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Fourth of July in Hershey, 2018 Edition

Celebrating July 4 in Hershey

There are always fun, free (or almost free) events around Hershey to mark Independence Day!

 

Start Your Celebration Early!

Start your celebrations on July 3 with a free concert: The Hershey Symphony presents “An American Salute” concert on Tuesday, July 3 at 7:30 p.m. (with a rain date of July 4.)

This annual free concert kicks off with a host of popular movie themes ranging from Star Wars to Pirates of the Caribbean to Harry Potter and more! Following your cinematic favorites, the Orchestra and vocalists will present “An American Salute,” to celebrate America and pay a special tribute to the American military.

The concert is under the direction of Bob Sproul, and is sponsored by Penn Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, The Hershey Lodge, Sutliff Chevrolet, Fillson Water, Swiss Premium, Hershey Ice Cream and the Hershey Symphony Orchestra. Complimentary ice cream and water will be available, and food trucks will also be on site for additional food purchases. Additional information may be found at  www.HersheySymphony.org.

 

Celebrate July 4 at Hersheypark

Kick off your Fourth at Hersheypark! The park will host July 4 Opening Ceremonies with a playing of the National Anthem by the Hersheypark Band at the entrance gates at 9:50 a.m.

 

Hersheypark will also host "A Star Spangled Picnic" on July 4 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Pioneer Frontier Catering Pavilion. For just $15 per person, enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat buffet full of hot dogs, hamburgers, bbq, watermelon, macaroni & cheese and more! It’s a great way place to grab a bite to eat before watching the fireworks later from the park. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and a cash bar will also be available. Tickets can be purchased online, or day-of at Hospitality or Guest Services by 7:00 p.m.

 

Fireworks and Fun at the AACA

Join the Antique Automobile Club of America Museum (AACA) for "Fireworks and Fun," July 4 at 5:00 p.m.

Enjoy special, extended museum hours—visitors can tour from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for just $7.00! After you’ve seen the exciting exhibits in the auto museum, set up your blankets and lawn chairs out front to watch the Hersheypark fireworks from the top of the hill. It's one of the best places around Hershey to see the fireworks!

 

Jazz on the Veranda at the Hotel Hershey

The Hotel Hershey presents a special edition of Jazz on the Veranda on July 4 from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Enjoy music by Jazzy Ralph, refreshing beverages, delicious food items and pleasant conversation. Take in the expansive view of the sun setting on Hershey from high up on the veranda before enjoying the fireworks from the perfect vantage point.

 

 

Hersheypark Fireworks

July 4 at 10:15 p.m.

The annual Hersheypark fireworks display will begin at 10:15 p.m., and it's a sure hit for all ages! Best place to view the fireworks from inside the park? Head to Midway America.

 

Summer Concerts in Hershey

 

Here's a complete list (to date) of the concerts coming to Hershey this summer.

For more information, such as ticketing details and special discounted Hersheypark tickets, please go to the Hershey Entertainment website.

5/25 – Journey & Def Leppard at Hersheypark Stadium

6/2 – Kendrick Lamar at Giant Center

6/12 –Tim McGraw and Faith Hill at Giant Center

6/14 – Harry Styles Live on Tour at Hersheypark Stadium

6/16 – Imagine Dragons at Hersheypark Stadium

6/22 – Down the Rabbit Hole Live: Zac Brown Band 2018 at Hersheypark Stadium

6/29 – Kidz Bop Live 2018 at Giant Center

6/30 – Styx and Joan Jett & The Blackhearts at Giant Center

7/20 – Janet Jackson at Hersheypark Stadium

7/21 – Adventures of Kesha and Macklemore at Hersheypark Stadium

7/28 – Lynyrd Skynyrd at Hersheypark Stadium

8/4 – Show of the Summer at Hersheypark Stadium

8/10 – Counting Crows at Hersheypark Stadium

9/1 – Fall Out Boy at Hersheypark Stadium

9/2 – Pentatonix at Hersheypark Stadium

9/8 – Outlaw Music Festival at Hersheypark Stadium

9/18 – Celtic Thunder at Hershey Theatre

 

Top Ten Gifts from Hershey

 

One thing about being in Hershey: Whether you live here or you're just visiting, you can always find unique gifts! Here are a few of our favorites (and most can be ordered online!)

 

Life Lion Collectible Helicopter

From our friends at Penn State Milton S. Hershey  Medical Center, a 1:48 scale die-cast replica of the Life Lion helicopter.

 

The World's Largest Hershey Bar

Not something you can find at the grocery store and sure to impress the recipient! While you're at the Hershey online shop, pick up a box of Golden Almond Bars (our favorite) or the new Hershey's Gold Bar to try.

 

Hershey's Kisses Sheets and Pillowcases from The Hershey Lodge

Sweet sheets! These Kiss-filled poly-cotton sheets and pillowcases are easy to wash and they last (we have a set, so we know!) Not available online, but visit the Lodge gift shop to get a set for yourself or your favorite people. The shops at the Hershey Lodge and the Hotel Hershey also have unique gifts your kids will treasure!

 

 

Hershey Country Club Embroidered Apparel

 

How about a cashmere golf sweater from your favorite country club?

 

Avenues of Hershey Tee from Stay Apparel

The perfect gift for your Hershey fan from the new company in town, Stay Apparel. All items are U.S.-made and crafted with care.

 

Hershey Food Bank Donation

The number of hungry and food-insecure families continues to grow, even in the Hershey area. Help those people with a donation of time,  money or food to the Hershey Food Bank.

 

Be Kind Hoodie 

Support Hershey's We Matter Coalition by purchasing a "Be Kind" hoodie. The local group is dedicated to suicide prevention and reducing the stigma associated with mental health needs.

 

Melt Spa Gift Certificate

Why not stop by Hershey's newest day spa and pick up a gift card? 

 

A Gift from The Garden Shop at the Hershey Gardens or A Gift from The Museum Shop at the Hershey Story Museum

You don't have to be a member to shop at the unique gift shops at the Hershey Gardens and The Hershey Story museum, and they each feature carefully selected items in every price range. A membership makes a great gift, too!

 

A Photo of your Favorite Corner of Hershey from Frances Civello Photography

Choose your favorite photo and have it shipped directly from the professional lab to you. Frames and mattes are also available—share great memories of our sweet town (with no stress!)

 

Finally, we know there are dozens of unique Hershey gifts we HAVEN'T mentioned here. Gift cards to locally owned businesses are another go-to gift item for us each year. Hershey's Chocolate World always carries merchandise that appeals to even the toughest recipient. Is there anyone who wouldn't appreciate a Hershey Entertainment gift card (good for Hersheypark, HE&R hotels, HE&R restaurants, Hershey Bears, the Chocolate spa, Melt Spa, the Cocoa Beanery and more)? And Art on Derry is always a treasure trove of high-quality art by local artists for a truly unique gift.

What are YOUR favorite Hershey gifts to give? 

 

October in Hershey, 2017 Edition

There are so many events in Hershey during October, it’s hard to keep track of them all! We’ve done some of the research for you, so you can make the most of the next four weeks:

For the first week of October, Hershey will be swarmed by antique vehicles of every variety as the Antique Auto Club of America's Eastern Region Fall Meet comes to town. The meet takes place from October 4 to 7, and consists of more than 9,000 flea market spaces, 1,000 car corral spaces, and approximately 1,500 show cars. Each year the show attracts visitors from all over the United States and many countries throughout the world. 

After the Fall Meet traffic leaves town, it's time to celebrate autumn and Halloween with fun events for the young and young at heart!

 

Hersheypark in the Dark, Hershey’s Trick or Treat Adventure and ZooAmerica’s Creatures Of The Night begin their weekend runs on Friday, October 13 and continue weekends through October 15, October 20-22 and October 27-29. The park is transformed by colorful fall decorations, and special seasonal rates make it easier to take the whole family. Hershey’s Trick or Treat Adventure begins at Hershey’s Chocolate World and continues to a special area inside Hersheypark with a journey of decorated doors and friendly folks offering Hershey’s candy. Live music from spooky bands enhance the experience, and the S’mores treats and hot cider are there to take away the chill! 

Included in your admission to Hersheypark In The Dark is ZooAmerica’s Creatures Of Ihe Night. Watch the wolves howl at the moon, see the bears devour pumpkins, and hang out with the bats at their favorite hour! Bring a flashlight and explore ZooAmerica to get a rare glimpse into the nighttime habits of your favorite animals.

 

On Saturdays in October (Oct. 14, 21 and 28) visit the Hershey Story Museum to create "Monster Mischief." On those days from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., kids who visit the Museum Experience at The Hershey Story can create their very own monster pop using a Hershey bar, decorative icing and edible candy eyes. They’ll also receive a vintage Hershey’s mask to assemble. For a fun Halloween photo opportunity, children are encouraged to come dressed in their favorite costume and pose in front of a vintage Hershey’s advertising backdrop. Included in Museum Experience admission.

 

October 14 also brings the 3rd annual Choctoberfest on ChocolateTown Square in downtown Hershey from noon–6:00 p.m. This family-friendly fall festival features great live music, local craft beer, chocolate and delicious food from downtown restaurants, and offers an array of family and children’s activities. Choctoberfest is free and open to the public, with food and beverages available for purchase.

 

This year for the first time, the annual Hershey Partnership Soup Cook-Off will be held the same day as Choctoberfest. On October 24 from 11:00 a.m. –2:00 p.m., sample dozens of soups concocted by local begs and amateur soup aficionados This event takes place at the Hershey Volunteer Fire Company, which receives a portion of the event profits. Admission is available at the door: adults are $12, children ages 10 and under, $5.

 

Also on October 14, and just a mile or two out of town), Indian Echo Caverns hosts its 6th annual Autumn Festival & Old Fashion Days, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.,  with wagon rides, pumpkin patches, face painting, glitter tattoos, geode cracking, a bouncy house, charity bake sale, local artist and craft vendors, and food.

 

On Saturday evening, October 14, the Hershey Bears face Belleville in the team's home opener at the GIANT Center. The first game against the local rival Lehigh Valley Phantoms will be hosted by the Bears on Sunday, October 15 at the GIANT Center.

 

Fall also means fitness in Hershey, as runners arrive Sunday, October 15 for the sold-out Hershey Half Marathon. After the finish line (complete with cool collector medal), relaxation is close at hand. Treat yourself to Pumpkin, Spice and Everything Nice with a Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub, a Great Pumpkin Facial or a Pumpkin Latte Manicure & Pedicure at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey. Stay and dine at any one of the fine restaurants at the Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge, all featuring special fall menu items.

 

Also on October 15 from 4 to 6 p.m., Grace United Methodist Church (433 E. Main St. Hummelstown) will hold its third annual Trunk-n-Treat in the church parking lot. Please bring an item for the Hummelstown Food Bank. There is no admission fee, but the church asks for a donation to offset event costs.

 

Have you ever tried a ride on the Hershey Trolley Works? It’s a completely different experience on the Trick or Treat Trolley, a theatrical sightseeing show where two actors bring the story of Hershey to life on the trolley. However, this show focuses more closely on the joy of being a kid (don’t we all want to dress up and go trick or treating?), and the love Mr. and Mrs. Hershey had for children that led them to start Milton Hershey School, the focal point of their amazing legacy. The Trick or Treat Trolley runs in the evenings during Hersheypark In The Dark weekends in October; tickets are available in Hershey’s Chocolate World.

 

Did you know that Hersheypark Camping Resort has events (for campground guests only) during weekends of Hersheypark In The Dark as well? The campground hosts Halloween contests, including a coloring contest, a Decorate-Your-Campsite contest and a pumpkin carving contest, as well as weekend Halloween crafts, costume contests, Halloween Candy Scrabble, a noon Trick or Treat Adventure on Saturdays and music on Friday evenings.

 

If you’re in Hershey during the week and need a Halloween diversion, the 70th Annual  Hershey Halloween Parade takes place on October 17. This parade is a charmer, with homemade floats and unique costumes, as well as the traditional candy tossing to parade watchers. It’s Americana at its best! Come downtown early and join First United Methodist Church (64 W. Chocolate Ave in Hershey) for Trunk or Treat from 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. before the parade.

 

 

On October 20 from 6 to 8:30 p.m, Hershey Gardens begins two weekends of its popular Pumpkin Glow (October 20 and 21, and October 27 and 28), where guests meander along a mile-long path to see 150+ lighted, carved pumpkins and gourds. New this year: ten unique themed pumpkin areas, including Hero Headquarters, Creative Cartoons, Haunted Happenings, Halloween Zoo, Woodland Creatures, A Pirate's Life, Wicked Fun, Plants & Pollinators and Once Upon a Time.  

 

Also at Pumpkin Glow, chefs will be on hand to demonstrate pumpkin carving techniques. Don't miss the live creature exhibit spotlighting Goliath tarantulas, giant scorpions, a giant centipede, a jack-o-lantern filled with hissing cockroaches and large friendly caterpillars that visitors can hold. The creature exhibit will be on display in the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory during Pumpkin Glow. (The Butterfly Atrium will be closed during the event) General admission is $12.50 for visitors ages 13-61, $11.50 for seniors (ages 62 and up), and $9.00 for juniors (ages 3-12); children ages 2 and under are free.  Candy distributed at Pumpkin Glow is generously donated by The Hershey Company.

 

Also on Saturday, October 21, the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum will host its popular Trunk or Treat from noon to 3 p.m. Visitors ages 12 and under may participate with museum admission; after creating their own unique “trunk or treat” bags, kids will hunt for a number of trunk or treat spots within the museum, with treats provided by The Hershey Company

 

After the AACA event, bring your ghouls and goblins to a Shank Park Halloween at one of Derry Township’s largest parks. Shank Park Halloween takes place from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct 21, and features pumpkin decorating, inflatable games, face painting, a candy hunt, S’mores by the campfire, and a Drive-In Movie screening of Captain Underpants. Concessions will be available for purchase, and the event is free (although there is a suggested donation of $5.00 per vehicle).

 

Also on Saturday, October 21, catch the classic Halloween favorite Hocus Pocus at 7:00 p.m. and/or The Rocky Horror Picture Show at 11:59 p.m. at the Hershey Theatre. Tickets are $8.00 per person and are available at the theatre box office or Ticketmaster.

 

On Sunday, October 22, stop by Fishburn United Methodist Church (1215 Fishburn Rd in Hershey) for Trunk or Treat from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.—the church offers easy trick or treating with crafts for the kids, free hot dogs, chips and water.

 

On Thursday, October 26, keep your eye out for little princesses and Pokémon characters on the sidewalks of Hershey as the town’s Trick or Treat takes place from 6:00-8:00 p.m. 

 

By the time October 31 rolls around, you be ready to relax with your own special Halloween traditions at home!

 

 

Making the Most of Autumn in Hershey

October in Hershey

 

There are so many events in Hershey during October, it’s hard to keep track of them all! We’ve done some of the research for you, so you can make the most of the next three weeks:

Hersheypark In The Dark, Hershey’s Trick or Treat Adventure and ZooAmerica’s Creatures Of The Night begin their weekend runs on October 14 and continue weekends through October 16, October 21-23 and October 28-30. The park is transformed by colorful fall decorations, and special seasonal rates make it easier to take the whole family. Hershey’s Trick or Treat Adventure begins at Hershey’s Chocolate World and continues to a special area inside Hersheypark with a journey of decorated doors and friendly folks offering Hershey’s candy. Live music from spooky bands enhance the experience, and the S’mores treats and hot cider are there to take away the chill! 

Included in your admission to Hersheypark In The Dark is ZooAmerica’s Creatures Of Ihe Night. Watch the wolves howl at the moon, see the bears devour pumpkins, and hang out with the bats at their favorite hour! Bring a flashlight and explore ZooAmerica to get a rare glimpse into the nighttime habits of your favorite animals.

October 15 brings the 2nd annual Choctoberfest on ChocolateTown Square in downtown Hershey from noon–6:00 p.m. This family-friendly fall festival features great live music (four performers, including Rhett Miller of Old 97s at 4:30 p.m.), local craft beer, chocolate and delicious food from downtown restaurants, and offers an array of family and children’s activities. Choctoberfest is free and open to the public, with food and beverages available for purchase.

Also on October 15, (and just a mile or two out of town), Indian Echo Caverns hosts its 5th annual Autumn Festival & Old Fashion Days, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.,  with wagon rides, pumpkin patches, face painting, glitter tattoos, geode cracking, a bouncy house, charity bake sale, local artist and craft vendors, and food.

Fall also means fitness in Hershey, as runners arrive Sunday, October 16 for the sold-out Hershey Half Marathon. After the finish line (complete with cool collector medal), relaxation is close at hand.  Treat yourself to a Pumpkin Spice Body Scrub, a Great Pumpkin Facial or a Pumpkin Latte Manicure & Pedicure at The Spa at The Hotel Hershey. Stay and dine at any one of the fine restaurants at the Hotel Hershey or the Hershey Lodge, all featuring special fall menu items.

Also on October 16 from 4 to 6 p.m., Grace United Methodist Church (433 E. Main St. Hummelstown) will hold its second annual Trunk or Treat in the church parking lot. Please bring an item for the Hummelstown Food Bank. There is no admission fee, but the church asks for a donation to offset event costs.

 

Have you ever tried a ride on the Hershey Trolley Works? It’s a completely different experience on the Trick or Treat Trolley, a theatrical sightseeing show where two actors bring the story of Hershey to life on the trolley. However, this show focuses more closely on the joy of being a kid (don’t we all want to dress up and go trick or treating?), and the love Mr. and Mrs. Hershey had for children that led them to start Milton Hershey School, the focal point of their amazing legacy. The Trick or Treat Trolley runs in the evenings during Hersheypark In The Dark weekends in October; tickets are available in Hershey’s Chocolate World.

Did you know that Hersheypark Camping Resort has events (for campground guests only) during weekends of Hersheypark In The Dark as well? The campground hosts Halloween contests, including a coloring contest, a Decorate-Your-Campsite contest and a pumpkin carving contest, as well as weekend Halloween crafts, costume contests, Halloween Candy Scrabble, a noon Trick or Treat Adventure on Saturdays and music on Friday evenings.

If you’re in Hershey during the week and need a Halloween diversion, the annual Hershey Halloween Parade takes place on October 19. This parade is a charmer, with homemade floats and unique costumes, as well as the traditional candy tossing to parade watchers. It’s Americana at its best! Come downtown a little early and join First United Methodist Church (64 W. Chocolate Ave in Hershey) for Trunk or Treat from 5-7 p.m., before the parade.

On October 21 from 6 to 8:30 p.m, Hershey Gardens begins two weekends of its popular Pumpkin Glow (October 21, 22, 28 and 29), where guests meander along a mile-long path to see 150+ lighted, carved pumpkins and gourds. Chefs will be on hand to demonstrate pumpkin carving techniques, and this year a new program featuring live insects debuts. The live creature exhibit spotlights Goliath tarantulas, giant scorpions, a giant centipede, a jack-o-lantern filled with hissing cockroaches and large friendly caterpillars that visitors can hold. The creature exhibit will be on display in the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory during Pumpkin Glow. General admission is $12.50 for visitors ages 13-61, $11.50 for seniors (ages 62 and up), and $9.00 for juniors (ages 3-12); children ages 2 and under are free.  Candy distributed at Pumpkin Glow is generously donated by The Hershey Company.

On October 22, Camp Catherine (named after Mrs. Hershey) hosts its first Fall Festival, which will include farm activities, pumpkins, games, vendors, food and more.

Also on Saturday, October 22, the Antique Automobile Club of America (AACA) Museum will host its popular Trunk or Treat from noon to 3 p.m. Visitors ages 12 and under may participate with museum admission; after creating their own unique “trunk or treat” bags, kids will hunt for a number of trunk or treat spots within the museum, with treats provided by The Hershey Company

In the evening of October 22, the Hershey Bears face Bridgeport in the team's home opener at the GIANT Center. The first game against local rival, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, will be hosted by the Bears on Sunday, October 23 at the GIANT Center.

If hockey’s not your thing, head to a Shank Park Halloween at one of Derry Township’s largest parks. Shank Park Halloween takes place from 4:30-9:00 p.m. on Saturday, Oct 22, and features pumpkin decorating, inflatable games, face painting, a candy hunt, S’mores by the campfire, and a Halloween Drive-In Movie. Concessions will be available for purchase, and the event is free (although there is a suggested donation of $5.00 per vehicle).

On Thursday, October 27, keep your eye out for little princesses and Pokémon characters on the sidewalks of Hershey as the town’s Trick or Treat takes place from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Stop by Fishburn United Methodist Church (1215 Fishburn Rd in Hershey) for Trunk or Treat during the same hours—the church offers easy trick or treating with crafts for the kids, free hot dogs, chips and water.

The Hershey Story Museum sponsors Ghosts & Goodies on October 29 and October 30 from 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Kids can come in and show off their Halloween costumes at The Hershey Story Museum, and create some “ghostly” treats using Hershey’s candy!  Ghosts & Goodies is free for kids 12 and younger.

On October 29, catch The Goonies Classic Film at 7:00 p.m. and/or The Rocky Horror Picture Show at 11:59 p.m. at the Hershey Theatre. Tickets are $8.00 per person and are available at the theatre box office or Ticketmaster.

By the time October 31 rolls around, you be ready to relax with your own special Halloween traditions at home!

July 4th in Hershey

We're getting ready to celebrate Independence Day with a long weekend filled with activities in Hershey! Here are a few family-friendly activities you may want to check out:

 

Hersheypark

July 2-4

Hersheypark is open from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the park's annual fireworks show set for 10:15 p.m. on July 4 (the fireworks can be seen from within the park, with best views from Midway America). 

In addition, visitors are invited to celebrate with a Star-Spangled Picnic all three days (July 2, 3 and 4) at the Pioneer Frontier Catering Pavilion inside Hersheypark. Traditional picnic fare will be served, including hamburgers, hot dogs pulled pork BBQ, potato salad, chips, ice cream and more. A cash bar will also be available for the over-21 crowd.Tickets may be purchased online or at Hospitality Services the day of the event.

In addition, Hersheypark will feature those little extras you'd expect from a world-class amusement park on a special holiday! For a complete list, go to the Hersheypark Fourth of July page.

 

Hersheypark Stadium

July 2

On the heels of wrapping up their hugely successful “Rock Out With Your Socks Out Tour,” 5 Seconds of Summer will bring their “Sounds Live Feels Live” tour to Hershey on Saturday, July 2 at 7:30 p.m. Special guests for the evening are One OK Rock and Hey Violet.

 

Milton S. Hershey Medical Center

July 4

7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Join your friends, neighbors and the Hershey Symphony Orchestra to celebrate the Fourth of July with the 11th annual free concert and fireworks on the lawn of the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center on Monday evening.

The orchestra’s performance— “An American Salute”—begins at 7:30 p.m., and Hersheypark fireworks can be seen at 10 p.m. Complimentary water and ice cream will be provided by the Medical Center. Food and drink for purchase will be available from several food trucks in attendance.

Parking is free and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit the orchestra.

“It is a holiday tradition for the community to celebrate Independence Day with our concert on the lawn of the Medical Center, it’s a great event for everyone” said Hershey Symphony Orchestra Executive Director Paul Metzger.

The first half of the concert will feature a mixed selection of music including John Williams movie themes from Superman and E.T., music from Downton Abbey, a Mamma Mia medley and other POP and Rock classics featuring Hershey Symphony vocalists. For the second half of the concert, the Orchestra will present “A Salute to America” with favorite patriotic selections and a tribute to the men and women that keep America safe.

The concert is sponsored by Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey Lodge, Sutliff Chevrolet and Hershey Symphony Orchestra.

  

AACA Museum

July 4

5 p.m. to 9 p.m., with fireworks at 10:15 p.m.

On Independence Day enjoy a clear view of the fireworks from the grounds of the AACA Museum. The museum will be open late, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the public is invited to tour the Museum during this time for just $7.00 per person! Don’t forget blankets and chairs to enjoy tailgating on the grass while you await the Hersheypark fireworks display (fireworks are weather permitting). There will be an ice cream and beverage vendor available with snacks—or bring your own. No alcoholic beverages will be permitted. The AACA Museum is perched up on the hill overlooking the town of Hershey, which makes this the perfect place to stay and watch the fireworks show scheduled for @ 10:15 p.m.

 

Hershey's New Indoor Tropical Butterfly Atrium Now Open

 
 

After 14 months of construction, the Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory at Hershey Gardens is conducting a "soft opening" this week in advance of its official July 1 opening date. The highlight of the 16,000 sq ft conservatory is the much-anticipated Butterfly Atrium, which will feature an ever-changing array of hundreds of butterflies year-round. The Butterfly Atrium's hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter months. The Atrium is included with admission to Hershey Gardens, which will increase to $12.50 ($11.50 for seniors 62+ and $9.00 for kids ages 3-12; children under 3 are free). The price of a family membership is expected to rise slightly as well.

The Conservatory adds significantly to the 79-year-old Hershey Gardens, a 23-acre botanical garden that got its start from Milton Hershey's request to "create a nice garden of roses." An educational wing will improve the Gardens' mission to provide educational and cultural enrichment—in 2015, more than 4,000 students attended educational field trips and classes at the Gardens and that number is expected to increase as the Gardens will be open for more of the traditional school year.

Another change: a new lower parking lot with wide paths that are easier to navigate with walkers, wheelchairs and strollers. The Conservatory now serves as the main entrance to Hershey Gardens and guests entering the large front doors walk into a welcome pavilion with a soaring glass ceiling some 37 feet from the ground. Several palm trees and 65 stained glass butterflies crafted by local artist Luise Christensen-Howell look right at home in the Welcoming Pavilion. Ticketing has also moved to the Conservatory, along with the gift shop (with some nice new butterfly-themed merchandise.)

 

The Butterfly Atrium itself is one of only 25 year-round tropical butterfly atriums in the United States and will feature hundreds of butterflies in an ever-changing variety (50-60 species at a time will be on view), including some tropical butterflies never before seen in Central PA. The Atrium is kept at a constant temperature of 80F with 70% humidity, an optimal atmosphere for the winged residents.

A large chrysalis cabinet allows visitors to watch as butterflies emerge from their chrysalids—if you've seen the chrysalid cabinet at the Gardens' seasonal butterfly house in the Childrens' Garden, you'll appreciate the much better view the new larger cabinet in the Conservatory provides. The 2500-square-foot atrium includes a landscape of tropical plants, including (of course) a cacao tree. Plants were specially chosen to host the wide variety of butterflies and include nectar-bearing plants and flowering vines. A wall of foliage provides a backdrop to a stunning sculptural banana leaf-shaped water feature designed by Lebanon County artist Shane Morgan. 

 

The Educational & Horticultural wing of the Conservatory balances the Butterfly Atrium and provides a 12-month opportunity for education. The wing is easily converted to a grand meeting space and will make a spectacular reception area for winter weddings. Planters with casters allow the greenery to be moved and reconfigured easily.

Architecturally, the Conservatory complements the design of the Hotel Hershey. The design draws inspiration from a conservatory built in 1909 at High Point, the home of Milton and Catherine Hershey. The Hersheys built glass conservatories as a way to display plants during the winter; their conservatories began to draw visitors anxious to escape the cold winter weather amid a greenhouse filled with tropical foliage.

The Hershey Gardens is a non-profit entity operated by The M.S. Hershey Foundation. For more information about the Gardens and the special events it frequently sponsors, visit the Hershey Gardens website.

 

 

 

 

Hershey's Water Works: Fun for the Entire Family!

On Thursday, May 26, the Hershey Lodge will officially open Hershey's Water Works, its all-new 30,000 sq ft complex, which includes an indoor waterpark, arcade, activity room and fitness center. A new dining location, Cocoa Cabana, is adjacent to the aquatic center and includes a full bar and wait service. With features like a zero-entry pool and splash pad for the littlest guests, a fun-filled arcade and Hershey's-themed water activities for teens as well as an oversized whirlpool for adults, this addition will be fun for every member of the family!

The 20,000-square foot Aquatic Center features:

• Two Pools with a minimum depth of 0.0 feet and a maximum depth of 5 feet;
• Two Twizzlers Twists Slides, each 24' high and 202' long;
• The Reese's Water Walk;
• A Water Play Structure; 
• And an Outdoor Splash Pad with Lounge Chair Seating.

 

 

Cocoa Cabana is located adjacent to the pool area and includes window service and wait service with comfortable seating. Adult beverages are available to those 21- and older, and plenty of beauty-keen snacks and entrees add to the fun.

 

 

The Arcade features a themed air hockey table, Skeeball and several interactive arcade games. No coins or tokens to worry about here—the arcade features swipe cards that can be easily reloaded for extra fun. A large window allows parents to monitor kids in the arcade and the pool area from the poolside seating/dining area.

 

The new Activity Room is a wonderful mix of board games, LEGOs and tabletop activities, and features colorful themed tables and soft benches.

 

 

The Fitness Room is spacious and features up-to-date equipment from treadmills and bikes to weight equipment and exercise balls.

 

Tying the new complex together are bright, sophisticated graphics and architectural details that make sure guests don't forget they're in the Sweetest Place on Earth!

Hershey's Water Works will be open to overnight guests of the Hershey Lodge only.

Registration for Ben & Tim Day is Open!

Have you registered for Ben & Tim Day yet? Registration for this family-friendly event is now open at benandtimday.org.

August 27 marks the 25th year of Ben & Tim Day, an event that honors Ben Yupcavage and Tim Russell. 

Ben and Tim were Hershey High School athletes, tragically killed in an automobile accident. In their memory, the Yupcavage and Russell families established the Tim Russell – Ben Yupcavage Memorial Scholarship Fund. 

The event known as “Ben & Tim Day” has maintained this scholarship fund in loving memory of and as a tribute to Ben and Tim. The day features a 5K, a Fun Run, a Soccer Shots clinic for kids 3-5, a chicken BBQ and a pre-race-day spaghetti dinner at the Church of the Nazarene Hershey.

New to Ben & Tim Day this year—The O2 Challenge for special needs individuals. Sponsored by Fitness 4 Focus, the O2 Challenge will feature a mile-long obstacle course with built-in fun! Registration is available for the O2 Challenge at the Fitness 4 Focus website.

100 Sweet Facts about Hershey and Milton S. Hershey

Mr. Hershey’s Background

• Milton S. Hershey was born in Derry Township (today better known as Hershey) on September 13, 1857. He died on October 13, 1945 at the age of 88.
• His parents were Henry and Fanny Hershey.
• Henry was a farmer and a bit of an inventor, but he never had much success.
• Milton’s middle name was Snavely, his mother’s maiden name.
• He left school at the age of 14 to start an apprenticeship.
• After a failed printing apprenticeship, Milton became an apprentice to a candymaker in Lancaster named Joseph Royer. He learned a great deal from Royer before deciding to set out on his own as a candymaker.

Mr. Hershey’s Early Business Ventures

• Mr. Hershey opened his first candy business at the age of 18. This was in Philadelphia, the focal point of the country’s centennial celebration.
• He went bankrupt twice—in Philadelphia in 1882 and in New York City in 1886.
• He also explored business opportunities in Denver, Chicago and New Orleans, but found nothing satisfactory.
• While he was in Denver, he learned the art of adding fresh milk to caramels to make them creamier and chewier.
• He returned to Lancaster in 1886 and opened the Lancaster Caramel Company.
• He relied on a former employee, William “Lebbie” Lebkicher (who became a trusted friend and advisor), and his Aunt Mattie to give him enough money to buy the necessary supplies.
• The caramel that made him famous was called the “Crystal A” caramel.
• He bought his first chocolate-making equipment from a German company, the J.M. Lehmann Company, in 1893. He saw the equipment at work at the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. He was so fascinated by it that he purchased two of the actual pieces of machinery he saw on display at the exposition, and then bought additional equipment directly from the company’s New York office.
• He established the Hershey Chocolate Company in 1894 as a subsidiary of the caramel company.
• He became the first person in the United States to mass-produce milk chocolate. In late 1900,he introduced the world to his milk chocolate products.
• On August 10, 1900, he sold his caramel company for $1 million and relinquished the Lancaster factory, the caramel recipes and the “Crystal A” trademark.
• He kept the right to make chocolate and all of his chocolate-making equipment, though, and rented a wing of the caramel factory to continue that venture.

The Famous Chocolate Factory

• Mr. Hershey returned to his birthplace to build what would become the largest chocolate factory in the world. He settled in Derry Township because he needed cows for fresh milk, hard-working people and a source of water.
• Construction on the factory began on March 2, 1903 and ended in 1905.
• The original factory grew to occupy 2.2 million square feet. When it was first constructed, the factory covered six acres. Today, most of the original factory has been demolished, although part of it has been renovated and serves as offices for The Hershey Company.
• The bushes outside the original factory that spell out “Hershey Cocoa” are red barberry bushes.
• There are two chocolate factories in town: the original, a new one on the west side of town (built in 1990) and the Reese’s plant on Chocolate Avenue (built in 1957).

And Speaking of Reese’s...

• Harry Burnett Reese, founder of the H.B. Reese Candy Company, was once an employee of the Hershey Chocolate Company. He decided he could make a living by making his own candy.
• In 1923 he began making that candy in his basement at night. Peanut butter cups became part of his assortment in 1928. In 1942, due to war rationing, Reese eliminated everything except for peanut butter cups from his product line.
• Reese got his chocolate from the Hershey Chocolate Company and always enjoyed a good relationship with the company. All of his peanut butter cups bore the banner, “Made in Chocolate Town—So They Must Be Good.”
• Reese died in 1956 and was succeeded by his six sons. In 1963 they sold the company to Hershey Chocolate Corporation.
• Today The Hershey Company continues to produce Reese’s peanut butter cups, which have become its most popular candy.

The Town of Hershey

• It was important to Mr. Hershey to create a community where his employees could be self-reliant and own their own homes.
• In creating “his” company town, Mr. Hershey made provisions for recreation (he provided a park and community center), religion (he donated $20,000 to five congregations), and financial independence (he established the town’s bank).
• The official name of the community is Derry Township. It has never been officially incorporated as Hershey.
• In the early 1900s, the town held a contest to determine the name the U.S. Postal Service would use. The winning entry was “Hersheykoko,” which got shortened to just “Hershey.” That’s the name the Postal Service has acknowledged since 1906.
• About 22,000 people use the services of Derry Township, but only about 9,000 people live in the town itself. The town is 26 square miles.

Those Kiss-Shaped Streetlights

• The lights line Chocolate Avenue, and can also be seen at a few other locations around town. There are 107 Kiss-shaped streetlights on Chocolate Avenue: 55 wrapped and 52 unwrapped.
• In addition, there are eight lights on Park Avenue between Chocolate Avenue and the railroad bridge, plus a few at the entrance to the West Hershey Plant and at the entrances of each of the company’s factories outside the town of Hershey.
• The lights were installed in 1963.
• They were installed under the direction of then-Hershey Chocolate Corporation President Samuel Hinkle and were nicknamed “Hinkle’s Twinkles.”

The Cuban Connection

• Mr. Hershey owned sugar plantations and mills in Cuba from 1916 until 1946. 
• When they were sold in 1946, the operations included 60,000 acres of land, five raw sugar mills, a peanut oil plant,a henequen plant, four electric plants, and 251 miles of railroad track with sufficient locomotives and cars.
• His flagship sugar mill was located at “Central Hershey” in Cuba. The town that was created to support the mill was developed as a model town and featured many of the same types of services that Mr. Hershey had established in “his” town in Pennsylvania.
• Profits from the sugar business in Cuba helped sustain the Pennsylvania town during the Great Depression. It was with this money that Mr. Hershey was able to embark on his “Great Building Campaign.
• The Chocolate Spa at the Hotel Hershey features Cuban treatments in honor of this part of Mr. Hershey’s story.

Who Was Mrs. Hershey?

• Catherine Sweeney, whose nickname was “Kitty,” hailed from Jamestown, New York.
• Mr. Hershey met her while he was making a sales call at a candy store in New York.
• They were married in the rectory of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York in 1898.
• Kitty had a progressive neurological disease that was never fully diagnosed. She died in 1915 at the age of 42.
• The Hersheys had only been married for 17 years and did not have any children. Mr. Hershey never remarried.

The Milton Hershey School

• Mr. Hershey left almost his entire fortune to fund the Milton Hershey School.
• Founded by the Hersheys in 1909 as a home and school for orphan boys, the school today serves both boys and girls from more than 30 states, with 70 percent of the students coming from Pennsylvania.
• The school’s guiding legal document, the Deed of Trust, gives priority to children from its home county, Dauphin, and neighboring Lebanon and Lancaster counties, then to children from Pennsylvania. After the priority regions, the school then considers students from across the country. The school currently serves nearly 2000 boys and girls in grades pre-kindergarten through 12. The School has more than 9,500 graduates who are productive citizens in cities and towns across the country.
• Meals, clothing, medical care, dental care and educational supplies are provided free of charge to enrolled students.
• Underclassmen live in family-like environment with a married couple—called “houseparents”—and other children their age in more than 170 student homes.
• Approximately 90 percent of the school’s graduates pursue post-high school education and take advantage of the school’s generous continuing education scholarship to do so.
• Before 1951, the School was known as the Hershey Industrial School.
• The school’s campus extends over 10,000 acres.
• Founders Hall features the second largest unsupported dome in the world. The largest is St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

High Point

• The home the Hersheys built in town overlooks the original chocolate factory.
• High Point features 22 rooms and was constructed for just $53,433. It’s less ornate than some of the homes Mr. Hershey’s executives built for themselves.
• After Kitty died, Mr. Hershey moved into a suite of rooms on the second floor of the house and allowed the Country Club he created to use the remainder of the mansion as its clubhouse.
• Today, High Point is home to the Hershey Trust Company.

Hersheypark

• Mr. Hershey founded the park as a picnic and pleasure grounds, but it has evolved into a world-class theme park.
• The oldest ride in the park is the Carrousel, which was built in 1919 and installed in Hershey in 1944.
• The Comet was built in 1946 and remains in its original location. It’s the park’s oldest roller coaster.
• Hersheypark is home to 13 roller coasters, more than can be found at any other park in Pennsylvania.
• Hersheypark is not only open for the summer season, it also opens for Springtime in the Park, Hersheypark in the Dark and Hersheypark Christmas Candylane.

ZooAmerica

• The year 2010 marked the 100th anniversary of a zoo in Hershey.
• The first zookeeper was Franz Zinner, the man who first approached Mr. Hershey about starting a zoo when he learned that the entrepreneur was building a park.
• Hershey Zoo started with a colony of prairie dogs and a bear cub. ZooAmerica continues to be home to both of those species.
• The Zoo is home to more than 200 animals from North America. They represent 75 species and live on 11 acres.

Hershey’s Chocolate World

• This facility is America’s most-visited corporate visitors center. Each year, more than 3 million people take the free chocolate-making tour here to learn how chocolate goes from bean to bar.
• The facility opened in 1973. Since then, more than 75 million visitors have passed through its doors.
• Chocolate World is home to the world’s largest selection of Hershey’s products found anywhere.
• Chocolate World now offers several family-friendly attractions, including a Make Your Own Chocolate Bar experience, a 4D Chocolate Mystery, the Hershey Trolley Works and more!

The Hotel Hershey

• During the Great Depression, Mr. Hershey embarked on his “Great Building Campaign” in order to keep townspeople employed. It’s said that more than 600 people worked together to build the Hotel.
• The Hotel’s architect, D. Paul Witmer, received specific direction from Mr. Hershey about how to build the Hotel based on his own travel experiences and preferences.
• Mr. Hershey is reported to have said that if people dined alone or didn’t tip well, they were put in a corner. He didn’t want any corners in his restaurant; hence, the Hotel’s famed Circular restaurant is literally shaped like a circle.
• The Hotel, which was constructed for about $2 million, celebrated its grand opening on May 26, 1933.

The Spa At The Hotel Hershey

• The design is based on that of High Point, the Hersheys’ home.
• The Spa opened in 2001; it expanded in 2004, nearly doubling in size from 17,000 square feet to 30,000.
• There are now 53 treatment rooms.
• The Spa is home to the signature Whipped Cocoa Bath, a rarity in that it’s a patented spa treatment.

Hershey Lodge

• The Lodge is the largest private convention facility in Pennsylvania. 
• The Lodge has hosted two bi-partisan Congressional retreats, in 1997 and 1999.
• A new water attraction will open at the Lodge in May 2016. Hershey Water Works will feature 30,000 square feet of Hershey-themed water features and a zero entry pool.
• The Lodge will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2017.

Hershey Country Club

• Ben Hogan was the golf professional at Hershey Country Club from 1941 to 1951.
• Henry Picard, who personally selected Hogan as his replacement, was the golf pro from 1934 to 1941. Both are members of the World Golf Hall of Fame.
• The fifth hole of the famed West Course features an incredible view of High Point.

Hershey Gardens

• The Gardens opened in 1937 and stretch over 23 acres.
• There are 275 varieties of roses here on 7,000 bushes.
• Kitty’s rose garden from High Point was moved here.
• The Gardens added a 16,000 square foot Conservatory in July 2016. The Milton & Catherine Hershey Conservatory includes a year-round Butterfly Atrium, a Welcome Center and a Horticultural & Educational Wing.

The Hershey Story Museum

• The Hershey Story Museum opened in 2009 and took the place of the small museum adjacent to Hersheypark Arena.
• The Hershey Story, located on Chocolate Avenue, is a comprehensive museum about the life of Milton S. Hershey and the town that bears his name.
• In addition to typical museum exhibits, the Hershey Story offers hands-on experiences, chocolate tasting and a Chocolate Lab where visitors make their own chocolate creations.

Hershey Theatre

• The Theatre was also constructed as part of Mr. Hershey’s “Great Building Campaign.”
• It features 1,904 seats.
• The Theatre’s fire curtain features a scene of Venice, with its Grand Canal slowly flowing past Doge’s Palace.
• Behind the French doors of the Theatre’s front balconies are concealed the more than 4,715 pipes and 25 bells of the historic Aeolian-Skinner organ.

Hershey Bears

• The Bears are the oldest continually operating franchise in the American Hockey League.
• The Bears were the 2009 and 2010 Calder Cup champions.
• The Bears have won 11 Calder Cup championships, more than any other team in the league.
• The Bears were originally called the “B’ars,” but they added the “E” when the original name was criticized for being too blatantly commercial.  

Hersheypark Arena

• Constructed in 1936, the 7,225-seat arena was home to the Hershey Bears until the GIANT Center was built in 2002. The historic Arena still stands and hosts many events throughout the year.
• Dwight D. Eisenhower celebrated his 63rd birthday with a birthday party held at Hersheypark Arena on October 13, 1953.
• Wilt Chamberlain scored a record 100 points in a single basketball game at Hersheypark Arena on March 2, 1962.