2026 Ultimate Guide to Hersheypark Halloween & Dark Nights: Food, Houses, Tickets and more!

Are you ready to enjoy Halloween at Hersheypark AND the amazing Dark Nights experience?

Most people don’t even realize all the things that Hersheypark does for Halloween.

If you have been following me for a while, you know that I am an Annual Passholder and big fan of Hersheypark, located in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

It has been getting more and more love recently for its awesome food and beverage offerings and amazing selection of thrill and family coasters.

But I am here today to tell you that the fun doesn’t stop after the summer season!

Oh no, the fun keeps going during the Halloween and even the holiday season!

So if you’re still wondering does Hersheypark do anything for Halloween, today I will be talking about everything offered during the spooky season.

I will also go over the park’s fairly new haunt event, Dark Nights for the third annual year taking place September 12th until November 1st of 2026.

Halloween Entrance 2024 Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

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2026 Hersheypark Halloween Dark Nights Season at a Glance:

  • Halloween at Hersheypark runs from September 12 to November 1, 2026!
  • Tickets start at $54.99
  • You can purchase the Dark Nights House Fast Track Unlimited from $40 to skip the lines for the houses
  • There will be 5 haunted houses and 5 scare zones
  • Capture the most incredible photos with a group of your beloved Hipster Friends
  • There are lots of things for kids to do at Hersheypark for Halloween
  • Be sure to grab the latest spooky merchandise
  • Eat your way through the haunted event with the ghoulish cuisine (my favorite thing to do)!

Keep reading to get a full guide on how to conquer this fall event like a pro!

What You'll Get in This Guide Today: hide

What is Hersheypark Dark Nights?

Let’s finally dive into the latest expansion of Hersheypark Halloween.

Hersheypark Dark Nights 2024 Midway of Misery Scare Zone. Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Hersheypark Dark Nights.
Photo Courtesy of EPIC Entertainment

A dark shadow has been casted over Hersheypark this spooky season in the form of its largest seasonal expansion to date!

Hersheypark Dark Nights 2025 Map. Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Hersheypark Dark Nights.
Hersheypark Dark Nights 2025 Map

Dark Nights covers four acres in various sections of the park with five original houses inspired by Hersheypark and the surrounding area.

There are five scare zones created specifically with thrill seekers in mind.

2024 Hersheypark Halloween Dark Nights Food Map. Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Hersheypark Dark Nights.
2024 Hersheypark Halloween Dark Nights Food, Houses, and Scare Zone Map

You will see areas like the Amphitheater and Trailblazer Catering transformed by darkness to immersive thrill experiences.

Emporium Shop Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

This is an add on to the Hersheypark Halloween that you can buy at the park. However, I recommend doing it online to save money.

What are the Dark Night hours at Hersheypark?

The event begins at 6 p.m. and ends at 11 p.m. (or 10 p.m. on some nights) depending on the night you attend.

How much does Hersheypark Dark Nights cost?

They have various pricing depending on the date, starting at $54.99.

Ferris Wheel and Halloween Beverages at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

I found that Sundays are the cheapest day to go, with Friday being the second and Saturdays being the busiest and most expensive.

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Does Hersheypark Dark Nights offer discounts to Passholders?

According to Hersheypark, Dark Nights™ is now included with your Season Pass!

Store at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

This new perk gives you unlimited visits to Hersheypark Halloween™ PLUS access to all 5 Dark Nights haunted houses.

Dark Nights Ticket Upgrades:

While you’re at Dark Nights, you’ll want to see if some of the upgrades will work for you and your crew.

  • After Dark Halloween Ticket: Valid beginning at 5:30 PM during Hersheypark Halloween (starting at $54.99)
  • Dark Nights House Fast Track Unlimited: Skip all 5 Dark Nights haunted house attraction lines (starting at $40)
  • Hersheypark + Dark Nights Fast Track Unlimited: Valid on participating thrilling coasters and all 5 Haunted House attractions. Skip the regular line for each of the featured attractions all-day-long (starting at $110)

Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!

2026 Hersheypark Halloween Haunted Houses at Dark Nights

During my visit, I was only able to do two houses simply due to time but I plan on going again to finish the final houses.

Candles and Halloween Haunted Houses at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

I will add my scare rating once they are completed.

Believe it or not, I was thoroughly impressed with the amount of production that went into the houses and the scareactors were phenomenal. But let’s briefly touch on the houses.

Hersheypark Dark Nights 2025 Map. Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Hersheypark Dark Nights.
Hersheypark Dark Nights 2025 Map

1. Twisted Carnevil

Located in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse, this sinister carnival attraction puts you face-to-face with a hypnotist and a nightmarish world of illusions, creepy comedy, and unexpected scares.

2024 Halloween Magnet of Houses Hersheypark Dark Nights NO BOO Necklaces. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Debuted in 2022.

Scare Rating: 4/10

2. Kill ‘N Fill

According to the lore, a group of demented people have claimed the old Kill N Fill Garage.

2025 Hersheypark Dark Nights Haunted Houses
2025 Hersheypark Dark Nights Haunted Houses which will be back again for 2026

Here you’ll step into the greasy mechanics bay, navigate through the mangled wrecks in the body shop, and tread carefully through the blood-slicked car wash. Just remember, the real horror begins when the engines go silent.

You will find this Hersheypark Dark Nights haunted house in the tent in Midway America near Laff Trakk and Wild Mouse.

3. Haunted Coal Mine: Curse Of The Tommyknockers

Located in the Trailblazer catering space near Spring Creek Smokehouse, i’s been WAY too long that the cries of the unsettled souls of these lost miners have gone unheard.

Halloween Shirts Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Now it is time for their voices to be heard as you journey deep into the mines to hear what they have to say. Just pray it doesn’t end in an explosive conclusion. (Debuted in 2022)

Scare Rating: 6/10

4. Estate of Evil

Step inside a long-sealed mansion filled with strange rooms and sinister relics, where every corner holds a new horror.

Estate of Evil Haunted House at 2024 Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

Keep your wits about you as you uncover the dark secrets behind the house and the monster who collected them.

This haunted house at Hersheypark Dark Nights is located in Tidal Force Catering across from Tidal Force and next to the entrance portal for the Fallout Zone scare zone.

Scare Rating: Pending

5. Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir

Here Ethel Mortem, also known as Auntie in the neighborhood, is a second generation meat processor.

Auntie Mortems Abattoir Haunted House at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Image Courtesy of EPIC Entertainment

So you know where this is going…

She and her demented nieces and nephews run the family business that’s packing more than the type of “meat” you’d expect from the farm to your table! (Debuted in 2024)

Located next to Music Express and Laff Trakk in the Midway America region, this is the place to go if you’re ready to meat your maker. Step inside Auntie Mortem’s Abattoir and see if you can make it out in one piece!

Scare Rating: 7/10

Halloween Shirts The Descent House Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

NOT RETURNING THIS YEAR:

Creatures Uncaged (2022 to 2024)

In this former house, you would pass by Comet towards the Amphitheatre where you’d find Professor Darkstone as he challenged you to face on Pennsylvania’s most fearsome creatures.

But not to worry, they are in firm cages…. oh, what’s that? They escaped….UH….

Scare Rating: 8/10

The Descent: Catacombs Of Decay (2022 to 2025)

This former house was located right next door to Laff Trakk in the very back of the park. It featured the mysterious woman who lurked beneath the creepy and dark underground tunnels of Hersheypark an the only way out was down…

Scare Rating 8/10

2026 Hersheypark Halloween Scare Zones at Dark Nights

I will say out of everything that was offered last year, the scare zones were the ones I felt could be improved on.

Midway of Misery at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

While I loved the stories behind them, it was hard to enjoy them due to the fact that during our multiple runs through all of them, there were either no actors in the scare zone or less than 3.

2024 Emporium Halloween shop with Candles and Jerseys Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Keep in mind, the Dark Nights scare zones were a fairly decent size. The actors we did see in the zones were amazing though!

Regardless, 2022 was also the first year they have done this and I would imagine keeping that balance of scary and family friendly is a bit difficult.

I won’t be rating them since none of the Hersheypark Halloween scare zones, in my opinion, were scary.

Here are the 2026 Dark Nights Scare Zones at Hersheypark:

  1. Reese’s Depot Of Doom (New for 2026): Located in The Boardwalk Water Park this eerie freight yard takes you through dark, fog-filled surroundings where you never know what might be lurking inside the abandoned boxcars.
  2. Midway of Misery: Located right in between The Descent and Twisted Darkness, the fires of hell beckon you to enter a sinister gateway tucked away in the darkest corner of Hersheypark.
  3. Fallout Zone: An eerie green fog releases a radioactive material with a crew to scrub away and neutralize any threats. Be careful as you may fall victim to the madness!
  4. Darkstone’s Hollow: As you would have guessed, located in the hollow, you will find some of Darkstone’s troupe and mythical creatures wandering about. A word of caution to those who choose to follow their curiosity, there is more than meets the eye.
  5. Path of Shadows – Coven’s Curse: Be careful as you may encounter the horrific three witches on this dark path…

What is Hersheypark Halloween?

Hersheypark Halloween is the park’s family friendly weekend event that doles out specialty limited time day and nighttime offerings for the whole family.

Kiss Mobile 2024 Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

This offering is included with your park admission and is only offered on weekends for visitors from September 12 through November 1, 2026.

What are the Hersheypark Halloween Hours?

The event takes place at various time depending on the day you attend.

  • Fridays: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Dark Nights from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.)
  • Saturdays: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Dark Nights from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.)
  • Sundays: 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Dark Nights from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.)

2026 Hersheypark Halloween Dates

This year’s event will take place from September 12 through November 1, 2026.

Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Just be sure to check the Hersheypark website or apps for specific operating hours for the day you choose to attend.

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What is included with Hersheypark Halloween?

Little ones can get into the Halloween spirit with the Hershey’s Trick or Treat Trail on Fridays at 6 p.m and on Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. ending at 8:30 p.m.

2024 Treatsville Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Children 12 and younger can collect candy at stops throughout the park. There are 14 candy stops, with 10 located in the Treatville area and four at Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction.

The trail stretches from Hershey’s Chocolate World toward The Boardwalk, giving families a fun way to enjoy some sweet treats while exploring Hersheypark in their Halloween costumes.

Halloween Treatville at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
(Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

Bags are provided but you can bring your own. Something to remember is that we were given one piece of candy each so keep that in mind for your visit.

Treatville The Candy Cabana Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights 2024. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
(Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

I personally loved the photo-ops spread throughout the trail. Each stop in this area is Halloween themed!

Where is the Hersheypark Halloween trick-or-treat trail located?

  • The trail runs between Hershey’s Chocolate World and The Boardwalk at Hersheypark, with multiple candy stops along the way.
  • The 14 stops are divided between Chocolate World and the Treatville area.

Hipster Power Tip: The trick-or-treat trail is available on weekends until 8 p.m.

Hersheypark at Halloween: The Character Experiences

My personal favorite thing about Hersheypark, or any park really, is meeting their characters!

During Hersheypark Halloween, you can meet some of the classic Hershey characters dressed in their adorable spooky costumes.

You can find Ice Breaker mints as a mummy, Kit Kat as a werewolf, Hershey Bar as Frankenstein and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup as Dracula!

Entrance to Candymonium at Hersheypark. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

You can take photos with them at a special photo-op nearby Candymonium and other locations throughout the park like Hersh’s Hangout and Reese’s Cup House. These locations can be found in the Hersheypark app.

2025 HersheyPark Halloween and Dark Nights Map. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
2025 HersheyPark Halloween and Dark Nights Map

Not only that, but you can also party it up and dance at The Avenue Of The Afterlife with them . I can attest that the music choices are really good!

Avenue Of The Afterlife is a scare-free zone with a  DJ dance party, fun street performers like the Acro Duo jugglers and stilt walkers.

What rides are open at Hersheypark during Halloween?

One of the big draws for Hersheypark Halloween is its diverse ride lineup.

Pumpkins at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

This includes 50 rides and attractions that will be open during the event (weather and maintenance permitting).

As a reminder, during the last hour of operation, the lights go out for dark rides on Candymonium®, Comet, Lightning Racer®, and Wildcat’s Revenge, plus Laff Trakk will be lights-out all day long!

What allows Hersheypark to thrive is that its roller coasters and other thrill rides are within the same areas of their kiddie rides.

Fahrenheit Roller Coaster Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

This allows families to stay together and experience the park in a better way.

Halloween Pumpkin Patch Area and Statue 2024 Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

This makes Hersheypark standout with their Halloween event. The only exception to this is Carousel Circle which has only kiddie rides.

Hersheypark Ride Closures and Restrictions

It should also be noted that the sooperdooperLooper and Tiny Tracks are temporarily closed and the following will close at 5 p.m., prior to the opening of Dark Nights:

  • Trailblazer
  • Monorail
  • Sweet Swing
  • Tea Cups
  • Granny Bugs
  • Pony Parade
  • Music Express
  • Red Baron

Special Halloween Ride Features at Hersheypark

And for my fellow Instagrammers, Hersheypark has kept you in mind and have specialty light shows on the Ferris Wheel, located in Midway America.

Victoria Wade at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

It is a really cool photo-op, especially if you time it right with the fog.

My photo tip is to flip the camera upside down and angle the phone towards you for a really cool effect if you take your photo with the ferris wheel.

What I loved the most is their Lights Out Roller Coaster Experience!

As I mentioned earlier, they brought back this offering where during the event, you can ride coasters like Wild Cat’s Revenge, Candymonium, Lightning Racer and Comet completely in the dark.

Fahrenheit Roller Coaster next to Ferris Wheel during Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

One of the core memories of the evening was going up the first lift hill for Lightning Racer, in complete darkness, with only the light of the full moon illuminating our path.

Laff Trakk Indoor Roller Coaster Dark Ride. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Laff Trakk (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

The very popular Laff Trakk in Midway America will be completely dark during the Hersheypark Halloween operating hours as well.

Best Hersheypark Roller Coasters Fahrenheit Drop. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

We did Lightning Racer and Candymonium in Lights out mode and it made it even more thrilling.

Best Hersheypark Roller Coasters Candymonium Riders Waiting for Launch. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Candymonium Roller Coaster

I would recommend front row for Lightning Racer and back row for Candymonium. Even Jolly Rancher remix gets into the Halloween spirit with a seasonal flavor in the flavor tunnel!

Halloween at Hersheypark: Creatures of the Night

I find that one very little used and slightly confusing part of Hersheypark is their ZooAmerica.

ZooAmerica Creature Of The Night - Snake Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
(Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

Did you know that visiting the zoo at Hersheypark is part of your admission ticket? The entrance to the zoo is right across from the Drop Tower experiences.

From 6 p.m to 9 p.m., starting on October 16th (during the event season), you are invited to bring your flashlights and explore the nighttime habitats of the nocturnal native North American wildlife.

ZooAmerica Creatures Of The Night Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
(Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

As far as visiting the zoo during normal operating hours, you have to drive to the Zoo’s official entrance if you plan on going at opening, as it opens a few hours before Hersheypark does.

If you plan on going during Hersheypark’s operating hours, you can access it via the bridge near the drop towers.

Creatures of the Night dates are October 16-18, October 23-25, and Oct 30-31; Nov 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It’s a great and honestly relaxing experience for everyone and a nice park break.

Hersheypark Halloween Food and Beverage Offerings

Hersheypark is known to blow it out of the water with their spectacularly themed and flavorful offerings, most notably their specialty milkshakes.

Witch Halloween Cupcake next to Hershey’s Kiss Mobile Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

For Hersheypark Halloween, they have crafted some thrilling and spooky sweet and savory offerings for everyone to try!

Food at Halloween King Size Donut at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Halloween King Size Donut (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

I was so curious about A LOT of the food that I didn’t get to try so I made a point to make my next visit strictly a foodie tour!

Midnight Spice Pasta and Spooky Shishito Peppers at The Chocolatier Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Midnight Spice Pasta and Spooky Shishito Peppers at The Chocolatier in 2022 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

You’ll be happy to know that there’s A LOT of food and drinks for you to try on your Hersheypark Halloween adventure!

Pulled Pork Sandwich with Black Brioche Bun Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Pulled Pork Sandwich and Brisket Sandwich from 2022. Be sure to get the Pulled Pork Slider from The Butcher Shop in 2025 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

Here is just some of the offerings that I was able to try before! I’ll do my best to give you a great alternative option for 2026.

2025 Hersheypark Halloween Food Tasting Pass at Dark Nights. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
2025 Hersheypark Halloween Food Tasting Pass

Don’t forget to level up your night with the Tasting Pass at Hersheypark for $39.99 to try the variety of spooky treats.

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Dark Moon Orange Sorbet

This was house-made blood orange black sorbet in a black vanilla specialty waffle cone dipped in white chocolate and red sugar, and topped with house made raspberry sauce.

Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food Dark Moon Blood Orange Sorbet. Keep reading to find out what are Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
(Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

The ice cream was a lot and I ended up not finishing it before it melted.

As someone who is a fan of the blood orange Dunkin refresher, this was such a game changer for me as an ice cream flavor!

Crab Meat Critter (left) and Dark Moon Orange Sorbet (right) Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food, Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Crab Meat Critter (left) and Dark Moon Orange Sorbet (right) (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

The Dark Moon Orange Sorbet was available only at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor.

2026 Alternative for the Dark Moon Orange Sorbet is the Apple Fritters With Vanilla Ice Cream at Milton’s Ice Cream Parlor.

Crab Meat Critter Fritter

This interactive savory snack allowed you to inject a special sauce via syringe into your crab meat fritter.

Crab Meat Critter Fritter at Hersheypark Halloween Food Dark Nights.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Crab Meat Critter Fritter (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

It is themed to Dark Nights and was available at Darkstone’s Base Camp in The Hollow.

As a Marylander, it takes a lot for anyone offering a crab dish anywhere outside of my state to impress me.

Hersheypark took some notes because the crab meat was tender and tasty. But of course, I would add Old Bay for a little zing.

2026 Alternative for the Crab Meat Critter Fritter is the Crab & Corn Dip with Fritos Corn Chips: Warm crab and corn dip served with Fritos at Dips of Decay.

The Berk’s Dogs of Doom

Berk’s Dogs of Doom offers one specialty hot dog, which I saw in person but did not get to try.

The Descent Dog and Toxic Mac & Cheese Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
The Descent Dog and Toxic Mac & Cheese from 2022 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

Seeing all the options here certainly made me want to add them to my to-do list for next visit.

Flamin' Cheetos Hot-Honey Corn Dogs Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. n Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Former Flamin’ Cheetos Hot-Honey Corn Dogs…not returning this year 🙁 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)
This year, Hersheypark offers the following Halloween hot dogs and treats at Berk’s Dogs of Doom below:
  • Birria Dog (NEW): Hot dog topped with birria beef, birria aioli and diced onions
  • Jalapeño Dog (NEW): Hot dog topped with jalapeño popper dip
  • Buffalo Dog: Hot dog topped with ranch seasoned chicken, buffalo cream cheese, celery and pickled onions
  • Maple Pecan Blondie (NEW):Topped with candied bacon
  • Pomegranate Lemonade (NEW): Lemonade with a syrup syringe

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Roadkill Fries

Over Yonder at Trailblazer Grill, I tried the Roadkill Fries that were topped with pot roast, gravy and mozzarella cheese served in a Hersheypark Bucket.

Roadkill Fries Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Roadkill Fries 2022 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

2026 Alternative for the Roadkill Fries is the “Fall Out Fries” at Reactor Rations (Sweet potato waffle fries topped with green chili carnitas, white cheddar cheese sauce, Pico de Gallo and sour cream).

Halloween Hersheypark Milkshakes and Cocktails

What particularly caught my eye was the Signature Cocktails and Specialty King Size Shakes.

Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Cocktail Cups.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Dark Nights Cups (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

Hersheypark has hit mainstream with their huge and elaborately decorated shakes and they did not stop with Hersheypark Halloween.

They dropped one Halloween themed milkshakes along with their famous milkshakes from The Chocolatier Restaurant:
  • Cookies N Cream Milkshake: Cookies N Cream Milkshake Topped with Chocolate Cookies N Cream Mousse Cake, Cookie Crumb
  • Over The Top Hershey’s Chocolate Milkshake: Chocolate Milkshake Topped With A Chocolate Chip ‘Brookie’ And A Chocolate Chip Cookie, Whipped Cream, Chocolate Chips
  • Reese’s Peanut Butter Milkshake: Chocolate Peanut Butter Milkshake Topped With Peanut Butter Pie, Pretzel With Reese’s Pieces Candies, Whipped Cream
  • Pumpkin Pie Milkshake: Pumpkin Milkshake, Fall Sprinkles, Whipped Cream, Mini Pumpkin Pie, Milk Chocolate Pumpkin
  • Brownie Marshmallow King Size Shake: Chocolate King Size Shake topped with a brownie tombstone and marshmallow ghosts (LOCATED AT SIMPLY CHOCOLATE)
  • Pumpkin Roll King Size Shake: Pumpkin King Size Shake topped with a slice of housemade pumpkin roll (LOCATED AT SIMPLY CHOCOLATE)
  • Birthday King Size Shake will be available during Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights as the King Size Shake celebrates its tenth birthday. 
King Size Shakes Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
King Size Halloween Shakes (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)
Ending the small sampling of Hersheypark’s Halloween food are the Specialty Cocktails from Spirit’s Rooftop Bar!
  • Camper’s Crush: Vodka, Freshly Pulverized Blood Orange, Starry Soda
  • Out in the Shed: Peated Islay Scotch, Apple Eau-De-Vie, Crème De Menthe, Simple Syrup
  • Static Noise: Cristalino Tequila, White Grapefruit, Lime, And Agave
  • Unplugged: Brown-Butter-Washed Bourbon, Salted Caramel Syrup, And Black Walnut Bitters
  • Don’t Pick Up the Phone: Spicy Ghost Tequila, Lime, Pineapple Tepache
  • Blood Test (non-alcoholic): A House-Made Lemon-Ginger Tonic, Fresh-Pressed Pomegranate Verjus
Hersheypark Halloween Drinks at The Chocolatier.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.
Hersheypark Halloween Drinks at The Chocolatier (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

You’ll also be able to get small bites here as well such as:

  • Junkyard Nachos: Nacho Cheese Chips, Bow Creek Farm Beef Chili, Smoked Cheddar Queso, Chopped Bacon, Sliced Jalapeños, Chipotle Chili Crema, Scallion
  • Loco Coco Tacos: Cocoa-Birria Shredded Short Rib, Pickled Red Onion, Queso Fresco, Cilantro, Corn Tortilla
  • Nuclear Fallout: Stuffed Bison Meatball, Marinara Sauce, Smoked Cheddar Polenta Grits
  • Garden Estate Burrata: Tomato & Cucumber Salad, Everything Bagel Toasted Brioche, Garlic Jam, Leek Ash Oil, Pesto Drizzle
  • Marksman’s Empanada:Duck Confit, Tomatillo Salsa Verde, Cherry Ancho Sauce
  • Auntie Mortem’s Butcher Block: Wagyu Brisket Pastrami, Duck Breast Prosciutto, Smoked Chicken Liver Pâté, Spicy Soppressata, Sweet Pepper Jam, Whole Grain Mustard, Crostini
  • Diesel Smoked Wings: Black Garlic Soy Sauce, Kewpie Ranch, Sesame Seed, Daikon Radish
  • Burnt Rubber Elote Dip: Chipotle Chili Butter, Queso Fresco, Lime Ash, Scallion, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips
  • Witching Hour Flatbread: Ube Ricotta, Caramelized Pear, Candied Walnuts, Hot Honey
  • Carnevil Wheel: Mozzarella Moons, Diesel Smoked Wings, Marksman’s Empanadas, Chicken Tenders, Burnt Rubber Elote Dip, Tri-Color Tortilla Chips

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2026 Exclusive Hersheypark Halloween Merchandise

It is now time to enter one of the scariest places in any theme park in the world…The Gift Shop.

Emporium Halloween Shop at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

But in all seriousness, Hersheypark has delivered to its visitors some very unique and interesting retail items to bring home. Some are standard and some really stand out!

2023 Halloween Store Shirt Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

I personally loved the variety of Spirit Jerseys and Sweatshirts themed to the houses. Another standout item for me was the “NO BOO” necklace.

How does the NO BOO Necklace work at Hersheypark Halloween for Dark Nights?

It is a purple light up spider that costs $16.99 and it indicates to others around you and scare actors not to scare you.

2024 No Boo Halloween Necklaces and Treatville Lights Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Important to note is that it cannot be worn in houses and on rides due to safety reasons. Details about its 2026 availability are still to be announced.

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Hersheypark Halloween Shops

There are three places (in addition to the Dark Nights Tent) where you can get your fill of this merchandise and they are at the:

Hersheypark Supply Co Store.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

Dark Nights Emporium and Dark Nights Tent

This shop is decorated with nods to Twisted Darkness and The Descent. It is located across from the entrance to Treatville towards Midway America.

Halloween BOOtique

This boutique is located across from Fahrenheit roller coaster.

Halloween Shirt Midway of Misery House and Pins Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

It offers unique items like halloween themed coffees and teas as well as Universal Monsters and Iconic Horror icons merchandise.

Hersheypark Supply Co.

Finally, anything you miss while exploring can almost certainly be found inside the Hersheypark Supply Co at the park entrance.

Dedication to the Train and Entrance to Chocolate Town and Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaraunt in Hershey, Pennsylvania.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

Here you will find cups, tees, magnets, posters, signs, postcards and more! There is something for everyone to take the scary fun home with you.

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13 Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights Tips for Beginners

Based on my experience, here are just a few tips and important things to know that I found helped me.

Best Hersheypark Roller Coasters Candymonium Climbing Track.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

1. Get Your Wristband for Houses

In order to enter houses, you will need to scan your HPGO wristband.

Upon entry into the park, you can head to an HPGO kiosk right next to the lockers and use their self-service to get your wristband.

You can also go inside the building to speak with a Hersheypark Team Member to assist you.

2. Start Early

Get to Hersheypark early, especially if you go on a Saturday. We arrived late due to traffic, but we ended up missing out on the two houses because of it.

Beverages Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

The queue lines also were astronomically long.

All of the coasters had wait times above 60 minutes but I would not necessarily rely on the app for time as it slightly inflates them.

Best Hersheypark Roller Coasters Mix'd Jolly Rancher Roller Coaster.  Keep reading to find out what to know before going to Dark Nights at Hersheypark.

Check out the line for yourself to determine if it’s worth the wait. Plan for Candymonium, Comet and Lightning Racer to get the busiest within the last hour of operation due to lights out.

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3. Remember that Hersheypark is Cashless

The park is cashless, so they accept most major debit and credit cards as well as Apple, Samsung and Google Pay.

Brimstone Bread Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food.  Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.
Brimstone Bread 2022 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

They have kiosks where you can put your cash on a card. There is one near the doors of Hersheypark Supply Co.

Hipster Power Tip: Only put the amount you know you will spend as you cannot get your cash back once its done.

4. Have a Plan

Plan your day accordingly what’s the most important to you. The food and drink carts and the attractions close at 10 p.m. while Dark Nights houses and scare zones close at 11 p.m.

Victoria Wade in front of Ferris Wheel during Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

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5. Prepare for the Weather

Hershey, Pennsylvania gets bitterly cold due to its proximity to the mountains.

Walking up to Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaraunt in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.

During my recent visit, we arrived, and the weather was about 53 degrees. When we were leaving, it was 40 degrees. Dress warmly and stay hydrated.

Hershey, Pennsylvania Attractions Sign. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.

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6. Create the Perfect Itinerary

I would suggest this house order when completing your journey: Twisted Carnevil, Kill ‘N Fill Garage, Auntie Mortem Abattoir, Haunted Coal Mine and Estate of Evil.

This route will allow you to see everything as you go towards the back of the park as well as all the scare zones in between.

7. Leave the Halloween Haunted Houses for Later

Save the houses and scare zones for the end of the night at about 10 p.m.

Families will be leaving as Hersheypark Halloween ends at 10 p.m. and there will be less of a wait.

8. Know if Hersheypark Dark Nights is for Kids

Children are allowed to go in the houses but please read up on the houses and gauge according to what would be scary for your child and what is appropriate to put them in.

Statue Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.

During one house, a poor child did not seem to enjoy her walkthrough with her dad. Also, all children must walk on their own in the houses. They cannot be carried for safety reasons.

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9. Share Your Memories

Hersheypark wants to see the memories you made and the fun time you had during Halloween! It lets them know what to keep doing and what to improve on for the future.

Victoria Wade in front of Ferris Wheel and Halloween Shirts Midway of Misery Hersheypark Dark Nights 2023. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!

Use these hashtags: #hersheyparkhalloween #darknights #hersheyparkhappy #hpChocolatetown #Hersheyparkeats.

Be sure to follow them on Instagram, X, TikTok and Facebook and tag them as well for a chance to be featured!

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10. Review the Hersheypark Halloween Map

If you want to avoid the scare zones, the map on the Hersheypark app helps you to get to point A and B to bypass them. This is perfect for those with little ones!

2025 Hersheypark Halloween Maps. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.

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11. Know the House Rules

Flash photography and lights are prohibited in the houses as well as live streaming while in the park for the protection of guests.

12. Know the Hersheypark Halloween Costume Rules

All guests are allowed to wear costumes but there are some restrictions. Guests cannot wear costumes that will confuse the scare actors and other guests.

Also, guests under the age of 12 must wear masks that allow them complete vision and cannot be worn on rides.

Valley of Fear Halloween Shirt at the Emporium Hersheypark Dark Nights. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.

Guests can come in full face makeup from home, and this applies to those who get their face painted inside the park. However, guests 13 and up must wear family friendly costumes and cannot bring props that replicate any type of weapon.

Layered costumes are discouraged as you will go through a metal detector upon park entry, and they cannot drag on the ground. Adult guests cannot wear masks.

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13. Have Fun at Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights

Be sure to enjoy yourself while at this Pennsylvania theme park. Also, make sure to thank the Team Members for serving you while you’re there!

Brain Freeze Dessert Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.
Brain Freeze 2022 (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

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My Final Thoughts on Halloween at Hersheypark and Dark Nights

As a first-time visitor for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights, I was very impressed and blown away by everything they offered their guests.

Eyeball Chocolate Cake Pop Halloween at Hersheypark Dark Nights Food. Keep reading to find for your guide to Hersheypark Halloween.
Eyeball Chocolate Cake Pop (Photo Courtesy of Hersheypark)

I loved how thoroughly organized it was and I commend everyone who works there for an excellent job well done!

They have managed to bring every aspect of their resort from Hershey’s Chocolate World to ZooAmerica into the fun.

Survival Guide to Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights. Keep reading to learn about Halloween at Hersheypark in Hershey, Pennsylvania!
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Hersheypark has also managed to include everyone with something unique and different.

I cannot wait to see what the future holds for this event and hope that you will share you experiences here with us on our Facebook group!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

Contributors

Victoria Wade Disney Writer at ThemeParkHipster

About the Author

Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.

She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.

She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home.

Hoop Dee Doo Revue NikkyJ Dinner Show Disney World. Author bio of theme park expert Nikida Metellus.

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a mother and a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

UP NEXT: Hersheypark Chocolatier Restaurant: Delicious Desserts, Cocktails and more!

(Original Article Date: October 10, 2022/Updated by Editor on September 14, 2026)

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