Hersheypark, a renowned amusement park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, transforms into a spooky spectacle during the Halloween season with its “Hersheypark in the Dark” event. This annual celebration offers a unique blend of thrilling rides, terrifying attractions, and family-friendly activities, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a fun and frightening experience. In this article, we will delve into the details of Hersheypark in the Dark, exploring its history, attractions, and events, as well as providing valuable tips and insights for visitors.
History of Hersheypark in the Dark
Hersheypark in the Dark has been a Halloween tradition for over two decades, with the first event taking place in 1996. The idea behind the event was to create a unique and exciting experience for visitors during the Halloween season, leveraging the park’s existing infrastructure and attractions to create a spooky atmosphere. Over the years, the event has evolved to include new rides, shows, and attractions, as well as special events and activities.
Evolution of Attractions and Events
One of the key factors contributing to the success of Hersheypark in the Dark is its ability to evolve and adapt to changing visitor preferences and trends. The park’s management team works tirelessly to introduce new and exciting attractions, shows, and events each year, ensuring that visitors have a fresh and thrilling experience. Some of the most popular attractions and events include haunted houses, scare zones, and live shows, as well as special events such as costume contests and trick-or-treat trails.
Haunted Houses and Scare Zones
The haunted houses and scare zones at Hersheypark in the Dark are a major draw for visitors, offering a terrifying experience that is not for the faint of heart. The park’s haunted houses are designed to simulate a real-life horror experience, with state-of-the-art special effects, terrifying creatures, and haunting storylines. The scare zones, on the other hand, offer a more immersive experience, with actors and actresses dressed in costume, roaming the park and interacting with visitors.
Attractions and Events
Hersheypark in the Dark features a wide range of attractions and events, catering to visitors of all ages and preferences. The park is divided into several themed areas, each offering a unique experience and atmosphere. Some of the most popular attractions and events include:
The Roller Coasters: Hersheypark is renowned for its thrilling roller coasters, and during the Hersheypark in the Dark event, these coasters take on a new level of excitement and terror. The park’s roller coasters are equipped with special effects, such as strobe lights and fog machines, creating a disorienting and thrilling experience.
The Water Rides: The water rides at Hersheypark are a great way to cool off during the Halloween season, and during the Hersheypark in the Dark event, these rides are transformed into spooky and terrifying experiences, with special effects and theming.
The Live Shows: The live shows at Hersheypark in the Dark are a great way to experience the park’s Halloween spirit, with performances ranging from musical productions to magic shows and comedy acts.
Special Events and Activities
In addition to the attractions and events, Hersheypark in the Dark also features a range of special events and activities, including costume contests, trick-or-treat trails, and character meet-and-greets. These events and activities offer a great way for visitors to interact with the park’s characters and theming, as well as with other visitors.
Character Meet-and-Greets
The character meet-and-greets at Hersheypark in the Dark are a great way for visitors to meet their favorite characters, including Hershey’s beloved mascots, as well as characters from popular Halloween franchises. These meet-and-greets offer a unique photo opportunity, as well as a chance to interact with the characters and learn more about their stories and backgrounds.
Visitor Information and Tips
If you’re planning to visit Hersheypark in the Dark, there are several things you should know before you go. The park operates on select days during the Halloween season, typically from late September to early November. It’s essential to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours, ticket prices, and special events.
Ticket Prices and Packages
The ticket prices for Hersheypark in the Dark vary depending on the day and time of your visit, as well as the type of ticket you purchase. The park offers a range of ticket packages, including single-day tickets, multi-day tickets, and season passes. It’s worth noting that the park also offers special discounts and promotions for visitors who purchase tickets online in advance.
Getting to the Park
Hersheypark is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The park offers ample parking, as well as shuttle services from nearby hotels and resorts. Visitors can also use ride-sharing services or taxis to get to the park.
In conclusion, Hersheypark in the Dark is a unique and thrilling Halloween experience that offers something for everyone. With its wide range of attractions and events, special events and activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun and frightening experience during the Halloween season. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a horror fan, or just looking for a unique experience, Hersheypark in the Dark is a must-visit destination that is sure to leave you screaming for more.
| Event | Dates | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Hersheypark in the Dark | Late September to early November | Varies by day |
- Check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and ticket prices
- Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to take advantage of special discounts and promotions
What is Hersheypark in the Dark?
Hersheypark in the Dark is a special seasonal event held at Hersheypark, a family theme park located in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The event takes place during the Halloween season and features a range of thrilling activities, including haunted attractions, roller coasters, and live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the park’s usual rides and attractions, as well as special Halloween-themed experiences, such as trick-or-treating, costume contests, and spooky decorations.
During Hersheypark in the Dark, the park is transformed into a spooky atmosphere, with dim lighting, fog machines, and Halloween decorations throughout the grounds. The event is designed to be fun for the whole family, with activities suitable for all ages. However, some attractions and experiences may be too intense for younger children, so parental discretion is advised. Overall, Hersheypark in the Dark is a unique and exciting way to experience the thrill of Halloween, with something for everyone to enjoy.
What kind of haunted attractions can I expect to find at Hersheypark in the Dark?
Hersheypark in the Dark features a range of haunted attractions, including haunted houses, mazes, and scare zones. These attractions are designed to provide a thrilling and frightening experience, with special effects, animatronics, and live actors. Some of the haunted attractions are themed around classic horror movies and myths, while others are unique to Hersheypark. Visitors can expect to encounter all manner of spooky creatures, from ghosts and goblins to zombies and monsters.
The haunted attractions at Hersheypark in the Dark are designed to be intense and frightening, but not excessively gory or disturbing. The park aims to provide a fun and thrilling experience for visitors, rather than a traumatic or disturbing one. However, some attractions may still be too intense for younger children or those with sensitive nerves, so visitors are advised to use discretion and choose the attractions that are right for them. With a range of haunted attractions to choose from, visitors are sure to find something that suits their taste for thrill and adventure.
Are there any special events and activities for children at Hersheypark in the Dark?
Yes, Hersheypark in the Dark offers a range of special events and activities designed specifically for children. These include trick-or-treating, costume contests, and interactive games and activities. The park also features a range of kid-friendly attractions, such as a pumpkin patch, a hayride, and a petting zoo. Additionally, many of the park’s usual rides and attractions are also open during the event, including roller coasters, water rides, and carousels.
The special events and activities for children at Hersheypark in the Dark are designed to be fun and engaging, without being too scary or intense. The park aims to provide a family-friendly atmosphere, where children can enjoy the thrill of Halloween without being overwhelmed or frightened. Parents can accompany their children to the various attractions and activities, and there are also plenty of places to take a break and rest if needed. With so many options to choose from, children are sure to have a blast at Hersheypark in the Dark.
Can I wear a costume to Hersheypark in the Dark?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to wear costumes to Hersheypark in the Dark. In fact, the park hosts a costume contest during the event, with prizes for the best costumes in various categories. Visitors can wear their favorite Halloween costumes, whether it’s a superhero, a ghost, or a monster. However, the park does have some rules and guidelines for costumes, such as no masks that cover the face, no costume weapons, and no costumes that are excessively gory or disturbing.
The costume contest at Hersheypark in the Dark is a fun and popular event, with visitors of all ages participating. The contest is usually held in the evening, and visitors can register in advance to participate. The park also offers a range of costume-themed activities and photo opportunities, such as a costume parade and a pumpkin-patch photo booth. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s special Halloween decorations and backdrops to take memorable photos with their friends and family.
Are the roller coasters and other rides open during Hersheypark in the Dark?
Yes, many of the roller coasters and other rides at Hersheypark are open during the Hersheypark in the Dark event. In fact, the park’s roller coasters are a major attraction during the event, with many visitors enjoying the thrill of riding them in the dark. The park also offers a range of other rides and attractions, including water rides, carousels, and kiddie rides. However, some rides may be closed due to maintenance or weather conditions, so visitors are advised to check the park’s website or mobile app for the latest information.
The roller coasters and other rides at Hersheypark in the Dark are a major part of the event’s appeal, offering visitors a unique and thrilling experience. The park’s rides are typically open until late in the evening, and visitors can enjoy them under the stars. The park also offers a range of special effects and lighting to enhance the ride experience, such as strobe lights, fog machines, and special sound effects. With so many rides and attractions to choose from, visitors are sure to find something that suits their taste for adventure and excitement.
How long does Hersheypark in the Dark typically run, and what are the operating hours?
Hersheypark in the Dark typically runs for several weekends in October, with the exact dates and operating hours varying from year to year. The event usually starts in late October and runs through early November, with the park open on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The operating hours for Hersheypark in the Dark are usually from 5 pm to 10 pm, although the park may open earlier or close later on certain days.
Visitors can check the park’s website or mobile app for the latest information on operating hours and dates. It’s also a good idea to arrive early, as the park can get crowded later in the evening. Additionally, visitors can take advantage of the park’s special Halloween-themed food and drinks, such as pumpkin-flavored treats and spooky cocktails. With its unique blend of thrills, chills, and family-friendly fun, Hersheypark in the Dark is an event not to be missed, and visitors are sure to have a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Are there any special dining or snack options available at Hersheypark in the Dark?
Yes, Hersheypark in the Dark offers a range of special dining and snack options, including Halloween-themed treats and meals. The park’s restaurants and food stands offer a variety of seasonal specialties, such as pumpkin pie, candy corn, and spooky-themed snacks. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s usual range of dining options, including burgers, hot dogs, and salads. Additionally, the park offers a range of specialty drinks, such as apple cider and hot chocolate, to keep visitors warm and cozy on chilly fall evenings.
The special dining and snack options at Hersheypark in the Dark are a fun and delicious part of the event. Visitors can enjoy their favorite treats while taking in the sights and sounds of the park, or while waiting in line for the various attractions and activities. The park also offers a range of dining plans and packages, which can be a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy meals and snacks throughout the day. With so many options to choose from, visitors are sure to find something that suits their taste and budget.