Are you looking for something amazing to do in Pennsylvania? Then check out Hersheypark for the Holidays as well as Tips for Visiting Hersheypark during the Holidays! Although I received season passes to facilitate my review by being part of the 2023 Sweetest Insiders, all opinions are 100% my own! This post contains affiliate links.
Tips for Visiting Hersheypark During Holidays
There’s nothing quite like Christmas Candylane at Hersheypark during the holiday season—it’s pure magic! From the dazzling lights to the sweet aroma of hot chocolate in the air, it’s a must-experience tradition for our family. In fact, you’ll always find us there the Friday after Thanksgiving, soaking in the festive vibes!
That said, visiting Hersheypark in the winter is a little different than those sunny summer trips. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here are some tips to help you stay cozy, stress-free, and full of holiday cheer during your visit. Check out some tips to make this holiday adventure as sweet as chocolate!
1. Dress in Layers
The temperatures can drop significantly, especially after sunset. It’s important to Bundle up with hats, gloves, scarves, and warm coats. Forget something? Don’t worry there are shops selling sweaters, gloves and hats so no need to worry if you forgot any of those items at home.
2. Arrive Early
Winter days are shorter, so make the most of the daylight by arriving when the park opens. You can check out the park hours here. You’ll have more time to enjoy the rides, holiday displays, and activities. The park will usually open at Noon on Saturdays and Sundays and 5pm on other days. Just make sure you check the time as well as see if the park is open in case of inclement weather.
3. Take Advantage of Hot Chocolate Stops
Warm up at the Simply Chocolate Hot Chocolate Bar or other hot cocoa stands. Specialty flavors like peppermint or Reese’s are a must-try! My favorite is the Toasted Marshmallow hot chocolate!
I’m not going to lie, this is one of the reasons I come to Hersheypark during the winter! I suggest getting in line early for this hot chocolate though because it will build a long line quickly because it’s a popular item. You can find it across from the bumper cars.
4. Visit Santa’s Stables
Don’t miss the reindeer! Hersheypark is the only place in the Northeast where you can see all nine of Santa’s reindeer up close up. It’s such a fun treat to see those guys resting up before the big flight! There are some great reindeer wranglers there ready to give you some great info about Santas furry friends.
5. Enjoy Seasonal Eats
Bring your appetite! Because Holiday’s at Hershey’s Winter means exclusive treats like specialty hot chocolates, and the Kissmas TREEts Collectible. Hot dogs, festive desserts and so much more! There are some delicious treats to try!
We really enjoyed trying the different holi-dogs at Berks Hot dogs across from the Fahrenheit Rollercoaster! There are some unique treats to try while at the park making a trip just for the food a real experience! 
You can check out some of the delicious treats we tried while visiting Hersheypark last week!
6. Plan for Indoor Activities
It’s Pennsylvania so the weather is unpredictable. There are lots of places to take refuge from the cold. One of our favorites is the Music Box theater where you can take pictures with Reese and Hersh the sweet Hersheypark characters!
It’s such a fun set up and you can use your picture for your Holiday card like we did!
7. Don’t Miss the Lights
Hersheypark’s holiday light displays are stunning! From the NOEL Light Show synchronized to music to the dazzling lights along the paths, it’s a winter wonderland you won’t want to miss.
8. Check Ride Availability
Not all rides operate in the winter, so plan ahead by checking the Hersheypark app for a list of open attractions. The weather may also impact ride availability. It gets cold so so you really
9. Bring a Portable Charger
The winter chill can drain phone batteries quickly, so pack a charger to keep your camera ready for photos of the festive decor and family fun. Luckily if you have a fuel rod portable charger there are switch out stations around the parks where you can get a new one that’s charged and ready to help you on your way!
10. Visit Hershey Sweet Lights
End your day with the Hershey Sweet Lights drive-thru experience just outside the park. It’s a relaxing way to enjoy over 2 million holiday lights from the warmth of your car. It’s such a fun treat for the kids to unwind after a fun day and enjoy a beautiful light show! It includes 2 enhancement glasses to make the experience even more magical.
Visiting Hershypark during the Holidays is a MUST! It’s truly a magical experience. While there make sure and stay at one of their gorgeous resorts Hersheylodge or Hotel Hershey to continue the sweet adventures!
You can grab tickets online here.
Current 2024 Season Pass Holders can enjoy unlimited visits to Hersheypark Christmas Candylane as part of their year-long perks. 2025 Season Passes are on sale now with a Season Pass+ option that includes unlimited visits and perks to Hersheypark for the remainder of the 2024 operating year and all of 2025 – a great gift idea, too!
With these tips, you’re ready to enjoy a sweet and memorable visit to Hersheypark this winter! 🌟
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