ZooAmerica is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the winter season for a fun and educational outing to beat cabin fever. Before stepping into the zoo, explore these nine facts about the winter habits of North American animals, which may surprise even the most seasoned wildlife enthusiast.

1. Porcupines may use the same den for their entire life.

The North American porcupine is largely an asocial creature, typically spending its life in solitary pursuit of food and shelter. However, porcupines will congregate in communal dens when the cold weather becomes particularly severe or prolonged, a behavior known as "denning." These dens are often natural formations, such as rock crevices, caves, hollow logs or abandoned burrows, that provide solid insulation and protection from predators and the elements. Some dens are so well-made that many different porcupines will occupy them, not just for a single season, but across many decades. 

Viewing Tip: The two porcupines at ZooAmerica, Carmine and Juniper, spend lots of time in their dens during the winter months. Visitors should still be able to spot some quills, as they have about 30,000 of them! 

2. Wild black bears can sleep for 100 days without needing to wake up.

Black bears are not considered "true hibernators" in the same way as some other species. Instead, they engage in a survival strategy known as "denning" like porcupines, driven largely by the severe shortage of food resources. During denning, the bear’s physiological functions slow down dramatically. For example, the heart rate can plummet to an astonishingly low rate—sometimes registering as low as eight beats per minute. 

Viewing Tip: Chief, the black bear at ZooAmerica, does not need to undergo the rigors of denning because he is provided with a consistent and reliable diet year-round. Nevertheless, he does tend to spend significantly more time sleeping and moving in what the ZooAmerica naturalists often describe as a "slow-motion" manner. Visitors should keep an eye out for Chief in the big tube in his habitat or the rock cave next to it, where he often dens this time of year.

 3. A healthy alligator snapping turtle can survive under the ice for over 100 days.

The phenomenon of alligator snapping turtles residing under the ice during the winter is an example of nature's ingenuity. As water temperatures drop below a certain threshold, a healthy adult turtle enters a state of near-total physical shutdown, known as brumation. During this period, almost all bodily functions cease or slow to a crawl, except for the light sensors in their eyes. These specialized photoreceptors can register an increase in light combined with the rise in temperature above the ice, which indicates that springtime has arrived. This is the signal for the turtle to "turn their body on again” and come to the surface to breathe.

Viewing Tip: Louise, the alligator snapping turtle at ZooAmerica, lives in an indoor habitat in the Southern Swamps building. She spends a lot of time in the water, either submerged or with her head just above the surface - even though there is no ice!

4. Snowy owls have feathers down to their toes.

The snowy owl possesses an adaptation that distinguishes it from most other owl species: dense feathering that extends all the way down to its talons. While the feet of many owl species are bare or sparsely feathered, the snowy owl's legs and feet are covered in thick feathers. This plumage not only provides exceptional insulation against sub-zero temperatures and snow but also helps the owl maintain a stable body temperature during prolonged periods of hunting on frozen ground or icy perches. 

Viewing Tip: Since snowy owls are birds of the treeless tundra, the two owls at ZooAmerica spend a lot of time on the ground.

5. Not all elk need to migrate. 

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) is known for its dramatic winter migrations, where tens of thousands of majestic elk descend from high-altitude summer ranges to lower elevations. This movement is a critical survival strategy, allowing the elk to escape the deep snow and find areas with a more accessible food supply. However, Pennsylvania does not typically receive the same volume of persistent snow as the GYE, which means the state's elk herds can generally find sufficient food resources throughout the entire year without the need for long-distance migration. To prepare for the cold, the elk rely on the growth of an exceptionally thick coat of fur to keep them warm even on the chilliest days.

Viewing Tip: While the elk at ZooAmerica have a barn for a comfortable retreat from the elements, they often choose to embrace the snow. John Henry and Phoebe can frequently be observed laying contently outside, even during a snowfall.

6. Gray wolves will use their tail to cover their nose.

Gray wolves exhibit an effective behavioral adaptation to survive bitter winter cold: they will curl up tightly into a ball, strategically using their dense, bushy tail to cover their nose and sometimes their feet like an insulated scarf. This seemingly simple position is a mechanism for conserving critical body heat. 

Gray wolves also rely heavily on the strength of their social structure to endure winter. When temperatures plummet, they will huddle and lay close together with other members of their pack. 

Viewing Tip: There are three gray wolves in the pack at ZooAmerica. They are often more active during the winter months, often seen running around their habitat, especially at the top of the fence line.

7. Pronghorn herds in Wyoming have the longest land migration in the continental U.S.

The pronghorn holds the distinct honor of undertaking the longest land migration in the continental United States. These animals, often mistakenly called antelope, navigate a challenging journey twice a year in the American West. The migration involves multiple distinct herds, each comprising approximately 400 individuals, totaling thousands of animals. Their 150-mile, one-way journey connects the wintering grounds of the Green River Basin in southwestern Wyoming with the high-elevation summer pastures inside Grand Teton National Park. The pronghorn have traversed this federally protected route, known formally as "The Path of the Pronghorn," for thousands of years.

Viewing Tip: ZooAmerica has one pronghorn, Callum. He is extremely tame and almost always visible to guests in his habitat. He will even run to greet the naturalists when he sees them approaching. 

8. River otters have two layers of fur to help keep them warm. 

North American river otters have a two-layered coat of specialized fur - an adaptation for thriving in cold, aquatic environments. The inner layer, known as the underfur, is incredibly short and dense. Its primary function is to act as a waterproof barrier, trapping a layer of air against the otter's skin for solid insulation. River otters also have a layer of subcutaneous fat beneath their skin, which helps them to maintain a stable internal temperature even when spending prolonged periods swimming and hunting in icy rivers and lakes. 

Viewing Tip: If they aren’t playing in the water, the two river otters at ZooAmerica, Link and Iris, sometimes curl up under a log or among the rocks in their habitat.

9. Thick-billed parrots do not live in the tropics. 

Unlike the vast majority of parrots, which thrive in the warm, humid climate of the tropics, thick-billed parrots have adapted to a far more challenging and unexpected environment: the high-elevation pine and mixed-conifer forests of the Sierra Madre Occidental in Mexico. Here, temperatures can plummet, and the landscape is often blanketed in snow during the winter months. It is this adaptation to cold, snowy conditions that has earned the thick-billed parrot its evocative and fitting nickname of the “Snow Parrot.”

Viewing Tip: Visitors to ZooAmerica should look up to see the thick-billed parrots in the Great Southwest region of the zoo. Look up! These vibrant green birds prefer to be as high as possible in their habitat. They are often perched on the nest boxes or eating at one of their food stations.

Plan a Zoo Visit

ZooAmerica tickets are available for purchase online or at the Zoo Admissions Building. Regular admission for guests ages 9-61 is $16.50 plus taxes and fees. Admission for juniors (ages 3-8) and seniors (ages 62 and above) is $14.50 plus taxes and fees. Children 2 and under are free. 

Every Friday in February, regular and junior/senior admission is 50 percent off - a sweet savings!

Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the Zoo, and 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders get into the Zoo for free, too. 

This time of year marks the busiest season for the dedicated full-time Hersheypark maintenance team consisting of more than 200 skilled professionals, including carpenters, electricians, laborers, machinists, mechanics, painters, sign artists, plumbers, utility workers and welders. Throughout the winter, these individuals meticulously disassemble, inspect, repaint, and reassemble each of the more than 70 Hersheypark attractions to ensure they are ready to deliver a safe, sweet experience on opening day, April 3, 2026.

We wanted to give you a rare glimpse inside the Hersheypark Service Center, where work is currently underway on fan-favorites, including Jolly Rancher Remix, Coal Cracker and Comet, which celebrates 80 years in 2026.

An Exclusive Look Inside the Hersheypark Service Center

The Hersheypark Service Center serves as the maintenance headquarters, where the majority of the Park's attractions and rides undergo their critical off-season upkeep. This expansive facility is strategically situated on the Hersheypark Entertainment Complex between the iconic Hersheypark Stadium and Hersheypark amusement park.

During the colder months, the Service Center becomes a temporary home for several major roller coasters that do not have dedicated maintenance bays integrated into their stations, such as Comet, sooperdooperLooper and Cocoa Cruiser, as well as beloved kiddie rides, like Minty Bees. This ride, along with Granny Bugs, Dizzy Drums and Traffic Jam, celebrates its 60th year of operation in 2026, a testament to the quality of its consistent maintenance.

The bustling Service Center also houses an array of specialized supporting departments. In the weld shop, the steel chassis of the iconic wooden racing coaster, Lightning Racer, is inspected. Adjacent to this area, carefully cataloged sections of steel top track for wooden coasters are stored. A short distance away, the fiberglass shop is a hub of bodywork for the Coal Cracker flume boats, Wildcat's Revenge seats and other attractions. 

Towards the rear of the Service Center are the sign and paint shops, dedicated to the aesthetic maintenance of Hersheypark. These departments are responsible for producing and restoring all of the Park's signage. Notably, the sign shop is also the designated destination for a fleet of hand-painted carousel horses from the 107-year-old Carrousel and Livery Stables. 

Outside the Service Center, many of the roller coasters have dedicated maintenance bays within their respective operational footprints, including Storm Runner, Wildcat's Revenge, Skyrush and Great Bear. 

Dry Gulch Railroad also benefits from this on-site maintenance structure, with its engine house situated below Jolly Rancher Remix. The steam-powered train is one of the few remaining within theme parks of the United States and operates throughout all Hersheypark seasons, which means its overhaul process does not begin until after the Park closes for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Between early January and the beginning of April, a highly specialized team of two individuals disassembles the trains, inspects the boilers, engines and cars, deep cleans the engines and trucks, and completes work on the track as weather permits. This year holds particular significance for the cherished piece of Hersheypark history: the real replica steam-powered railway will be celebrating its 65th anniversary.

Are you interested in more behind-the-scenes ride maintenance? Check out this off-season's Storm Runner spotlight to see what goes into maintaining the East Coast's only remaining hydraulic launch coaster. Don't forget to view the behind-the-scenes content from previous years on Lightning Racer, Wildcat's Revenge, Coal Cracker, Skyrush, Candymonium and Great Bear.

Plan a Visit

Is your family considering a visit to Hersheypark this year? Now is the time to plan and purchase tickets! Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-day tickets to Hersheypark when buying online with the current Best Price Of Summer offer through March 31. Tickets purchased during the sale are valid on any 2026 public operating day from April 3, 2026, through Jan. 3, 2027, including during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, as well as Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

Join the Team

Want to join our sweet team? Hersheypark is hiring for the 2026 season! Apply online, and a member of our Hiring Team can schedule a phone interview with eligible applicants. 

We look forward to seeing you in April for the start of our 120th operating year!

Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat for two, a fun-filled family staycation or a Galentine’s Day getaway for your closest friends, the charming town built on chocolate offers the perfect backdrop and a delightful mix of activities to create sweet memories.

Here are our top picks of things to do from Feb. 13-16, 2026, ensuring your long weekend is filled with love, laughter and, of course, plenty of chocolate.

Fantastic Fridays at ZooAmerica

Friday, Feb. 13; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Although ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is a wonderful destination any day of the week, visitors will find that Fridays in February offer a particularly sweet incentive to stop by.

The Zoo has rolled out its special Fantastic Fridays ticket promotion, making the end of the Valentine’s Day work week the perfect time for a unique winter visit. This limited-time offer provides guests a 50 percent discount on both regular adult and junior/senior admission tickets. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person at the Admissions Building.

Live Insect Feedings at Hershey Gardens

Friday, Feb. 13; 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Hershey Gardens is open daily in February from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Now through March 31, visitors can enjoy reduced winter pricing. As a bonus, guests who purchase a gift membership in person through Feb. 14 will receive a themed Valentine’s Day gift box and two Gardens tickets. 

On Feb. 13 at noon, guests can stop by the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory to watch insectivores (insect-eating animals) enjoy a special, nutritious snack. During the Live Feedings at the Zoology Zone Interactive Cart, guests will learn about each of the predatory insects, frogs, arachnids and the feeder insects. This special activity is included in general admission. 

BYOB Truffles for Couples at The Hershey Story

Friday, Feb. 13; 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! The Hershey Story Museum is hosting a new BYOB Truffles for Couples, with availability still remaining for Feb. 13. The special evening full of decadence and fun begins by tasting single-origin warm drinking chocolate from around the world. Participants will then partake in a one-hour Chocolate Lab class where they can hand-roll traditional dark chocolate ganache, coat it in milk or white chocolate, and finish with a sweet array of toppings. Each guest will package their truffles in a charming box and receive a personalized milk chocolate bar and a long-stemmed red rose to take home as a sweet souvenir. Participants will also learn about the courtship and marriage of Milton and Catherine Hershey, as well as how chocolate is grown and processed.

The cost is $65 per couple. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Please note that space is limited to 24 participants per session.

ZooAmerica Animal Attraction Adult Camp

Saturday, Feb. 14; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Adult animal lovers can further spice up their Valentine’s Day with the Animal Attraction Adult Camp on Feb. .14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants will learn all about how animals “woo” each other through an up-close look at ambassador animals, enrichment activities and more! The cost for a single session is $75 per person, with registration available online.

Winter Bird Watch at Hershey Gardens

Saturday, Feb. 14; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Bird lovers can bring the whole family—and their binoculars—to identify the various birds that call Hershey Gardens home during the winter. On Valentine’s Day, the Winter Bird Watch is called Love is on the Wing: Bird ID and Mate Selection. Participants will walk through Project Feederwatch, go on a unique guided bird walk and learn about identification and feeding. For the youngest birders, additional bird family crafts and activities will be offered in the classroom. 

The experience, offered every Saturday in February in partnership with Quittapahilla Audubon Society, is included with general admission. Registration is required by calling 717-508-5968.

Zoolentine’s Days at ZooAmerica

Saturday, Feb. 14; 1 p.m.

In celebration of the season of love, guests can watch Zoo naturalists give Valentine-themed treats to select animals each Saturday in February, including Valentine's Day, starting at 1 p.m. This sweet Zoolentine’s Days activity is included with ZooAmerica admission.

Public Skating at GIANT Center and Hersheypark Arena

Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15; 2-4 p.m.

Nothing says love like skating into the arms of your significant other at two Hershey Entertainment venues over President’s Day Weekend. Public skating is offered on Valentine’s Day from 2-4 p.m. at GIANT Center, home of the Hershey Bears AHL hockey team, making for a unique outing for active individuals. The fun continues the following day, Feb. 15, at the historic Hersheypark Arena, where the public can lace up their skates for another afternoon session, running from 2-4 p.m.

Pricing starts at $6 per person and varies based on age and group size. Children three and under are free. Please note that skate rental fees are typically separate from admission and are available on-site.

Snoopy Meet & Greet at Hershey’s Chocolate World

Saturday, Feb. 14, and Sunday, Feb. 15; Times vary

Snoopy came to Hershey’s Chocolate World just in time for Valentine's Day to visit with all of his chocolate-loving friends! Guests can meet Snoopy free of charge and snap a photo with him at various times over President’s Day Weekend. 

Other experiences include a free chocolate tour ride to see how cocoa beans become world-famous Hershey’s Chocolate and shopping for endless amounts of chocolate, including limited-edition treats. Tickets can be purchased for optional chocolate-enhanced experiences, including Create Your Own Candy Bar and Reese’s Stuff Your Cup.

Candies & Curiosities Scavenger Hunt at The Hershey Story

Saturday, Feb. 14, through Monday, Feb. 16; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Those visiting The Hershey Story on Feb. 14-16 can participate in a Candies & Curiosities Scavenger Hunt. The sweet activity is included in general admission between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Museum visitors can elevate their experience with Tastings at The Hershey Story, offered daily from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. From fruity African chocolate flavors to Indonesian chocolate with caramel overtones, participants will taste a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world that inspired Milton Hershey. 

Decadent Dining Offerings Around Town

Daily; Hours vary

Guests can taste the many flavors of Hershey at more than a dozen unique and award-winning restaurants located at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark and around town, many of which feature chocolate-infused dishes, decadent desserts and, of course, the signature Hershey’s chocolate martinis - perfect for toasting to Valentine’s Day. 

The destination’s largest restaurant, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, is celebrating Valentine’s Day all month long with limited-time fare like Meat & Potatoes featuring Hershey’s Cocoa Rubbed Bow Creek Farm Coulotte Steak, the Be Mine Milkshake for dessert and handcrafted cocktails (for guests 21 and up) like the Heart Throb Manhattan.

Chocolate Spa Relaxation

Daily; Times vary

Guests can indulge in total luxury at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey over Valentine’s Day weekend with a Chocolate Covered Strawberry Package, a Sweet Chocolate Relaxation Package, a Hershey Kiss Package and more. 

For some more chocolate bliss, MeltSpa by Hershey day spa located in downtown Hershey also offers Signature Hershey’s Chocolate Treatments, which include a relaxing massage, rejuvenating facial, body scrub, body wrap, and hands and feet treatments. For a deeply satisfying spa experience, guests can book the Exclusive Hershey’s Dark Chocolate Treatments.

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

Chocolate Lab Classes at The Hershey Story

Daily; Hours vary

Inspired by Milton Hershey’s own candy-making apprenticeship, the Chocolate Lab at The Hershey Story explores the distinctive qualities of chocolate through fun, hands-on experiences and interactive demonstrations. Educational 45-minute classes are offered daily over the long weekend for those interested in rolling up their sleeves and trying their hand at chocolate pouring, decorating and tasting. The February class themes include The Heart of Chocolate, Lovely Bar and Try It with Truffles. 

Chocolate Lab tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may be purchased at The Hershey Story admissions desk on the day of the visit. Children must be at least 5 years old to enter the Lab. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Valentine’s Day Resort Getaway

With so much to do over Valentine’s Day/President’s Day weekend, a chocolate-filled staycation or quick getaway is calling your name! The Hotel Hershey, the new luxury Villas at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge offer overnight accommodations with sweet hospitality and iconic chocolate details around every corner, starting with the full-size chocolate bar at check-in. Resort guests will also find chocolate bath amenities in their guest room and can enjoy chocolate-infused dining options at the restaurants on property, chocolate-themed resort activities and more. 

For a limited time, guests can save with resort winter offers, available on select dates throughout the season, including Book One Night, Get One 50% Off and Book Two Nights, Get One Free. The year-round Romance in Hershey Package features rose petal turndown, champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries and daily breakfast.

BONUS: Valentine’s Day Gift Idea

Not sure what to get your Valentine? A Hershey gift card is the sweetest gift, as it allows them to choose from a variety of activities across the destination. When purchasing a gift card, you can even select a fun Valentine's Day design. 

During the off season, our Communications team is giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the Storm Runner overhaul process. A specialized team of four maintenance technicians is exclusively assigned to complete the winter maintenance of this globally recognized and fan-favorite hydraulic launch coaster. Two of the team members are dedicated to coaster train maintenance, while the other two oversee the hydraulic system. 

Coaster Train Maintenance

The months-long maintenance process begins in November, during the transition between the Park’s shoulder seasons. Following the conclusion of Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, each Storm Runner coaster train is craned off the track and lowered into the maintenance bay below the ride platform. Storm Runner is one of seven attractions at Hersheypark featuring a maintenance bay directly at the ride. Once the trains are in the maintenance bay, two of the four maintenance team members disassemble them for extensive cleaning, a thorough inspection and a battery of non-destructive testing (NDT) procedures. 

The off-season coaster train maintenance culminates in mid-March when the trains are craned back onto the tracks. Once reinstalled, the maintenance team then dedicates several weeks to rigorous functional and operational testing before the attraction is cleared for opening day. 

However, the work certainly does not stop once Hersheypark Happy is in full swing. Ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of the Park's thrilling attractions is a constant, year-round commitment. A highly-trained two-person maintenance team is assigned to Storm Runner each morning to complete a rigorous 4-hour daily inspection. The inspection encompasses several critical areas, including a meticulous test of all lap bars and restraint mechanisms, a track walk, a hydraulics system check and coaster test runs. After this process is documented and signed off, the ride is cleared for operation.

Maintenance of the Hydraulic Launch System

What makes the maintenance process for Storm Runner especially unique is the additional care required for its hydraulic launch system. The coaster is one of three remaining in the United States (the last on the East Coast) to utilize a hydraulic launch.

The other two team members in the core Storm Runner maintenance group devote most of their work hours to the meticulous maintenance of this powerful apparatus, housed in its own building (often referred to as the “brains” of the coaster) near the base of the signature top hat. In this building, the heart of the launch system lies in a series of high-capacity accumulator tanks. These tanks are the key to storing the immense energy required for the instantaneous acceleration. 

The front portion of each tank is filled with hydraulic oil and the back side is comprised of nitrogen. A free-floating piston separates the two and assists in creating stored energy, which is then pushed through robust hoses into a powerful hydraulic motor. This motor is coupled to a gearbox, which, in turn, drives a large winch drum. Connected to the rotating winch drum is a steel cable that attaches to the "catch car," a specialized vehicle designed to engage with and propel the coaster train. The massive transfer of energy from the hydraulic system to the catch car enables the entire train to be launched up the steep incline of the launch track in just two seconds.

Ride Storm Runner at Hersheypark in 2026

Since its debut in 2004, Storm Runner has been a centerpiece of the amusement park, known for its launch system that catapults riders from a standstill to 72 miles per hour in mere seconds. Beyond its iconic high-speed start, which immediately sends riders rocketing 150 feet into the air over the signature “top hat” hill, Storm Runner offers a truly unique and complex layout. The ride then features a towering 135-foot cobra loop, an inverted "flying snake dive" and a multitude of intense barrel rolls and high-G turns before the train glides safely back into the station. 

Check out this POV of Storm Runner to get you excited for the season ahead.

If you enjoyed this behind-the-scenes look at Storm Runner, be sure to check out other maintenance stories from previous years, including Lightning Racer, Wildcat's Revenge, Skyrush and Candymonium. If you want to see another particular ride, reach out to our Hersheypark social media channels (Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok) with your suggestions. Stay tuned for even more maintenance spotlights coming soon!

2026 Hersheypark tickets are available now at the Best Price Of Summer when purchased online through March 31. Buy yours now to save on a sweet spring and summer full of coaster riding. We look forward to seeing you soon at Hersheypark! 

The 11-acre Zoo in Hershey launched a Fantastic Fridays ticket offer for 50 percent off regular and junior/senior admission every Friday in February. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person on Fridays at the Admissions Building to redeem the savings.

Valentine's Day Weekend Activities

As another sweet offering, guests can watch Zoo naturalists give a “chocolate-covered strawberry” enrichment to select animals at 1 p.m. on Saturdays in February. This activity is included with admission.

Plus, adult animal lovers can further spice up their Valentine’s Day with the Animal Attraction Adult Camp on Feb. 8 and 14 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Participants will learn all about how animals “woo” each other through an up-close look at ambassador animals, enrichment activities, a rock painting craft and more! The cost for a single session is $75 per person.

In general, many of the North American animals that reside outdoors are more active this time of year. Guests often see the gray wolves running around their habitat, hear the river otters "talking" to each other and so much more. 

Don't forget: ZooAmerica Pass Holders and 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive unlimited, year-round visits to the Zoo, even when Hersheypark amusement park is closed during the off-season.

Live Events at GIANT CENTER

1. Dancing With The Stars: LIVE! at GIANT Center 

Thursday, Feb. 5; 7:30 p.m.

After a sold-out tour earlier this year, “Dancing with the Stars: Live!” is hitting the road with a stop at GIANT Center. The 2026 stage spectacular will feature fan-favorite professional dancers from the No. 1 hit television series, including Brandon Armstrong, Alan Bersten, Jenna Johnson, Daniella Karagach, and more. Fans can expect to see a mix of standout routines from the show’s record-breaking season 34, along with fresh performances created just for the tour. Danielle Fishel of “Boy Meets World” fame will join the event in Hershey, Pa., as a special co-host.

2. Harlem Globetrotters at GIANT Center

Sunday, Feb. 22; 3 p.m.

The Harlem Globetrotters are celebrating 100 years of legacy with their 2026 tour. This centennial season is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 years of jaw-dropping moves and basketball thrills. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, fans will feel the history, joy and fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver. 

3. Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick at GIANT Center

Tuesday, Feb. 24; 7 p.m.

Elevation Worship and Steven Furtick will embark on the “Elevation Nights” tour in 2026, performing hits RIAA Platinum-certified songs “The Blessing” and “Do It Again.” Additionally, the show will feature Steven Furtick preaching a message and Elevation Worship leading several of their powerful worship anthems. Elevation Rhythm will kick off the night with some of their hits like “GOODBYE YESTERDAY” and “WASHED.”

4. Journey at GIANT Center

Saturday, Feb. 28; 7:30 p.m.

After more than five decades of electrifying performances, chart-topping hits and timeless anthems, the iconic rock band Journey is saying goodbye the only way they know how—with a thunderous, full-throttle “Final Frontier Tour” spanning 60 cities across North America. All dates will be A Special Evening With. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famers will play their catalog of global chart-topping hits, including "Don't Stop Believin,” "Any Way You Want It,” "Faithfully," "Lights" and more in a celebration of legacy, love and the fans who made it all possible. 

5. Hershey Bears Home Games at GIANT Center

Dates and Times Vary

Hockey fans can cheer on the Hershey Bears, during one of the club’s four home games in February. Promotional games this month include:

• PA Lottery Night on Feb. 20, vs. the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, featuring a coupon offer for the first 6,000 fans in attendance 18-and-over, courtesy of the PA Lottery.
• GIANT Foldable Grocery Tote Night & Berks Dollar Dog Night on Feb. 25 vs. the Utica Comets, where the first 6,000 fans in attendance will receive a Bears foldable grocery tote, courtesy of The GIANT Company, and all fans can take advantage of $1 Berks hot dogs at select concourse locations.

Around Town

6. Lunar New Year Winter Wednesdays at Hershey Gardens

Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Guests of Hershey Gardens can interact with Asian species, including mossy frogs, jungle nymphs, Asian walking sticks and more at the Zoology Zone Interactive Cart. In addition, families can engage in and learn about various Lunar New Year traditions. 

7. Fantastic Fridays at ZooAmerica

Feb. 6, 13, 20 & 27; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is bringing guests special Fantastic Friday ticket offers of 50% off regular and junior/senior admission every Friday this month. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Admissions Building to redeem the savings.

8. NEW! Preschool Explorers at The Hershey Story Museum

Feb. 17 & 24; 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.

Preschoolers will have the opportunity to explore themes through play, stories and museum discoveries at The Hershey Story Museum. The all-new program features read-alouds, object explorations, themed play and art activities that encourage experimentation, creativity and learning. Preschool Explorers is free and does not require the purchase of the Museum Experience.

9. Dinner With Coco At The Chocolatier

Every Thursday; 5 to 7 p.m.

Visit The Chocolatier every Thursday night to say hi to Coco, the official mascot of the Hershey Bears, and enjoy a special-themed menu, which is also served on each Bears home game day.

Valentine's Day

10. Animal Attraction Adult Camp at ZooAmerica

February 8 & 14; 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Plan a day out to the Adult Camp at ZooAmerica, where you'll get to learn all about how animals "woo" each other. The day will include the inside scoop on different mating rituals, a rock painting craft, an up-close look at ambassador animals and enrichment activities. 

Plus, watch featured animals enjoy chocolate-themed treats every Saturday at ZooAmerica this month for Zoolentine's Day.

11. Truffles For Couples at The Hershey Story Museum

Feb 13. & 14; Times Vary

Bring your Valentine for an evening of decadence and fun at The Hershey Story Museum! Begin by tasting warm drinking chocolates from around the world. Then, head to a one-hour Chocolate Lab class where you can hand-roll traditional dark chocolate ganache, coat it in milk or white chocolate, and finish with a sweet array of toppings. Each guest will package their truffles in a charming box, receive a personalized milk chocolate bar, and take home a long-stemmed red rose. This is a BYOB event exclusively for individuals age 21 and up. The cost is $65 per couple; registration is required.

12. February Specials at The Chocolatier

Open Daily; Reservations Encouraged

The Chocolatier is celebrating Valentine’s Day all month long with a special menu of entrees, appetizers, cocktails and mocktails. Diners will enjoy limited-time fare like Meat & Potatoes featuring Hershey’s Cocoa Rubbed Bow Creek Farm Coulotte Steak, the Be Mine Milkshake for dessert and handcrafted cocktails (for guests 21 and up) like the Heart Throb Manhattan. For more information and a full list of specials, check out our guide to February Specials at The Chocolatier.

13. Hershey’s Candy & Curiosities Scavenger Hunt at The Hershey Story Museum

Feb. 14 – 16; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Kids will learn the history of Hershey’s Kisses through interactive activities, such as hand wrapping and packing Kisses like workers did in the original factory. Families can also participate in a fun scavenger hunt and learn about Hershey’s chocolate, Hershey the town and Mr. Hershey himself. The scavenger hunt is included with the purchase of the Museum Experience.  

14. Chocolate-Covered Relaxation at the Spas in Hershey 

Celebrate the month of love with a chocolate-filled spa day! The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa offers a sweet day with your special someone with couples treatments such as a Couples Massage, Sweet Feet For Two or the Couples Retreat Day Package. MeltSpa by Hershey day spa offers chocolate-inspired services perfect for a day of melt-worthy relaxation and is the exclusive home to Hershey’s Signature Dark Chocolate Treatments.

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

15. Valentine's Day Resort Getaway

Whether it's a romantic weekend with your Valentine or a weekend trip with your galentines, there's no sweeter place for a getaway than The Hotel Hershey. Guests of this historic resort can enjoy a chocolate-filled weekend starting with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in, plus chocolate spa treatments, chocolate bath amenities in guest rooms and other iconic chocolate details around every corner. 

Don't wait to book! Limited availability remains for Valentine's Day weekend (Feb. 13-15).

Hersheypark

Hersheypark is a 121-acre amusement park centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast. The 121-acre Hersheypark is currently closed for the off-season but kicks off its 120th season on April 3, 2026.

New for summer 2026, Hersheypark will debut an enhancement to its water park and special summer events highlighting America’s 250th anniversary. Those interested in visiting can enjoy savings with the Best Price Of Summer ticket and resort offers. Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-Day Any Day Tickets to Hersheypark valid all year when purchased online through March 31. 

Given the weather, The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, Hersheypark Supply Co., Ticketing and The Sweeterie will be closed through Jan. 28. 

Hersheypark Stadium

Built in 1939, Hersheypark Stadium is the most prominent outdoor stadium between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, hosting summer concerts and a variety of sporting events. 

After yet another record-breaking season at Hersheypark Stadium in 2025, the venue will welcome guests for a star-studded lineup in summer 2026, including Tyler Childers, Forrest Frank, Chris Stapleton, Guns N' Roses, Iron Maiden and Pitbull.

ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is an 11-acre, walk-through zoo in Hershey, Pa., that cares for animals representing over 60 species from five regions of North America. 

Given the extremely cold temperatures, ZooAmerica will be closed through Feb. 1, 2026. The Zoo will reopen on Feb. 2 for daily winter operations from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

The Hotel Hershey

The Hotel Hershey is one of America's landmark hotels since 1933. The Forbes Recommended, AAA Four-Diamond Hotel is a Virtuoso-exclusive property and a member of Historic Hotels of America. 

In late summer 2025, The Hotel Hershey completed a historic expansion of luxury accommodations at The Villas At The Hotel Hershey as 19 Villas now offer guests 98 new luxury rooms. 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. 

Guests interested in extending their stay in the town built on chocolate can save on summer stays through Sept. 7, 2026, with the Best Price Of Summer. The Hotel Hershey offers nightly rates from $299 when booked by March 31, 2026. Guests can also enjoy savings with popular summer packages, including the Hersheypark 1-Night Package, 2-Day Stay & Play Package and the 3-Day Sweet Stay Package at The Hotel Hershey.

Hersheypark Camping Resort

Hersheypark Camping Resort is a year-round camping facility (HPCR) that has welcomed guests since 1963 with its 55 acres of emerald hills. The Official Resort of Hersheypark offers more than 300 open and shaded sites accommodating guests in cabins, RVs, tents and Tiny Homes.

Guests can save with the Best Price Of Summer on nightly rates from $59 at Hersheypark Camping Resort when booked by March 31, 2026. 

Enjoy a Winter Resort Getaway

With so much to do and perhaps an extra day off work or school, why not take a long weekend getaway? There’s no sweeter place to stay than Hershey Lodge (featuring our 30,000 square foot indoor pool complex, Hershey's Water Works), The Hotel Hershey or our most luxurious accommodations at The Villas at The Hotel Hershey, each property with chocolate details around every corner.  You’ll start your stay with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in and can enjoy chocolate-infused dining at restaurants on property, warm up with a signature Hershey's Chocolate Martini by the fireplace, snap photos with your favorite Hershey Characters, play chocolate bingo and more. 

Check out our Winter Guides for The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort a full list of activities to enjoy at The Official Resorts of Hersheypark in the month of January.

BONUS: All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more!

Discovery Weekends at ZooAmerica

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Looking for a fun winter activity for the family? The beginning of the year is an ideal time to visit ZooAmerica, as many of the North American animals are more active during the winter. ZooAmerica is open daily over the long weekend and features special Discovery Weekends programming on Saturday, Jan. 17, and Sunday, Jan. 18. Visitors can observe enrichment activities, join zookeeper chats, and participate in fun crafts related to the theme of "Curious Climbers."

BONUS: Children ages eight and under enter the Zoo for free on Saturdays and Sundays in January with the purchase of a regular or senior ticket in person at the Admissions Building. 

Dine in Hershey's Chocolatetown

Open daily; Hours vary

There’s no sweeter place to enjoy lunch, dinner, dessert or drinks this weekend than at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. The full-service restaurant and bar is open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. over the long weekend. Guests can enjoy classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate for lunch or dinner. Plus, there’s a signature dessert menu filled with mouth-watering Hershey's chocolate-inspired treats.

Sports fans in town on Thursday, Jan. 15, can “Dine with Coco The Bear," The Official Mascot of the Hershey Bears. The weekly event, held on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. during the Hershey Bears hockey season, provides diners with the opportunity to meet the beloved mascot. An exclusive menu featuring Hershey Bears-inspired items will also be available during this special event. Plus, kids receive a free kids’ dessert with the purchase of a kids' entrée.

If you are planning a visit to The Chocolatier on Friday, Jan. 16, or Monday, Jan. 19, you can enjoy the all-new weekday Sandwich & Shake combo. This deal, available every Monday through Friday in January, includes a choice of any milkshake and any burger or handheld, along with fries, for $25.

The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen is open from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily during the long weekend. Guests can choose from a curated collection of mouth-watering confections, including chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts, signature hand-crafted fudge and more.

Warm Up at Hershey's Chocolate World

Open daily; Hours vary

There's always something to do at Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction, the official visitor's center of The Hershey Company, especially over the long weekend. Create Your Own Candy Bar, enjoy a free chocolate factory tour ride and become a chocolate tasting expert at the Hershey's Unwrapped experience. Plus, save time for shopping and a milkshake or other sweet treat!

Experience the Tropics at Hershey Gardens

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Did you know Hershey is home to one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.? Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden, houses hundreds of butterflies from around the world. The atrium makes for the perfect wintertime activity. 

Are you planning to visit on Sunday? Join friends of Hershey Gardens on January 18 from 2 to 3 p.m. for a walk around the garden to enjoy the beauty of winter. Eclipsed by flowers in other seasons, the trees and shrubs take center stage during the winter months. Diverse colors, shapes and textures will highlight the Gardens’ natural architecture. The Winter Walk is included in general admission, please note that walks will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.

BONUS: Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free or discounted admission! 

Discover the Sweet History at The Hershey Story

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

While visiting Hershey, Pa., take some time to learn about the town's sweet history at The Hershey Story. The Museum in downtown Hershey honors and preserves the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Don't miss out on grabbing tickets for the interactive Chocolate Lab and Chocolate Tastings experiences. 

BONUS: Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive free or discounted admission! 

Tour Founders Hall Visitors Center

Open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Hershey Entertainment and Resorts Company is proud to help fulfil the dream of our founder, Milton S. Hershey, by providing value to Milton Hershey School (MHS) in its mission of helping students lead fulfilling and productive lives - just as Mr. Hershey intended. The Milton Hershey School Founders Hall Visitors Center is open to visitors, offering an opportunity to explore more than 110 years of MHS history. The free tour explores the story of the School's past, present and future. Founders Hall is located at 801 Spartan Lane, Hershey, PA 17003, near the intersection of Meadow Lane and East Governor Road (Rte. 322).

Discovery Weekends offer visitors the opportunity to delve deeper into the adaptations of the Zoo's diverse animal residents. Each weekend will feature unique themes designed to educate and engage guests of all ages, along with enrichment activities, zookeeper chats and fun crafts that aren't available during a standard visit. 

Here's the remaining schedule:

• Jan. 10-11: Daring Diggers
• Jan. 17-18: Curious Climbers
• Jan. 24-25: Super Swimmers

Free Admission for Kids on January Discovery Weekends

On Saturdays and Sundays this January, children ages eight and under will receive free admission to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park with the purchase of a regularly priced adult or senior admission ticket. 

Please note: This special admission offer is only available for tickets purchased in person at the Zoo Admissions Building upon arrival. The discount cannot be applied to tickets purchased online.

Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the 11-acre Zoo. 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders also receive free Zoo admission, even during the Hersheypark off-season.

Plan a Winter Zoo Visit 

Beyond Discovery Weekends, ZooAmerica welcomes visitors daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. throughout the winter season. 

Those who are willing to bundle up in the crisp Central Pennsylvania winter air are in for a treat, as many of the animals in the outdoor habitats are often more active when the temperature drops. Guests might witness otters playfully swimming, elk grazing or mountain lions moving with a more noticeable alertness. 

Furthermore, the Zoo’s two indoor regions provide warm havens and equally engaging wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors should be sure to stop by the Southern Swamps building to welcome Ori, the Cuvier's dwarf caiman, to the ZooAmerica family. Ori made her debut at the Zoo in September 2025 and has quickly become a guest favorite.  

ZooAmerica is just one of the many attractions open in Hershey, Pa., this month. The destination also offers a unique blend of sports, entertainment, relaxation and delicious dining this New Year. For a comprehensive guide to all the fun, check out our top 13 things to do across the destination this January 2026. 

The fur flies when the Hershey Bears score the team's first goal of the game. This year's honor went to defenseman Louie Belpedio at the 2:55 mark of the first period. When the buzzer sounded, a corps of volunteers ascended into the rink to clear the ice and collect the stuffed animals. Players from the Eastern Pennsylvania Hockey group, also known as the "Statie Grays," consisting of Pennsylvania State Troopers, along with the Hershey Eagles, Central Pennsylvania's premier military hockey club supporting active duty, Reserve, Guard, and veterans, joined in the clean-up process along with more than 50 Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) team members. Milton Hershey School students and staff members joined additional HE&R volunteers on the GIANT Center plaza to collect and count stuffed animals as fans entered the building. 

At its heart, Hershey's Teddy Bear Toss is about community, kindness, and generosity. Our Bears fans are the best in the American Hockey League! Every year, they raise the bar on what it means to give back. Additionally, more than 100 volunteers from Children's Miracle Network Hershey (CMN) joined HE&R team members to count and bag thousands of plush toys. CMN has benefited from the Teddy Bear Toss for several years. For the past decade, the Sweigart Family Foundation of Lancaster County donated $1 to CMN at Golisano Children's Hospital at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center for every animal thrown on the ice. This year, The GIANT Company stepped in to honor the late Jeff Sweigart, a devoted Bears fan and longtime season ticket holder, to keep his passion alive. The GIANT Company graciously donated $100,000 to CMN. 

On Monday, January 5, 2026, the 81,796 donated stuffed animals were distributed to more than 60 local and regional organizations, including several new groups such as Lancaster Food Hub, Elizabethtown Fire Department, LaMancha Animal Rescue, Hummelstown Fire Department, Helping Hands of Juniata County, and Lucky Dawg Pet Rescue. Dozens of HE&R team members packed cars and trucks, sending smiles across the region. Thank you to our amazing fans and community members for making the 2026 Teddy Bear Toss another wonderful experience! 

To help you make the most of your investment, we've prepared this 2026 Season Pass Holder Winter Guide filled with available perks and important steps you can take now to ensure you can get right to the fun come opening day on April 3, 2026. 

Enjoy Discounts Around Town

While Hersheypark is currently closed for the off-season, your Season Pass perks have already begun! The benefits extend well beyond the theme park gates, allowing Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders to enjoy savings right now at premier restaurants, luxurious spas and unique local attractions throughout Hershey.

Visit ZooAmerica

2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders can visit ZooAmerica for free year-round, including when Hersheypark is closed. The 11-acre North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through March. Season Pass Holders can park in the ZooAmerica lot and show their Pass at the Admissions Building for free Zoo entry. 

Winter is a great time to visit, as the Zoo is often less busy and the animals become more active with the drop in temperature. To sweeten a weekend visit, ZooAmerica hosts special Discovery Weekends programming in January. Each weekend features unique themes designed to educate and engage guests of all ages, along with enrichment activities, zookeeper chats and fun crafts that aren't available during a standard visit. 

BONUS: 2026 Hersheypark Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can enjoy 15 percent off retail purchases and receive $2 off Bring-A-Friend tickets.

Enjoy Lunch or Dinner at The Chocolatier

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is open daily for family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. Guests can also satisfy their sweet tooth with a signature dessert menu of mouth-watering Hershey's chocolate-inspired treats. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

The full-service restaurant just debuted a new weekday sandwich and shake combo to make lunch breaks and mid-week dinners even better. This deal, available every Monday through Friday in January, includes a choice of any milkshake and any burger or handheld, along with fries, for $25. Please note that the combo cannot be combined with any other discounts.

Sports fans should consider grabbing dinner at The Chocolatier on Thursdays to “Dine with Coco The Bear," The Official Mascot of the Hershey Bears. The weekly event from 5-7 p.m. during the Hershey Bears hockey season provides diners with the opportunity to meet the beloved mascot. An exclusive menu featuring Hershey Bears-inspired items will also be available during this special event. Plus, kids receive a free kids’ dessert with the purchase of a kids' entrée.

BONUS: 2026 Hersheypark Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders receive a 20 percent discount every Monday through Thursday in January! 

Dine and Shop at the Resorts

Winter presents a wonderful opportunity for Hersheypark Season Pass Holders, particularly those who reside locally, to take advantage of the sweet offerings at our beautiful Official Resorts of Hersheypark. You don't need to stay overnight at The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge to dine at the restaurants on property and stock up on Hershey souvenirs without the crowds of the summer season.

If you are looking to break away from your regular dining routine and introduce some culinary variety this New Year, consider breakfast at Fire & Grain, lunch at 1933 Restaurant & Tavern or dinner at Revelry! You can even cap off an evening with a visit to Iberian Lounge for signature Hershey's-inspired cocktails and lite fare while warming up at the grand fireplace.

BONUS: 2026 Hersheypark Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders enjoy 15 percent off at the gift shops in January.

Rejuvenate at the Spa

In our opinion, there is no better way to beat the drying winter chill than by devoting a day to self-care and helping your skin feel hydrated and refreshed with a spa day. The Sweetest Place On Earth is home to two spas: The Spa At the Hotel Hershey resort spa and MeltSpa by Hershey day spa in downtown Hershey.

BONUS: 2026 Hersheypark Full, King, and Giant Size Pass Holders can schedule a treatment at MeltSpa on Monday through Thursday to receive 15 percent off or a treatment. The Spa At The Hotel Hershey offers a 10 percent discount to Season Pass Holders on Monday through Thursday.

Explore the Town's History at The Hershey Story

As a Hersheypark Season Pass Holder, you might already consider yourself an expert on our world-class amusement park and the incredibly sweet town that surrounds it. But how much do you really know about the rich history and deep legacy that make this place so unique? You can learn about the fascinating story of Milton S. Hershey and his chocolate at The Hershey Story. The Museum in downtown Hershey honors and preserves the life and legacy of Mr. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. 

BONUS: 2026 Hersheypark Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can add on unlimited visits to the Museum (and Hershey Gardens) for just $39.99.

Set Up Your Season Pass

If you are interested in taking advantage of these sweet perks, follow these steps to ensure your Season Pass is set up properly.

Create a Season Pass Account

Once you have received the confirmation email of your Season Pass purchase or renewal, the first step is to create a Season Pass Account via the Hersheypark Season Pass Portal. This is where Season Pass Holders can manage their Season Pass, upload a photo for a digital Pass, link Season Passes, access rewards, purchase add-ons and more - all in one convenient place! 

Follow these steps to set one up:

1. Create an account or log in to an existing account.
2. Locate the Visual ID/Barcode Number found on the Print-At-Home Season Pass Confirmation PDF, which is attached to the confirmation email from the Season Pass purchase. If you renew a Season Pass, the number remains the same on your physical Season Pass ID card.
3. Enter your Visual ID and last name to look up the Season Pass.
4. Create a password. Please note that the password must be at least 12 characters long, alphanumeric, and include at least one uppercase and one lowercase letter.
5. Once you have created an account, you can log in at any time to view your account information.
6. If you need to update your Season Pass payment information, click here for early access to the NEW Season Pass Portal, where you can edit billing details directly. You can log in using your current username and password.

Set Up a Digital Season Pass

2025 Season Pass Holders who renewed into the same Pass type in 2026 can reuse their physical card or the digital passes in 2026.

New 2026 Season Pass Holders can log into their Season Pass Account to upload their own photos. After review, they will have a digital Season Pass ready for use in 2026, eliminating the need to stop at Ticketing. If a photo is rejected, our Guest Experience team can assist you at Ticketing during your first visit. The only Season Pass tier that requires a physical pass from a visit to Ticketing is the Pre-K Pass. All others are digital-first, but if you would still like to receive a physical Season Pass ID card, you can get one at Ticketing.  

Please note that Ticketing is currently located inside Hersheypark Supply Co. for in-person Season Pass and ticketing needs prior to the Park's opening for the season. Ticketing hours are Thursday through Sunday from 12-5 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays). The Call Center is also available weekdays from 12-5 p.m. at 717-534-3900 for assistance. 

Redeem a Pre-K Pass

Pre-K Passes are now available for Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders to kickstart a lifetime of Hersheypark Happy for their kids. If you have one of these Season Pass tiers, you can start the redemption process now by following these steps:

1. Log in to your Season Pass Account.
2. Claim the Pre-K voucher within the ‘Benefits’ section. Please note that one Free Pre-K Pass is available with each Full and King Size Season Pass, and two Pre-K Passes are available with each Giant Size Season Pass.
3. Visit Ticketing to activate and receive your printed Pre-K Pass. Please remember to bring your Pre-K voucher, your Pre-K child and a government-issued birth certificate or passport showing the child’s date of birth (the child must have been born after July 1, 2021) to have the physical Pre-K Pass printed. A copy of the birth certificate or passport will be accepted.
4. After you activate and receive your Pre-K Pass, your child can visit ZooAmerica during the off-season by showing the Pass at the Zoo Admissions Building. Looking ahead, your child can also join a Full, King or Giant Size Season Pass Holder for 1-hour early access during Sweet Start, along with Season Pass Holder exclusive events.

Please note that all Pre-K Passes must be redeemed by Aug. 31, 2026. Children 2 and under are eligible to redeem a Pre-K voucher, but they are not required to have an admission ticket for entry.

The fun doesn't stop there! From Hershey Bears hockey games and entertainment at GIANT Center to special dining events, there are plenty of other things to do during the wintertime 2025-2026 in Hershey, Pa. Check out our top picks. 

If you stumbled upon this article but do not already have a Hersheypark Season Pass, now is the time to buy! The 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass program features four tiers with unlimited visits and sweet perks to fit every family’s lifestyle - all for less than the cost of three visits. 

Winter Treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey  

Start 2026 off with a day of relaxation at The Chocolate Spa. Guests can get cozy in their spa robes while sipping hot cocoa by the fire in the Quiet Room, warm up in the spa’s steam rooms and saunas, unwind in one of four relaxation lounges, swim in the indoor pool and sip on a Hershey's Signature Martini at The Oasis - a restaurant exclusively for spa guests. 

View the full list of spa amenities. 

This winter, the Chocolate Spa is featuring Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments and packages, available through Feb. 28.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Hydrating Body Wrap

A rich body butter combined with peppermint essential oil and essences of cocoa are smoothed onto the body. Hydrate in a warm cocoon while you enjoy a gentle face and scalp massage. 

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Immersion

Two treatments that combine the fresh mint scent of our exfoliating Peppermint Scrub with the sweet richness of our Chocolate Fondue Wrap. 

Peppermint Mocha Manicure & Pedicure

Enjoy a manicure and/or pedicure that uses a peppermint mocha scrub followed by an ultra-moisturizing cocoa body lotion.

Peppermint Twist Sugar Scrub: Available Year-Round 

Revitalize your skin with the invigorating exfoliation of a peppermint sugar scrub followed by a peppermint-scented moisturizer application. 

Holiday Season Sampler

Indulge in three treatments filled with the sweet aromas of the season all in one package!

• Full Body Exfoliation
• Hydrating Spice Wrap
• Holiday Spice Massage

To make an appointment for The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, please call our reservations team at 844-330-1797. 

Cranberry Spice Collection at MeltSpa by Hershey 

Located in downtown Hershey, MeltSpa by Hershey day spa is perfect for those looking for a quick spa treatment or a full day of relaxation. This holiday season, embrace the relaxing atmosphere throughout the spa while sipping on delicious hot cocoa in a fluffy chocolate robe before or after your treatment. 

MeltSpa by Hershey is excited to bring back its Cranberry Spice Collection through Feb. 28.

Cranberry Spice Collection

Nourish your skin this winter with the Cranberry Spice Collection, featuring the following treatments:

• Cranberry Spice Massage: A classic Swedish massage using cranberry-scented oil | 50 or 80 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Body Scrub: A full body exfoliation with a cranberry sugar scrub followed by a cranberry and orange body butter | 30 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Body Wrap: A full body wrap that hydrates the skin with a cranberry gel mask and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 60 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Immersion: This immersion includes a Cranberry Spice Body Scrub followed by a body wrap | 90 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Manicure: A classic manicure with a cranberry sugar scrub, hot oil treatment and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 50 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Pedicure: A classic pedicure using a cranberry gel mask, hot oil treatment and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 60 Minutes
• Winterberry Champagne Facial: Australian super-berries will brighten your skin, clear your pores and soothe irritation | 60 Minutes
• Winterberry Package: Experience three Cranberry Spice treatments for a full day of holiday relaxation:
  • Cranberry Spice Massage
  • Winterberry Champagne Facial
  • Cranberry Spice Pedicure

For appointments at MeltSpa by Hershey, please visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366. 

Don't forget to check out our guide to MeltSpa by Hershey and our guide to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey to help plan your visit! 
 

Be sure to share your experience with us! 

Your Arrival

Whether you're parking your RV or staying in one of our deluxe cabins or tiny homes, you're in for a sweet camping experience at Hersheypark Camping Resort. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

What to Bring 
In addition to all of your camping supplies, cabin guests are asked to please bring their own supply of linens, pillows, blankets, towels, personal items, dish soap and kitchen linens such as dish towels and hot pads.

Drive Slow
As you pull into the campground, remember to drive slowly. For the safety of children at play, the speed limit throughout the campground is 5 ½ mph. 

Check-In/Check-Out
Upon arrival, check-in at the front desk located inside Historic Landis Barn. Check-in is after 3 p.m. for all campers, and check-out is at 11 a.m. for cabins and 1 p.m. for campsites. 

Download The HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the campground, details on nearby dining, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

Amenities

Each site features a picnic table and fire ring for family 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 and other camping supplies you may need throughout your trip.

Please note that the water has been shut off for the winter season. The Historic Landis Barn, which offers a bathhouse and laundry, our Tiny Home and 2-Bedroom Deluxe Cabins have water year-round. A water fill station is available in the main parking lot.

RECREATION & ACTIVITIES

Once you're settled at your site, be sure to take advantage of our campground's on-site recreation and activities. Our campground offers a number of on-site recreational facilities for our campers to enjoy, including an indoor game room, multiple playgrounds, a community s'mores area, shuffleboard, basketball and volleyball courts. 

Please note: Guests are asked to supply their own sports equipment. 

FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary to visit the area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as there are often fewer crowds and the outdoor animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

Dining

Hershey has numerous dining options around town that are worth visiting if you want to expand your palate beyond campfire staples like mountain pies and s'mores. You'll find delicious menus in downtown Hershey at Devon Seafood + Steak. Or, for some chocolate-infused delights, check out The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate.

For more dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

Bring Home A Sweet Souvenir

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit. Be sure to stop inside the Country Store to find some sweet souvenirs to take home, ranging from apparel to mugs to Christmas ornaments and more. 

Share Your Photos

While you're here, be sure to tag our social channels in your sweet winter photos! 

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
On select weekend dates, children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby. There, they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book and participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game to win a a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room, dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service the next day. Our team is ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services.

Download The HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During the winter season, Hershey Lodge offers family-friendly activities for guests on weekends ranging from chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain, snow or shine, guests can make a splash at our year-round indoor pool complex, featuring interactive water features such as Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, basketball hoops and more. The complex also features an indoor arcade, fitness center and the Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

*Please note that select areas of Hershey's Water Works will be closed for annual maintenance Jan. 4 - 23. Please check hours for availability on the Hershey Lodge website. 

FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary to visit the area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as there are often fewer crowds and the outdoor animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner this season. Visit HersheyLodge.com/Dining for hours, reservations and more info.

Options include: 

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in house.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside cafe offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream while guests enjoy Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing will prepare your skin for the cold winter season quite like the Cranberry Spice Collection. This limited-time collection features a cranberry spice body scrub, massage, body wrap, manicure and pedicure and remains available through Feb. 28. Or, enjoy signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments year-round.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and seasonal items. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are also available for in-store purchases.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, be sure to tag our social channels in your sweet winter photos!

Planning a stay at this beautiful resort? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit this winter. 

YOUR ARRIVAL

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know before you go. 

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at The Hotel Hershey begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 12 p.m. 

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services. 

Download The HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Hotel, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

Activities & Recreation

Once checked in, take advantage of the activities available across the resort. On weekends, The Hotel Hershey offers family-friendly activities for guests ranging from chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also enjoy recreation on the property, including an indoor pool complex, daily fitness classes and an arcade. Find hours and more information. 

Please Note: the indoor pool complex will be closed for routine maintenance from Monday, Jan. 4, through Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026.

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. This past summer, The Villas doubled in size bringing guests a total of 19 Villas and 98 sleeping rooms. Amenities available this winter include access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, preferred spa and dining reservations and door-to-door transportation to local Hershey locations and downtown destinations. The Concierge Lounge can be accessed with a Villa room key from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and includes: 

• Continental breakfast
• Snacks and fountain drinks
• Evening hors d’oeuvres with beer and wine plus desserts
• Exclusive Hershey character appearances and s’mores roasts 

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge here.

Free Resort Benefits

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of The Hotel Hershey receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to  ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as many of the animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

Dining

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations. 

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

Make sure to check out The Hotel Hershey's newest restaurant, 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Here, guests can feast on an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare with bold flavors. Plus, enjoy unique signature cocktails and curated draught beers on tap, as well as a brunch menu that’s served every Sunday. View menu. 

Additional on-property restaurants include:

• The Circular, The Hotel Hershey's flagship restaurant
• Trevi 5, a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge, serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails
• Chef's Market, an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on the go

Other options around town include Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

Schedule A Spa Treatment

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa is famous for its signature chocolate treatments, such as a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and Cocoa Massage. However, this winter, guests can also indulge in a collection of decadent Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments through Feb. 28. Call 844-330-1797 or visit the spa's front desk to book your appointment.

Bring Home A Sweet Souvenir

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit. So, don't forget to stop inside The Shops At The Hotel Hershey for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and more. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are also available for in-store purchases.

Share Your Photos

While you're here, be sure to tag our social channels in any sweet winter photos!

1. Visit Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Open Daily Through Jan. 4; Hours Vary

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane continues through Jan. 4 with over 40 family rides (weather, temperature and maintenance permitting), signature eats and treats and reindeer visits. Although Hersheypark will be closed for the off season following the end of Christmas Candylane, 2026 Season Pass Holders will be able to start enjoying a full year of perks by visiting ZooAmerica, dining at The Chocolatier and enjoying various discounts across the town of Hershey. 

2. Discovery Weekends at ZooAmerica

Jan. 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, 24-25; 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Visit ZooAmerica during Discovery Weekends this month! Children ages 8 and under enter for FREE with the purchase of a regular or senior admission ticket at the door. Each Discovery Weekend spotlights a specific animal and features a variety of enrichment activities to learn more about your favorite animals.

Weekend Themes:

• January 3-4: Flying Friends
• January 10-11: Daring Diggers
• January 17-18: Curious Climbers
• January 24-25: Super Swimmers

Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the Zoo, and 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders get into the Zoo for free, too. 

3. Hershey Bears GIANT Teddy Bear Toss at GIANT Center

Sunday, Jan. 4; 3 p.m.

The Hershey Bears are excited to host their annual GIANT Teddy Bear Toss. Fans are encouraged to bring new or gently used teddy bears and plush toys to the game to be thrown on the ice at GIANT Center when the Bears score their first goal. There is no limit on how many teddy bears fans can bring.

Since first hosting this beloved minor-league hockey tradition in 2001, the Bears have collected 566,450 stuffed animals – including a record 102,343 last season – and have donated them to children in need throughout Central Pennsylvania. A limited number of tickets for the Teddy Bear Toss Game are currently available, and the event is expected to sell out quickly. For tickets and additional information about the Hershey Bears, please visit HersheyBears.com.

4. NEW! Winter Wednesdays Family Series at Hershey Gardens

Jan. 14, 21, 28; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Visitors to Hershey Gardens can meet new “friends” each week at the Zoology Zone Interactive Cart to engage in family activities and explore how animals and plants survive winter. Guests will learn about the similarities and differences between native species and the species in our Zoology Zone, discuss winter survival strategies, and explore when seeds are dormant during the winter. Activities are located in the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory and the Education Center and are included in general admission.

5. Sips & Sweets: An Evening in the Chocolate Lab at The Hershey Story Museum

Thursday, Jan. 15; 7 to 8 p.m. 

Get ready for an evening of chocolatey fun! The Chocolate Lab at The Hershey Story Museum is serving up three delicious, handcrafted desserts and a specialty mocktail. Participants will learn a few fundamentals of dessert-making in this fun, one-hour class. This BYOB event is perfect for guests 21+ who want to savor sweets and sip with friends! Cost is $35 per person; $30 for members. Registration required, limited seating available.

6. Live Entertainment at Iberian Lounge

Every Saturday;  8 to 11 p.m.

The Iberian Lounge at The Hotel Hershey will feature live entertainment every Saturday throughout January. Find a seat, grab a cocktail or mocktail, and enjoy the sounds of new musical guests each week. Entertainment is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Entertainment Schedule:

• Jan. 3: John Kelly

• Jan. 10: Jeff Seyfried

• Jan. 17: Jimmy D

• Jan. 24: Mockingbird Duo

• Jan. 31: Noel Gevers

7. Public Ice Skating at GIANT Center and Hersheypark Arena

Dates Vary; 2 to 4 p.m.

Whether a figure skater or a first timer, enjoy an afternoon of ice skating at both GIANT Center and the historic Hersheypark Arena.

8. Winter Treatments Available at the Spas in Hershey

Appointments Available Throughout January; Times Vary

What better way to relax after the holidays than with a chocolate-filled spa day? MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa offer signature chocolate treatments and seasonal collections to warm up and unwind all month long. Experience Peppermint Hot Chocolate treatments and Peppermint Mocha treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, or visit MeltSpa by Hershey to indulge in seasonal treatments from the Cranberry Spice Collection through Feb. 28. 

Plus, on January 16, The Spa At The Hotel Hershey celebrates its 25th anniversary! Stay tuned for announcements on how the spa is planning to celebrate. 

9. Hershey Bears Home Ice Hockey Games

Dates and Times Vary

Can’t make the GIANT Teddy Bear Toss? There are still seven other promotion-packed Bears games to choose from in January including:

• Jan. 3 vs. Rockford – PSECU Knit Hat Night (first 5,000 fans in attendance)
• Jan. 10 vs. Cleveland – Country Night/Pepsi Cowboy Hat Night (first 6,000 fans in attendance)
• Jan. 11 vs. Cleveland – Autograph Night/Team Photo Night (first 6,000 fans in attendance)
• Jan. 14 vs. Hartford – Berks Dollar Dog Night
• Jan. 20 vs. Hartford – Hersheypark Pass Night (all fans in attendance) / Taco Tuesday
• Jan. 23 vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton – Halfway to Summer Night
• Jan. 25 vs. Charlotte – Hometown Heroes: First Responders Night

10. New Eats at The Chocolatier

Open Daily; Reservations Recommended

The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio features a new winter menu with updates to many big plates and shareables. Warm up with seasonal variations on classic dishes like the Heath Bar Crusted Salmon, Leek & Pancetta Risotto and Grilled NY Strip Steak. Guests 21 and older can also enjoy specialty cocktails including the Peppermint Bark Old Fashioned and the festive Pomegranate Gin Fizz.

Also new this month is the weekday Sandwich & Shake combo. This deal, available every Monday through Friday in January, includes a choice of any milkshake and any burger or handheld, along with fries, for $25.

Don’t miss out on an all-new special menu celebrating the Hershey Bears. This special menu is served every Bears home game day and during Dine With Coco every Thursday night from 5-7 p.m. Items include a specialty milkshake, themed cocktails, and entrees which include the return of the fan-favorite Chocolate BBQ Wings. 

11. Winter Bird Watching at Hershey Gardens

Saturday, Jan. 17; 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Birding enthusiasts can learn to identify the various birds that call Hershey Gardens home during the winter. Staff will guide participants through Project Feederwatch, then take them on a unique guided bird walk, providing additional information about identification and feeding techniques.

For the youngest birders, additional family crafts and activities will be offered in the Hershey Gardens classroom. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. This event is in partnership with the Quittapahilla Audubon Society and is included in general admission. Registration is required by calling 717-508-5968.

12. Explore Founders Hall Visitors Center at Milton Hershey School

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

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

13. Plan A Winter Getaway

From a cozy cabin or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort to deluxe accommodations at Hershey Lodge and The Hotel Hershey, our resorts make for a sweet getaway.  For a limited time, guests can save with the below winter offers, available select dates throughout the season:

• Book One Night, Get One 50% Off at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort
• Book Two Nights, Get One Free at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge

All resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more.

Be sure to share your sweet memories with us by using #HersheyPA on social media! We hope to see you soon in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Hershey Resorts Winter Getaway

There is so much to do in Hershey this winter, you'll want to stay overnight to truly experience it all. From a cozy cabin or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort to deluxe accommodations at Hershey Lodge (featuring our 30,000 square foot indoor pool complex, Hershey's Water Works) and The Hotel Hershey, The Official Resorts of Hersheypark make for a sweet winter getaway. 

For a limited time, guests can save with the below winter offers, available select dates throughout the season:

• Book One Night, Get One 50% Off at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort
• Book Two Nights, Get One Free at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge

All resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more.

Discovery Weekends at ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this winter. Families can bundle up and walk around the 11-acre Zoo while learning about dozens of animals native to our continent, like gray wolves, Canada lynx and river otters. Despite the colder temperatures, winter is often the best time of year to visit ZooAmerica, as the crowds typically are lighter and the animals are more active. 

The Zoo is also hosting Discovery Weekends in January, where kids ages 8 and under can visit for free on Saturdays and Sundays with the purchase of a regular or senior admission ticket at the door. Each Discovery Weekend spotlights a specific animal and features a variety of enrichment activities to learn more about your favorite animals. Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the Zoo, and 2026 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders get into the Zoo for free, too. 

Winter Shows and Concerts in Hershey

There are plenty of opportunities to catch some live entertainment in Hershey this winter. The following acts are coming to the soon-to-reopen historic Hershey Theatre and the 10,500-seat GIANT Center arena through March.

GIANT Center:

• Dancing with the Stars: Live! on Feb. 5 at 7:30 p.m.
• The Harlem Globetrotters: 100 Year Tour on Feb. 22 at 3 p.m.
• Elevation Worship & Steven Furtick: 2026 Tour on Feb. 24 at 7 p.m.
• Journey: Final Frontier Tour on Feb. 28 at 7:30 p.m.
• Three Days Grace: Alienation Tour on March 1 at 7 p.m.
• 2026 PIAA Wrestling Championships on March 5-7 at various times
• Brit Floyd: The Moon, The Wall and Beyond on March 13 at 8 p.m.
• Disney On Ice Presents: Frozen & Encanto on March 26-29 at various times

Hershey Theatre:

• Beyond the Footlights: Hershey Theatre Backstage Pass on February 26 at various times
• Neil deGrasse Tyson: Cosmic Collisions on March 5 at 7:30 p.m.
• Jim Jefferies: Son of a Carpenter on March 13 at 7 p.m.
• The Best Of Steve Martin & Martin Short on March 14 at various times
• Hershey Symphony Presents: Rodgers & Hammerstein's Carousel in Concert on March 21 at various times
• TINA - The Tina Turner Musical on March 24-29 at various times

Hershey Bears Hockey Games at GIANT Center

Hockey fans can cheer for the hometown Hershey Bears AHL team. The Bears will play 17 games at GIANT Center between now and the end of March.

Key promotional nights include the GIANT Teddy Bear Toss Night on Jan. 4 and Hersheypark Pass Nights on Jan. 20 and Mar. 22. All fans attending the Hersheypark Pass Nights will receive a free 2026 Hersheypark ticket, valid for one-day admission through June 30, 2026! Passes will be distributed to all fans upon entry to the game, valid for one pass per game ticket.

Tuesday Trivia Nights & Hershey Bears Watch Parties at The Bears' Den

Calling all trivia fans! Gather your friends and join us at The Bears' Den, located inside Hershey Lodge, every Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. for a game of trivia, featuring general trivia questions. Diners can enjoy delicious appetizers and drinks while playing fun trivia games for a chance to win a prize. 

Get your roar ready! We’ll be cheering on our very own Hershey Bears at The Bears’ Den during our watch parties! Enjoy a delicious meal with fellow fans in Bear Nation on Sunday, Jan. 18, at 4 p.m. and Monday, Feb. 16, at 3 p.m. No reservations required.

Live Entertainment at Iberian Lounge

The Iberian Lounge at The Hotel Hershey will feature live entertainment every Saturday from 8 to 11 p.m. throughout January. Find a seat, grab a cocktail or mocktail, and enjoy the sounds of new musical guests each week. Entertainment is free and open to the public. Seating is first-come, first-served.

Entertainment Schedule:

• Jan. 3: John Kelly
• Jan. 10: Jeff Seyfried
• Jan. 17: Jimmy D
• Jan. 24: Mockingbird Duo
• Jan. 31: Noel Gevers

Dine With Coco The Bear at The Chocolatier

Kids can enjoy a free kid's dessert with the purchase of a kid's entrée at The Chocolatier on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. during the Hershey Bears hockey season. Plus, all diners can hang out with Coco, The Official Mascot of the Hershey Bears!

Don’t miss out on an all-new special menu celebrating the Hershey Bears. This special menu is served every Bears home game day. Items include a specialty milkshake, themed cocktails and entrees which include the return of the fan-favorite Chocolate BBQ Wings. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Winter Spa Treatments

What better way to beat the winter blues than with a chocolate spa day? MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa (that will be celebrating its 25th anniversary throughout 2026) offer signature chocolate treatments and seasonal collections to warm up and unwind on a cold winter day. Guests can choose from various services, including massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, manicures and pedicures, hair services and much more.

This winter, guests can experience treatments from the Cranberry Spice Collection at Meltspa by Hershey or Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey through Feb. 28. 

To make an appointment at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, call 844-330-1797. For MeltSpa by Hershey appointments, call 855-500-2366 or go online. 

Special Meet & Greets at Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey's Chocolate World is open daily from January through March; hours vary by day. Guests can unwrap their chocolate adventure by being a kid in a candy store, sipping a milkshake, becoming a chocolatier, taking a delicious chocolate tour ride and so much more.

There are several winter events at Hershey's Chocolate World to add to the calendar, including special Meet & Greets with Snoopy and the Hershey's Characters. Check the Chocolate World website for dates and times.

Interactive Events at Hershey Gardens

Hershey Gardens is open daily this winter except Jan. 5-9 for maintenance. Visitors can take a stroll through the 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden, featuring an indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium with 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.

NEW! Winter Wednesdays Family Series: Winter Animal Adaptations

Every Wednesday in January from 10 a.m. to noon, meet new “friends” at the Zoology Zone Interactive Cart and engage in family activities that explore how animals and plants survive winter. You'll learn how to compare and contrast native species with Zoology Zone species, discuss winter survival, and explore when seeds are dormant over winter. Activity is located in the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory and the Education Center. 

Dried Floral Arrangement Class

On Saturday, Feb. 7, from 10 a.m. to noon, create your own dried floral arrangement to bring beauty to your home in the winter months. You'll use an assortment of dried specimens, such as seed pods, florals, grasses and greens, to learn about color, form and texture when creating an arrangement. Class held in the Education Center in The Children’s Garden. Registration is required.

Chocolate Lab Classes at The Hershey Story

Those looking for a fun indoor activity to beat the winter blues can head to The Hershey Story Museum to learn all about the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where guests can learn about the chocolate-making process from "bean to bar" and create their own chocolate treat. Chocolate Lab Classes are offered daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets can be purchased at The Hershey Story⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ admissions desk on the day of the visit.

Public Ice Skating at Hersheypark Arena

Ice skating is a staple on many people's winter bucket lists. Hersheypark Arena is open for public ice skating on select dates in December and January. Children 3 and under are admitted free, with ticket prices ranging from $6 to $9 for ages 4 and older.

We hope to see you in The Sweetest Place On Earth this winter!

For more than 40 years, the merriest event of the year at Hersheypark has delighted guests with a unique blend of only-in-Hershey holiday experiences, including the most lights in Pennsylvania, all nine of Santa’s reindeer, unique seasonal rides and coasters, festive eats and signature hot chocolate.

You won't want to miss this USA TODAY 10Best Top 10 Theme Park Holiday Event for 2025! Plan your visit with this guide of the top 12 things to do at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

1. Most Holiday Lights in Pennsylvania

More than five million sparkling lights deck the halls of Hersheypark this year, including the guest-favorite NOEL light show, which features dancing lights choreographed to Christmas music along Spring Creek. NOEL starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 30 minutes in The Hollow region. 

2. Family Attractions and Kiddie Rides

A selection of family-friendly and kiddie rides are open for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, temperature and maintenance permitting. Dry Gulch Railroad is a must-ride, as the steam-powered train takes riders through areas of Hersheypark completely blanketed with lights. The railroad features a Christmas overlay with various displays that are only viewable from the ride, including the 12 Days of Christmas.  

There are also a few signature rides worth adding to the must-do list that provide dazzling views of the lights from above versus walking all 121 acres:

• Kissing Tower takes guests 250 feet up in the air to the highest point in Hershey for an aerial 360° view of Hersheypark and the town built on chocolate while learning about its history.
• The Ferris Wheel, with its festive light package, is more than just an iconic photo spot during the holidays. The family attraction is also a popular option for guests of every height category to enjoy the beautiful views from nearly 100 feet.
• Twizzlers Twisted Gravity makes its holiday debut in 2025 with a holiday light package and offers stunning new views of the fan-favorite NOEL light show.
• Hershey Triple Tower is ideal for thrill seekers looking to get a unique, bird's-eye view of the holiday lights. The attraction features a light package to add to the holiday spirit in the Kissing Tower Hill region. 

Tip: We recommend downloading the Hersheypark app for a real-time listing of ride availability and wait times. 

3. Holiday Thrills on Select Coasters

Oh, what fun it is to ride on seven roller coasters during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane! Temperature and maintenance permitting, thrill seekers can experience holiday thrills on the following coasters:

• Wildcat’s Revenge featuring a holiday light package
• Candymonium featuring a holiday light package
• sooperdooperLooper featuring a holiday light package
• Jolly Rancher Remix with a holiday overlay and scent
• Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk indoor coaster decorated for the holidays with a large Christmas tree in the center
• Wild Mouse
• Cocoa Cruiser

To add to the Park's merry ambiance, some coasters that are closed for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane boast holiday decorations. Visitors can see holiday light packages on Skryush and a Santa sleigh light display on the lift hill of Comet. 

Tip: Temperature thresholds for the coasters are listed in the website FAQs. Generally, temperatures must be at least 38 degrees and rising to begin the day and stay above 38 degrees at night for select rides to operate. If the weather causes a majority of the seasonally available major rides to close for more than 60 minutes of your visit, head to Guest Services to claim your FREE return visit voucher valid any operating day through June 30, 2026. View our full Winter Weather Promise policy details here.

4. Photos With Santa in the Mary N. Bright Airfield

Don't forget to make your list and check it twice because Santa Claus has come to town! Guests can visit with Santa and all nine of his reindeer in the Mary N. Bright Airfield located in Fahrenheit Catering inside Hersheypark. Santa’s favorite candy-stocking stop before his holiday ride is home to the Yule Lounge, where guests can get a photo with Santa, tell him their list and mingle with his elves through Dec. 24.

Tip: The Mary N. Bright Airfield may experience a high volume of travelers, so guests are encouraged to head there first.

5. All Nine of Santa's Reindeer

Rudolph and his are taking a break before their famous flight inside an old airplane hangar turned stables at Hersheypark! Guests can see the reindeer up close from behind a gated area in Hangar 96. Hersheypark is the only place in Pennsylvania with this magical experience featuring all nine of Santa’s reindeer during all hours of operation through Jan. 4, 2026.

Tip: Reindeer specialists from ZooAmerica are on-site to answer guest questions. 

6. Holly Jolly Hershey Character Sweet Greets

It's not a visit to Hersheypark without snapping a selfie with a Hershey Character! Parkgoers can stop by the Reese's Cup House located next to the Chevrolet Music Box Theatre and meet their favorite Hershey Characters, who are donning their coziest winter apparel. 

Tip: Check the Hersheypark app for appearance times. 

7. TREEville Trail

Guests can enjoy a stroll through TREEville trail in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region. This festive trail, which wraps around the East Coast Water Works attraction, features over 25 uniquely decorated trees sharing stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth with unique themes and decor.

Tip: Don't forget to tag @Hersheypark and use #ChristmasCandylane in social media posts!

8. Hot Chocolate and Seasonal Eats

Tis the season to eat, drink and be Hersheypark Happy! Guests can indulge in a variety of seasonal food and beverage offerings, including:

• Get your hands on the Kissmas TREEts Collectible sweets container featuring multiple layered compartments of handmade goodies. This year, there are two tasty variations featuring mixes of snacks and a cookie decorating kit. They are available for $28.99 plus tax online and for redemption at select locations within Hersheypark and Hershey Sweet Lights.
• Guests can warm up with four specialty hot chocolate topped with baked goods at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar or boozy hot chocolate for those 21 and older at The Concourse Cocoa Bar, located inside Terminal C of the Mary N. Bright Airfield.
• For savory options, three specialty Holi-dog hot dogs are available at Berks Hot Dog Stand. Plus, new holiday offerings including Holiday Meal Plates and cookie platters will be available at Overlook Food Court on select dates.
• Perfect for sharing, Simply Chocolate offers three King Size Shakes: Frozen Hot Chocolate, Gingerbread and Reese's Peanut Butter. Milton's Ice Cream Parlor and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen also have seasonal desserts.

Tip: As a special holiday perk, 2025 King and Giant Size Pass Holders can receive FREE refills on standard hot chocolate and coffee in the form of a paper cup during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

9. All New Holiday Stage Show

For the first time since 2019, guests can enjoy a holiday stage show inside the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre during Christmas Candylane. Twinkling Thru Time is a bright and heartwarming celebration of laughter, love, and the magic of Christmas featuring your favorite holiday hits.

Tip: Showtimes vary in accordance with the Hersheypark operating schedule. Check the Hersheypark app for showtimes during your visit.

10. Our Friends From The Sea

Weather permitting, guests can see the seals and sea lions during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. when Hersheypark Christmas Candylane opens at 12 p.m.

11. Zoo Visits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Christmas Day). The holiday season is a great time to visit the 11-acre Zoo as many North American animals in the outdoor habitats, like the gray wolves, river otters and Canada Lynx, are more active when the temperature drops. 

ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during Park hours. Separate Zoo tickets are available for purchase online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building. 

Tip: Please note that the Zoo naturalists care for the reindeer at Hersheypark, so a Hersheypark Christmas Candylane ticket is required to view them.

12. Holiday Shopping

Hersheypark is home to more than one dozen retail locations that feature a blend of new collections and vintage designs for holiday gift-giving. Guests can give the gift of happy or take a piece home as their own souvenir.

• Hersheypark Supply Co. is a premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store where guests can browse the largest collection of apparel, gifts, toys and more exclusive to Hersheypark. A Hersheypark ticket is not required to visit Hersheypark Supply Co. During Christmas Candylane operating days, the store is open from 10 a.m. until the Park is closed (closed Christmas Day).
• HP Collections is located inside the front gate and features a collection of curated premier brands and styles, including johnnie-O, Vuori, Adidas, Corkcicle and more.
• Prancer's Presents is new this holiday season. Located across from the Mary N. Bright Airfield, the store features exclusive Hersheypark Puppie Love merchandise.
• Candylane Emporium is a seasonal retail experience right outside of The Boardwalk for unique Christmas-themed apparel, gifts and more.
• Christmas Memories in Founder's Way next to Kettle Corn is full of Hersheypark and chocolate-themed holiday décor.

Tip: Interested in giving the gift of experience? An e-gift card or 2026 Season Pass makes a sweet gift!

Buy Online and Save

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane 1-Day Any Day Tickets are currently $50.99 plus taxes and fees online. The tickets purchased during the offer are valid through Jan. 4, 2026. 

Current 2025 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane as part of their year-long perks. 2026 Season Passes are on sale now with a Season Pass+ option that includes unlimited visits and perks to Hersheypark for the remainder of the 2025 operating year and all of 2026 - a great gift idea, too! 

The town built on chocolate offers something for everyone from a 121- acre world-class amusement park to a luxurious chocolate-filled spa day at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, live concerts and shows, over a dozen dining locations and much more. 

Gift cards can be conveniently purchased online and sent straight to your loved one’s inbox, or in person at any of the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) properties. All HE&R gift cards can be used on-site throughout the destination and do not expire.

Check out this destination gift guide for ideas to delight someone on your Christmas list this holiday season.

Visit the Largest Amusement Park in Pennsylvania

Hersheypark amusement park is a 121-acre theme open for four distinct seasonal events - Spring Weekends in April; summer lasting May through September; Hersheypark Halloween and the Dark Nights immersive haunt experience; and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. A one-price admission includes three sweet experiences, featuring more than 70 rides with 15 thrilling coasters; 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.

2026 Hersheypark Summer tickets are now on sale, which are valid for admission from April 3 through Sept. 7, 2026. Guests can save more than 45 percent and start planning a 2026 trip to The Sweetest Place On Earth. 

Please note that the Hersheypark website does not currently process gift cards as a payment method. However, gift cards can be processed at the Ticketing Services building during your next visit. 

Enjoy a Year of Hersheypark Happy

Hersheypark 2026 Season Passes are on sale and allow guests to enjoy unlimited year-round visits with discounts, events and special perks based on pass type.

With a Hersheypark Season Pass this holiday season, you’re giving far more than the Northeast's largest coaster collection, thrilling water slides and an 11-acre zoo—you’re giving unlimited access to enjoy it all, anytime you want. Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can visit Hersheypark as often as they want throughout each operating season and enjoy free parking, 1-hour early access to the Park and a sweet discount on food and retail. Payment plans are available with savings on the Hersheypark website. 

Go Behind the Scenes at ZooAmerica

Do you have an animal lover in your life? Look no further than a Behind-The-Scenes Tour at ZooAmerica for a gift idea! There are various special tours to choose from that guide participants through non-public areas, get them close to the animals and leave them with a deeper understanding of the animal world. A popular option is the all-new premium feeding opportunities as part of a 30-minute feeding encounter.

Another gift idea is a ZooAmerica Pass, which includes unlimited visits to see the North American animals, exclusive events, discounted sign-up rates for Zoo programs and more. Family Passes are also available and admit a family of four living at the same address. Please note the Annual Pass is valid for 12 consecutive months from the date of purchase.

See a Live Show

From Broadway and concerts to comedians and family shows, Hershey, Pa,, is home to world-class entertainment for people of all ages to enjoy. Tickets to a show make a perfect gift idea for a day out for both your gift recipient and yourself, with over 40 different shows and counting to choose from in the coming year. For a complete lineup of shows across each venue, visit our Hershey Entertainment website. Be sure to stay tuned for even more show announcements coming soon!

Destination gift cards can be used to buy show tickets at the GIANT Center, Hersheypark Stadium and Hershey Theatre Box Offices.

Cheer on the Hershey Bears

The 2025-26 Hershey Bears ice hockey season is in full swing with home games happening at the GIANT Center through the spring. For any hockey fanatic on your list, purchase tickets online or at the GIANT Center Box Office and support the Bears as they “Defend the Den!” 

If you want to ensure the gift recipient is game day ready, consider a hockey jersey, t-shirt or other Hershey Bears merchandise. Apparel and souvenirs are available for purchase online or at the Hershey Bears team store, which offers extended hours leading up to Christmas.

Relax with a Spa Treatment

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey offer one-of-a-kind chocolate treatments that ensure nothing but sweet relaxation. Give the gift of signature chocolate treatments like a Cocoa Massage, a Chocolate Fondue Wrap or rotating treatments that change with the scents of the season. This winter, guests can even indulge in Peppermint Hot Chocolate treatments at both spas for a limited time.

For ultimate relaxation, treat someone on your list to year-round spa treatments with a Chocolate Spa Club membership at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Benefits include a $150 spa credit, a one-night midweek stay at The Hotel Hershey, discounts on spa services and more.

Destination gift cards can be used to purchase treatments and also be used to buy signature spa products along with other spa merchandise. 

Taste the Flavors of Hershey 

Hershey, Pa., is home to more than a dozen unique dining venues that include casual coffee shops, late-night cocktail hangouts, family-friendly dining, four-star cuisine and everything in between. Treat your favorite foodie to a signature, only-in-Hershey meal at any of our dining locations listed here.

Be sure to share your sweet Hershey memories with us by using #HersheyPA on social media! We hope you have a great holiday season! 

Read on for more details about what you can expect during these educational program at the 11-acre Zoo in the heart of Hershey, Pa. 

Wild Winter Adventure Program 

December 20, 21, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 | 8:30-11:30 AM or 1-4 p.m.

Wild Winter Adventure is an educational program jam-packed with fun and engaging learning opportunities for children in grades K through 5 to beat the holiday hibernation. During the 3-hour program, participants will explore the Zoo while learning about how each North American animal survives in the cold weather. They will also get up close to animals during live encounters, participate in an enrichment activity, make a craft and even enjoy a snack to fuel up for more fun. 

Plus, participants will walk across the bridge into Hersheypark amusement park to visit the Mary N. Bright Airfield, where Rudolph and his friends are resting in Hangar 96 before their big flight. Santa has entrusted the ZooAmerica staff to take special care of all nine of his live reindeer inside Hersheypark during the Christmas Candylane seasonal event through Jan. 4, 2026.

The single-session registration for Wild Winter Adventure is $75 per person. Current ZooAmerica Annual Pass Holders or Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive a special Pass rate of $70 per person. Each person must be pre-registered and prepaid to participate. Space is limited. Children must be dropped off at a designated area in the Admissions Building.

Wild Winter Adult Camp

December 13 and 14 | 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. 

On the heels of a successful adult summer and fall ZooCamp, ZooAmerica will also offer a Wild Winter Adult Camp again this year. Campers ages 18+ will participate in an animal enrichment activity, get up-close to North American wildlife during live animal encounters and visit the reindeer inside Hersheypark. 

Wild Winter Adult Camp is $75 per person. Current ZooAmerica Annual Pass Holders or Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive a special Pass rate of $70 per person. 

Please note that the Dec. 14 program is currently sold out. 

Santa has once again come to the town built on chocolate for the 2025 holiday season. Here is a guide to the top seven places in The Sweetest Place On Earth to meet Santa, share your wish list and snap a photo with him for a sweet souvenir. 

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane

Select dates through Dec. 24 during all operating hours

Santa's favorite holiday spot at Hersheypark is the Mary N. Bright Airfield, a themed location in Fahrenheit Catering featuring Santa and all nine of his reindeer. Santa is located in the Yule Lounge inside the Mary N. Bright Airfield during all hours of Hersheypark Christmas Candylane operations through Dec. 24, 2025. Guests can see Santa included with admission. 

To get to the Yule Lounge, guests should head to the left-hand side of the Mary N. Bright Airfield, where they will enter a winter wonderland lined with beautifully decorated trees and sweet holiday decorations. Along the way to see Santa, guests might get lucky and see some of his elves! Once guests arrive at the Yule Lounge, they can sit next to Santa or on his lap to share their wish list and take a photo with him. Guests are welcome to capture their own photos using a phone. Professional photos are available for purchase in Terminal C of the Mary N. Bright Airfield.

Right next to the Yule Lounge, guests can get an up-close look at all nine of Santa’s reindeer, including Rudolph, in Hangar 96 through Jan. 4, 2026. Please note that the line to meet Santa is separate from the line to meet his reindeer.

The Chocolatier for Breakfast with Santa 

Saturdays, Sundays and select Fridays through Dec. 24 from 8-10:45 a.m.

Families can enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, featuring hints of chocolate, kids' activities and lots of holiday family fun alongside Santa and a few of his festive elves. Young diners can partake in a scavenger hunt, photo frame decorating and more. 

Please note that limited availability remains, and reservations are required. The cost for guests ages 12 and older is $35.95. Kids ages 3-11 are $22.95. Children 2 and under are free. Prices do not include tax and gratuity.

The Hotel Hershey for Breakfast with Santa - For Overnight Guests Only

Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21 from 9-11 a.m.

Guests staying overnight at The Hotel Hershey can celebrate the holidays with a breakfast buffet in the beautifully decorated Fountain Lobby and enjoy a photo opportunity with Santa. Breakfast with Santa is available exclusively to overnight guests and requires a reservation. The cost is $53 for children and $65 for adults. Please note that limited availability remains. Guests can call 855-338-7126 to book.

Santa will also make a stop at The Villas at The Hotel Hershey Concierge Lounge for guests staying in the newest luxury accommodations during the Christmas season. Exclusive visits with Santa are available from 9-10 a.m. on Nov. 29, 30 and Dec. 6, 7 and 13-24. Villas guests also receive exclusive holiday perks, including Hersheypark Christmas Candylane tickets on Park operating days, plus a one-day Fast Track, per person.

Hershey Lodge - For Overnight Guests Only

Saturday, Dec. 6, 13 and 20 from 7-9 p.m.

The Recreation Department at Hershey Lodge will offer photos with Santa for Lodge guests only on select Saturdays in December. Guests are welcome to take their own photos, but a professional photographer will also be on-site with the option to purchase family photos.

Guests can enjoy hot cocoa, cookies and a special arrival from Santa by fire truck near the Cocoa Terrace Patio! Santa festivities will take place following Santa's arrival in the Magnolias. 

Hershey's Chocolate World 

Select dates and times through Dec. 24

Visitors can bring the entire family to Hershey's Chocolate World to create a new holiday tradition by having their photo taken with Santa in front of the HERSHEY'S Holiday Chocolate House in a classic HERSHEY'S Chocolate Tour ride car. Santa is available on select dates through Dec. 24 at various times. 

The HERSHEY'S Characters and Dr. Seuss's The Grinch and Max are often available for photos in the meet-and-greet area in the Food Hall. Visitors are encouraged to check the schedule upon arrival, as dates and times vary per day and are subject to change.

Hershey Gardens

Saturday, Dec. 13, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Hershey Gardens welcomes the holidays with various family-friendly activities, including an appearance by Santa on Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. During that time, kids can visit with Santa in the Garden Cottage, included in general admission. 

Also included with a ticket, Mrs. Claus hosts story time in the Cottage Garden on Dec. 20 from 11-11:30 a.m.

While strolling through the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory, visitors can enjoy The Christmas Tree Showcase, which features ten beautifully decorated trees in an indoor winter display. Guests can also enjoy a pair of 14-foot and 8-foot poinsettia and tropical trees. Plus, the historic Hersheypark Comet coaster car is back for family photo ops, and the Butterfly Atrium is decorated for the holidays!

Holly Jolly Trolley

Select dates and times through Dec. 31

The Holly Jolly Trolley is a joyous family tradition! Guests can take a cozy trip on an old-fashioned trolley with caroling, heartwarming stories from the life of Mr. Hershey and a special visit from a certain jolly old elf. Magical moments fill the trolley as Santa recognizes children in the audience from his “nice list” and offers a gift to one and all. 

Guests riding the Holly Jolly Trolley should check in at the trolley desk in the Hershey's Chocolate World lobby at least 10 minutes before their departure.

Holiday Treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey  

During a day of holiday relaxation at The Chocolate Spa, guests can get cozy in their spa robes while sipping hot cocoa by the fire, warm up in the spa’s all-new steam rooms and saunas, unwind in one of four relaxation lounges or go for a swim in the indoor pool. View the full list of spa amenities. 

For the holidays, The Spa At The Hotel Hershey is offering Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha spa treatments as well as holiday spa packages. These are available Dec. 1, 2025 through Feb. 28, 2026. 

Holiday Season Sampler: Dec. 1, 2025 - Feb. 28, 2026

Indulge in three treatments filled with the sweet aromas of the season, all in one package!

• Full Body Exfoliation
• Hydrating Spice Wrap
• Holiday Spice Massage

Peppermint Hot Chocolate Immersion: 

Two treatments that combine the fresh mint scent of our exfoliating Peppermint Scrub with the sweet richness of our Chocolate Fondue Wrap. 

Peppermint Mocha Manicure & Pedicure:

Enjoy a festive manicure/pedicure that uses a peppermint mocha scrub followed by an ultra-moisturizing cocoa body lotion.

Peppermint Twist Sugar Scrub: 

Revitalize your skin with the invigorating exfoliation of a peppermint sugar scrub followed by a peppermint-scented moisturizer application. 

To make an appointment for The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, please call our reservations team at 844-330-1797. 

Cranberry Spice Collection at MeltSpa by Hershey 

Located in downtown Hershey, MeltSpa by Hershey day spa is perfect for those seeking a quick spa treatment or a full day of relaxation. This holiday season, MeltSpa is excited for the return of their Cranberry Spice Collection from Dec. 1, 2025 through Feb. 28, 2026. 

Cranberry Spice Collection: Available Dec. 1, 2025 through Feb. 28, 2026

Nourish your skin this winter with the Cranberry Spice Collection, featuring the following treatments:

• Cranberry Spice Massage: A classic Swedish massage using cranberry-scented oil| 50 or 80 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Body Scrub: A full body exfoliation with a cranberry sugar scrub followed by a cranberry and orange body butter | 30 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Body Wrap: A full body wrap that hydrates the skin with a cranberry gel mask and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 60 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Immersion: This immersion includes a Cranberry Spice Body Scrub followed by a body wrap | 90 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Manicure: A classic manicure with a cranberry sugar scrub, hot oil treatment and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 50 Minutes
• Cranberry Spice Pedicure: A classic pedicure using a cranberry gel mask, hot oil treatment and cranberry and orange-infused body butter | 60 Minutes
• Winterberry Champagne Facial: Australian super-berries will brighten your skin, clear your pores and soothe irritation| 60 Minutes
• Winterberry Package: Experience three Cranberry Spice treatments for a full day of holiday relaxation:
  • Cranberry Spice Massage
  • Winterberry Champagne Facial
  • Cranberry Spice Pedicure

For appointments at MeltSpa by Hershey, please visit MeltSpa.com or call 855-500-2366. 

Don't forget to check out our guide to MeltSpa by Hershey and our guide to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey to help plan your visit!

Be sure to share your experience with us! 

For more than 40 years, the merriest event of the year at Hersheypark has delighted guests with a festive blend of only-in-Hershey holiday experiences, including the most lights of any amusement park in Pennsylvania, one of the only places in the Northeast to see all nine of Santa’s live reindeer, unique seasonal rides and coasters, seasonal eats and signature hot chocolate.

You won't want to miss this USA TODAY 10Best-nominated Theme Park Holiday Event for 2025! Plan your visit with this guide of the top things to do at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane to make the season merry and Hersheypark Happy.

Most Holiday Lights at a Pennsylvania Amusement Park

More than five million sparkling lights deck the halls of Hersheypark this year, including the guest-favorite NOEL light show, which features dancing lights choreographed to Christmas music along Spring Creek. NOEL starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 15 minutes in The Hollow region. 

Holiday Thrills on Select Coasters

Oh, what fun it is to ride on seven roller coasters during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane! The seasonal event is also one of the few remaining places in the Northeast to see holiday lights from high thrill roller coasters. Weather, maintenance and temperature permitting, thrill seekers can experience holiday thrills on the following coasters:

• Wildcat’s Revenge featuring a holiday light package
• Candymonium featuring a holiday light package
• sooperdooperLooper featuring a holiday light package
• Jolly Rancher Remix with a holiday overlay and seasonal scent
• Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk is decorated for the holidays, featuring a large Christmas tree at its center and a new, curated seasonal voice-over provided by Shaquille O’Neal
• Wild Mouse
• Cocoa Cruiser

To add to the Park's merry ambiance, some coasters that are closed for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane boast holiday decorations. Visitors can see holiday light packages on Skyrush and Lightning Racer, as well as a Santa sleigh light display on the lift hill of Comet.

Tip: Temperature thresholds for the coasters and rides are listed on the website FAQs. Generally, temperatures must be at least 38 degrees and rising to begin the day and stay above 38 degrees at night for select rides to operate. If inclement weather causes the majority of major rides to close for more than 60 minutes, a FREE return visit voucher may be claimed at Guest Services.

Family Attractions and Kiddie Rides

A unique blend of family-friendly and kiddie rides is open for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, weather, maintenance and temperature permitting. Dry Gulch Railroad is a must-ride, as the steam-powered train takes riders through areas of Hersheypark completely blanketed with lights. The railroad features a Christmas overlay with various displays that are only viewable from the ride, including the “12 Days of Christmas.”  

There are also a few signature rides worth adding to the must-do list that provide dazzling views of the lights from above, versus walking all 121 acres:

• Twizzlers Twisted Gravity: This Christmas Candylane marks the first winter for the world's tallest Screamin’ Swing, which will provide never-before-seen views of the fan-favorite NOEL light show.
• Kissing Tower: This iconic attraction, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025, takes guests 250 feet up in the air to the highest point in Hershey for an aerial 360° view of Hersheypark and the town built on chocolate while learning about its history.
• Ferris Wheel: With its festive light package, this amusement park staple is more than just an iconic photo spot during the holidays. The family attraction is also a popular option for guests of every height category to enjoy the beautiful views from nearly 100 feet above.
• Hershey Triple Tower: Choose your tower and drop in for a unique, bird's-eye view of the holiday lights. The attraction features a light package to add to the holiday spirit in the Kissing Tower Hill region.

Tip: We recommend downloading the Hersheypark app for a real-time listing of ride availability and wait times. 

Photos With Santa at the Mary N. Bright Airfield

Don't forget to make your list and check it twice because Santa Claus has come to town! Guests can see Santa and all nine of his live reindeer at the Mary N. Bright Airfield, located inside Fahrenheit Catering at Hersheypark. Santa’s favorite candy-stocking stop before his holiday ride is home to the Yule Lounge, where guests can get a photo with Santa and share their list with him through Dec. 24.

Tip: The Mary N. Bright Airfield may experience a high volume of travelers, so we encourage guests to head there first.

All Nine of Santa's Reindeer

Rudolph and his friends are taking a break before their famous flight inside an old airplane hangar turned stables at Hersheypark! Guests can see the reindeer up close from behind a gated area in Hangar 96 during all hours of operation through Jan. 4, 2026. Hersheypark is one of the only places in the Northeast offering this magical experience, featuring all nine of Santa’s reindeer.

Tip: Reindeer specialists from ZooAmerica are on-site to answer guest questions. 

A Brand New Holiday Show

For the first time since 2019, Hersheypark will offer an all-new holiday stage show, Twinkling Thru Time, inside the heated Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue. Guests can turn back the clock and step into a wondrous world where timeless holiday traditions meet iconic Christmas hits! With Granny Anne, journey through decades past and enjoy your favorite holiday hits that will have you toe tapping, singing along and even rocking around the Christmas Tree. 

Tip: Twinkling Thru Time runs through Dec. 28, 2025. On Hersheypark operating days that begin at 5 p.m., there will be three shows at 5:45, 7 and 8:15 p.m. On Park operating days that run from 12-8/9 p.m., there will be four shows at 1, 2:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m. On Christmas Eve, there will be three shows at 12:45, 2 and 3:15 p.m. 

Holly Jolly Hershey Character Sweet Greets

It's not a visit to Hersheypark without snapping a selfie with a Hershey Character! Parkgoers can visit the Reese's Cup House and meet Hersh, Reese and Twizz, who are donning their coziest winter apparel.

Tip: Check the Hersheypark app for appearance times. Characters are subject to change based on availability.

TREEville Trail (Opens Nov. 26)

Beginning Nov. 26, guests can enjoy a stroll through TREEville trail around East Coast Waterworks attraction in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region, with more than 20 uniquely decorated trees sharing stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth - each making a great photo op.

Tip: Don't forget to tag @Hersheypark and use #ChristmasCandylane in your social media posts for a chance to be featured!

Hot Chocolate and Seasonal Eats

'Tis the season to eat, drink and be Hersheypark Happy! Guests can indulge in a variety of seasonal food and beverage offerings, including:

• Savory Eats: For savory options, three specialty Holi-dogs hot dogs are available at Berks Hot Dog Stand. Plus, on select days after Thanksgiving, Overlook Food Court will feature a new pop-up station with specialty holiday offerings, including meatballs with red pepper marinara, apple & brie egg rolls, a holiday meal plate and more.
• King Size Shakes: Perfect for sharing, Simply Chocolate offers three King Size Shakes: Gingerbread, Frozen Hot Chocolate and Reese's Peanut Butter. Milton's Ice Cream Parlor and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen also have seasonal desserts.
• Hot Chocolate: Guests can warm up with four specialty hot chocolate flavors, topped with baked goods, at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar or boozy hot chocolate for those 21 and older at The Concourse Cocoa Bar, located inside Terminal C of the Mary N. Bright Airfield. Specialty cocktails, including Rum Raisin Cider and a Cranberry Mule, are available for purchase at Overlook Bar for guests 21 and older.
• Kissmas TREEts Collectible: Back by popular demand, get your hands on the Kissmas TREEts Collectible sweets container, featuring multiple-layered compartments filled with handmade goodies, including caramel corn, savory pretzel mix, chocolate-covered pretzels and fudge. It is available for $28.99 plus tax inside the Park at the Mary N. Bright Airfield (Fahrenheit Catering) and Milton's Ice Cream Parlor, or at the entrance to Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL. New this year is a Cookie Decorating Kit version, which includes sugar cookies, icing, sprinkles and fudge. The Cookie Decorating Kit variation can be found at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor, Overlook and the Create Your Own S’mores Cart in the Founder’s Way region.

For a complete overview of all the season's eats, treats and sips, view our Christmas Candylane Foodie Guide.

Tip: As a special holiday perk, 2025 King and Giant Size Pass Holders can enjoy FREE refills on hot chocolate and coffee during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane with the Hot Beverage Program. Present your valid 2025 King or Giant Size Season Pass to receive your hot chocolate and coffee refill in a disposable cup.

Our Friends From The Sea

Guests can see the seals and sea lions during the Our Friends From The Sea Show in the Aquatheatre at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., when Hersheypark Christmas Candylane opens at 12 p.m.

For animal lovers interested in getting up close and personal with the mammals, the Touch & Feed program is offered at 3 p.m. for $125 per person. Participants have the opportunity to feed and give a back rub to one of the seals or sea lions, take a commemorative photo, tour off-exhibit areas and receive preferred seating for the show.

Zoo Visits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day). The holiday season is a great time to visit the 11-acre Zoo, as many North American animals in the outdoor habitats, such as the gray wolves, river otters and Canada Lynx, are more active when the temperature drops. 

ZooAmerica is included with a Hersheypark ticket only by accessing the Zoo through the Hersheypark bridge during Park hours. Separate Zoo tickets are available for purchase online or at the ZooAmerica Admissions Building. 

Tip: Please note that the Zoo naturalists care for the reindeer at Hersheypark, so a Hersheypark Christmas Candylane ticket is required to view them.

Holiday Shopping

Hersheypark is home to more than one dozen retail locations that feature a blend of new collections and vintage designs for holiday gift-giving. Guests can give the gift of happiness or take a piece home as their own souvenir.

• Hersheypark Supply Co. is a premier, 10,000-square-foot flagship store where guests can browse the largest collection of apparel, gifts, toys and more exclusive to Hersheypark. A Hersheypark ticket is not required to visit Hersheypark Supply Co. During Christmas Candylane operating days, the store is open from 10 a.m. until the Park is closed (closed Christmas Day).
• HP Collections is located inside the front gate and features a collection of curated premier brands and styles, including johnnie-O, Vuori, Adidas, Corkcicle and Lululemon.
• Prancer's Presents is located across from the Mary N. Bright Airfield and features exclusive Hersheypark Puppie Love merchandise.
• Candylane Emporium is a seasonal retail experience located right outside The Boardwalk, offering unique Christmas-themed apparel, gifts and more.
• Christmas Memories in Founder's Way, located next to Kettle Corn, is filled with Hersheypark and chocolate-themed holiday décor.

Tip: Interested in giving the gift of experience? An e-gift card or 2026 Season Pass makes a sweet gift!

Buy Online and Save

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane Pre-Sale tickets are currently $46.99 plus taxes and fees and available online. The tickets purchased during the offer are valid through Jan. 4, 2026, and, like all other admission types, include access to more than 40 rides and attractions (weather and maintenance permitting), more than five million twinkling lights, Santa and all nine of his reindeer, and other festive entertainment. 

Current 2025 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane as part of their year-long perks. 2026 Season Passes are on sale now with a Season Pass+ option that includes unlimited visits and perks to Hersheypark for the remainder of the 2025 operating year and all of 2026 - a great gift idea, too! 

Planning a holiday stay? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help prepare for a visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth.

YOUR ARRIVAL

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in Hershey, Pa., starting with check-in. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

Check-In
Did you know that each stay at The Hotel Hershey begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 12 p.m. 

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services. 

Download the HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Hotel, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

Activities & Recreation

Once you're checked in, take advantage of the activities and recreation available across the resort. On select dates, The Hotel Hershey offers family-friendly activities for guests ranging from s'mores roasts to movie nights, chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. 

Guests staying Thanksgiving weekend won't want to miss the Hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting in the Plaza from 7-8:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 28. The event includes hot cocoa and cookies, live music, holiday carnival games and a tree lighting with the Hershey Characters at 8 p.m. Activity schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also take advantage of recreation on property, including an indoor pool complex, 5.5 miles of hiking trails, daily fitness classes and an indoor arcade. 

The Villas At The Hotel Hershey

The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. This past summer, The Villas doubled in size bringing guests a total of 19 Villas and 98 sleeping rooms. Amenities include access to an exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person on park operating days. The Concierge Lounge can be accessed with a Villa room key from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and includes: 

• Continental breakfast
• Snacks and fountain drinks
• Evening hors d’oeuvres with beer and wine plus desserts
• Exclusive Hershey Character appearances and s’mores roasts
• Holiday activities and exclusive Santa appearances

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge.

Exclusive Hersheypark Benefits during Christmas Candylane

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is the best amusement park for the holidays. The event brings guests the most lights of any amusement park in the state and one of the only places in the Northeast to see all nine of Santa’s live reindeer, including Rudolph. Plus, enjoy a unique blend of thrilling coasters and family-friendly rides (weather permitting), photos with Santa, holiday shopping; signature hot chocolate and other sweet treats.

If you're planning a visit to Hersheypark during your stay, be sure to take advantage of all of the perks that come with being a guest of one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All guests of The Hotel Hershey receive the below FREE Resort Benefits:

• Extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan
  • Preview Plan: Resort guests enjoy up to 2.5 extra evening hours the night before their full-day visit. Simply, present your ticket at the main entrance and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
• FREE front gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is open on select dates Nov. 14, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, with daily operations starting Dec. 18 (closed Christmas Day). View hours here. 

Hershey Sweet Lights

Up the road from Hersheypark is the separately ticketed Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL drive-through attraction. Hershey Sweet Lights is open nightly Nov. 14 through Jan. 4, including Christmas evening; hours vary. 

From the comfort of their cars, guests can enjoy two miles of fields and wooded trails decorated with more than 500 illuminated, animated displays, including The 12 Days of Christmas, an Enchanted Forest, Hersheypark rides, Hershey Bears hockey, as well as a region inspired by the Northern Lights.

Hershey Sweet Lights admission pricing varies depending on the date of visit and the type of vehicle. Please buy online for significant savings. Single cars (seats up to 8 people) range from $29.99 to $42.99 when purchased online. Vans (seats 9-15 people) are $59.15. Please visit Hersheypark.com and select the date you wish to visit to see ticket pricing. On-site pricing without a pre-purchased ticket is also available for a standard car at the full gate price of $54.15.

More Free Resort Benefits

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of The Hotel Hershey receive additional FREE Resort Benefits, including access to the East Course at Hershey Country Club weather permitting, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Note: Entrance to ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark only when entered via the Hersheypark bridge during park hours.
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. 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. Plus, from Nov. 22 through Jan. 1 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas), don't miss the annual Christmas Tree Showcase featuring trees uniquely decorated by local florists.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

Dining

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find seasonal menus at a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations. 

1933 Restaurant & Tavern

Make sure to check out The Hotel Hershey's newest restaurant, 1933 Restaurant & Tavern. Here, guests can feast on an approachable steakhouse menu and elevated pub fare with bold flavors. Plus, enjoy unique signature cocktails and curated draught beers on tap, as well as a brunch menu that’s served every Sunday. View menu. 

Other dining options at The Hotel Hershey include:

• The Circular, The Hotel Hershey's flagship restaurant
• Trevi 5, a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge, serving lite fare and signature cocktails
• Chef's Market, an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on-the-go

Other options around town include Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. Note: A Hersheypark ticket is not required. 

Holiday Dining Events

Breakfast With Santa

Guests staying overnight at The Hotel Hershey can celebrate the holidays with Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a breakfast buffet in the beautifully decorated Fountain Lobby and get your family photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 9 to 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 29 through Dec. 21. 

The price for this all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet is $53 for children and $65 for adults. Reservations are required. Please call 855-338-7126 to reserve a table. 

Sunday Brunch At The Circular

Visit The Circular every Sunday in December for an indulgent Sunday Brunch Buffet from 12-2:30 p.m! Pricing for the all-you-can-eat brunch is $67 for adults and $32 for children. Reservations are highly recommended. Call 717-534-8800 for availability.

Schedule A Spa Treatment

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa is famous for its signature chocolate treatments, such as a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and Cocoa Massage. However, this fall and holiday season, guests can also indulge in a collection of decadent pumpkin-inspired treatments through Nov. 30 and peppermint mocha and peppermint hot chocolate treatments starting Dec. 1. Call 844-330-1797 to book your appointment.

Bring Home A Sweet Souvenir

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside The Shops At The Hotel Hershey for souvenirs and holiday gifts, such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and more. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are available for in-store purchase.

Holiday Resort Packages

On select dates starting Nov. 14, Hotel guests can book holiday resort packages to ring in the season. Book the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane 1-Night and 2-Night packages and get deluxe accommodations, Hersheypark Christmas Candylane tickets, breakfast and more. 

Share Your Photos

While you're here, share your sweet holiday photos with us on social media and tag us on Facebook, Instagram and @HersheyPA on X!

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth starting with check-in. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
On select weekend dates, children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby. There, they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book, participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game and receive a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room simply dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service on the next day. Our team stands ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services here. 

Download the HersheyResorts App

We recommend downloading the HersheyResorts app for real-time navigation throughout the Lodge, details on restaurants, resort amenities and more on the go. The HersheyResorts app is available for both iPhone and Android devices. 

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During the holiday season, Hershey Lodge offers family-friendly activities for guests on weekends ranging from s'mores roasts to chocolate bingo, Hershey Character appearances and arts & crafts. Schedules are posted online for planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain, snow or shine, guests can enjoy our sweet year-round indoor pool complex, featuring Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, basketball hoops and more. The complex also has an indoor arcade and fitness center as well as Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

EXCLUSIVE HERSHEYPARK BENEFITS DURING CHRISTMAS CANDYLANE

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is the best amusement park for the holidays. The event brings guests the most lights of any amusement park in the state and one of the only places in the Northeast to see all nine of Santa’s live reindeer, including Rudolph. Plus, enjoy a unique blend of thrilling coasters and family-friendly rides (weather permitting), photos with Santa, holiday shopping; signature hot chocolate and other sweet treats.

If you're planning a visit to Hersheypark during your stay, be sure to take advantage of all of the perks that come with being a guest of one of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark! All guests of Hershey Lodge receive the below FREE Resort Benefits:

• Extra hours at Hersheypark with Preview Plan
  • Preview Plan: Resort guests enjoy up to 2.5 extra evening hours the night before their full-day visit. Simply, present your ticket at the main entrance and enjoy a fun-filled evening.
• FREE front gate shuttle service to the exclusive resort drop-off location at Hersheypark
• Best price on Hersheypark tickets

Hersheypark Christmas Candylane is open on select dates Nov. 14, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, with daily operations starting Dec. 18 (closed Christmas Day). View hours here. 

Hershey Sweet Lights

Up the road from Hersheypark is the separately ticketed Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL drive-through attraction. Hershey Sweet Lights is open nightly Nov. 14 through Jan. 4, including Christmas evening; hours vary. 

From the comfort of their cars, guests can enjoy two miles of fields and wooded trails decorated with more than 500 illuminated, animated displays, including The 12 Days of Christmas, an Enchanted Forest, Hersheypark rides, Hershey Bears hockey, as well as a region inspired by the Northern Lights. 

Hershey Sweet Lights admission pricing varies depending on the date of visit and the type of vehicle. Please buy online for significant savings. Single cars (seats up to 8 people) range from $29.99 to $42.99 when purchased online. Vans (seats 9-15 people) are $59.15. Please visit Hersheypark.com and select the date you wish to visit to see ticket pricing. On-site pricing without a pre-purchased ticket is also available for a standard car at the full gate price of $54.15.

MORE FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive additional FREE Resort Benefits, including access to the East Course at Hershey Country Club weather permitting, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Note: Entrance to ZooAmerica is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark only when entered via the Hersheypark bridge during park hours.
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. 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. Plus, from Nov. 22 through Jan. 1 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas), don't miss the annual Christmas Tree Showcase featuring trees uniquely decorated by local florists.
• The Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner this season. Options include: 

• STACKS: An all-day breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs.
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in the house.
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks and on-the-go treats.
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside café offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream located inside Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant, bar and patio open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. Note: A Hersheypark ticket is not required. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing will get your skin ready for the holiday season quite like the Cranberry Spice Collection available starting Dec. 1. The Pumpkin Spice Collection, featuring a Pumpkin Spice Massage, Facial, Immersion, Manicure and Pedicure, remains available through Nov. 30. Or, enjoy signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments year-round. Book your treatment today.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs and holiday gifts, such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories, seasonal items and more. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are available for in-store purchase.

Holiday Resort Packages

On select dates starting Nov. 14, Lodge guests can book holiday resort packages to ring in the season. Book the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane 1-Night and 2-Night packages for deluxe accommodations, Hersheypark Christmas Candylane tickets, breakfast and more. 

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, share your sweet holiday photos with us on social and tag us on Facebook, Instagram and @HersheyPA on X.

Tickets are available online at www.HersheyEntertainment.com and www.Ticketmaster.com.

The 2025 tour will bring back the group’s legendary holiday show, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More,” to life with a special production featuring a second set of hits and fan favorites, including a 25th anniversary salute to “Beethoven’s Last Night.” 

Kicking off on Nov. 13, the tour will span 64 cities with 106 performances before concluding on Dec. 30. “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” continues TSO’s tradition of delivering an unparalleled fusion of rock, classical and theatrical spectacle – complete with pyros, lasers and the powerful storytelling that has captured the hearts of generations. 

For more information, please visit either www.HersheyEntertainment.com or www.Trans-Siberian.com. 

Tickets are available online at www.HersheyEntertainment.com and www.Ticketmaster.com.

This centennial season is a once-in-a-century celebration of 100 years of jaw-dropping moves and basketball thrills. From gravity-defying dunks to game-changing tricks, fans will feel the history, joy and fun that only the Globetrotters can deliver. For the first time, the team will also debut its new “100 Year” jerseys, honoring a century of global impact as it faces off against its longtime rivals, the Washington Generals. Fans can also expect all-new surprises, like an unforgettable 5th quarter autograph session, free to all fans in attendance. 

From breaking the NBA color barrier with alums like Nat “Sweetwater” Clifton signing a pro contract, to courting future Hall of Famers like Wilt Chamberlain and Connie Hawkins, the Globetrotters are unparalleled in their reach, impact and awareness of what they stand for as ‘Ambassadors of Goodwill.’ 

For more information, please visit either www.HersheyEntertainment.com or www.HarlemGlobetrotters.com. 

Tickets are available online at www.HersheyEntertainment.com and www.Ticketmaster.com.

Zeiders is a true road warrior and shows no signs of slowing down, playing bigger markets and bigger venues. The 2025 “Relapse” tour dates follow his successful 2023-24 “Pretty Little Poison” headlining tour, which sold out more than 55 shows across the U.S. and Canada, including a standout performance at Nashville’s iconic Ryman Auditorium and appearances at major festivals.

His undeniable star power continues to capture audiences across genre lines and is rapidly cementing himself as one of Country’s newest and most promising genre staples. At just 25 years old, Zeiders has already surpassed 3.6 billion global career streams.

For more information, please visit either www.HersheyEntertainment.com or www.WarrenZeiders.com. 

Each week has a different theme to teach little ones all about the wild of North America. 

• March 4: Reptiles and amphibians
• March 11: Herbivores
• March 18: Mammals
• March 25: Invertebrates

Moms, dads, siblings, grandparents and friends are all encouraged to attend with their children. 

Standard admission rates apply, but entry is free for ZooAmerica Pass Holders and 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders. 

While the 121-acre park may seem quiet to the average guest during this timeframe, a team of more than 200 full-time maintenance staff is entering its busiest season. Throughout the winter, carpenters, electricians, laborers, machinists, mechanics, painters, plumbers, utility workers and welders disassemble, inspect, repaint and reassemble each of the more than 70 Hersheypark attractions. The collaborative efforts of these teams ensure that each attraction is ready to provide a safe and sweet experience in time for opening day.

Hersheypark opens for the 2025 operating year on April 5, 2025. As we wait for the gates to open, we wanted to give you an exclusive peek inside the Hersheypark Service Center where work is currently being done on family-favorites including the historic Carrousel, as well as coasters like sooperdooperLooper and Lightning Racer, celebrating 25 years this year.

The Hersheypark Service Center is the main maintenance headquarters where off-season work is done for the majority of the Park's rides and attractions. Coasters that don't have dedicated maintenance bays built into their stations such as Cocoa Cruiser, Comet and Jolly Rancher Remix are brought here for upkeep along with many of the park's kiddie and thrill rides. Some coasters that do have their own built-in maintenance facilities, such as Great Bear, are large enough to accommodate workspace for neighboring rides like The Convoy and Hershey Triple Tower. 

The maintenance shop is also home to a wide variety of supporting departments that help to maintain the rides and other amenities of Hersheypark. In the fiberglass shop, you can find Coal Cracker boats receiving enhancements to their frames and seating while Starship America rockets get their final touches within the paint shop. The sign shop not only provides their services to the coasters, but also to the various restaurants and landmarks across the Park like the Tram Stops. Similarly, carpenters can share their time and efforts between coaster cars for our wooden coasters and the coaches of the Dry Gulch Railroad.

There's so much to see in the maintenance facility, including the gondolas for the all-new Twizzlers Twisted Gravity. As we wait for the debut of the tallest Screamin' Swing in the world in summer 2025, the branded gondolas will take cover within our shop until they're ready to be brought out to the ride site for installation. Stay tuned for construction updates coming soon!

Learn More

Are you interested in more behind-the-scenes ride maintenance? Check out off-season spotlights from previous years on Wildcat's Revenge, Skyrush, Candymonium and Great Bear.

Join the Team

Want to join our sweet team? Hersheypark is hiring for the 2025 season! Apply online, and a member of our Hiring Team can schedule a phone interview with eligible applicants. 

We look forward to seeing you in April for the start of our 119th operating year!

Plan a Visit

Is your family considering a visit to Hersheypark this year? Now is the time to plan and purchase tickets! Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-day tickets to Hersheypark when buying online with the current Best Price Of The Year offer through March 31. Tickets purchased during the sale are valid on any 2025 public operating day from April 5, 2025 through Jan. 4, 2026. 

The Chocolatier is open daily for guests to dine and explore all of the new sweet and savory additions to the menu. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made online. 

Roasted Vegetable Salad

• Winter Greens, Roasted Vegetables, Chickpeas, Goat Cheese, Lemon - Tahini Dressing

Squash and Sausage Flatbread

• Butternut Squash Purée, Shredded Mozzarella, Crumbled Sausage, Baby Kale

Whipped Feta

• House-made Whipped Feta, Roasted Beets, Hazelnuts, Hot Honey Drizzle, Mint, Pita

White Chicken Chili

• Smoked Chicken Thighs, Chickpeas, White Chocolate, Smoked Cheddar

Mushroom Risotto

• Arborio Rice, Wild Mushroom Blend, Shaved Parmesan, Baby Arugula, Lemon Oil

Salted Caramel Pretzel Milkshake

• Caramel Milkshake, Pretzel Pieces, Caramel Drizzle, Whipped Cream, Toffee

Cocktails

• Smoked Chocolate Tequila Old Fashioned- Corralejo Tequila, Clear Creme de Cacao, Brown Sugar Simple Syrup, Chocolate Bitters
• Chocolate Chip Espresso Martini- 360 Chocolate Vodka, 360 Vanilla Vodka, Kahlua, Espresso, Brown Sugar Simple Syrup
• Cold Brew Manhattan- Jameson Cold Brew Whiskey, Chocolate Whiskey Smith, Soft Serve, Cold Brew
• Vanilla Chaitini- 360 Vanilla Vodka, Rumchata, Chai Tea, Spiced Simple, Soft Serve
   

Did you know that 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders can also enjoy sweet perks all year long, including 20 percent off your meal at The Chocolatier Mondays through Thursdays this February? Get a head start on summer with Season Passes and tickets.

Guests dining at The Chocolatier will also want to check out all the other chocolate-themed experiences throughout the town of Hershey, Pa. Don't forget to share your favorite photos at The Chocolatier with us on social, tagging @HersheyparkEats and using #HersheyparkEats. 

Indulge in Decadent Dining Offerings

Taste the many flavors of Hershey, Pa., with a visit to one of our deliciously unique and award-winning restaurants! Dining locations include everything from family-friendly bites to late-night cocktails, four-star cuisine and everything in between. Reservations are available at select restaurants and are highly encouraged. 

An exclusive Valentine's Day weekend menu special will be offered at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio over the long weekend, from Feb. 14-17. Foodies can look forward to everything from a Surf & Turf entrée to new martini offerings like the Raspberry Cheesecake, Banana Cream Pie and Chocolate Covered Strawberry Martinis.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at The Sweeterie

Bring home a sweet gift they can't resist from The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen in Hershey's Chocolatetown region at Hersheypark! Throughout the entire month of February, specialty Valentine-themed treats will be available for purchase in-store or online. From mouth-watering cupcakes to chocolatey-dipped strawberries and more, you don't want to miss out on these exclusive dessert offerings. 

Please note that there is a 24-hour turnaround time for online orders, to be picked up during operating hours. 

The Sweeterie is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends. Complimentary parking is available in the Season Pass Holder lot while Hersheypark is closed. 

Visit Furry Friends at ZooAmerica

Bring the animal lover in your life to visit ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park. February is a great time to visit this 11-acre zoo as there are often fewer crowds, and the outdoor animals are more active. Take a stroll through the five different animal regions and see species such as gray wolves, river otters, Canada lynx, an alligator and more. 

As a special treat, guests can watch the zoo naturalists give Valentine-themed treats to mountain lions, bobcats and deer on Feb. 8 and wolves, the ocelot and otters on Feb. 15 between 1-1:30 p.m.

To elevate your experience, ZooAmerica offers special tours that guide you through non-public areas, get you close to the animals and leave you with a deeper understanding of the animal world. Learn more about times and pricing online. 

Treat Yourself to Spa Relaxation

Take the long weekend to pamper yourself with a spa day at one of the Hershey spas! Bring your valentine to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, to experience couples spa treatments like a Couples Massage or a Couples Retreat Day Package. Pamper yourself with signature chocolate treatments like the Cocoa Massage, Cocoa Facial, Chocolate-Dipped Strawberry Immersion and more. Chocolate Spa guests can also access complimentary amenities, including an indoor pool and whirlpool, hot showers, steam rooms and saunas. MeltSpa by Hershey day spa offers exclusive dark chocolate treatments, sweet seasonal collections and evening hours seven days a week. 

During your visit to either spa, relax the day away in a fluffy robe and enjoy refreshments like hot cocoa, tea and delicious double chocolate muffins in the spa's relaxation lounges. This is the perfect retreat for you and your gal-pals, significant other or a day of self-care just for yourself!

Please note that demand is high and availability is limited, so we recommend booking as early as you know your plans.

Flutter Your Way through the Butterfly Atrium at Hershey  Gardens

Overlooking the town of Hershey, the 23-acre Hershey Gardens brings guests a breathtaking stroll through an assortment of flowers and shrubs, a stately collection of rare trees, brilliant seasonal displays and themed gardens.

Included with admission, you can walk among hundreds of butterflies from around the world in the Butterfly Atrium. One of only 25 indoor, tropical butterfly atriums in the country, the Butterfly Atrium is home to dozens of rare butterflies from South and Central America, Africa and Asia. The tropical setting boasts colorful plants and a soothing water feature that create a truly spectacular environment, especially during the season of love. 

Hershey Gardens is open daily in February from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last admission for the Butterfly Atrium being 15 minutes prior to closing time.

Savor in Treats at Hershey's Chocolate World

There’s nothing sweeter this Valentine's Day than enjoying new chocolatey treats you'll be sure to love at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction. Guests can discover a new way to savor their favorite Hershey's Chocolates with plenty of seasonal choices to choose from, like the Hershey's Kisses Chocolate Strawberry Milkshake, Reese's Red Velvet Cheesecake, Hershey's Chocolate-Covered Strawberries and more. Those visiting over the long weekend can also pay a visit to Snoopy, with meet and greets on Friday, Feb. 14 and Saturday, Feb. 15.

Other experiences include a free chocolate tour ride to see how cocoa beans become world-famous Hershey’s Chocolate and shopping for endless amounts of chocolate, including limited-edition treats. Tickets may be purchased for optional chocolate-enhanced experiences, including Create Your Own Candy Bar and Reese’s Stuff Your Cup.

Experience Chocolate Tastings and Classes At The Hershey Story  Museum

What's Valentine's Day without some chocolate tasting? Hone your skills as a cocoa connoisseur with two interactive chocolate experiences at The Hershey Story Museum. Enjoy a flight of warm drinking chocolates when you book a Chocolate Tasting and experience a taste of chocolates from all over the world. Or, roll up your sleeves and make Valentine’s Day-themed chocolate when you sign up for a class in the Chocolate Lab. Tastings and Chocolate Lab classes are available throughout the week of Valentine’s Day and are the perfect way to immerse yourself in the sweet world that inspired Milton Hershey. 

Chocolate lovers can also sign up for the museum’s Truffles for Couples classes on Feb. 14 and 15. You and your favorite Valentine will have the chance to hand-roll traditional dark chocolate ganache, coat them in your choice of milk or white chocolate, and then finish with a sweet array of toppings. Truffles are packaged in a charming box and each guest will receive a personalized milk chocolate bar and a long-stemmed rose to take home.

Two sessions, most suitable for adults, will be offered at 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights. Tickets must be purchased online in advance. Please note that space is limited to 24 participants per session. 

Plan A Staycation at a Hershey Resort

If you want to go all out for Valentine's Day, you can spend a night or two in The Sweetest Place On Earth at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge or Hersheypark Camping Resort. Then, you can enjoy multiple date ideas from the list above! All resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more.

Valentine’s Day Gift Idea

Not sure what to get your Valentine? A Hershey gift card is the sweetest gift, as it allows them to choose from a variety of activities across the destination. When purchasing a gift card, you can even select a fun Valentine's Day design. From concerts and shows at GIANT Center or Hersheypark Stadium to spa treatments and everything in between, a Hershey gift card allows your Valentine to splurge on their favorite activity.

The 11-acre Zoo in Hershey launched a Fantastic Fridays ticket offer for 50 percent off regular and junior/senior admission every Friday in February. Tickets can be purchased in advance online or in person on Fridays at the Admissions Building to redeem the savings.

Valentine's Day Weekend Activities

As another sweet offering, guests can watch Zoo naturalists give Valentine-themed treats to select animals at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 8 and Feb. 15. 

• Saturday, Feb. 8: mountain lions, bobcats and deer 
• Saturday, Feb. 15: wolves, otters and an ocelot

Check out some other Valentine's Day Weekend activities around The Sweetest Place On Earth. 

In general, many of the North American animals that reside outdoors are more active this time of year. Guests often see the gray wolves running around their habitat, hear the river otters "talking" to each other and so much more. Before visiting, brush up on your knowledge of North American animals in the winter here.

Don't forget: ZooAmerica Pass Holders and 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive unlimited, year-round visits to the Zoo, even when Hersheypark is closed during the off-season.

Around Town

Winter Warmer Beer Dinner at The Chocolatier

Feb. 5 at 5:30 p.m.

Indulge in this all-new exclusive event at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar & Patio featuring a 5-course plated dinner with beer pairings. The cost is $90 per person. To reserve your spot, please email chocolatierevents@hersheypa.com.

If you are a 2025 Hersheypark Season Passholder? You can save 15% on the Winter Warmer Beer Dinner with your discount!

Fantastic Fridays at ZooAmerica

Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily in February from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with a special Fantastic Fridays ticket offer of 50% off regular and junior/senior admission every Friday this month. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Admissions Building to redeem the savings.

As a reminder, ZooAmerica Pass Holders and 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders receive unlimited, year-round visits to the Zoo, even when Hersheypark is closed during the off-season.

Reese's University Pep Rally at Hershey's Chocolate World

Feb. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23

Sing and dance along with REESE'S University mascot Cuppy at Hershey's Chocolate World as the Marching Cuppies Alumni Band plays all your favorites, then get a chance to meet Cuppy too!

Live Events

Hershey Bears Home Games at GIANT Center

Dates and Times Vary

Hockey fans can cheer on the back-to-back Calder Cup Champions, the Hershey Bears, during one of the club’s three home games in February. Promotional games this month include Hometown Heroes: First Responders Night on Feb. 8 vs. Syracuse and Hersheypark Pass Night on Feb. 11 vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, where all fans will receive a Hersheypark ticket valid for one-day admission through Jun. 30, 2025. 

Disney On Ice Presents Mickey's Search Party

Feb. 20-23; Times Vary

Mickey’s Search Party is bringing the magic to guests as they join a magical search and help unlock an epic journey with Mickey Mouse and friends.

Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day Activities at ZooAmerica

Feb. 8 & 15 at 1 p.m.

Visit ZooAmerica to see featured animals like the mountain lions, wolves, ocelot and otters enjoy Valentine-themed treats on the first two Saturdays in February. Plus, there will be lots of Valentine signs at many habitats.

Truffles For Couples at The Hershey Story Museum

Feb 14. & 15; 5:45 p.m. and 7:45 p.m.

Bring your Valentine for an evening of decadence and fun at The Hershey Story Museum! Begin by tasting warm drinking chocolates from around the world. Then, head to a one-hour Chocolate Lab class where you can hand-roll traditional dark chocolate ganache, coat it in milk or white chocolate, and finish with a sweet array of toppings. Each guest will package their truffles in a charming box, receive a personalized milk chocolate bar, and take home a long-stemmed red rose.

"For The Love Of Art" Art Show & Sale at Hershey Gardens

Feb. 14 & 15 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. ; Feb. 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Explore a dazzling display of art by members of the Hershey Area Art Association at the “For The Love Of Art” Art Show & Sale at Hershey Gardens. Pieces will be available for purchase and include woodworking, prints, acrylic and oil, jewelry and more. Plus, on Saturday, Feb. 15, enjoy a live string quartet featuring Hershey Middle School students on violin, cello, and viola. 

This event is included in admission and is free for Hershey Gardens members. 

Chocolate-Covered Relaxation at the Spas in Hershey 

Celebrate the month of love with a chocolate-filled spa day! MeltSpa by Hershey day spa offers chocolate-inspired services perfect for a day of melt-worthy relaxation and is the exclusive home to Hershey’s Signature Dark Chocolate Treatments such as a body wrap, facial, massage and more. The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa offers a sweet day with your special someone with couples treatments such as a Couples Massage, Sweet Feet For Two or the Couples Retreat Day Package.

Not sure what to get your special someone for Valentine’s Day? Gift cards to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey make for the sweetest gift and are available for purchase online and at each spa location seven days a week. 

Chocolate-Infused Dining Around Town

Available Daily; Reservations Recommended

Hershey, Pa., wouldn’t be known as The Sweetest Place On Earth without its distinctive dining scene filled with chocolate-inspired eats. Guests can taste the many flavors of Hershey at 15 unique and award-winning restaurants located at our resort properties and around town, many of which feature chocolate-infused dishes, decadent desserts, and of course our signature Hershey’s chocolate martinis. 

Valentine's Day Resort Getaway

Whether it's a romantic weekend with your valentine or a weekend trip with your galentines, there's no sweeter place for a getaway than the Hershey resorts. Guests of The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge can enjoy a chocolate-filled weekend starting with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in, plus chocolate spa treatments, chocolate bath amenities in guest rooms and other iconic chocolate details around every corner. 

Don't wait to book! Limited availability remains for Valentine's Day weekend (Feb. 14-16).

Looking Ahead: Summer 2025

Now is the time to start planning your 2025 visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth! Now through March 31, get the Best Price Of The Year on Hersheypark tickets and Best Price Of Summer resort offer for guests booking an overnight getaway to The Official Resorts of Hersheypark. Guests can save more than 45 percent on 1-Day Any Day Tickets to Hersheypark when purchased online with the current Best Price Of The Year offer. Tickets purchased during the sale will be valid on any 2025 public operating day through Jan. 4, 2026. 

ENJOY A WINTER GETAWAY AT OUR RESORTS

With so much to do over the long weekend and perhaps an extra day off work or school, why not make a weekend getaway of it? There’s no sweeter place to stay than The Hotel Hershey or Hershey Lodge with chocolate details around every corner. You’ll start your stay with a full-size chocolate bar at check-in and can enjoy chocolate-infused dining at restaurants on property, warm up with a signature Hershey's Chocolate Martini by the fireplace, snap photos with your favorite Hershey Characters, play chocolate bingo and more.  

Don't forget, all resort guests receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more!

DISCOVERY WEEKEND AT ZOOAMERICA

Looking for a fun winter activity for the family? The beginning of the year is a great time to visit ZooAmerica, open daily, as many of the North American animals are more active in winter. 

Plus, Discovery Weekends are back this month, so kids ages 8 and under will get into the Zoo for FREE on Saturday and Sunday with the purchase of a regular or senior ticket in person at the Admissions Building. 

ENJOY WORLD-CLASS ENTERTAINMENT IN A SMALL-TOWN SETTING

Sit back, relax and enjoy a Broadway show at Hershey Theatre over the holiday weekend! The venue will host “Pretty Woman” for five performances over the long weekend on Friday, Jan. 17 at 8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 18 at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 19 at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

FOLLOW THE HERSHEY BEARS, THE AHL'S TOP TEAM!

The Hershey Bears return home to GIANT Center over the long weekend for two exciting matchups. The Chocolate & White face the Belleville Senators on Friday, Jan. 17, where guests aged 21+ can look forward to enjoying $5 16 oz. select beers as part of a pre-game happy hour from doors until puck drop. Then, on Sunday, Jan. 19, it's Throwback Jersey Auction and Toyota Poster Night as the team takes on the Rochester Americans. Players will be wearing throwback-themed jerseys to be auctioned off post-game and all guests in attendance will receive a special poster, thanks to Toyota. 

DINE IN HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATETOWN

There’s no sweeter place to enjoy lunch, dinner, dessert or drinks this weekend than in Hershey’s Chocolatetown. 

• The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday and Monday. Guests can enjoy classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate for lunch or dinner. Plus, there’s a signature dessert menu filled with mouth-watering Hershey's chocolate-inspired treats. 
• Dine with Coco The Bear: If you're in town on Thursday, enjoy a FREE kid’s dessert with the purchase of a kid’s entree during Dine With Coco The Bear, available Thursdays in January from 5-7 p.m. Plus, hang out with Coco, The Official Mascot of the Hershey Bears!

• Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor is open Saturday and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can indulge in custom house-made ice cream creations crafted by expert Ice Creamologists complete with Hershey’s candy toppings, decadent sauces, and more. Savory options are also available as part of a shareable menu.

• The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily this weekend. Guests can choose from a curated collection of mouth-watering confections including chocolate-dipped treats, decadent desserts, signature hand-crafted fudge and more.

WARM UP AT CHOCOLATE WORLD

There's always something to do at Hershey's Chocolate World Attraction, the official visitor's center of The Hershey Company. Create Your Own Candy Bar, enjoy a free chocolate factory tour ride and become a chocolate tasting expert at the Hershey's Unwrapped experience. Plus, save time for shopping and a milkshake or other sweet treat! View hours.

EXPERIENCE THE TROPICS AT HERSHEY GARDENS

Did you know Hershey is home to one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.? Housing 600 butterflies from around the world, the atrium makes for the perfect wintertime activity. Find the Butterfly Atrium at Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily this weekend. Don't forget, resort guests receive free or discounted admission! 

DISCOVER OUR SWEET HISTORY

While visiting Hershey, Pa., take some time to learn about the town's sweet history. The Hershey Story Museum in downtown Hershey honors and preserves the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Don't miss out on grabbing tickets for interactive Chocolate Lab and Chocolate Tastings experiences. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Remember, resort guests receive free or discounted admission! 

The 11-acre Zoo in Hershey, Pa., hosts three more Discovery Weekends on Jan. 11-12, 18-19 and 25-26, 2025. As part of the winter programming, each weekend will feature unique themes for guests to learn about the North American animals that call ZooAmerica home. 

Here's the remaining schedule:

• Jan. 11-12: Body Coverings - Dressed to Impress - There will be an activity where children can make their own bird. Additional information about body coverings will be hung up around the Zoo — fur, feathers, scales and shells!
• Jan. 18-19: Eating/Hunting - Time to Chow Down - Guests can participate in a scavenger hunt with clues to find the pieces around the Zoo. When all of the pieces are found, they can make their own carnivore. Additional information will be placed around the Zoo about eating and hunting.
• Jan. 25-26: Animal Defense - Don’t Mess With Me - In the Southern Swamps, children can make their own rattlesnake, complete with a working rattle at the end. Additional information can be found around the Zoo to explain how animals defend themselves.

Free Admission for Kids on January Discovery Weekends

A special offer for all of January - kids ages 8 and under receive free admission to ZooAmerica with the purchase of a regular or senior ticket on Saturdays and Sundays. The special offer is only available in-person at the Zoo Admissions Building.

Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to ZooAmerica. 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders also receive free Zoo admission.

Plan a Winter Zoo Visit 

Beyond Discovery Weekends, ZooAmerica is open daily this winter from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It's a sweet time of year to visit, as many of the animals in the outdoor habitats are often more active when the temperature drops. 

A visit to ZooAmerica is just one of the many things to do in Hershey, Pa., this winter. From hockey games and seasonal spa treatments to entertainment and culinary experiences, check out our guide of family-friendly activities and winter events throughout the destination from January through March 2025.

Your Arrival

Whether you're parking your RV or staying in one of our deluxe cabins or tiny homes, you're in for a sweet camping experience at Hersheypark Camping Resort. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

What to Bring 
In addition to all of your camping supplies, cabin guests are asked to please bring their own supply of linens, pillows, blankets, towels, personal items, dish soap and kitchen linens such as dish towels and hot pads.

Drive Slow
As you pull into the campground, remember to drive slowly. For the safety of children at play, the speed limit throughout the campground is 5 ½ mph. 

Check-In/Check-Out
Upon arrival, check-in at the front desk located inside Historic Landis Barn. Check-in is after 3 p.m. for all campers, and check-out is at 11 a.m. for cabins and 1 p.m. for campsites. 

Download CampersAPP
We recommend downloading CampersAPP for campground information, alerts, activities, augmented reality games, a campground map and more. The login key is HPCRMoose.

Amenities

Each site features a picnic table and fire ring for family 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 and other camping supplies you may need throughout your trip.

Please note that the water has been shut off for the winter season. The Historic Landis Barn, which offers a bathhouse and laundry, our Tiny Home and 2-Bedroom Deluxe Cabins will have water year-round. A water fill station is available in the main parking lot.

RECREATION & ACTIVITIES

Once you're settled at your site, be sure to take advantage of our campground's on-site recreation and activities. Our campground offers a number of on-site recreational facilities for our campers to enjoy, including an indoor game room, multiple playgrounds, a community s'mores area, shuffleboard, basketball and volleyball courts. Please note: Guests are asked to supply their own sports equipment. 

Guests looking for some adventure can also book off-site experiences, such as rock climbing, hiking, sporting clays and more with Adventure Explorations. Cost varies for each activity and includes all gear, expert guides, snacks, water and safety equipment. Reservations can be made online at AdventureExplorations.com or by calling or texting 888-238-3975.

FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary to visit the area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hersheypark Camping Resort receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit over 200 animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, alligators, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as there are often fewer crowds and the outdoor animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

Dining

Hershey has numerous dining options around town that are worth visiting if you want to expand your palate beyond campfire staples like mountain pies and s'mores. You'll find delicious menus in downtown Hershey at Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak. Or, for some chocolate-infused delights, check out The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. For more dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

Bring Home A Sweet Souvenir

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside the Country Store to find some sweet souvenirs to take home, ranging from apparel to mugs to Christmas ornaments and more. 

Share Your Photos

While you're here, share your photos with us on social and use #HersheyPA on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit.

Your Arrival

From the moment you arrive at Hershey Lodge, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at Hershey Lodge begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 11 a.m. 

Kids' Check-In
On select weekend dates, children can also experience their very own check-in at our Kids' Check-In desk in the lobby. There, they are welcome to sign the kids' guest book and participate in a Hershey's candy guessing game to win a a chocolate surprise. Please view our activities schedule for availability.

Housekeeping
For your comfort, we will only enter your guest room to provide housekeeping service upon your request.
To request a refresh cleaning of your guest room, dial extension 1099 or text 717-282-1153 before 10 p.m. for service the next day. Our team is ready to assist with any guest room amenities upon request.

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services.

ACTIVITIES & RECREATION

During the winter season, Hershey Lodge offers family-friendly activities for guests on weekends ranging from chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also book a unique adventure experience, such as rock climbing, hiking and sporting clays with Adventure Explorations. The cost varies for each activity and includes all gear, expert guides, snacks, water and safety equipment. Reservations can be made online at AdventureExplorations.com or by calling or texting 888-238-3975. 

MAKE A SPLASH AT HERSHEY'S WATER WORKS

Don't forget to pack your swimsuit! Families won't want to miss Hershey's Water Works, an exclusive and complimentary amenity for our overnight guests. Rain, snow or shine, guests can make a splash at our year-round indoor pool complex, featuring interactive water features, such as Twizzlers Twists water slides, Reese's Water Walk, zero-entry pool, sand castle spray zone, basketball hoops and more. The complex also features an indoor arcade, fitness center and the Cocoa Cabana snack bar.

*Please note that Hershey's Water Works will be closed for annual maintenance Jan. 6 - 17. Please check hours for availability.

FREE RESORT BENEFITS

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary to visit the area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of Hershey Lodge receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit over 200 animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, alligators, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as there are often fewer crowds and the outdoor animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

DINING

Hershey Lodge offers a variety of delicious dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner this season. Visit HersheyLodge.com/Dining for hours, reservations and more info. Options include: 

• STACKS: A breakfast and lunch restaurant serving dishes stacked high with flavor, ranging from stacks of Buttermilk Pancakes and Belgian Waffles to Double Decker BLTs. 
• Fire & Grain: An innovative menu of re-mastered comfort foods and flavorful cocktails for breakfast, dinner and happy hour.
• The Bears’ Den: A newly renovated sports-themed restaurant with a hockey-rink atmosphere modeled after our hometown team, the Hershey Bears. Open for lunch and dinner.
• Revelry: Classic and contemporary chophouse fare with premium cuts and the largest wine & spirits list in house. 
• Cocoa Beanery: An all-day coffee shop, serving up eats, ice cream, drinks, and treats. 
• Cocoa Cabana: A poolside cafe offering a selection of starters, salads, sandwiches and ice cream while guests enjoy Hershey’s Water Works.

Other options around town include Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

SCHEDULE A SPA TREATMENT

During your getaway, make time for sweet relaxation at MeltSpa by Hershey, our day spa in downtown Hershey. Nothing will prepare your skin for the cold winter season quite like the Cranberry Spice Collection. This limited-time collection features a cranberry spice body scrub, massage, body wrap, manicure and pedicure and remains available through Feb. 28. Or, enjoy signature Hershey's chocolate treatments and exclusive dark chocolate treatments year-round.

BRING HOME A SWEET SOUVENIR

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit to The Sweetest Place On Earth. So, don't forget to stop inside Sweet Memories gift shop for souvenirs such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and seasonal items. Gift bags, baskets and shipping are also available for in-store purchases.

SHARE YOUR PHOTOS

While you're here, share your sweet winter photos with us on social and use #HersheyPA on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Planning a stay at this beautiful resort? We can't wait to welcome you! Here's a guide to everything you need to know to help you prepare for a sweet visit this winter. 

YOUR ARRIVAL

From the moment you arrive at The Hotel Hershey, you'll experience the kind of hospitality you can only find in The Sweetest Place On Earth. Here are a few things to know for your arrival.

The Sweetest Check-In
Did you know that each stay at The Hotel Hershey begins with chocolate at check-in? You'll receive a full-size Hershey's bar to start your getaway in the sweetest way. Check-in is after 4 p.m., and check-out is before 12 p.m. 

Amenities
Please view our guest room amenities and services. 

Activities & Recreation

Once checked in, take advantage of the activities available across the resort. On weekends, The Hotel Hershey offers family-friendly activities for guests ranging from chocolate bingo to Hershey Character appearances, crafts and more. Schedules are posted online in advance for your planning purposes, or you can pick up a schedule at check-in.

Guests can also enjoy recreation on the property, including an indoor pool complex, daily fitness classes and an arcade. Find hours and more information. 

Or, book a unique adventure experience, such as rock climbing, hiking or sporting clays with Adventure Explorations. Cost varies for each activity and includes all gear, expert guides, snacks, water and safety equipment. Reservations can be made online at AdventureExplorations.com, by calling or texting 888-238-3975, or by visiting the Outfitters Building in Harvest Plaza.

The Villas - New This Winter

Marking its first winter, The Villas offer guests an elevated luxury accommodation experience with 48 reimagined rooms, refreshed furnishings and unmatched amenities. Amenities include access to an all-new exclusive Concierge Lounge, daily Hersheypark tickets and a One-Day Fast Track per person. The Concierge Lounge can be accessed with a Villa room key from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily and includes: 

• Continental breakfast
• Snacks and fountain drinks
• Evening hors d’oeuvres with beer and wine plus desserts
• Exclusive Hershey character appearances and s’mores roasts 

View a full schedule for the Villas Concierge Lounge here.

Free Resort Benefits

Make sure to save some time in your itinerary for a visit to some other area attractions throughout Hershey. All guests of The Hotel Hershey receive FREE Resort Benefits, including preferred pricing to  ZooAmerica, and complimentary admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story’s Museum Experience.

• ZooAmerica is open daily for guests to visit over 200 animals native to the North American region. Explore the numerous habitats of this 11-acre wildlife park and be greeted by animals such as bears, wolves, alligators, big cats, snakes, otters and many more. Winter is a great time to visit as many of the animals are more active!
• Hershey Gardens is a 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden that offers 11 themed gardens and a Children’s Garden with chocolate-scented, named and colored flora. Guests can walk the gardens in the winter and witness the changes in nature during our colder months.  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 Hershey Story, The Museum on Chocolate Avenue, invites guests 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.

For more things to do in Hershey, visit HersheyPA.com.

Dining

Guests of The Hotel Hershey can find a variety of restaurants on property ranging from grab-and-go to fine dining. Reservations are accepted at select locations. Visit TheHotelHershey.com/Dining for hours and more info. Options include:

• The Circular, The Hotel Hershey's flagship restaurant
• Trevi 5, a modern Italian grill
• Iberian Lounge, serving lite fare and signature chocolate cocktails
• Chef's Market, an all-day café serving coffee, chef-prepared food and decadent chocolate treats on the go

Other options around town include Houlihan's Restaurant + Bar and Devon Seafood + Steak in downtown Hershey and The Chocolatier – a full-service restaurant open year-round in Hershey's Chocolatetown at Hersheypark. The restaurant features a Fun to Table menu showcasing classic family fare with a fun spin and hints of chocolate and is now accepting reservations. 

For more information about dining offerings in Hershey, visit DiningInHershey.com.

Schedule A Spa Treatment

During your getaway, make time for some sweet relaxation at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Affectionately known as the Chocolate Spa, the spa is famous for its signature chocolate treatments, such as a Whipped Cocoa Bath, Chocolate Fondue Wrap and Cocoa Massage. However, this winter, guests can also indulge in a collection of decadent Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments through Feb. 28. Call 844-330-1797 or visit the spa's front desk to book your appointment.

Bring Home A Sweet Souvenir

After a sweet getaway, you may want to take a piece of Hershey home with you to help you remember your visit. So, don't forget to stop inside The Shops At The Hotel Hershey for souvenirs, such as Hershey's chocolate, apparel, accessories and more. Gift bags, baskets, and shipping are also available for in-store purchases.

Share Your Photos

While you're here, share your sweet winter photos with us on social and use #HersheyPA on Facebook, Instagram and X!

Around Town

Teddy Bear & Friends Day at ZooAmerica

Saturday, Jan. 4, 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Kids 12 and under may bring along a favorite stuffed animal to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park and participate in a mock “vet clinic” with their teddy bear. Bring them for a wellness check or to repair their wear and tear, and stay for a fun visit at the zoo!

Discovery Weekends at ZooAmerica

Jan. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 & 25-26

Visit ZooAmerica during Discovery Weekends this month. Kids ages 8 and under get in for FREE with the purchase of a regular or senior admission ticket. Each Discovery Weekend spotlights a specific animal and features a variety of enrichment activities to learn more about your favorite animals.

Weekend Themes:

• January 4-5: Teddy Bear Weekend - All About Bears!
• January 11-12: Body Coverings - Dressed to Impress!
• January 18-19: Eating/Hunting - Time to Chow Down!
• January 25-26: Animal Defense - Don’t Mess With Me!

ZooAmerica is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this winter. Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the Zoo, and 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders get into the Zoo for free, too. 

Winter Highlight Walks at Hershey  Gardens 

Jan. 12 & 25; Times Vary

Guests are invited to participate in guided walks at Hershey Gardens to observe and enjoy the gardens in the winter and witness changes in nature during our colder months. Winter Highlight Walks are included with admission, and guests can attend one or more walks, weather permitting. Registration is not required. 

Lunar New Year at Hershey's  Chocolate World

Jan. 19 & 25; Times Vary

Join Hershey's Chocolate World in celebrating the Year of the Snake. This family-friendly event will include sweet samples and special activities, such as name-writing translations, dance and drumming performances. 

Winter Treatments Available at the Spas in Hershey

Appointments Available Throughout January; Times Vary

What better way to relax after the holidays than with a chocolate-filled spa day? MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa offer signature chocolate treatments and seasonal collections to warm up and unwind all month long. Experience Peppermint Hot Chocolate treatments and Peppermint Mocha treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, or visit MeltSpa by Hershey to indulge in seasonal treatments from the all-new Cranberry Spice Collection through Feb. 28. 

Visit The Hershey Story  Museum

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Daily

At The Hershey Story Museum on Chocolate Avenue, guests can learn all about the life and legacy of our founder Milton S. Hershey, the town he created, and the lives he touched. Additional chocolate experiences are also available for purchase, like Chocolate Lab classes where guests can make and decorate chocolate and learn how chocolate is made. Or, try a flight of warm drinking chocolates from around the world with a chocolate tasting.

View the museum's event calendar for a complete listing of events and availability.

Live Events

Hershey Bears  GIANT Teddy Bear Toss at GIANT Center

Sunday, Jan. 5 at 3 p.m.

The Hershey Bears are excited to host their annual GIANT Teddy Bear Toss. Fans are encouraged to bring new or gently used teddy bears and plush toys to the game to be thrown on the ice when the Bears score their first goal. There is no limit on how many teddy bears fans can bring, as each donated stuffed animal is collected and donated to more than 30 local organizations in Central Pennsylvania.

 A limited number of tickets for the Teddy Bear Toss Game are currently available, and the game is expected to sell out. For tickets and additional information about the Hershey Bears, please visit HersheyBears.com.

Paw Patrol LIVE! A Mighty Adventure at GIANT Center

Jan. 11 - 12; Times Vary

Audiences will join the “PAW-some” pack in Adventure City and witness the pups charged up like never before as they work together to super-save the day. With heroic action, catchy tunes and “bark-loads” of interactive fun, this electrifying new experience will surely leave tails wagging and audiences cheering!

Joe Gatto at Hershey Theatre

Sunday, Jan. 12 at 5:00 p.m.

A comedian best known for starring in the hit TV shows “Impractical Jokers” and “The Misery Index”, Joe Gatto is back on tour and will be joined by stand-up comedian and writer Mark Jigarjian for his stop in Hershey.

Pretty Woman The Musical at Hershey Theatre

Jan. 14 - 19; Times Vary

Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, Pretty Woman The Musical springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell (“Hairspray,” “Kinky Boots,” “Legally Blonde”).

Overnight Getaways

Plan A Winter Getaway

From a cozy cabin or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort to deluxe accommodations at Hershey Lodge and The Hotel Hershey, our resorts make for a sweet getaway.  For a limited time, guests can save with the below winter offers, available select dates throughout the season:

• Book One Night, Get One 50% Off at The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge and Hersheypark Camping Resort
• Book Two Nights, Get One Free at The Hotel Hershey and Hershey Lodge

All resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more.

Be sure to share your sweet memories with us by using #HersheyPA on social media! We hope to see you soon in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

Coaster Clothing and Collectibles

This is the season to treat the coaster enthusiast in your life to a collection of themed gifts! You can bundle together a whole wardrobe inspired by fan-favorite coasters like Wildcat's Revenge, Candymonium, Great Bear and more with assorted apparel, including sweatshirts and t-shirts. There are even options to top off your themed gift pack with a NanoCoaster, a built-it-yourself model available for select Hersheypark coasters.

Festive Apparel

Celebrate the Hersheypark Christmas Candylane season with a unique selection of Christmas-inspired outerwear. Ugly sweaters, flannels and socks are essential during the holiday months, and at Hersheypark Supply Co., they can all be found with plenty of sweet designs. Remember a matching hat or mug to complete your look!

Sweet Stocking Stuffers

Looking for something smaller to complete your Christmas gift-giving? Fill your stocking with Hershey Character Nutcrackers, themed ornament, or pins and magnets celebrating the rides and icons of Hersheypark. And no stocking is complete until it's been filled with candy! Exclusive to Hersheypark Supply Co., you can find Hershey's chocolate bar with a unique wrapper signifying that it comes from Chocolatetown. You can pick one up next to the register as you finish up your shopping.

Gift Cards

If you're not exactly sure which gift the Hersheypark fan in your life would like most, you can let them decide with a gift card! Located next to the register, these gift cards can be used across the destination of The Sweetest Place On Earth. Use it for dining at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, enjoying a relaxing day at MeltSpa by Hershey or even Hersheypark tickets! E-Gift Cards are also available for online purchase if you can't shop in-person for instant delivery anytime.

Hersheypark Season Pass

You can give the gift of epic coaster rides, summer splashes and unbeatable perks with a 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass! Buy online and follow the steps below to gift a Season Pass: 

• Choose a Season Pass tier
• Enter the recipient's name, phone number and home address
• Use your own email address to receive confirmation (to keep it a surprise)
• Print off the confirmation email and add a card (print a Hersheypark gift tag or wrapping paper)
• When the recipient comes to take their photo and receive their physical pass, they can update the email address on file

Hersheypark Tickets

If you're interested in giving Hersheypark tickets, the 2025 Free Meal Summer Ticket deal is a great option! This bundle includes two Summer 2025 1-Day Tickets and two FREE Single-Use Meal Deals with an entrée, side and 24 oz. drink for $110 plus taxes and fees when purchased online. The tickets and Meal Deals are valid on any 2025 public operating day starting Apr. 5, 2025, through Sept. 7, 2025. Individual summer tickets will be available for purchase in early 2025.

Share Your Gift Ideas With Us

Whether you want to show off your holiday haul or inspire gift ideas for others, share your Hersheypark gifts with us! Tag @Hersheypark on social media and use the hashtags #Hersheypark, #ChristmasCandylane and #HersheyPA in your posts. You can also tag your Instagram stories with @Hersheypark for a chance to be featured on our page!

Discovery Weekends at ZooAmerica

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this winter. Families can bundle up and walk around the 11-acre Zoo while learning about dozens of animals native to our continent, like gray wolves, black bears and Canada lynx. Despite the colder temperatures, winter is often the best time of year to visit ZooAmerica, as the crowds typically are lighter and the animals are more active. 

The Zoo is also hosting Discovery Weekends in January, where kids ages 8 and under can visit for free on Saturdays and Sundays. Each weekend focuses on a different theme with fun activities and learning opportunities. Current ZooAmerica Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited year-round visits to the Zoo, and 2025 Hersheypark Season Pass Holders get into the Zoo for free, too. 

Winter Shows and Concerts in Hershey

There are plenty of opportunities to catch some live entertainment in Hershey this winter. The following acts are coming to the historic Hershey Theatre and 10,500-seat GIANT Center arena through March.

• Beyond The Footlights: Hershey Theatre Apollo Awards Celebration Cabaret at Hershey Theatre on Jan. 11 at 8 p.m.
• Paw Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure” at GIANT Center on Jan. 11-12 at various times
• Joe Gatto at Hershey Theatre on Jan. 12 at 5 p.m.
• PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL at Hershey Theatre on Jan. 14-19 at various times
• Disney On Ice Presents Mickey's Search Party at GIANT Center on Feb. 20-23 at various times
• Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour at GIANT Center on Mar. 9 at 3 p.m.
• Cirque du Soleil: OVO at GIANT Center on Mar. 20-23 at various times

Please note that beginning Jan. 20, 2025, Hershey Theatre will be closed to the public to embark on an important one-year renovation project to update the facility, while preserving its history. 

Hershey Bears Hockey Games at GIANT Center

Hockey fans can cheer for the hometown, back-to-back Calder Cup Champion Hershey Bears AHL team as they defend their title. The Bears will play 16 games at GIANT Center between now and the end of March.

Key promotional nights include the GIANT Teddy Bear Toss Night on Jan. 5 and Hersheypark Pass Nights on Feb. 11 and Mar. 2. All fans attending the Hersheypark Pass Nights will receive a free 2025 Hersheypark ticket, valid for one-day admission through June 30, 2025! Passes will be distributed to all fans upon entry to the game date purchased, valid one pass per game ticket.

The Hershey Bears also offer a Me+3 4-Pack on select December and January games when purchased online by Dec. 31. 

Tuesday Trivia Nights at The Chocolatier

Calling all trivia fans! The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio, located just outside of Hersheypark in Hershey's Chocolatetown, hosts Trivia Nights every Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. through March 18. Diners can enjoy delicious appetizers and drinks while playing fun trivia games for a chance to win a prize. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Dine With Coco The Bear at The Chocolatier

Kids can enjoy a free kid's dessert with the purchase of a kid's entrée at The Chocolatier on Thursdays from 5-7 p.m. during the Hershey Bears hockey season. Plus, all diners can hang out with Coco, The Official Mascot of the Hershey Bears! Reservations are strongly encouraged.

Seasonal Spa Treatments

What better way to beat the winter blues than with a chocolate spa day? MeltSpa by Hershey day spa and The Spa At The Hotel Hershey resort spa offer signature chocolate treatments and seasonal collections to warm up and unwind on a cold winter day. Guests can choose from various services, including massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, manicures and pedicures, hair services and much more.

This winter, guests can experience treatments from the Cranberry Spice Collection at Meltspa by Hershey or Peppermint Hot Chocolate and Peppermint Mocha treatments at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey through Feb. 28. 

Special Meet & Greets at Hershey's Chocolate World

Hershey's Chocolate World is open daily from January through March; hours vary by day. Guests can unwrap their chocolate adventure by being a kid in a candy store, sipping a milkshake, becoming a chocolatier, taking a delicious chocolate tour ride and so much more.

There are a few winter events at Hershey's Chocolate World to add to the calendar, including special Meet & Greets with Snoopy and the Hershey's Characters. Check the Chocolate World website for dates and times.

Annual Orchid Show & Sale at Hershey Gardens

Hershey Gardens is open daily this winter except Jan. 6-10 for maintenance. Visitors can take a stroll through the 23-acre walk-through botanical display garden, featuring an indoor tropical Butterfly Atrium with 600 butterflies from around the world. The atrium is one of only 25 year-round indoor tropical butterfly atriums in the U.S.

Hershey Gardens will host the Susquehanna Orchid Society (SOS) for their 41st annual orchid show and sale from Jan. 31 through Feb. 2 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. More than 1,000 orchids representing dozens of varieties, including rare species and unique hybrids, will be on display in the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory. Daily orchid show tours and informational sessions will take place in the exhibition and Garden Cottage. In addition, vendors will have orchids for sale; various orchid societies will have showy displays that will be judged onsite and presented with national awards.

Chocolate Lab Classes at The Hershey Story

Those looking for a fun indoor activity to beat the winter blues can head to The Hershey Story Museum to learn all about the life and legacy of Milton S. Hershey, the town he created and the lives he touched. Additional paid experiences are also available, including the Chocolate Lab, where guests can learn about the chocolate-making process from "bean to bar" and create their own chocolate treat. Chocolate Lab Classes are offered daily on a first-come, first-served basis. Tickets can be purchased at The Hershey Story⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ admissions desk on the day of the visit.

Public Ice Skating at Hersheypark Arena

Ice skating is a staple on many people's winter bucket lists. Hersheypark Arena is open for public ice skating on select dates in January through March. Children 3 and under are free, with ticket prices ranging from $5-8 for ages 4+.

Winter Getaway

With so much to do in Hershey this winter, you may want to stay overnight to truly experience it all. From a cozy cabin or RV at Hersheypark Camping Resort to deluxe accommodations at Hershey Lodge and The Hotel Hershey, The Official Resorts of Hersheypark make for a sweet winter getaway. 

Plus, this is the first opportunity for guests to experience winter at The Villas At The Hotel Hershey - an elevated luxury accommodation that opened in summer 2024 with all-new exclusive amenities, including a concierge lounge with complimentary food, drinks, activities and more.

All resort guests also receive FREE Resort Benefits, including free or discounted admission to Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story Museum, preferred pricing to ZooAmerica, on-site recreation and activities and more.

We hope to see you in The Sweetest Place On Earth this winter!

From a 121-acre world-class amusement park to a luxurious chocolate-filled spa day at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey, live concerts and shows, and over a dozen dining locations - our town built on chocolate has something for everyone on your shopping list. 

Gift cards can be conveniently purchased online and sent straight to your loved one’s inbox or in person at any of the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) properties. All HE&R gift cards must be used in person throughout the destination and do not expire.

Gift Card Offers

Various dining and spa locations throughout Hershey, Pa., offer sweet gift card deals to treat your loved ones - and yourself!

Houlihan’s Restaurant + Bar

Now through Dec. 24, buy $50 or more in gift cards at Houlihan’s in Hershey, Pa., and receive a $10 dining certificate to use yourself! Plus, take advantage of Houlihan's gift card bonus weekend when you spend $50 or more in gift cards and receive TWO $10 dining certificates.

Bonus Weekends: 

• Friday, Dec. 20 - Sunday, Dec. 22 

This offer is available for in-person purchases only. Bonus certificates are valid from Jan. 2, 2025, to March 31, 2025. Excludes Saturdays and Valentine's Day weekend. You can purchase gift cards at Houlihan's, located in the Hershey Press Building on Chocolate Avenue. 

Devon Seafood + Steak

Now through Dec. 24, spend $100 in gift cards at Devon and receive a $20 dining certificate. Buy $100 or more in Devon gift cards on the bonus weekend and receive TWO $20 dining certificates. 

Bonus Weekends:

• Friday, Dec. 20 - Sunday, Dec. 22 

This offer is available for in-person purchases only. Bonus certificates are valid from Jan. 2, 2025, to March 31, 2025. Excludes Saturdays and Valentine's Day weekend. You can purchase gift cards at Devon, located in the Hershey Press Building on Chocolate Avenue. 

The Chocolatier

Now through Dec. 24, buy $50 or more in gift cards at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar + Patio and receive a $10 dining certificate for yourself.

This offer is available for in-person purchases only. Bonus certificates are valid from Jan. 2, 2025, to March 31, 2025. Excludes Saturdays and Valentine's Day weekend. You can purchase gift cards at The Chocolatier, located in Hershey's Chocolatetown.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

Now through Dec. 24, purchase $250 or more in gift cards from The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and receive a $25 voucher to use toward spa services. Gift cards do not expire. The voucher is valid Monday - Thursday, Jan. 2 - March 27, 2025.

MeltSpa by Hershey

Now through Dec. 24, purchase $150 or more in gift cards from MeltSpa by Hershey and receive a $15 voucher for spa services. Gift cards do not expire. The voucher is valid Monday- Thursday, Jan. 2- March 27, 2025.

Gift cards to the spas in Hershey can be purchased online via the links below or at each spa location.

Hershey Bears

The Hershey Bears are slashing ticket fees on all remaining games through this December! For a limited time, purchase your tickets and save with no Ticketmaster fees. Black Friday offer ends Dec. 3.

Top 7 Ways To Use Your Gift Card in Hershey

Spend A Day at Hersheypark

You can use a gift card on-site at Hersheypark for everything from food to 2025 Season Passes! 

A one-price admission to Hersheypark includes three sweet experiences featuring thrilling coasters and family-friendly attractions, 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, which can be entered through the Hersheypark bridge during public operating hours. 

2025 will be an extra sweet year to visit Hersheypark with the opening of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity in the summer of 2025. 

Enjoy A year of Hersheypark Happy

Hersheypark 2025 Season Passes are also on sale and allow guests to enjoy unlimited year-round visits with discounts, events and special perks based on pass type. A Hershey, Pa., gift card can be used to purchase a Season Pass at Ticketing Services located in Hershey's Chocolatetown.

Full, King and Giant Size Season Pass Holders can visit Hersheypark as often as they want throughout each operating season and enjoy free parking, 1-hour early access to the park and a sweet discount on food and retail. Plus, Giant Size Pass Holders will have access to an exclusive lounge located in the Park during the 2025 season. Payment plans are available with savings on the Hersheypark website. 

Go Behind The Scenes at ZooAmerica

Do you have an animal lover in your life? Gift them a Behind-the-Scenes tour at ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park. Four special tours are available, each guiding participants through non-public areas, getting them close to the animals and leaving them with a deeper understanding of the animal world. 

Another gift option is a ZooAmerica Pass which includes unlimited visits to see the North American animals, exclusive events, discounted sign-up rates for Zoo programs and more. Family Passes are also available and admit a family of 4 living at the same address. Please note the Annual Pass is valid for 12 consecutive months from the date of purchase.

See A Live Show

From Broadway and concerts to comedians and family shows, Hershey, Pa., is home to world-class entertainment for people of all ages to enjoy. Check out some of the upcoming events down below! Destination gift cards can be used to buy show tickets at the GIANT Center, Hersheypark Stadium and Hershey Theatre Box Offices.

• Jan. 11 - 12: Paw Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure” at GIANT Center
• Jan. 12: Joe Gatto: Let's Get Into It at Hershey Theatre
• Jan. 14 - 19: Pretty Woman at Hershey Theatre
• Feb. 20 - 23: Disney On Ice Presents Mickey's Search Party at GIANT Center
• Mar. 9: Harlem Globetrotters World Tour at GIANT Center
• Mar. 20-23: Cirque du Soleil: OVO at GIANT Center
• May 9: Brit Floyd at GIANT Center
• May 28: Post Malone with Jelly Roll at Hersheypark Stadium
• Nov. 28: Matt Rife at GIANT Center

Cheer On The Hershey Bears

The 2024-2025 Hershey Bears ice hockey season is in full swing with home games happening at the GIANT Center through the spring. Use a gift card to purchase tickets at the GIANT Center box office and support the Bears as they “Defend the Den!" 

Relax with A Spa Treatment

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey and MeltSpa by Hershey offer one-of-a-kind chocolate treatments that ensure nothing but sweet, sweet relaxation. Guests can use a gift card towards signature chocolate treatments like a Cocoa Massage and Cocoa Facial, or experience rotating seasonal treatments that change with the scents of the season. This winter, guests can indulge in Peppermint Hot Chocolate treatments at the Chocolate Spa and the Cranberry Spice Collection at MeltSpa for a limited time. Gift cards can also be used to buy signature spa products and merchandise. 

Guests can enjoy year-round spa treatments with a Chocolate Spa Club membership at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey. Benefits include a $150 spa credit, a one-night midweek stay at The Hotel Hershey, discounts on spa services and more.

Taste The Flavors of Hershey 

Hershey, Pa., is home to more than a dozen unique dining venues that include everything from casual coffee shops to late-night cocktails, family-friendly dining to four-star cuisine and everything in between. Gift cards can be used at any of our dining locations listed here.

Be sure to share your sweet Hershey memories with us by using #HersheyPA on social media! We hope you have a great holiday season! 

Plenty of shows brighten spirits throughout the remainder of December! Check out our full guide to holiday entertainment below.

Saturday, December 14 at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Hershey Symphony Presents: Holiday Spectacular at Hershey Theatre

Join the Hershey Symphony for a beloved holiday tradition that has become a family favorite! Timeless classics and exciting new arrangements will capture the spirit of the season. Don't miss out on this festive musical journey that promises to fill your heart with joy and wonder. 

Sunday, December 15 at 5 p.m.

Cirque Musica “Holiday Wonderland” at Hershey Theatre

Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season with the all-new Cirque Musica “Holiday Wonderland,” a perfect fusion of circus artistry and beloved holiday melodies. Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the magical holiday extravaganza filled with music, marvels and merriment will ignite the festive spirit in all who attend. Featuring awe-inspiring acrobatics, gravity-defying aerial feats and talented musicians, Cirque Musica “Holiday Wonderland” takes audiences on a journey into a world of music, cirque and wonder. With new costumes, music and storylines, the all-new show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with a musical mix of timeless seasonal favorites.

Tuesday, December 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Leslie Odom, Jr. “The Christmas Tour” at Hershey Theatre

Leslie Odom Jr. is a two-time Academy Award-nominated, Tony and Grammy Award-winning, three-time Emmy Award-nominated actor, singer, songwriter and entertainer. With an expansive career that touches many performance genres, Odom has been repeatedly recognized as a unique performer with a serious and distinct dedication to the craft of storytelling. Odom is best known for his breakout role as ‘Aaron Burr’ in the hit musical “Hamilton” on Broadway, as well as his critically acclaimed performance as legendary soul singer Sam Cooke in Regina King’s 2020 film “One Night in Miami.” Most recently, Odom made his long-awaited return to Broadway, starring in and co-producing the new Broadway production of the classic American comedy “Purlie Victorious: A Non-Confederate Romp Through the Cotton Patch” by the legendary Ossie Davis. His fifth studio album, “When A Crooner Dies,” was released in November 2023.

Saturday December 21 at 1 and 5 p.m. | Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m.

Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet's “The Nutcracker” at Hershey Theatre

Let the holiday magic come to life with this festive family-friendly ballet. Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet is the only school in the world licensed to perform this production and is one of the most sought-after Nutcracker performances to attend or participate in. The performance is enjoyable for the whole family!

Upcoming Broadway Programming at Hershey Theatre

Tuesday, January 14 to Sunday, January 19 | Times Vary

Pretty Woman: The Musical at Hershey Theatre

Tickets to see a Broadway show at Hershey Theatre make the perfect gift for your loved ones! Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, Pretty Woman: The Musical springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell ("Hairspray," “Kinky Boots,” “Legally Blonde”). “If you love the movie, you’ll love the musical!” (BuzzFeed News). 

Are you ready to fall in love all over again?

For more than 40 years, the merriest event of the year at Hersheypark has delighted guests with a unique blend of only-in-Hershey holiday experiences, including the most lights in Pennsylvania, the only place in the Northeast to see all nine of Santa’s reindeer, unique seasonal rides and coasters, festive eats and signature hot chocolate.

You won't want to miss this USA TODAY 10Best Top 10 Theme Park Holiday Event for 2024! Plan your visit with this guide of the top 12 things to do at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane in celebration of the 12 days of Christmas.

1. Most Holiday Lights in Pennsylvania

More than five million sparkling lights deck the halls of Hersheypark this year, including the guest-favorite NOEL light show, which features dancing lights choreographed to Christmas music along Spring Creek. NOEL starts nightly at 5 p.m. and runs every 30 minutes in The Hollow region. 

Tip: Given the ongoing construction of Twizzlers Twisted Gravity, the show has a modified footprint more to the left of the bridge. Check out the new Twizzlers Twisted Gravity light display across the bridge!

2. Family Attractions and Kiddie Rides

A unique blend of family-friendly and kiddie rides are open for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane, weather and maintenance permitting. Dry Gulch Railroad is a must-ride, as the steam-powered train takes riders through areas of Hersheypark completely blanketed with lights. The railroad features a Christmas overlay with various displays that are only viewable from the ride, including the 12 Days of Christmas.  

There are also a few signature rides worth adding to the must-do list that provide dazzling views of the lights from above versus walking all 121 acres:

• Kissing Tower takes guests 250 feet up in the air to the highest point in Hershey for an aerial 360° view of Hersheypark and the town built on chocolate while learning about its history. 
• The Ferris Wheel, with its festive light package, is more than just an iconic photo spot during the holidays. The family attraction is also a popular option for guests of every height category to enjoy the beautiful views from nearly 100 feet.
• The Monorail is an elevated, open-air, round-trip audio tour over Hersheypark, ZooAmerica and parts of historic downtown Hershey.
• Hershey Triple Tower is ideal for thrill seekers looking to get a unique, bird's-eye view of the holiday lights. The attraction feature a light package to add to the holiday spirit in the Kissing Tower Hill region. 

Tip: We recommend downloading the Hersheypark app for a real-time listing of ride availability and wait times. 

3. Holiday Thrills on Select Coasters

Oh, what fun it is to ride on seven roller coasters during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane! Weather and maintenance permitting, thrill seekers can experience holiday thrills on the following coasters:

• Wildcat’s Revenge featuring a holiday light package
• Candymonium featuring a holiday light package
• sooperdooperLooper featuring a holiday light package
• Jolly Rancher Remix with a holiday overlay and new cinnamon scent
• Laff Trakk indoor coaster decorated for the holidays with a large Christmas tree in the center
• Wild Mouse 
• Cocoa Cruiser

To add to the Park's merry ambiance, some coasters that are closed for Hersheypark Christmas Candylane boast holiday decorations. Visitors can see a brand-new holiday light package on Skryush and a Santa sleigh light display on the lift hill of Comet. 

Tip: Temperature thresholds for the coasters are listed in the website FAQs. Generally, temperatures must be at least 38 degrees and rising to begin the day and stay above 38 degrees at night for select rides to operate.

4. Photos With Santa in the Mary N. Bright Airfield

Don't forget to make your list and check it twice because Santa Claus has come to town! New this year, guests can see Santa and all nine of his reindeer in the all-new Mary N. Bright Airfield located in Fahrenheit Catering inside Hersheypark. Santa’s favorite candy-stocking stop before his holiday ride is home to the Yule Lounge, where guests can get a photo with Santa and tell him their list, dance with his elves and mingle with Mrs. Claus through Dec. 24.

Tip: The Mary N. Bright Airfield may experience a high volume of travelers, so guests are encouraged to head there first.

5. All Nine of Santa's Reindeer

Rudolph and his are taking a break before their famous flight inside an old airplane hangar turned stables at Hersheypark! Guests can see the reindeer up close from behind a gated area in Hangar 96. Hersheypark is the only place in the Northeast with this magical experience featuring all nine of Santa’s reindeer during all hours of operation through Jan. 1, 2025.

Tip: Reindeer specialists from ZooAmerica are on-site to answer guest questions. 

6. Holly Jolly Hershey Character Sweet Greets

It's not a visit to Hersheypark without snapping a selfie with a Hershey Character! Parkgoers can stop by the heated Music Box Theatre to warm up and meet their favorite Hershey Characters, who are donning their coziest winter apparel.

Tip: Check the Hersheypark app for appearance times. 

7. TREEville Trail

Guests can enjoy a stroll through TREEville trail in The Boardwalk At Hersheypark region, with 25 uniquely decorated trees sharing stories of The Sweetest Place On Earth. New this year, guests can also see the 50-foot Kissmas Tree in this location - a sweet photo opportunity!

Tip: There are two other smaller trees for photo opportunities next to Wave Swinger and between Hersheypark Supply Co. and the Carrousel at the front of the Park. Don't forget to tag @Hersheypark and use #ChristmasCandylane in social media posts!

8. Hot Chocolate and Seasonal Eats

Tis the season to eat, drink and be Hersheypark Happy! Guests can indulge in a variety of seasonal food and beverage offerings, including:

• Get your hands on the first-ever snack collectible at Hersheypark this holiday season! The Kissmas TREEts Collectible sweets container features multiple layered compartments of handmade goodies like peppermint bark and chocolate dipped Rice Krispy Treats. It is available for $39.99 plus tax online, inside the Park at the Mary N. Bright Airfield (Fahrenheit Catering) and Milton's Ice Cream Parlor, or at the Hershey Sweet Lights presented by PPL entrance.
• Guests can warm up with four specialty hot chocolate topped with baked goods at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar or new boozy hot chocolate for those 21 and older at The Concourse Cocoa Bar, located inside Terminal C of the Mary N. Bright Airfield.
• For savory options, three specialty Holi-dogs hot dogs are available at Berks Hot Dog Stand. Plus, the popular baked potato bar and soup offerings return to Overlook Food Court.
• Perfect for sharing, Simply Chocolate offers three King Size Shakes: Chocolate Peppermint, Milk & Cookies and Frozen Hot Chocolate. Milton's Ice Cream Parlor and The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen also have seasonal desserts.

Tip: As a special holiday perk, 2024 King and Giant Size Pass Holders can transform their Season Pass Holder cup into a hot beverage mug with a special lid and FREE refills on hot chocolate and coffee during Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

9. Holiday Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier

Up on the “rooftop” click, click, click. Back by popular demand is Holiday Spirit's Rooftop Bar at The Chocolatier, which is open on all Hersheypark Christmas Candylane operating evenings. The festive patio features boozy hot chocolate for guests ages 21 and older, over-the-top hot chocolate for kids, a Chocuterie board to make your own hot chocolate and a tabletop s’mores kit. Guests can enjoy these limited-time offerings while warming up by a firepit overlooking Hershey's Chocolatetown with a classic holiday movie playing in the background without sound.

Tip: Hersheypark tickets are not required to attend. Guests can enter through The Chocolatier or the patio entrance located inside the Park.

10. Our Friends From The Sea

Guests can see the seals and sea lions during the Our Friends From The Sea show in the Aquatheatre at 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. when Hersheypark Christmas Candylane opens at 12 p.m.

Tip: Keep an eye out for Diego, a male California sea lion, who just returned to Hershey!

11. Zoo Visits

ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on Christmas Day). The holiday season is a great time to visit the 11-acre Zoo as many North American animals in the outdoor habitats, like the gray wolves, river otters and Canada Lynx, are more active when the temperature drops.