Hersheypark (HP) Discussion Thread

[jedimaster1227]

Hersheypark has announced a seasonal overlay coming to their existing Laff Trakk coaster for the Halloween season, becoming the Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk inspired by the famous athlete and his brand of gummy treats. 

https://stories.hersheypa.com/hersheypark-announces-halloween-partnership-with-shaquille-oneal/

Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk indoor coaster will feature a themed overlay inspired by Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies

Hersheypark amusement park and Shaquille O’Neal today announced a first for Hersheypark - an immersive overlay of Laff Trakk coaster as part of its Hersheypark Halloween seasonal event and Dark Nights haunt experience, which runs for eight weekends from Friday, Sept. 12, through Nov. 2, 2025. 

As part of this Halloween experience, the United States’ first glowing indoor coaster, Laff Trakk, will evolve into the All-New Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk. The Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk experience is inspired by the wildly popular Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, created in partnership with The Hershey Company. These oversized gummies, launched in fall of 2024, bring Shaquille’s big personality and playful spirit to life in candy form. 

“We’re taking the flavor and the fun of my Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies and blowing it up into a larger-than-life adventure,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “From the second you step inside, this ride brings non-stop energy and laughs.”

This unique partnership between Hersheypark and The Hershey Company merges the Park’s thrills with the fun and flavor of the Shaq-A-Licious brand, featuring glowing visuals, amped-up audio and immersive graphic displays that capture the candy’s playful spirit. The themed overlay of Laff Trakk includes graphics, lighting and enhanced audio-visual treatments, including curated voice over provided by Mr. O’Neal, marking the first-of-its-kind coaster overlay at Pennsylvania’s largest amusement park.

O’Neal is one of the world’s most successful athletes-turned-businessmen, with accomplishments on and off the court that have made him a highly sought-after consumer brand. Guided by his signature “Business of Fun” mantra, Shaq brings his larger-than-life personality to every venture—as an entrepreneur, sports analyst, DJ, restaurateur and brand ambassador. His recent collaboration with Hershey on Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies is a true reflection of that spirit, with Shaq personally involved in developing the candy’s unique shapes and flavors. 

Vikki Hultquist, Vice President of Hersheypark and Entertainment Operations: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Shaquille O’Neal on a one-of-a-kind ride experience you can only find at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights,” said Vikki Hultquist, Vice President of Hersheypark and Entertainment Operations. “Get ready for a bigger, bolder, XL ride through a Shaq-ified world of giant glowing gummies, bass-pumping beats and over-the-top fruit-flavored mayhem at Shaq-A-Licious Laff Trakk.”

Hersheypark will further activate this brand partnership with new food and beverage offerings and exclusive retail through Hersheypark Halloween. Stay tuned to Hersheypark social media channels for more details closer to the season.

  

About Laff Trakk

Laff Trakk, the first indoor, spinning, glow coaster in the United States, marks a decade of operation in 2025. This family-friendly house of laughs spins riders through an exciting adventure of sights and sounds, complete with glimpses of colorful characters, a dizzying hall of mirrors and more. Laff Trakk is the fun house of the 21st century, offering a new experience with every ride.

About Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

As part of Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, guests can experience five haunted houses, including the all-new Kill ‘N Fill Garage haunted house, four scare zones with the new Path of Shadows: Coven’s Curse scare zone, 50 attractions and dark coaster rides, Hershey’s Trick-or-Treat Trail and more - all included with a Hersheypark Halloween ticket. The seasonal event will also feature exclusive culinary creations, including the return of the popular Hersheypark Halloween Tasting Pass and Avenue Of The Afterlife path with themed food and drink offerings and live entertainment. 

To view full details, hours and a pre-sale on Hersheypark Halloween tickets for only $49.99, visit www.Hersheypark.com/plan-your-visit/hersheypark-halloween and www.Hersheypark.com/things-to-do/dark-nights.

About Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies

Created by the world’s biggest kid, Shaquille O’Neal, Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies launched in 2024 in partnership with The Hershey Company. Available across the U.S. and Canada, these oversized gummies capture Shaq’s larger-than-life personality in every sweet or sour bite. The lineup includes two varieties: Shaq-A-Licious Originals, shaped like Shaq’s face in peach, berry punch, and orange flavors, and Shaq-A-Licious Sours, inspired by his iconic nicknames, featuring green watermelon, pineapple, and mixed berry flavors. For more information about Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, visit Shaqalicious.com. Follow the brand on Instagram: @shaqalicious_official and TikTok: @shaqaliciousofficial.

[KBrylczyk]

Honestly?  This is probably the only Halloween attraction that would actually give me nightmares, so respect for that.

[prozach626]

Nice! "Kobe!" 

Take that as you will.

[AmyUD06]

ProTip: If going to Hersheypark on the night of a sold-out show at the Stadium, which is likely to let out right at Park closing, leave earlier. I've moved maybe one car length in the last half hour. Ugh LOL. 

Update: It took me just over an hour to get out of the lot.

[Zand]

I was there on a Saturday night during a concert many years ago and they actually ended up keeping the stuff close to the center of the park open at least an extra hour. Fahrenheit, Storm Runner, Skyrush, etc were all walk ons because they didn't really tell anyone they were staying open late. Most of the lot had cleared out by the time they finally closed.

Last year I went on a concert day to use my preview night and it took almost 2 hours to get to Troegs from the highway. That was miserable.

[jedimaster1227]

Hersheypark has released details about this year's Dark Nights at Hersheypark Halloween, returning for its fifth year. 

https://www.hersheypark.com/things-to-do/dark-nights

Returns September 12

Every Ticket Includes All Haunted Houses, Rides & Coasters

5 Haunted Houses. 5 Scare Zones. 5 Years Of Terror.

Dark Nights™ at Hersheypark Halloween™ returns for its fifth year of spine-tingling haunts. From the rattling chains of the coaster climbs to the suffocating shadows of the midways, nowhere is safe. You’ve braved the nights before, but we’ve pushed the terror even further with an All-New Scare Zone. With 5 Haunted Houses and 5 Scare Zones reaching their terrifying peak, you’ve never seen shadows like this. 

The legacy of fear continues. 5 Years of Screams... No soul is safe.

5 Haunted Houses

Kill 'N Fill

The lights are back on at the Kill ‘N Fill Garage, but it’s not for a tune-up. The group of killers have returned, trading grease for blood and bringing reinforcements. Navigate the wreckage of the body shop and a gore-soaked car wash as the cries of bending metal drown out the screams. They aren't fixing cars anymore; they're stripping you for parts.

Estate of Evil

A long-forgotten room has been discovered, and there’s a reason it has been sealed away for generations. Enter with caution; a collection of never-before-seen horrors awaits you, and it will leave you questioning what monster would curate these malevolent mementos.

Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir

Auntie Mortem has a new partner and now features prime beef, but the secret to the specialty sausage is how it blends old family flavors with the fresh stock entering the back room. The blades are sharper, the floor is slicker, and the meat is fresher than ever.

Twisted Carnevil

The Hypnotist presides over the never-ending hall of illusions where greasepaint drips like blood. Punchlines echo through the dark, but with a jagged edge as he stitches together his most sinister act yet.

Haunted Coal Mine

Drip… drip…. drip. Something dark is flooding the mine. Something new is crawling out of the black water. The mud is moving, and the mine is hungry for more than just oxygen. Escape before the murky waters drag you further down.

5 Scare Zones

Venture through our 5 Scare Zones, including the All-New Scare Zone to come face to face with the creatures that haunt your nightmares.

All-New Scare Zone!

Check back soon for details.

Path Of Shadows Coven's Curse

The whispers have come to a roaring bubble. It's true: the coven has grown. Prepare for all-new rituals and spells, but heed this warning: the newest converts hold an unimaginable darkness. 

Fallout Zone

The lethal green fog has yet to be contained. Chaos continues to rise and the peak of destruction is still on the hazy horizon. Fight through the dense smog to unearth the souls that were left to survive the wreckage.

Midway of Misery

The Midway Of Misery remains under The Decayed Brigade's regime. Escape beyond the fiery arches but stay alert; the creatures that lurk within are faster, fiercer, and each spark and scrape brings louder screams. 

Darkstone's Hollow

Darkstone's victory was a delusion. Jezebeth has returned to reclaim her throne, igniting a brutal battle in the shadows. Traitorous secrets are spilling, and creatures are clashing. Choose your side wisely. The real war begins now.

Avenue Of The Afterlife

Dance, dine, and celebrate the season with your favorite Hershey Characters and a crew of family-friendly creatures. It’s a hauntingly good time for all ages in the Avenue Of The Afterlife. No tricks, just treats.

[jedimaster1227]

Hersheypark has shared all of the new ways it will celebrate America's 250th with events, activations, fireworks overlays and more throughout the Summer of 2026!

https://stories.hersheypa.com/hersheypark-to-celebrate-americas-250th-with-patriotic-summer-events/

Fireworks, All-New Show, Exclusive Food, Plus Ride and Character Overlays for Summer 2026

One of the country’s most iconic destinations, Hersheypark amusement park in Hershey, Pa., has announced its plans to celebrate America’s 250th with events and activations all summer long. The largest amusement park in Pennsylvania will offer multiple dates of fireworks presented by HERSHEY’S, an all-new star-spangled show, limited-time food and drink, select Americana-themed rides and Hershey Characters dressed in their festive best with more summer surprises to come during its 120th operating year. 

Known affectionately as The Sweetest Place On Earth, Hershey is a small town rooted in the world's love of chocolate and the philanthropy of its founder, Milton S. Hershey. The world-class destination is home to one of America's greatest and sweetest success stories and a core purpose of giving back to children in need.

Centrally located within driving distance of five of the largest metropolitan areas in the Northeast, Hershey is only 90 minutes from Philadelphia and two hours from the nation’s capital, hosting major sporting events and the nation’s semiquincentennial. Guests can start planning their summer road trip now.

Hersheypark Overlaid with Patriotic Spirit 

Guests entering the 121-acre amusement park this summer will immediately notice patriotic decor, photo opportunities and new red, white and blue ride and light packages as they enjoy the 70 rides and attractions at Hersheypark. As the only amusement park in the world where guests can take a selfie with Hershey Characters, Hersheypark will also offer special patriotic costumes for the life-size candy brands.

Fireworks Displays to Kick Off Memorial Day Weekend

Daily summer operations at Hersheypark begin May 21, with the first of several fireworks displays presented by HERSHEY’S on May 23. Guests are encouraged to visit on these days to end their evening with fireworks:

• Saturday, May 23
• Friday, July 3
• Saturday, July 4
• Saturday, August 8

New In-Park Theatre Show

Hersheypark will debut an unforgettable live music show, Sweet Land of Liberty: A Celebration of the American Songbook, in the air-conditioned Chevrolet Music Box Theatre venue from May 29 through Labor Day. The only-in-Hershey show will take guests on a journey through the Rock, Pop, Country, and Soul anthems that shaped this country’s history. 

Limited-Time Food and Beverage

Guest-favorite Hersheypark treats are decked out in red, white and blue this summer. Exclusive food and beverage offerings include:

• Star-Spangled King Size Shake at Simply Chocolate dessert shop, only available during July, in celebration of the 10th birthday of the award-winning, iconic treat
• Apple pie and red, white and blue donuts at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor
• Red, white and blue specialty fudge at The Sweeterie Confectionery Kitchen
• Stars & Stripes Martini Flight and Firecracker Mocktail at The Chocolatier Restaurant, Bar &+ Patio

Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest Qualifier

The world’s top hot dog eaters and rising challengers will return to Hersheypark on June 19 to compete in the final qualifying event for the legendary Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July contest. Guests can watch the classic American tradition at 2 p.m. in The Boardwalk at Hersheypark water park. 

Hersheypark Water Park Enhancements

New for summer 2026, the existing Bayside Pier area in the water park will feature two new water play areas boasting 45 aquatic elements: 

• A new shade-filled play zone, The Inlet at Bayside Pier, will feature water-spouting dolphins and fish, and whimsical water spray features.
• The Island at Bayside Pier will debut towering 10-foot-tall palm trees that tip buckets of refreshing water. 

Both new areas will feature rubberized decking for additional guest comfort, allowing guests to sit and splash under shaded canopies. The new open design will also allow families to seamlessly flow between other water attractions and cool off faster with access to the abundant water features. 

Open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, The Boardwalk at Hersheypark features 17 attractions and one million gallons of water—from thrilling water slides and a water coaster to a lazy river for relaxation seekers and zero-depth entry areas for the youngest water lovers. Designed to honor the iconic boardwalks of the East Coast, The Boardwalk water park is included in the one-price admission to Hersheypark, offering three experiences in one for guests of all ages to cool off during the summer.

Live Entertainment in Hershey

Also this summer, Hersheypark Stadium will again host the Summer Concert Series with acts from Guns ‘N Roses and Chris Stapleton to Forrest Frank and Pitbull. New for summer 2026, an additional Premium Viewing Deck (the second for the historic Stadium) will allow guests premium seating, access to exclusive food and beverage options, a dedicated restroom and designated parking and entrance. 

Nearby at GIANT Center indoor arena, Meghan Trainor, Khalid, 5 Seconds of Summer, Josh Groban with special guest Jennifer Hudson, and James Taylor will also make tour stops in Hershey this summer. 

New Hotel Joins The Official Resorts of Hersheypark

Hershey Inn & Suites, a new select-service hotel, will also open May 1. Hershey Inn & Suites will be the first select-service property as part of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark, joining The Hotel Hershey luxury accommodation, Hershey Lodge family resort and Hersheypark Camping Resort campground as unique lodging options for guests in The Sweetest Place On Earth.

The new four-story property will feature 130 rooms, including seven family suites, and amenities like complimentary hot breakfast, a lobby bar, grab-and-go snacks in the lobby marketplace, an arcade, a fitness center and an indoor pool open year-round. Family suites accommodate a group of six and feature a first-of-its-kind room type for a Hersheypark property with bunk beds, one queen bed, a full sleeper sofa and a separate living space.

Just minutes away from the world-class amusement park, the hotel will feature a modern design for families, couples and business travelers visiting Hershey, Pa., with unique perks exclusive to resort guests. Guests of The Official Resorts of Hersheypark receive Free Resort Benefits, including the best price on Hersheypark tickets, extra morning and evening hours at Hersheypark, front gate shuttle service to an exclusive resort drop-off location, destination activities and more.

 

Background on the Town Built On Chocolate

Hershey, Pennsylvania, is a small town rooted in the world's love of chocolate and the philanthropy of Milton S. Hershey. Mr. Hershey dreamed of making chocolate affordable for everyone. In pursuit of that vision, he created a beautiful town for his employees that caught the nation’s attention. Hershey was filled with a modern chocolate factory, homes, schools, businesses, and 150 acres of community leisure grounds that would later evolve into a world-class family amusement park. Home of the Great American chocolate bar, Hershey attracts millions of visitors each year.

Over a century later, Hershey is now home to Hersheypark amusement park, a North American zoo, four distinctly Hershey resorts, live concerts and shows, delicious dining options, and, of course, chocolate around every corner. Even sweeter - Hershey Entertainment & Resorts Company is proud to help fulfill the dream of our founder, Milton S. Hershey, by providing value to Milton Hershey School in its mission of helping students lead fulfilling and productive lives - just as Mr. Hershey intended.