USA
Hershey: A Town Wrapped in Chocolate
by Daniel Smajovits
When winter settles over Pennsylvania, the town of Hershey transforms into something straight out of a holiday storybook. The Sweetest Place on Earth turns into a full-fledged winter wonderland that delivers unforgettable family experiences.
At the heart of it all is Hersheypark, which reinvents itself each winter as Christmas Candylane. At night, the park glows with millions of twinkling lights, creating a festive atmosphere that immediately captivates both kids and adults. Even in colder weather, almost all the classic rides, including seven roller coasters, remain open and in between, families can visit Santa, accompanied by live reindeer, and even take in a special holiday stage show. With more than five million sparkling lights, Hersheypark has undoubtedly mastered the holiday season and is a must-visit.
Just beyond the park, a must-do is one of Hershey’s most beloved traditions: Hershey’s Sweet Lights. This drive-through light show stretches for miles, guiding visitors through dazzling themed displays from the comfort of their own car. It’s the perfect way to wind down after an evening at Hersheypark. Grab a hot chocolate before leaving, tune the radio to holiday music and enjoy the show through your window. Our kids especially loved the special glasses which turned the light show into sparkling snowflakes, adding that extra touch of magic to cap off a wonderful day.
With one day carved out for Hersheypark, no trip to Hershey would be complete without a stop at Hershey’s Chocolate World. We suggest beginning with the free chocolate-making tour, where the story of Hershey’s iconic treats comes to life, followed by one of the many (paid) activities on-site. From creating their own custom candy bars, to stuffing a larger-than-life Reese’s Cup, come hungry and ready to indulge. One special souvenir is capturing a family photo and printing it on your own Hershey chocolate wrapper, a souvenir that will stay on your shelf for years to come. At the holidays, seasonal treats and limited-edition sweets make it especially exciting and delicious.
At night, the Hershey Lodge offers more than just a place to sleep, but the hotel becomes part of the adventure. The lodge is designed with families in mind, featuring spacious rooms, cozy holiday décor, and one of the best indoor water attractions in the region. Kids can splash around while parents unwind, making it an ideal balance of relaxation and fun. Nearby, The Hotel Hershey provides a more elevated experience, combining luxury with seasonal charm, including festive dining and spa options for parents looking to indulge.
What makes Hershey truly special in winter is how seamlessly it blends nostalgia with excitement. The town leans into its identity, which is naturally rooted in chocolate and family, while layering on the magic of the holidays. Streets are decorated, local shops feel warm and inviting, and everywhere you go, there’s a sense that this place was made for this time of year.
For families, Hershey is a destination that checks every box. A winter trip to Hershey is an experience that creates memories which linger long after the snow melts. For parents looking to create lasting family memories, Hershey, Pennsylvania stands out as one of the most enchanting winter destinations in the United States…all wrapped in chocolate.
