-K Pass Perk  
Full Size and King Size Season Pass Holders receive one free Pre-K Pass, and Giant Size Season Pass Holders receive two free Pre-K Passes as part of their perks. The free Pre-K Pass is available for a child who is under five years old and born on or after July 1, 2021. The qualifying child will receive unlimited visits to Hersheypark and ZooAmerica during the 2026 public operating season, plus 1-hour early Sweet Start access during the summer season. 

The Pre-K Pass activation vouchers will be loaded into the Season Pass Portal in early 2026. Pre-K Passes must be redeemed by July 1, 2026. Children 2 and under are eligible to redeem a Pre-K Pass but are not required to have an admission ticket for entry. Any guest wanting to use the Pre-K Pass to enter ZooAmerica prior to Pass redemption must show their confirmation email. 

2026 Season Pass+  
Guests who do not already have a 2025 Season Pass but want to enjoy the rest of 2025 and all of 2026 can purchase a 2026 Season Pass+. This Pass option includes unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween, Dark Nights and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane in 2025 and all public operating days in 2026. It's a great option for 2025 Summer Fun Card Holders!

For the remainder of 2025, Season Pass+ Holders can enjoy all the perks of a Full Size Pass, like free parking, discounts and access to exclusive Season Pass Holder events. Please note that any other perks based on the Season Pass tier selected, such as Hersheypark tickets, welcome bags and Drink Plans and cups, and a free Pre-K Pass, are not available until next year.

New 2026 Season Pass Purchases

2026 Season Passes are available for purchase now, starting at 10 monthly payments of less than $15. 

Season Pass Payment Plan
Buying a Season Pass is even more affordable with a monthly payment plan. Guests must simply select their Payment Plan at checkout, and after an initial down payment, the monthly payment will be automatically deducted each month. 

Season Pass Auto-Renewal
New Season Pass Holders can ensure they always pay the best price on their Season Pass by selecting auto-renewal pay in full or auto-renewal payment plan at checkout. Anyone who enrolls in the auto-renewal program will lock in the introductory 2026 Pass price as their rate for 2027. Please note that auto-renew must be chosen during the Season Pass purchase. 

Upgrade a 2025 Ticket
Guests with a 2025 Hersheypark ticket can upgrade to a 2026 Full Size Season Pass+ to receive unlimited admission for the rest of 2025 and all of 2026. 

2026 Season Pass Renewals

2025 Hersheypark Season Passes are valid through Jan. 4, 2026. Current 2025 Season Pass Holders can renew now at their same Pass tier for the lowest price on 2026 Season Passes. 

Season Pass Auto-Renewals
Season Pass Holders who selected the auto-renewal option last year do not need to do anything at this time. The Passes will automatically renew into the same Pass tier by the lock-in date listed in the email sent with the auto-renewal information to the current Season Pass Holder. Any changes to Season Pass Plans must be communicated before the date listed in the email.  

Please note that if a 2025 Drink or Dining Plan was added on in a separate order after the initial 2025 Season Pass purchase, the Season Pass Holder will need to purchase them separately again for 2026, if interested. A la carte add-ons will be available for purchase in early 2026.

Upgrade Your Season Pass Tier
2025 Season Pass Holders can renew and upgrade their Pass tier for the 2026 season. Guests who upgrade to a different tier will receive their new tier perks starting in January 2026. 

2025 Season Pass Holders who selected auto-renewal but are interested in upgrading from a Bite Size, Full Size or King Size Season Pass to a Giant Size Season Pass before the auto-renewal has been processed can contact the Guest Experience team via this form. For comprehensive assistance, please add all Season Pass Holder names and Season Pass IDs to the field section.

2026 Season Pass Add-Ons

Select Dining, Drink and Fast Track plans are now available to add to a Season Pass, depending on the tier, when purchased simultaneously.

Please note that Season Pass Add-on(s) will only auto-renew if they were purchased together with a 2025 Season Pass. Any Dining Plan or Drink Plan purchased separately from the original 2025 contract will not be auto-renewed for 2026. Season Pass Holders can purchase them as separate add-ons in early 2026.

Season Pass Dining Plans
Hersheypark will offer two 2026 Summer Dining Plans: the Season Pass All-Summer Twice-A-Day Dining Plan and the Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan. Full Size, King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can add them to their Season Pass purchase or renewal now. 

The Season Pass Twice-A-Day Dining Plan is valid for two meals per day, three hours apart, at 21 dining locations - more than the previous year! These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Chickie’s and Pete’s in Pioneer Frontier, Subway in Pioneer Frontier, Berks, Nathan's Famous Truck, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill, Walking Taco Food Truck, Spring Creek Smokehouse, East Coast Burger Works, Philly Cheesesteak Co., Subway in Midway America and Chickie's and Pete's in Midway America. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

The Season Pass All-Summer Once-A-Day Dining Plan allows guests to purchase a lower-priced Summer Dining Plan valid for one meal per day at 14 locations throughout Hersheypark - more than the previous year! These locations include Dispatch Pizzeria Express, Nathan’s Famous in Founder’s Way, 1906 Grill, Dispatch in The Hollow, Flying Fare, Overlook Food Court, Kissing Tower Snacks, Berks, Nathan's Famous Truck, 8-Cut Crust, Keepin' It Kosher, Nathan’s Famous in The Boardwalk, Shoreline Grill and Walking Taco Food Truck. Locations are subject to change without notice and by season.

Season Pass Drink Plans
Hersheypark will offer a Season Pass All-Year Drink Plan to enjoy free refills in an exclusive 2026 souvenir cup on fountain drinks and Slush. The 2026 All-Year Drink Plan is included as a perk for King Size and Giant Size Season Pass Holders. This add-on will be available for Full Size and Bite Size Season Pass Holders to purchase separately closer to the start of the 2026 season.

Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and Photo Pass
The Season Pass All-Season Fast Track and All-Year Photo Pass will go on sale in early 2026. Program details, including pricing, will be available at that time. 

As a perk, 2026 Giant Size Season Pass Holders may purchase the 2026 All-Season Fast Track for $150 off the regular rate at Ticketing Services on-property only starting in 2026.

Season Pass Next Steps

Hersheypark Season Pass Holders are encouraged to create a Season Pass Portal Account to access important information, purchase add-ons, link their family's passes, manage their payment method and more.

New 2026 Season Pass and 2025 Season Pass+ Holders will also be able to upload their account profile picture directly through the Season Pass Portal. Be sure to take your profile picture in a well-lit area and that the photo is of yourself without anyone else in frame, centered on your head and shoulders. Please note that you must remove any hats or sunglasses and that photos of other photos are not acceptable. Once you've successfully uploaded a photo, your digital card can be added to your HPGO account in the Hersheypark App. Physical Season Pass ID cards are not required to begin using your Season Pass.

2025 Season Pass Holders who renew for 2026 into the same tier do not need to get a new Season Pass ID card.

We look forward to a sweet 2026 with our Season Pass Holder family! 

Check out this photo guide of the top 10 things to do at Creatures Of The Night, weather permitting.

1. See the creatures of the night by flashlight

Creatures Of The Night is the only time of year that ZooAmerica is open to the public after dark to see the nocturnal North American animals. Guests of all ages are encouraged to bring their own flashlights for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats. Visitors might spot a porcupine in a tree, a black bear in its den, a mountain lion climbing its rock structure or a gray wolf howling under the moon. It's a fun and unique way to observe animal habits after the sun sets.

2. Watch a zookeeper at work (NEW)

A Zoo naturalist will work in the Falconry Building for all guests to see what it's like in a typical zookeeper's office. The naturalist will be just like one of the animals to observe. This is a nod to the human exhibit that was conducted many years ago, where someone would “watch TV” and act like a human at home, seemingly unaware of the observing visitors. 

3. Go on a history-themed scavenger hunt (NEW)

In celebration of the 45th anniversary of the Halloween event, guests can participate in a scavenger hunt around the Zoo to learn about its history with items hidden in animal habitats and buildings.

There is also a new history display case that houses photos and artifacts related to the history of ZooAmerica and Creatures Of The Night.

4. Find Bigfoot (NEW)

Bigfoot will move to a new location every weekend (five spots in total). Guests are encouraged to find him and take a photo/selfie to share on social media using the hashtag #SasquatchSelfieZA.

5. Stop by “Furry Tails" on the patio

Visitors can stop by “Furry Tails” in a spooky-decorated tent on the Woodlands Patio. Zoo staff will be on-site with ferrets for guests to see up close and learn about their diet. 

Guests can even see and feel some of the food combinations given to the animals at the new "Creature Kitchen” display. Additionally, those who enjoy arts and crafts can color their own potion, with supplies provided.

6. Decorate a luminary

Guests are encouraged to bring their curiosity and creativity to the Zoo after dark! An arts and crafts station is set up in the Big Sky Country region for guests to decorate a luminary. Supplies will be provided. Throughout the evening, Zoo staff will place the decorated luminaries in an animal habitat to light up the night. 

Don't forget to snap a photo of your artwork and tag us on Facebook and Instagram at @ZooAmerica!

7. Observe an animal enrichment

Guests can watch an animal enrichment activity at 6:30 p.m. on each operating evening of Creatures Of The Night. 

• Friday night: Great Southwest animals
• Saturday night: Gray wolves

As a bonus, a touch-and-feel table staffed by a ZooAmerica team member is set up in front of the gray wolf habitat during Creatures Of The Night. Visitors can stop by the table to see and feel various animal fur and paw prints, and ask questions about the gray wolves.

8. Get up close to creepy crawlers

Inside the Woodlands Classroom, creepy crawler invertebrates are on display. Guests can see tarantulas, cockroaches, walking sticks, scorpions, mealworms and superworms. Those brave enough can even stick their hand in a mystery box!

9. Learn about the animal skeletal system

Back by popular demand, guests can get an up-close look at animal X-ray images inside the Great Southwest Building. They can learn about the diverse skeletal systems of animals through a display of skulls. Team members will be on-site to discuss the various X-rays and answer questions. 

10. Enjoy decorations

Across from the prairie dog habitat is a display of recycled treasures, decorated by the ZooAmerica team. It's a great photo opportunity! The 11-acre Zoo is also decorated with Halloween lights and other spooky touches for guests to enjoy during their self-guided flashlight tour.

New this year, guests can read nocturnal animal facts while playing flashlight hide and seek with animal cutouts on the ramp between the Southern Swamps and Great Southwest buildings.

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark during posted Park hours. Separate admission, starting at $14.50 plus taxes and fees, is also available online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building for guests who plan to attend just Creatures Of The Night. 

Are you interested in discovering more family-friendly activities this fall? Check out our Family-Friendly Guide to Hersheypark Halloween 2025. 

Did you know that Hersheypark Halloween is the last chance to enjoy some of the Northeast's largest coaster collection before select coasters from the lineup close for the 2025 operating year? Follow along for a complete rundown of when each coaster will take its final lap of the year.

Coasters Closing After November 2

With the colder months fast approaching, it's almost time for some of the high-thrill coasters to close as they prepare for winter maintenance ahead of the 2026 operating season. The following coasters will give their final rides of the year on Nov. 2 and won't return until the start of Spring Weekends: 

• Comet: Oldest coaster at Hersheypark, featuring 3,360 feet of wooden track and several airtime-producing bunny hills
• Fahrenheit: Steep coaster featuring a 97-degree drop from a 121-foot lift hill
• Great Bear: Fan-favorite inverted steel coaster where riders sit under the track and experience four inversions\
• Lightning Racer: Dueling wooden coaster with two mirrored tracks for the thrill of competition
• Skyrush: First-class flight reaching an altitude of 200 feet and speeds of 75 mph
• Storm Runner: Only launch coaster of its kind in the Northeast, launching guests from 0 to 72 mph in just two seconds
• Trailblazer: Family coaster that takes guests through Pioneer Frontier

Thrill seekers who visit during the final two weekends of Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights can also enjoy lights-out rides on Candymonium, Comet, Lightning Racer and Wildcat's Revenge during the last operating hour of Hersheypark Halloween (9-10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, 8-9 p.m. on Sundays). 

Coasters Open Through Christmas Candylane

While the coasters listed above close with the end of Hersheypark Halloween, seven remain open through Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, weather permitting. A holiday tradition for more than 40 years, Hersheypark Christmas Candylane operates on select dates from Nov. 14 through Jan. 4, 2026. Hersheypark is one of the few remaining places along the East Coast to see holiday lights from roller coasters!

• Candymonium: Tallest, fastest, longest and sweetest coaster at Hersheypark featuring a 210-foot ascent and seven camelback hills
• Cocoa Cruiser: Bite-sized coaster that's perfect for small thrill seekers
• Jolly Rancher Remix: Multi-sensory boomerang coaster featuring seasonal lighting and scents
• Laff Trakk: Indoor, spinning, glowing family coaster that pays homage to the classic funhouse experience
• sooperdooperLooper: First modern looping coaster on the East Coast with small drops, graceful dips and bunny hills
• Wild Mouse: Classic coaster with tight corners, sharp turns and sudden drops
• Wildcat's Revenge: Hybrid coaster of wood and steel featuring an 82-degree drop and the world's largest underflip

*Please note that ride availability is subject to weather and maintenance. Cold temperatures, wind and snow on tracks can impact which rides operate to ensure the optimal guest experience. Guests should visit the Hersheypark app on the day of their visit for the most up-to-date ride availability and wait times.

Great ticket deals for both Hersheypark Halloween and Christmas Candylane are available on Hersheypark.com. 

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is available starting at 4:30 p.m. during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days through Nov. 2, 2025, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted. 

Dare to check out the Foodie Guide to Spirit's Rooftop Bar, featuring a dozen limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred.

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Cocktails

Guests who dare to venture upstairs will find spirits both real and imagined. This year, Spirit's Rooftop Bar features ten new cocktail creations! The following cocktails are available for guests ages 21 and older.

• Transmission Fluid: Hidden Still Vodka, Blue Curacao, Cranberry Juice, Lime Juice, Starry Soda - Serves two
• Firebreather: Spiced Rum, Blackberry Liqueur, Lemon, Charred Orange Wheel, Fire Cube
• Toxic Waste: Corralejo Tequila, Melon Liqueur, St-Germain, Lime Juice, Ginger Beer, Tonic
• Spider Venom: Martell Cognac, Cherry Puree, Simple Syrup, Orange Bitters
• Cup O' Spirits: Wakame Miso Broth, Sake, Dry Vermouth, Lemon Juice, Soy Sauce, Sesame Seeds, Cucumber Water - Served warm
• The Inkmaster: Gray Whale Gin, Blue Curacao, Blackberry Liqueur, Lime Juice, Midnight Shimmer Glitter
• The Sleeping Spell: Jim Beam, Chamomile Tea, Lemon Juice, Peach Bitters, Edible Gold Flakes
• Ember Witch Margarita: Corralejo Tequila, Mezcal, Lime, Agave, Pineapple Soda, Jalapeño Ice, Tajin Rim
• Bloody Mary, Bloody Mary: Hidden Still Vodka, House Mix, Gas Station Hot Dog, Jerky, Celery & Cheese Stick Garnishes
• Spirits on the Rooftop: Spiced Rum, Lime Juice, Mint Simple, Angostura Bitters, Brain Garnish

Along with these new creations, two fan-favorite spirits have returned for another year above the rooftops:

• Witch's Potion: Raspberry Vodka, Blue Curacao, Lime Juice, Starry, Blue Shimmer
• Graveyard Sunrise: Ghost Pepper Tequila, Blood Orange Puree, Orange Juice, Grenadine, Smoke Bubble

The younger goblins can enjoy Blood Bank Mocktails, available for purchase on the patio.

• Black
• Orange
• Purple
• Red

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Shareables

A selection of shareables is available to feed guests' fears while gargoyles watch over their every move. 

• Tombstone Taquitos (NEW): Jalapeño Lime Crema, Cilantro
• Chop Shop Sliders (NEW): Bison Sliders, White Cheddar, Raspberry-Habanero BBQ, Pepperoncini “Stake” Fries
• Spare Tires (NEW): Charcoal Dusted Onion Rings, Smoky Mezcal BBQ
• Lug Nuts (NEW): Cheesy Tots, Paprika & Black Cocoa “Rust”
• Gas Station Sushi (NEW): Spicy Tuna Salad, Nacho Cheese Crust, Toxic Mayo
• Twisted Nachos (NEW): Tortilla Chips, Shredded Beef Jerky, Cheese Sauce, Pork Rinds, Jalapeño, Hot Pickle Ranch
• Wheel of Misery: Tombstone Taquitos, Lug Nuts, Pickle Dip, Midnight Mozzarella Moons, Bacon Bites

Spirit's Rooftop Bar Desserts

Guests should save room for two all-new, dreadfully delicious desserts to satisfy their sweet tooth.

• Flamin' Midway Brownie: Chocolate Brownie, Vanilla Ice Cream, Caramel Sauce, Chocolate Skull, Spiced Rum - Torched Tableside
• Pit Stop Slush: Cherry Milkshake, Powdered Donut, Twizzlers Twists, Beef Jerky

To add to the spooky ambiance, horror movies are screened without sound on the patio. View the movie schedule and complete Spirit's menu here.

To keep up with all the sweet and spooky food news, follow @HersheyparkEats on Instagram and @TheChocolatierHersheypark on Facebook. During your visit, be sure to tag us on social media using #HersheyparkEats, and let us know your favorite items this season. 

Don't forget to check out the 2025 Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Foodie Guide for more than 50 other eats and treats available throughout the eight-weekend seasonal event.

Not sure how to make the most of the last few weekends of the Halloween season? Follow along for a rundown of seven can't-miss experiences at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights for some eerie inspiration. 

1. Brave the Two New Chilling Haunts

This year, Dark Nights introduced two new haunts with the Kill ‘N Fill Garage haunted house and the Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse scare zone. 

Kill 'N Fill Garage, located in the Midway America region of the Park, is the latest immersive house in the Dark Nights lineup and captures the spirit of the mid-century service station with an eerie twist. Visitors will wander through a junkyard, a grease-stained mechanics bay and more, but should beware because the screams start when the engines die. 

Guests can also venture to the Path of Shadows, located behind the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre, where three mysterious witches have emerged and cast haunting spells. Something wicked is brewing, and if visitors don't tread carefully, they may risk becoming the next victim of the Coven's Curse.

2. Roam Through the Other Haunted Houses and Scare Zones

These two new haunts join a total lineup of five haunted houses and four scare zones - all included with admission! All of the returning haunted houses, including the fan favorites Auntie Mortem's Abattoir and Estate of Evil, are back with evolved storylines, new characters and even more intensity than before. 

As guests roam through the four scare zones, they will come face-to-face with the creatures that haunt the night. Those brave enough can feel the chaos of the radiation in the Fallout Zone or see the viral Decayed Brigade as they slide their way through the Midway of Misery.

View the 2025 Guide to Dark Nights Presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® for more details.

3. Ride Coasters in the Dark

Who says Halloween screams can only come from scares? Hersheypark offers 50 attractions, including more than 40 kiddie and family rides, weather and maintenance permitting throughout the fall season. 

To up the thrill level, guests can enjoy lights-out dark rides on Candymonium, Comet, Lightning Racer and Wildcat's Revenge as part of the largest coaster collection in the Northeast exclusively during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation. Guests who have never experienced a coaster ride in complete darkness are in for a real treat.

New in 2025, fans of Laff Trakk indoor coaster can experience Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk for the Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights season. This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company's Shaq-A-Licious brand features glowing visuals, immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit and a curated voice-over provided by Shaquille O’Neal, marking the first-of-its-kind coaster overlay.

4. Watch Eerie Entertainment

Also included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket is a wide variety of entertainment that guests won't want to miss. For fans of the Hershey Characters, they can visit Hershey's Hangout to snap a photo during Halloween Sweet Greets or vote for the Monster Of The Year at the Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball show located inside the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. 

Looking for something a little more spooky? Families should plan to stroll through the Avenue of the Afterlife scare-free zone, where they will find wicked-fun street performances like fire breathers and acrobats, along with a DJ dance party. Another must-see show awaits in the Midway of Misery with the Slider Showcase featuring the viral Decayed Brigade. Built for chaos, this high-impact stunt crew is sure to put on quite the spectacle. This Brigade doesn't just perform...they take over. 

View our Halloween Entertainment Guide for a full overview of shows and showtimes. Showtimes are also available on the Hersheypark App during your visit.

5. Trick-or-Treat

Hersheypark is the sweetest place to trick-or-treat! Children 12 and under are invited to enjoy 14 sweet stops on the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail. The Trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four stops to Treatville at The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 candy stops, including an exclusive Shaq-A-Licious treat location.

Treatville is open at the start of each operating day until 8:30 p.m., including Halloween night on Friday, Oct. 31. The path begins at The Boardwalk main entrance across from Fallout Zone and Estate of Evil and winds throughout the water park with fun photo spots and a hay maze. 

6. Fuel Up with Tasting Pass 

No trip to Hersheypark is complete without indulging in a signature culinary creation. There are over 50 unique items for guests to sink their teeth into, including seasonal King Size Shakes and themed cocktails for guests ages 21 and older. Back by popular demand is the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which allows parkgoers to choose from five snacks, desserts and drinks out of more than 30 specialty options available at 12 different locations throughout the Park. 

7. Cheers to the Season at Spirit's Rooftop Bar

Parkgoers should be sure to include a pit stop at Spirit's Rooftop Bar, located on the patio of The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio. This haunted rooftop is home to nocturnal nightcaps, sinful shareables and devilish desserts inspired by the haunts of Dark Nights. 

Spirit's Rooftop Bar is available starting at 4:30 p.m. during all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights operating days through Nov. 2, weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted. 

There are so many frightfully fun times to be had at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights. Remember, access to all haunted houses, scare zones, rides, and entertainment is included with the one-price admission! 

Great ticket deals are available on Hersheypark.com for guests to save on a visit before night falls on the Halloween season.

The darkness sweeps over Hersheypark each operating night beginning at 6 p.m., with thrills lurking around every corner both day and night. An incredible value, Dark Nights is included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket, a 2025 Season Pass or a 2026 Season Pass+. 

Check out this guide to what's new and more sinister than ever this season at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania.

Scream your way through five haunted houses

Dark Nights features five haunted houses with all-new and evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity. 

Kill ‘N Fill Garage (New for 2025)

Located in the tent in Midway America near Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

Fueled by evil, killers have taken over the abandoned Kill ‘N Fill Garage, and what goes on behind the rusted chain link fence is sure to send sparks flying. Enter the grease-stained mechanics bay, weave around twisted wreckage in the body shop, and wade through the blood-slicked car wash. But, beware… the screams start when the engines die.

Estate of Evil

Located in Tidal Force Catering across from Tidal Force and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone

Estate of Evil debuted at Dark Nights in 2024 as the first proper exploration of a traditional haunted “house” trope at Hersheypark. The 13 rooms in this mansion offer charm, mystery, and a new sauna that is sure to make you sweat. Just be warned: the last guests who overstayed their welcome are still feeling the heat. 

Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir

Located next to Music Express and Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk in the Midway America region

Auntie Mortem's Abattoir just added a packing room to the tour. Her nephew is stepping up his game, and his twisted cousin is on hand to keep the family business running… no matter what (or who) comes through the door.

Haunted Coal Mine

Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse

Head back down into the suffocating darkness of Haunted Coal Mine, where time slows down, and the air runs thin. Step inside a new room that offers a breath of relief…but not for long. Down here, not everything that breathes is human. 

Twisted Carnevil

Located in the tent in Midway America near Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse

Step right up to Twisted Carnevil! The big top is abuzz with new acts. But watch your back! One of the new performers leaves more than a mark… they leave a permanent impression. 

Brave four scare zones

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways transform into four scare zones - more than ever before - each evening. Guests can venture through them to come face-to-face with the creatures that haunt their nightmares. 

Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse (NEW FOR 2025)

Located behind Chevrolet Music Box Theatre

Long hidden from sight, the Path Of Shadows has opened, and three mysterious witches have emerged. Tread carefully through our all-new scare zone, where something wicked is brewing, or run the risk of becoming the next victim of the Coven’s Curse. 

Midway Of Misery

Located outside Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk

The viral Decayed Brigade is back at Dark Nights, faster, fiercer and sliding with vengeance. With a bigger crew and control of the Midway of Misery, every spark, scrape, and scream marks their grim return. 

Guests can see the Decayed Brigade slide in their unmistakable, gritty style during a Slider Showcase outside of Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. Built for chaos, this high-impact stunt crew is sure to put on quite the spectacle. This Brigade doesn't just perform...they take over. 

Fallout Zone 

Located near Tidal Force

The green fog is back, and radiation is spreading. Chaos is rising, and the real threat isn’t the fallout… it’s the aftermath.

Darkstone’s Hollow

Located in The Hollow across the bridge

After a brutal battle, Professor Darkstone stands victorious, his mythical menagerie broken and caged. The creatures are under Darkstone’s command for now, but you can feel the danger in the air. Stay hidden or be hunted.

Feel the rush on more than a dozen high-thrill rides

Many people may not realize that nearly all of the rides and roller coasters at Hersheypark, except for the water attractions, remain open for the Halloween season, weather and maintenance permitting. Of the more than 50 rides included with admission during Hersheypark Halloween, 16 are given a high-thrill or aggressive-thrill rating, so there is no shortage of screams to be had. 

For guests who crave the ultimate intensity, we recommend hitting up Twizzlers Twisted Gravity during its first fall and the all-new Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk. It's also the last chance to get rides on Skyrush, Fahrenheit, Great Bear, Storm Runner and the family-friendly Comet and Trailblazer (closes at 5 p.m.) before they close for the holiday season.

Take a coaster ride in complete darkness

The Halloween season is the ONLY time of year that thrill seekers can experience a dark ride on some of their favorite roller coasters. During the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation each evening, the lights are turned off on Wildcat’s Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer to create a ride experience unlike any other. Trust us when we say riding a coaster at white-knuckle speed in the pitch dark is not for the faint of heart. 

Scare your taste buds with dreadfully delicious eats and treats

Guests can get a taste of some of the frightfully delicious food offerings available only during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights with the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass. The Pass includes a choice of up to five specialty menu items from more than 30 food and beverage options throughout the Park, such as the KILLbassa Bowl, Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles, Bee Sting Wings, Cheeseburger Dip with Tortilla Chips, Red Velvet Cold Brew, Garlic Spirello and more. The Tasting Pass is $37.95 plus tax and can be purchased online before a visit or in person at Guest Services locations. 

Sip at Spirits Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Parkgoers can shift gears for a ghastly good time with spirits both real and imagined at Spirit’s Rooftop Bar on The Chocolatier patio, weather permitting. Guests ages 21 and older can enjoy limited-time-only spine-chilling cocktails like the fuel pump served “Transmission Fluid” and wicked-good eats like the smoky dusted “Spare Tires” onion ring. 

The haunted rooftop bar is available during all Hersheypark Halloween operating days starting at 4:30 p.m., weather permitting. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted.  

Stroll through the Avenue Of The Afterlife

For those guests who want to experience Dark Nights thrills without any chills, there's no need to fear! Families can take a walk down the Avenue Of The Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. This scare-free zone is the place to dance and dine amongst the soulless who wander through the fog. Guests can purchase exclusive food, join a DJ dance party and watch wicked-fun street performances, including fire breathers and acrobats - all while skipping the scares! 

Save on tickets

Great ticket deals, including a Family 4-Pack, are available on Hersheypark.com. Hersheypark Halloween tickets include 50 rides (weather and maintenance permitting), five Dark Nights haunted houses, four scare zones, thrilling dark ride opportunities and Halloween entertainment. 

2025 Season Pass Holders enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights as part of their year-long perks.

Get to the thrills faster

Guests wishing to get to the thrills and fear faster and skip the lines during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights can add a Fast Track program to their admission ticket. Limited quantities are available, so guests are encouraged to buy online today. Please note that Hersheypark admission tickets are sold separately and are required for entry to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights. 

• Hersheypark Fast Track + Dark Nights Haunted Houses Unlimited - Skip the regular line all day long on participating coasters and rides, plus all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Dark Nights Haunted House Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line all night long at the five haunted houses after 6 p.m.
• Hersheypark Fast Track Unlimited - Skip the regular line for each of the participating attractions all day long.
• Hersheypark Fast Track - Skip the regular line once per day on participating coasters and rides.

Dare to join?

O’Neal Wows MHS Students 

O’Neal surprised students during the school’s “Our Big Pledge Challenge” event, where he played games and encouraged the crowd to embrace values such as strength, purpose and perseverance. He then joined 2,500 students and staff in signing a commitment wall, leaving both a literal and symbolic mark on the school’s history. 

“Hershey showed up with heart today,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “I came to remind these kids that they’ve got greatness in them. When you believe in yourself and put in the work, there’s no limit to what you can do.” 

“Shaquille O’Neal’s presence today brought energy and a powerful message to our students,” said Peter G. Gurt ’85, President of Milton Hershey School. “His story of perseverance and purpose aligns with our mission  and the values we’ve upheld for a century.”

Bringing Big Laughs to Hersheypark 

The excitement continued at Hersheypark, where O’Neal and a group of MHS students checked out the newly launched Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk, an immersive overlay of the indoor glowing coaster offered as part of its Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights seasonal event, which runs through Nov. 2, 2025. The first-of-its-kind coaster overlay features graphics, lighting and enhanced audio-visual treatments, including a curated voice 
over by O’Neal. 

While in the Park, O’Neal also recorded an episode of The Big Podcast with Shaq.

Big, Meet Delicious 

Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk is inspired by Shaquille’s Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, created in partnership with The Hershey Company. The oversized gummies are available now in Original, Sour and new Sneaker Shapes. Following its launch in 2024, Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies became Hershey's #1 sweets launch of the year. 

The day concluded with O’Neal’s keynote address at the PA Chamber Annual Dinner at Hershey Lodge.

We've got you covered with the can't miss activities! Check out this guide of things to do from Oct. 10-13, 2025, in Hershey, Pa.

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Hersheypark is open Friday through Sunday for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® immersive haunt experience. The USA TODAY Top 10Best Theme Park Halloween Event features family-friendly offerings and frights - all included in the one-price admission. 

Guests can enjoy five haunted houses, four scare zones, thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operation, trick-or-treating along the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail for children 12 and under, a Monster Ball with the Hershey Characters, wicked-fun street performances and exclusive food along the Avenue of the Afterlife, and more. 

Event Hours

• Friday, Oct. 10, from 5-10 p.m.

• Saturday, Oct. 11, from 12-10 p.m. 

• Sunday, Oct. 12, from 12-9 p.m. 

• Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after Hersheypark Halloween closes - Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m.

Tickets

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com. Check out our Family-Friendly Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and the Guide to Dark Nights for tips and tricks.

Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica 

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily over the long holiday weekend to explore the wild of North America.  It's also the second weekend of the popular Creatures Of The Night event, which is the only time of year the Zoo is open after dark to observe the nighttime habits of the nocturnal North American animals. Visitors are encouraged to bring flashlights to see black bears, Canada lynx, gray wolves, river otters and more during a walk around the 11-acre zoo in the heart of Hershey.

In celebration of the event's 45th anniversary, ZooAmerica debuted new activities included with admission, such as a history-themed scavenger hunt and a creature kitchen where visitors can learn about animal diets. Decorating a luminary, a creepy crawler display, animal enrichments and other guest-favorite, Halloween-themed activities are also offered during the event.

Event Hours

• ZooAmerica is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Creatures Of The Night runs from 6-9 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 10, and Saturday, Oct. 11 (not offered on Sundays)

Tickets

Creatures Of The Night is included with admission to ZooAmerica, as well as Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Separate admission, starting at $14.50 plus taxes and fees, is also available online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building for guests who plan to attend just Creatures Of The Night. 

Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Guests who dare to explore Spirit’s Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio can order from a specially curated menu featuring a dozen limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts to enjoy as spirits haunt the scarred. Seating is first-come, first-served. Reservations are not accepted. 

Event Hours

• Friday, Oct. 10, and Saturday, Oct. 11, from 4:30-11 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 12, from 4:30-10 p.m.

Hershey Bears vs. Syracuse Crunch

Join Bear Nation at GIANT Center as the Hershey Bears open the 2025-26 season, presented by Penn State Health, against the Syracuse Crunch on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. The team will be back on the ice on Sunday, Oct. 12, for a second home game.

Game Times

• Saturday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 12, at 5 p.m.

Tickets

Hockey fans who purchase tickets to any October game online by Oct. 10 will receive a 2025 Hersheypark ticket to use this Halloween or Christmas!  

Spa Treatments at MeltSpa by Hershey

The long weekend offers a sweet opportunity for a reprieve at the spa. MeltSpa by Hershey day spa in downtown Hershey has facial and/or massage availability over the long weekend. To make an appointment, call 855-500-2366 or visit Meltspa.com. 

Extend Your Stay at the Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Guests can turn their visit into a weekend getaway at one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark. Throughout the long weekend at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge, guests can enjoy seasonal dining on property, splashes at the heated indoor pool complexes and family-friendly resort activities, like s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances and Halloween-themed fun. Or, head to Hersheypark Camping Resort for a sweet camping trip and activities like Kids' Check-In, face painting, fall crafts, s'mores roasts and more. 

Plus, save with Halloween packages like the Dark Nights 2-Night Package, which includes two nights of deluxe accommodations, 2-day Hersheypark Halloween tickets, breakfast each day, a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and Dark Nights Houses Fast Track for each guest. Resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan and free front-gate shuttle service to and from the Park.

Front Gate, Chocolatetown

Your first photo stop comes as soon as you make your way to the main entrance of Hersheypark! The entrance plaza in Hershey's Chocolatetown has been lined with decorative pumpkins and jack-o-lanterns for the perfect fall vibe. Looking for a slightly more eerie aesthetic? Wait until dark and come back to see the overhead sign glow red.

The Descent… Final Curtain Call, Chocolatetown

The next photo-op is just beyond the entrance in front of the iconic Kisses Fountain. The Descent: Catacombs of Decay, the former Dark Nights haunted house, lives on as an interactive photo spot featuring a drainage pipe set piece that guests can actually step inside of. Enhance your shot by waiting for Candymonium to pass overhead!

Hershey's Hangout, Chocolatetown

This iconic Chocolatetown location is normally home to Sweet Greets* with your larger-than-life Hershey's friends, but it's also a great location for pictures with your friends and family! By daylight, you can pose with characters like Hershey Bar directly on the patio of Hershey's Hangout and find other friends nearby like Kit Kat and Ice Breaker. By night, the patio transforms with glowing lights to make a sparkling photo location - perfect for selfies.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Character appearances and times are subject to change.

Hershey Character Glow Dance Party, Music Box Theatre

Speaking of characters, Shake, Rattle, and Glow: Monster Ball is a howling costume pageant hosted by your Hershey's Candy Friends as they sport their Halloween best. While you can get some incredible pictures of characters like Jolly Rancher, Miss Twizz and others on stage, you can also get your very own photo with them! Stay after the show for a Sweet Greet with the characters and pose with them in their special Halloween costumes.

*Check the Hersheypark App or our website for showtimes on the day of your visit. Show times are subject to change.

The Cauldron, Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse

Long hidden from sight, the Path Of Shadows has opened, and three mysterious witches have emerged. In this all-new scare zone, you'll find the centerpiece cauldron is a perfect photo spot that each of the three witches can cast a unique spell upon. You'll find them along with the cauldron behind the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre.

Creature Cages, Darkstone's Hollow

The cages that once held the creatures of Professor Darkstone's mythical menagerie are open for photos in The Hollow region along Spring Creek near the Aquatheatre. Strike a pose from behind the bars, but be careful that you aren't added to the Professor's sinister sideshow!

Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail, Treatville

Located in The Boardwalk region of the Park, Treatville provides some sweet photo spots along a path of 10 candy stops. Day or night, there are plenty of photogenic places to pose including within the hay maze, the all new stop inspired by Shaq-a-Licious Laff Trakk and the pumpkin stacks. These backdrops are just another reason that makes Hersheypark the sweetest place to trick-or-treat! 

Treatville is available each Hersheypark Halloween operating day from Park Opening until 8:30 p.m.

Fallout Zone Entrance and Reactor, Fallout Zone

Just beyond the entrance to Fahrenheit is a portal to the Fallout Zone. At night, the sign glows a radioactive green and emits a thick layer of fog. Capture your photo from an angle, and at just the right time you may even get Fahrenheit running in the background of your shot! 

Venture beyond the fog bubbles, and you'll find a glowing reactor that you can step inside for a unique photo. Just make sure the ghouls aren't waiting for you inside when you least expect it!

Avenue of the Afterlife, The Boardwalk

Also located in The Boardwalk region of the Park, the Avenue of the Afterlife is home to scary-good eats, wicked-fun entertainment and plenty of photo landmarks! Grab a picture near the decorated entrance portal, get unique views of Lightning Racer and take in the mesmerizing entertainment of the Fingerz & Eyeballs Acrobat and Juggler Duo and The Nation Firebreathers.

 For more details and an entertainment schedule, check out the Guide to the Avenue of the Afterlife.

Midway of Misery Entrance, Midway America

The Midway America region of the Park transforms into the Midway of Misery scare zone for the fall. The red-glowing archway is a favorite photo spot among Hersheypark guests, with many posing with their favorite ghouls of the midway in front of the arches. Watch out - you never know when The Decayed Brigade may slide into your shot…

Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk, Midway America

Keeping in the Midway of Misery, step into the Shaq-ified world of Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk. This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company merges the Park’s thrills with the fun and flavor of the Shaq-A-Licious brand, featuring glowing visuals, amped-up audio and immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit. Be sure to take a picture in the hall of mirrors located within the queue line where each mirror has its own Shaq-A-Licious design.

Ferris Wheel, Midway of Misery

One of the most iconic Hersheypark landmarks is the Ferris Wheel - and it's even sweeter during Halloween with a new light package! Grab your photo from within the Midway of Misery and stand back far enough to frame the Ferris Wheel within the space between the arches. Some of our Dark Nights creatures may lurk within the area, so pose with them for some added eeriness.

Fire Moments, Various Locations

Dark Nights features TWO pyrotechnic set pieces within our scare zones. The first is in the Fallout Zone, where after the alarm sounds, flames shoot high into the night atop the Tidal Force bridge. 

Next door, just past Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk in the Midway of Misery, sits the flaming archway, a fire-shooting portal that blasts pyrotechnics synched to the music of the midway. These photo ops are for our most astute photographers, as you'll need the perfect timing to capture your shot of the flames.

Where's Your Favorite Photo Moment?

We want to see your pictures from all of the photo locations! Tag us @Hersheypark on social media and use the hashtags #HersheyparkHalloween #DarkNights and #HersheyPA in your posts. You can also tag your Instagram stories with @Hersheypark for a chance to be featured on our page!

In celebration of the event anniversary, ZooAmerica will offer a special nighttime flashlight tour and new themed activities included with admission. Creatures Of The Night is the only time of year the Zoo is open after dark to explore the nighttime habits of the nocturnal North American animals.

Check out this guide of activities and educational displays for the whole family during Creatures Of The Night, weather permitting.  

Flashlight Tour of the Zoo

During Creatures Of The Night, guests of all ages can explore the 11-acre zoo in the heart of Hershey by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including the black bears, Canada lynx, gray wolves and river otters. There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets.

A special bonus: guests can see the nocturnal animals in the Great Southwest building in “daylight,” a change from regular operating hours.

New Activities for 45th Anniversary

• History-Themed Scavenger Hunt: Guests can participate in a scavenger hunt around the Zoo to learn about its history with items hidden in animal habitats and buildings.
• The Creature Kitchen: Magical Meals: Visitors can stop by a "spooky" tent on the bear patio to see furry friends, like ferrets or an opossum (animals will change nightly). They can also see and feel some of the food combinations given to the animals at ZooAmerica. Those who like arts and crafts can even color, with supplies provided.
• Find Bigfoot: Bigfoot will move to a new location every weekend (five spots in total). Guests are encouraged to find him and take a photo/selfie to share on social media using the hashtag #SasquatchSelfieZA.
• Flashlight Hide and Seek: Guests can read nocturnal animal facts while playing flashlight hide and seek with animal cutouts on the ramp between the Southern Swamps and Great Southwest buildings.
• “Modern Zookeeper” Exhibit: A Zoo Naturalist will work in the Falconry Building for all guests to see what it's like in a typical zookeeper's office. The naturalist will be just like one of the animals to observe. This is a nod to the human exhibit that was done many years ago, where someone used to “watch TV” and act like a human at home while seemingly unaware of the observing visitors. 

Animal Enrichment Activities

Guests can watch an animal enrichment activity at 6:30 p.m. on each operating evening of Creatures Of The Night. 

• Friday night: Great Southwest animals
• Saturday night: Gray wolves

Decorate a Luminary

Guests should bring their curiosity and creativity to ZooAmerica after dark! Families can help light up the night by decorating luminary bags for a display in the Big Sky Country region. Supplies will be provided.

Special Displays

Themed displays will be set up throughout ZooAmerica for guests to get an up-close look at some animals and learn about their survival.

• History Display (NEW): A display case will house photos and artifacts related to the history of ZooAmerica and Creatures Of The Night.
• Creepy Crawler Display (Inside the Woodlands Classroom): Creepy crawler invertebrates will be displayed. Guests can see tarantulas, cockroaches, walking sticks, scorpions, mealworms and superworms.
• Skull Display (Outside on the Woodlands Patio): A skull display will teach visitors about the diverse skeletal systems of the animals.
• X-ray Display (Inside the Great Southwest Building): Back by popular demand from last year, guests can see an animal X-ray display. Team members will be on-site to discuss the various X-rays and answer questions.
• Wolf Artifact Station (Wolf Habitat): Visitors can see and feel various animal fur and paw prints. Team members will be on-site to talk to guests and answer questions about the gray wolves.
• Recycled Treasure Display (Across from Prairie Dog Habitat): Visitors can view a recycled treasures display decorated by the ZooAmerica team.

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark. Separate admission, starting at $14.50 plus taxes and fees, is also available online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building for guests who plan to attend just Creatures Of The Night. 

If you can’t make it to Creatures Of The Night, there are plenty of opportunities to visit ZooAmerica with daily operations this fall (closed Thanksgiving Day).

HERSHEYPARK

1. Hersheypark Halloween

Fridays through Sundays; Hours Vary

Hersheypark Halloween is back at the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. The USA TODAY 10Best nominated seasonal event will continue to offer thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating, the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone, Hershey Character Glow Dance Parties and more.

Fans of Laff Trakk indoor coaster can experience the ride like never before as it evolves into Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk for the season, featuring graphics, lighting and enhanced audio-visual treatments, including a curated voiceover provided by Mr. O’Neal. The first-of-its-kind coaster overlay at Pennsylvania’s largest amusement park is inspired by Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, created in partnership with The Hershey Company.

2. Dark Nights 

Fridays through Sundays starting at 6 p.m.

If you love hair-raising thrills and blood-curdling frights, especially during Halloween, then Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® has to be at the top of your to-do list this fall. The terrifying next chapter of Dark Nights features a new fifth haunted house, Kill ‘N Fill Garage, and a new fourth scare zone, Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse. The remaining haunted houses and scare zones feature evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity. Access to Dark Nights is included in every Hersheypark admission ticket.

3. Taste Scary Good Eats With The Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass

Fridays Through Sundays during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Back by popular demand, the Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass returns for another year to give guests a taste of the ghoulish offerings available during Hersheypark Halloween operating hours only. Parkgoers can choose five frightfully tasty snacks, desserts and drinks from more than 30 specialty options available at 12 different locations throughout Hersheypark. 

4. Spirit's Rooftop Bar

Open at 4:30 p.m. on all Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Operating Days

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio will continue offering Spirit’s Rooftop Bar all month long. Guests who dare to venture to the transformed rooftop will find spirits both real and imagined with new cocktail and mocktail creations, a selection of shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts. Seating is first-come, first-served, and reservations are not accepted.

5. Creatures of The Night at ZooAmerica

Fridays and Saturdays Starting Oct. 3 from 6-9 p.m.

The popular Creatures Of The Night event returns to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park for its 45th anniversary with more dates than ever with new themed activities. Guests of all ages can explore the 11-acre zoo in the heart of Hershey by flashlight under the cover of night. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own flashlights for optimal viewing of the outdoor habitats, including the black bears, Canada lynx, gray wolves and river otters. There is no better way to see the wild and fascinating animal activity that only happens after the sun sets.

Creatures Of The Night is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark Halloween only when accessing the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark.

Live Shows & Events

6. Keith Urban at GIANT Center

Thursday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m.

Country music star Keith Urban is bringing his “High And Alive World Tour” to GIANT Center with support from Chase Matthew, Alana Springsteen and Karley Scott Collins. Fans have long considered Keith Urban’s shows as one-of-a-kind experiences, with inventive, unpredictable shows and world-class musicianship. 

7. TobyMac & MercyMe at GIANT Center

Sunday, Oct. 5 at 7 p.m.

Powerhouse Christian music artists TobyMac, MercyMe and Matthew West will join forces for an unforgettable performance as part of their fall tour. Fans can expect to hear hit songs like TobyMac’s “Made to Love,” MercyMe’s “I Can Only Imagine” and Matthew West’s “Hello My Name Is,” alongside new music that continues to touch lives. 

8. Jordan Davis at GIANT Center

Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m.

Award-winning singer-songwriter Jordan Davis announced his 2025 “Aint Enough Road Tour” is making stops across the U.S., including a visit to GIANT Center with special guests Mitchell Tenpenny and Vincent Mason.

Davis recently released his new album, “Learn the Hard Way,” in August. The new album is the follow-up to his Platinum-selling breakthrough album “Bluebird Days,” which produced four consecutive No. 1 singles and two “Song of the Year” winning song titles off of one album. Davis is the first artist in history to accomplish the feat. 

9. Hershey Bears Home Opener vs Syracuse Crunch

Saturday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m.

The Hershey Bears are gearing up for their home opener against the Syracuse Crunch this month. All fans are invited to the Home Opener red carpet event on the GIANT Center plaza. Game attendees will receive a free rally towel.

Additional promotional games happening this October include:

• Oct. 12 - Dark Nights Takeover: Select characters from Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween will leave the shadows of Hersheypark and prowl the concourse.
• Oct 18 - Penn State Health Pink The Rink: Players will be wearing Pink The Rink themed jerseys that will be auctioned off post-game.
• Oct. 25 - Reese's Trick-Or-Treat Night: All Fans 14 & Under will receive a Trick-or-Treat bag upon entry and have the opportunity to trick-or-treat around the concourse during pre-game and intermissions.

Around Town

10. Fall In Love With Pumpkin Spice Spa Treatments

Available Daily; Appointments Highly Encouraged

Enjoy a day of fall relaxation with Pumpkin Spice spa treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey! The Hershey spas are excited to bring back these guest favorite fall-inspired treatments and packages for a limited time. Treatments include a Pumpkin Spice Massage, Body Wrap, Mani/Pedi and more.  

To schedule an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For appointments at MeltSpa, visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366.

11. Pumpkin Palooza at Hershey Gardens

Oct. 19, 20, 26, 27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Hand painted pumpkins, creepy creatures, gorgeous mums and unique fall displays return this October to Hershey Gardens for Pumpkin Palooza. Pumpkin Palooza will feature more than 300 hand-painted pumpkins. The pumpkins will showcase the artistic handiwork of students from Bishop McDevitt High School, Hershey High School, Lower Dauphin High School, Milton Hershey School and York College of Pennsylvania.

12. Trick-Or-Treat Trail at Hershey's Chocolate World

October Weekends; Times Vary

Collect candy at four sweet stops inside Hershey's Chocolate World and stock up on your favorite Halloween treats, with an additional 10 stops at Treatville in Hersheypark! Candy is free for ages 12 and under.

13. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

Open Monday - Saturday; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Milton Hershey School (MHS) Founders Hall Visitors Center is open for visitors to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. It is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane. and East Governor Road. (Rte. 322).

14. Halloween-themed Chocolate Lab Classes at Hershey Story Museum

Daily in October

Create a delicious Halloween-inspired chocolate treat in the Chocolate Lab! Located inside The Hershey Story Museum, the Chocolate Lab explores the distinctive qualities of chocolate through fun, hands-on experiences and interactive educational demonstrations. This month, participants can choose from Batty Bar, Cobweb Creations, Mummy Medallions and Spooky Bark (weekends only). Please visit HersheyStory.org for detailed class descriptions and a complete class schedule. Ticket purchase required; individuals must be at least 5 years old to enter the lab. 

OVERNIGHT GETAWAYS

15. Book A Fall Getaway

If you want to experience all the fun in The Sweetest Place On Earth this month, book a stay at one of our Official Resorts of Hersheypark. The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort are offering sweet resort packages perfect for a fall getaway:

All resort guests receive FREE resort benefits, including extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan, free front-gate shuttle service to and from the Park and the best price on Park tickets! Plus, enjoy family-friendly resort activities every weekend including Kids' Check-In, s'mores roasts and more. 

Twenty nominees across the country were chosen by a panel of relevant experts, including editors from USA TODAY, editors from 10Best.com, relevant expert contributors and sources for both these media and other Gannett properties. The contest gave voters four weeks to vote for their preferred theme park event. 

Thank you to everyone who voted for us!

All-in-One Ticket for Family Fun and Frights

Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights is just getting started - there are still five weekends left to get into the Halloween spirit in Hershey. The one-price admission includes the following family-friendly offerings during the day and frights at night.

• Five haunted houses, including the all-new Kill 'N Fill Garage (beginning nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Four scare zones - more than ever - with the all-new Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse (beginning nightly at 6 p.m.)
• Thrills on 50 rides and attractions, weather and maintenance permitting
• Lights-out rides on select coasters like Wildcat's Revenge and Candymonium during the last hour of Hersheypark Halloween operations
• Trick-or-treating for children 12 and under along the Hershey’s Trick Or Treat Trail with 14 candy stops
• Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball with the Hershey Characters dressed up in their Halloween finest and ready to party to the season's classics
• The Avenue of the Afterlife scare-free zone featuring acrobats, jugglers and firebreathers
• Other shows and Character appearances
• Creatures Of The Night at ZooAmerica starting Oct. 3 - included when entering the Zoo from the bridge inside Hersheypark

Guests can get a taste of the season with more than 50 limited-time treats, savory eats and cocktails available for purchase throughout Hersheypark. Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier is also open with a dozen limited-time spell-binding cocktails, sinful shareables and dreadfully delicious desserts.

Event hours are as follows:

• Fridays: Hersheypark Halloween from 5-10 p.m. with Dark Nights from 6-11 p.m.
• Saturdays: Hersheypark Halloween from 12-10 p.m. with Dark Nights from 6-11 p.m.
• Sundays: Hersheypark Halloween from 12-9 p.m. with Dark Nights from 6-10 p.m.

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com. We hope to see you there!

Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail

There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children 12 and under are invited to wear a Halloween costume and collect candy at 14 sweet stops on the Hershey's Trick Or Treat Trail. The trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four stops to Treatville at The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 candy stops, including an exclusive Shaq-A-Licious treat location. The entrance to Treatville is at The Boardwalk main entrance across from Fallout Zone and Estate of Evil. 

Treatville is open at the start of each Hersheypark Halloween operating day until 8:30 p.m., including Halloween night on Friday, Oct. 31. 

Sweet Greets with Hershey Characters

The Hershey Characters are dressed up in their Halloween finest and ready to greet guests during Sweet Greets. Hersheypark is the only amusement park where guests can snap selfies with Hershey Characters dressed in Halloween costumes. 

Sweet Greets with Hersh run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hershey's Hangout across from the HPGO building. Sweet Greets with Reese take place next to Music Box Theatre at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4 and 5 p.m. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos using #HersheyparkHalloween!

Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball

Guests of all ages can join the Hersheypark ghosts and ghouls for the time of their afterlives as they choose the Monster Of The Year at the third annual Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball inside Chevrolet Music Box Theatre. Hersh takes the mic and leads the creatures through a spooky pageant that includes three new musical sections. 

Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball is offered each day of Hersheypark Halloween, with three times on Fridays and four times on Saturdays and Sundays. Showtimes on Fridays are 6, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m. Showtimes on Saturdays and Sundays are 4, 6, 7:30 and 8:30 p.m.

Our Friends From The Sea

Guests can see California sea lions and Atlantic harbor seals during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 2 and 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Please note there are no shows on Fridays.

Bonus: During the Ocean Encounter—Touch & Feed Program, animal lovers have the opportunity to feed and give a back rub to one of the seals or sea lions and tour off-exhibit areas to learn more about the care of these flippered friends. The Touch & Feed Program is offered on Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. for an added cost.

Fingerz & Eyeballs Acrobat and Juggler Duo

Guests who want to experience Dark Nights thrills without any scares can take a walk down the Avenue Of The Afterlife, conveniently located in The Boardwalk. New this year, guests can visit the main stage in this scare-free zone to see two show-stopping acts, including jugglers and acrobats.

The Fingerz & Eyeballs Acrobat and Juggler Duo performs at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 6, 7 and 8 p.m. on Sundays. 

The Nation Firebreathers led by Lady of the Dead

Back by popular demand are the firebreathers previously seen at Dark Nights in Darkstone's Hollow. This year, the firebreathers grace the main stage in the Avenue Of The Afterlife. 

The Nation Firebreathers led by Lady of the Dead perform at 6:30, 7:30, 8:30 and 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 p.m. on Sundays. 

Slider Showcase

The viral Decayed Brigade is back at Dark Nights, faster, fiercer, and sliding with vengeance. With a bigger crew and control of the Midway of Misery, every spark, scrape, and scream marks their grim return. 

Guests can see the Decayed Brigade slide in their unmistakable, gritty style during a Slider Showcase outside of Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays. Built for chaos, this high-impact stunt crew is sure to put on quite the spectacle. This Brigade doesn't just perform...they take over. 

Plan a Family Visit to Hersheypark Halloween 

Guests with young ghosts and goblins can check out this guide of family-friendly experiences at Hersheypark Halloween for more details to help plan their fall visit. 

Great ticket offers are available on Hersheypark.com. Hersheypark Halloween tickets include 50 rides (weather and maintenance permitting), five Dark Nights haunted houses, four scare zones, thrilling dark coaster ride opportunities and the Halloween entertainment listed above. 2025 Season Pass Holders enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights as part of their year-long perks.

Now, which resort is the perfect place for your next fall getaway? Keep reading to learn more about what The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge or Hersheypark Camping Resort have to offer.

The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

The Hotel Hershey

If your ideal getaway is filled with scenic beauty, relaxing spa days and delicious chocolate martinis…it's time to check-in to our luxury resort, The Hotel Hershey.

Opened by chocolatier Milton S. Hershey in 1933, The Hotel Hershey is a one-of-a-kind destination with a rich history. Situated high atop the town of Hershey, the resort is known for its refined elegance, signature service and abundant amenities. At this Historic Hotel of America, you don't even need to leave the property for a fun-filled vacation. Enjoy the resort's many activities and recreation facilities, including daily fitness classes, an 18-hole putting course, disc golf and an outdoor sports complex. The Hotel Hershey is also home to three full-service restaurants, a cocktail lounge recently named one of America's 25 Most Historic Bars and the award-winning Chocolate Spa, offering one-of-a-kind chocolate spa treatments. 

The Villas at The Hotel Hershey

Those looking for a more all-inclusive experience can book one of the hotel's Villas.

 The Villas At The Hotel Hershey are the newest most premium accommodations at The Hotel Hershey, offering an elevated luxury experience. 19 reimagined Villas featuring 98 new sleeping rooms just opened this past year and bring guests exclusive amenities during their stay like access to the Villas Lounge with complimentary food, drinks and activities, daily Hersheypark tickets and One-Day Fast Track. 

Hershey Lodge

If you're looking for a sweet vacation for both kids and adults, Hershey Lodge is the place for you.

Warm, welcoming, and distinctly Hershey, Hershey Lodge is the perfect resort for families and guests of all ages. Your stay starts by receiving free Hershey's chocolate bars at check-in (there's even check-in desks for both kids and adults), then finding chocolate-scented bath amenities in the guest bathrooms and sleeping under duvets embossed with Hershey's Kisses. Dine at one of the four full-service restaurants on property and discover chocolate-infused dishes like the Filet Mignon with Chocolate Stout Steak Sauce at Revelry, or the S'mores Pancakes at STACKS. 

Overnight guests also receive exclusive access to Hershey's Water Works, the resort's 30,000 sq. ft. Hershey-themed indoor pool complex complete with Twizzlers Twists water slides, a Reese's Water Walk, zero entry pool and sand castle spray zone. On weekends, guests can enjoy family-friendly activities like s'mores roasts, chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances and arts & crafts. Other recreation activities available on property include mini golf, basketball, pickleball and tennis.  

Hersheypark Camping Resort

If you want to be one with nature and are looking for an outdoor adventure…pack your bags for a trip to Hersheypark Camping Resort.

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility with cabins, Tiny Homes, RV hook-up sites and tent camping sites. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring for cookouts and, most importantly, s'mores! Additional campground amenities include free WiFi, restroom and shower facilities, self-service laundry, and a country store that sells firewood, s’mores supplies, coffee, sweet souvenirs and more.

On property, guests can play a game of pick-up at the basketball and volleyball courts, play on one of the resort playgrounds, or get involved with resort activities like arts & crafts and sports tournaments. Enjoy all of this while still receiving all the sweet perks of being an Official Resort of Hersheypark.

Hersheypark Benefits

While you're in Hershey, a visit to Hersheypark is a must. Pennsylvania's largest amusement park is welcoming guests for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights on weekends through Nov. 2, and staying at any of the Official Resorts of Hersheypark comes with sweet benefits like:

• FREE front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location - just steps away from the front gate of Hersheypark on all park operating days
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets
• Extra evening hours at the park the day before your visit with Preview Plan

Around Town Perks

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of the Hershey resorts receive additional FREE Resort Benefits, including:

• Access to 2 award-winning golf courses at Hershey Country Club
• Complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience (only at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge)
• Preferred pricing on admission to ZooAmerica

Resort Packages

Great packages are available this fall for those looking to save time and money on their next geaway. These resort packages are available at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort on select dates:

• Hersheypark Halloween 1-Night Package:
  • Overnight accommodations
  • 1-day admission to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights
  • Breakfast in the morning
• Hersheypark Halloween 2-Night Package:
  • Accommodations for two nights
  • 2-day admission to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights
  • Breakfast each morning
• Dark Nights 2-Night Package:
  • Accommodations for two nights
  • Breakfast each morning
  • 2-Day Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights tickets
  • Hersheypark Halloween tasting pass
  • Dark Nights houses Fast Track for each guest
• Hersheypark Halloween Camping Package (available only at Hersheypark Camping Resort):
  • Overnight accommodations at a site, cabin or tiny home
  • Admission to Hersheypark
• Book 1 Night Get 1 50% Off at Hersheypark Camping Resort
  • Book 1 Night, Get 1 50% Off on RV sites, tent sites and cabins select dates this fall

Read on to find out what you can expect when you stroll through the Avenue of the Afterlife as it returns for its second season. 

Scary-Good Entertainment

The Avenue of the Afterlife is home to plenty of entertainment that everyone of all ages can enjoy! Dance to the music of the DJ Dance Party throughout the night or say hello to various strolling characters and stilt walkers. New this year, guests can visit the main stage to see two show-stopping acts featuring jugglers and acrobats, plus the return of the firebreathers previously seen in Darkstone's Hollow. Showtimes can be found below: 

• Fingerz & Eyeballs Acrobat and Juggler Duo: 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.*
• The Nation Firebreathers led by Lady of the Dead: 6:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.*

* indicates showtime occurs on Fridays and Saturdays only.

Exclusive Eats, Sweets and Sips

Save room for all the unique food and drinks that can be found in the Avenue of the Afterlife! Five dining locations serve up everything from Nashville Hot Chicken & Waffles at Reactor Rations to Toxic Apple Cocktails for guests 21 and older at Moonlight Libations and Cherry Cheesecake Jars at Afterlife Delights. While all of the food items located within the Avenue of the Afterlife can be enjoyed individually, many are also available to redeem with a Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, which allows guests to select five food items of their choice out of more than thirty delectable options. View each dining location and its hours below: 

• Afterlife Delights: Enjoy delectable desserts from beyond the grave; available Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 2-10 p.m. and Sunday 2-9 p.m.
• The Butcher Shop: Where the whispers of chilling secrets are deliciously dark; available Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 2-10 p.m. and Sunday 2-9 p.m.
• Moonlight Libations: Quench your thirst for a tantalizing cocktail or brew; available Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 2-9 p.m. and Sunday 2-8 p.m.
• Reactor Rations: A place where nature and survival are the only things left; available Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 2-10 p.m. and Sunday 2-9 p.m.
• Shorty's Funnel Cake Trailer: Where the air is thick with the sweet scent of the supernatural and the sizzle of bubbling mysteries; available Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday 2-10 p.m. and Sunday 2-9 p.m. 

More Family-Friendly Fun Awaits

The Avenue of the Afterlife is just one of many family-friendly activities offered during Hersheypark Halloween! Guests, both young and old, can enjoy Hershey character appearances, the Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball show, over 40 kiddie and family rides and so much more, all included with your one-price admission.

We hope you enjoy your journey through the Avenue of the Afterlife during your next Hersheypark Halloween visit!

For nearly 25 days, including Halloween night, guests can experience five haunted houses, including the all-new Kill ‘N Fill Garage, four scare zones with the new Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail and more. All of these family thrills by day and fright experiences at night are included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket - a great value for getting into the Halloween spirit!

The eight-weekend event will also feature limited-time culinary creations, including the return of the popular Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass, plus the Avenue Of The Afterlife path with a DJ, street performers and exclusive food and drink offerings.

Hersheypark Halloween is open for eight weekends from Sept. 12 through Nov. 2, 2025. Event hours are as follows:

• 5-10 p.m. on Fridays
• 12-10 p.m. on Saturdays
• 12-9 p.m. on Sundays
• Dark Nights begins each night at 6 p.m. and extends one hour after the Park closes, running Fridays and Saturdays until 11 p.m. and Sundays until 10 p.m. 

Dark Nights Presented by Reese's and Kit Kat®

The terrifying next chapter of Dark Nights presented by Reese's and Kit Kat® at Hersheypark Halloween begins nightly at 6 p.m. Dark Nights features a new fifth haunted house, Kill ‘N Fill Garage, and a new fourth scare zone, Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse. The remaining haunted houses and scare zones feature evolved stories containing more creatures, chaos and intensity.

• Kill 'N Fill Garage (NEW in Midway America near Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Fueled by evil, killers have taken over the abandoned Kill ‘N Fill Garage, and what goes on behind the rusted chain link fence is sure to send sparks flying. Enter the grease-stained mechanics bay, weave around twisted wreckage in the body shop, and wade through the blood-slicked car wash. But, beware… the screams start when the engines die.
• Estate of Evil (in Tidal Force Catering): The 13 rooms in this mansion offer charm, mystery, and a new sauna that is sure to make you sweat. Just be warned: the last guests who overstayed their welcome are still feeling the heat.
• Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir (The Whip): Auntie Mortem's Abattoir just added a packing room to the tour. Her nephew is stepping up his game, and his twisted cousin is on hand to keep the family business running… no matter what (or who) comes through the door.
• Haunted Coal Mine: Curse Of The Tommyknockers (Trailblazer Catering): Head back down into the suffocating darkness of Haunted Coal Mine, where time slows down, and the air runs thin. Step inside a new room that offers a breath of relief…but not for long. Down here, not everything that breathes is human.
• Twisted Carnevil (In the tent in Midway America near Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse): Step right up to Twisted Carnevil! The big top is abuzz with new acts. But watch your back! One of the new performers leaves more than a mark… they leave a permanent impression.

Also, as part of Dark Nights, midways will transform into three scare zones each evening. For the first time, all three scare zones offer a fire element. 

• Path of Shadows: Coven's Curse (New behind the Cheverolet Music Box Theatre): Long hidden from sight, the Path Of Shadows has opened, and three mysterious witches have emerged. Tread carefully through our all-new scare zone, where something wicked is brewing, or run the risk of becoming the next victim of the Coven’s Curse.
• Darkstone’s Hollow (In The Hollow across the bridge): After a brutal battle, Professor Darkstone stands victorious, his mythical menagerie broken and caged. The creatures are under Darkstone’s command for now, but you can feel the danger in the air. Stay hidden or be hunted.
• Midway Of Misery (Outside Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk): Beware, in between the flamed arches and amongst the thick fog, creatures may appear when you least expect it.
  • Slider Showcase: Guests can see the viral Decayed Brigade, including Fryboy and Gas Can, slide through the night during their showcase of skills located in Midway Of Misery at 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays.
• Fallout Zone (Near Tidal Force): The green fog is back, and radiation is spreading. Chaos is rising, and the real threat isn’t the fallout… it’s the aftermath.

Hersheypark Halloween

Families can experience Hersheypark Halloween like never before as they play by day and fright by night, with thrills on 50 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), lights-out rides on select coasters, trick-or-treating, the Avenue Of The Afterlife scare-free zone, Hershey Character Glow Dance Parties and the original Creatures Of The Night flashlight tour at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park (starting Oct. 3). 

Coasters and Rides
Weather and maintenance permitting, 50 rides are open during Hersheypark Halloween, with options for all Hershey height categories—from kiddie rides for the youngest guests to light-out coaster rides for thrill seekers. During the last hour of Park operation, the lights will go out for dark rides on some favorites, including Wildcat’s Revenge, Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer coasters. 

New for 2025, fans of Laff Trakk indoor coaster will experience the ride like never before as it evolves into Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk for the Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights season. This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company's Shaq-A-Licious brand will feature glowing visuals, amped-up audio and immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit. The themed overlay of Laff Trakk includes graphics, lighting and enhanced audio-visual treatments, including curated voice-over provided by Mr. O’Neal, marking the first-of-its-kind coaster overlay.

Please note that select kiddie and family rides may close by 5 p.m. before the start of Dark Nights. These attractions include Granny Bugs, Music Express, Pony Parade, Red Baron, Sweet Swing, Tea Cups and Trailblazer. Tiny Tracks is temporarily closed throughout Hersheypark Halloween. Guests can download the Hersheypark app for a map and real-time ride availability.

Trick-or-Treating Experience
There’s no sweeter place to trick-or-treat than Hersheypark! Children 12 and younger are invited to collect their favorite candy at 14 sweet stops on the Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail each operating evening until 8:30  p.m. The Trail winds from Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction with four locations to Treatville in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region with 10 stops. Guests can enter Treatville across from Fahrenheit and experience fun photo backdrops, a hay maze and light displays at night. 

Avenue Of The Afterlife
For guests who want to avoid the scares during Dark Nights, there is the Avenue Of The Afterlife path in the water park to skip the scare while enjoying the season's thrills without fear. The scare-free zone features a DJ dance party, wicked-fun street performers and exclusive food offerings.

Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball
The Hershey Characters are dressed up in their Halloween finest and ready to party to the season's classics inside Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue. The Halloween show runs three times on Fridays and four times on Saturdays and Sundays. Times are listed in the Hersheypark app.