If you’re planning to visit Hersheypark for their Christmas Candylane event, you might be wondering what to expect. As someone who grew up just 30 minutes from the park, I’ve visited countless times as a kid—especially during the holiday season. This year, I returned to experience Christmas Candylane, and while some things have changed, it’s still a magical way to get into the holiday spirit.
Here’s what you can expect when you visit Christmas Candylane at Hersheypark.
A Festive Atmosphere with Plenty of Holiday Lights
First and foremost, Christmas Candylane is all about the holiday lights. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland with more than 5 million lights twinkling throughout the park. One of the main highlights is Noel, a synchronized light show set in The Hollow (what I affectionately call “roller coaster valley”). The lights are choreographed to holiday tunes and are a definite must-see. It gave me Osborne Family Lights vibes.
Attractions and Entertainment for All Ages
There’s no shortage of holiday-themed activities, and the park offers something for everyone.
Mary N. Bright Airfield – A new addition this year, Santa’s holiday hangout features some delightful surprises, including Hangar 96, where you can see Santa’s live reindeer up close. In partnership with Zoo America, staff from the zoo share interesting facts about the reindeer, making it a fun and educational stop for families.
The Yule Lounge – If you’re looking for a place to meet Santa, head over to the Yule Lounge. It’s beautifully decorated, and during busier times, the “elves” entertain visitors while they wait. There were no lines on the day we visited, so we had a quick and fun interaction with Santa. He asked what we wanted for Christmas, and we jokingly said, “A good year, please!” It was a lighthearted moment that added to the festive vibe.
The Hershey Characters – Don’t forget to visit the Hersheypark characters, all dressed up in their holiday best. We got a great family photo with them, and the character attendants were happy to help take our picture. You can also purchase professional photos if you prefer.
Holiday Treats and Food Options
Food is an important part of any theme park visit, and Hersheypark certainly delivers with plenty of holiday treats. The refillable hot chocolate cup is a must, especially since it’s filled with Hershey’s signature rich cocoa. If you’re looking for a fun snack, make sure to check out the s’mores station, where team members are roasting marshmallows over a fire pit. Hershey puts its own twist on s’mores by offering the option to use chocolate chip cookies or graham crackers—and of course, you can add a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for the ultimate treat.
If you’re craving something more substantial, there are several food booths around the park, and if you’re a craft beer fan, you can grab a Troeg’s beer (which is brewed locally) and head to their brewery just down the road.
The Rides – What You Need to Know
Hersheypark advertises that many of its rides, including thrill rides, will be open during the event, but this is where you need to plan ahead. When we visited, we learned that the thrill rides were closed due to the cold weather. The temperature was in the mid-30s, but there wasn’t any rain or snow yet thought it was in the forecast and did snow after dark. It’s important to know that rides may be closed when the temperature drops or bad weather is in the forecast, so if you’re visiting specifically to ride the coasters, I recommend checking the weather and the park’s website before you go to make sure the rides will be operating.
We didn’t let this stop us from enjoying our visit, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re hoping to experience the park’s thrilling rides.
The Holiday Trees – A Delightful Display
In Treeville, located in The Boardwalk area, you’ll find over a dozen beautifully decorated trees, each sharing the stories of The Sweetest Place on Earth®. The trees are themed around Hersheypark’s rides, local landmarks like the golf course, and even park sponsors like EZ Pass. It’s a lovely walk through a forest of lights and festive décor, and it’s worth the stroll.
What to Expect with Pricing
Pricing for Christmas Candylane tickets can vary, mainly depending on when you visit. We took advantage of a Black Friday sale and paid $45 per ticket, which is a great deal. Regular tickets are $87, which I wouldn’t recommend paying if you cannot experience the rides. However, if you’re just there for the lights, food, and holiday atmosphere, the $45 price tag is more reasonable. Checking for discounts or promotions when purchasing tickets is always a good idea.
What to Do if Rides Are Closed
If you’re planning to visit specifically for the thrill rides and they happen to be closed due to cold weather, you can still enjoy the park’s beautiful decorations, meet Santa, and check out the holiday trees. If you’re in the area, you could also head to Chocolate World right outside the entrance to the park or explore nearby attractions.
Hersheypark’s Christmas Candylane is a delightful way to get into the holiday spirit. The lights, the treats, and the festive atmosphere make it a perfect day trip for families. However, checking the weather and ride availability beforehand is important to avoid disappointment, especially if you’re visiting for the coasters.
Overall, it’s a charming holiday experience worth visiting, especially if you’re in the area or looking for a festive stop during your winter travels. Whether you’re a local or planning a memorable trip, Christmas Candylane at Hersheypark offers a sweet, unforgettable holiday experience.
