Updated for 2023 — Come and celebrate the holidays in Hershey, PA. Escape the stress and mundanity this holiday season, and let your heart be light. Here’s our curated list of events in and near Hershey and we recommend them all! It’s time to fill your vacation itinerary with events and activities that are jolly and bright.
Hershey Entertainment
This year we’re celebrating the season with a line-up that’s as dazzling bright as all the Christmas lights decorating our streets. Book your stay at The Inn at Westwynd Farm for a quiet and luxurious stay around one (or more) of these amazing shows.
Hershey Theatre: Featuring touring Broadway shows, intimate concerts, classical music and dance attractions, comedy shows, and world-renowned entertainers:
- Nov 11: Derek Hough, Symphony of Dance
- Nov 17: Jay Leno
- Nov 18: Bush — Nowhere to Go But Everywhere Tour
- Nov 21-26: Chicago
- Nov 30: Sarah Brightman, A Christmas Symphony
- Dec 6: Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson, Search For Life in the Universe
- Dec 8: Girl Named Tom: One More Christmas Tour
- Dec 10: Straight No Chaser Sleighin’ It Tour
- Dec 16-17: Central PA Youth Ballet Presents The Nutcracker
- Dec 21: Cirque Dreams Holidaze
- Dec 26-31: Come From Away Musical
Giant Center: Featuring concerts, comedy shows, professional ice shows, and family events:
- Nov 18: Jon Pardi: Mr. Saturday Night World Tour 2023
- Dec 6: Pentatonix: The Most Wonderful Tour of the Year
- Dec 15: Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Ghosts Of Christmas Eve — The Best Of Tso & More
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
- More than 5 million twinkling lights deck the halls of Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Plus, pay a special visit to Santa and his nine live reindeer, or meet him for a delicious breakfast buffet. Reserve your tickets today! November 10, 2023 to January 1, 2024.
- Hershey Sweet Lights: A winter wonderland awaits at Hershey Sweet Lights! Enjoy nearly 600 illuminated, animated displays from the comfort of your car as you drive through 2 miles of wooded trails. Valid through January 1, 2024.
HOLIDAY TREES
KISSMAS TREE DISPLAY
Stop by the Kissmas Tree display at Hersheypark Christmas Candylane. Enjoy seeing the iconic Kisses Fountain decked out in its holiday best or taking festive photos with your favorite Hershey Characters.
THE CHRISTMAS TREE SHOWCASE
Located just 6 minutes away from The Inn at Westwynd Farm is the magical Hershey Gardens. Experience all things merry and bright at the festive showcase of holiday trees. A different local florist will exquisitely decorate each tree, featuring various tree decorating styles and themes, while a stunning 14-foot poinsettia tree takes center stage.
- Dates: November 24, 2023 to January 1, 2024
- Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day
- Time: 9am – 5pm
HOLIDAY RIDES AND COASTERS AT HERSHEY’S CHOCOLATETOWN
Enjoy holiday thrills on your favorite rides, including Candymonium, the tallest and fastest coaster at the park; Hyperdeck, an immersive virtual reality experience; and delicious dining experiences like The Chocolatier.
NEW THIS YEAR! FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Holidays in Hershey, PA, would not be completed without taking in the twinkling lights of the indoor Christmas Tree Showcase and live holiday music at Hershey Gardens.
- Dates: Every Friday in December
- Time: 4:30 – 6pm
HOLIDAY SHOPPING
Check holiday shopping off your list at the Hersheypark Collections shops, the premier Hersheypark Supply Co., and more!
- Stroll along Chocolate Avenue for some great shopping and dining experiences.
- Peruse distinctive gifts from Crossroads Antique Mall and Olde Factory Shoppes.
- Discover unique toys for the kid with everything from Toys on the Square.
- Enjoy one-stop shopping at the Tanger Outlets Hershey for clothing, shoes, handbags, candles, toys, name-brand shops, Starbucks, and much more.
HERSHEY TROLLEY WORKS
Hop aboard the cozy express and enjoy Christmas carols, stories, and fun views as you ride around Chocolate World.
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- Dates: Select dates from November 10 to December 31
OUR CHRISTMAS DINNER… A HOLIDAY MUSICAL
In this heartwarming Christmas story, the Davidsons are struggling as George has lost his job. Hoping for Christmas cheer, Jackie places empty boxes under the tree, hoping George’s unemployment check will arrive in time for them to buy gifts. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when an Amish farmer, this outspoken wife, Jackie’s brother, and his fiancée become unexpected guests.
This Amish twist on “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” combines laughter, holiday memories, and football, making for a delightful and memorable 90-minute show filled with favorite carols, original Christmas songs, and plenty of laughs. Presented by Blue Gate Musicals, it promises to be a joyful holiday experience.
- Dates: October 26 – December 30
- Show Times & Ticket Prices
- Location: Bird-in-Hand Stage, 2760 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, PA 17505
- Phone: (717) 768-1568
HOLIDAY PARADE – “A VERY VIBRANT HOLIDAY”
Date & Time: November 18 starting at 10am
Location: Front and 2nd Streets from Market St to North St in Harrisburg
Admission: Free
Join us at The Inn at Westwynd Farm and visit the City of Harrisburg for the annual Holiday Parade! The event features marching bands, decorated floats, dance groups, step and drill team units, giant parade balloons, Santa, and more. There will be awards presented, including Best in Theme. After the parade, don’t miss the FREE hot chocolate and cookies in Strawberry Square with Santa Claus.
Now that you know the best ways to celebrate the holidays near Hershey, PA, check availability for your stay today and look forward to a festive winter escape!
Happy Holidays from all of us at The Inn at Westwynd Farm!