Hershey Park Christmas Drive Thru, known as Hershey Sweet Lights, is a spectacular holiday attraction featuring nearly 600 illuminated displays along a 2-mile wooded trail. This enchanting experience runs nightly from November 15, 2024, through January 1, 2025, offering visitors a festive journey through dazzling light displays, animated scenes, and themed areas. With new additions like the Jolly Rancher Remix and Wildcat’s Revenge coaster displays, Hershey Sweet Lights promises a memorable holiday adventure for families and friends.
What Are the Operational Hours and Ticket Prices for Hershey Sweet Lights?
Hershey Sweet Lights operates on a nightly basis during the holiday season. Here’s what you need to know about the hours and pricing:
Operational Hours:
- Opens on November 15, 2024
- Runs nightly from November 22 through January 1, 2025
- Hours vary, typically from 5 PM to 9 PM or 10 PM, depending on the date
Ticket Pricing:
- Starting price: $29.99 per vehicle
- Prices vary by day
- Online purchase available until 5 PM on the day of visit
- Full-price tickets ($49.15) available at the entrance booth after 5 PM
Special Packages:
- Kissmas TREEts Collectible: $39.99
- Includes handmade goodies
- Hershey Sweet Lights Sweet Treat Bundle: $19.99
- Includes chocolate fudge and kettle corn popcorn
It’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance online to secure the best pricing and ensure availability on your preferred date.
What Can Visitors Expect Along the Hershey Sweet Lights Route?
The Hershey Sweet Lights drive-through experience offers a magical journey through various themed areas and displays. Here’s what you can expect:
Route Details:
- Length: 2 miles
- Terrain: Wooded trails and fields
- Number of displays: Nearly 600 illuminated and animated scenes
Estimated Duration:
- 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and stops
Key Attractions:
- Jolly Rancher Remix display (New)
- Wildcat’s Revenge coaster display (New)
- Hershey Bears AHL hockey team display
- 12 Days of Christmas scene
- Enchanted Forest
- Victorian Village with new uplighting
- Northern Lights-inspired region with fog and laser effects
- Candy Cane Forest exit
Visitors can enjoy a curated holiday playlist through the Hersheypark app, enhancing the festive atmosphere during the drive.
What Amenities Are Available for Hershey Sweet Lights Visitors?
While Hershey Sweet Lights is primarily a drive-through experience, there are some amenities available to enhance your visit:
Restroom Facilities:
- Likely available at entrance and exit points
- Specific locations along the route not detailed
Food and Beverage Options:
- Festive food and retail bundles available for purchase at the entrance
- No food options mentioned during the drive itself
Parking:
- Not required during the event (drive-through format)
- Parking facilities likely available at entrance and exit points
Accessibility:
- Drive-through format makes it accessible for individuals with disabilities
- Visitors can enjoy the lights from their own vehicles
Are There Any Special Events or Activities During Hershey Sweet Lights?
While Hershey Sweet Lights focuses on the drive-through light experience, there are some unique elements to enhance your visit:
Unique Experiences:
- New themed displays for 2024
- Northern Lights region with special effects
- Candy Cane Forest exit
- Family tradition: Count the hidden reindeer displays throughout the route
Entertainment:
- No live entertainment or character appearances mentioned
- Animated displays and holiday music playlist available through the Hersheypark app
How Does Hershey Sweet Lights Compare to Other Holiday Light Displays?
Hershey Sweet Lights stands out among holiday light displays for several reasons:
- Scale: With nearly 600 illuminated displays over 2 miles, it’s one of the larger drive-through experiences.
- Themed Areas: The attraction offers various themed sections, from classic holiday scenes to Hershey-specific displays.
- New Additions: Each year brings new displays and themes, keeping the experience fresh for returning visitors.
- Hershey Brand Integration: Unique displays featuring Hershey’s iconic brands and local attractions.
- Technology: Use of fog, laser effects, and animated displays enhances the visual experience.
| Feature | Hershey Sweet Lights | Typical Light Displays |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 2 miles | Often shorter |
| Number of Displays | Nearly 600 | Varies, often fewer |
| Themed Areas | Multiple, including brand-specific | May have limited themes |
| Special Effects | Fog, lasers, animation | Often static lights |
| Duration | 20-30 minutes | Often shorter |
What Tips Can Enhance the Hershey Sweet Lights Experience?
To make the most of your Hershey Sweet Lights visit, consider these tips:
- Purchase tickets online in advance for best pricing and availability.
- Arrive early in the evening to avoid peak traffic times.
- Bring snacks and hot beverages to enjoy during the drive.
- Download the Hersheypark app for the holiday playlist.
- Dress warmly in case you want to roll down windows for a better view.
- Bring a camera or ensure your phone is charged for photos.
- Consider visiting on a weekday for potentially smaller crowds.
- Make it a game by counting reindeer or specific displays with your group.
- Combine your visit with other Hersheypark holiday attractions for a full day of festive fun.
How Does Hershey Sweet Lights Contribute to the Local Community?
While specific community contributions are not detailed, holiday attractions like Hershey Sweet Lights often benefit local communities in several ways:
- Employment: Seasonal job opportunities for local residents.
- Tourism: Attracts visitors to the area, benefiting local businesses.
- Community Spirit: Enhances the holiday atmosphere for residents.
- Charitable Partnerships: May include collaborations with local charities (though not specifically mentioned for this event).
What’s New for the 2024 Hershey Sweet Lights Season?
The 2024 season of Hershey Sweet Lights brings several exciting additions:
- Jolly Rancher Remix display: A new themed area based on the popular candy.
- Wildcat’s Revenge coaster display: Featuring Hersheypark’s newest roller coaster.
- Enhanced Victorian Village: New uplighting adds depth to this classic scene.
- Northern Lights region: Featuring fog and laser effects for a unique experience.
- Updated Hershey Bears display: Celebrating the local AHL hockey team.
These new elements ensure that even repeat visitors will have fresh experiences to enjoy during the 2024 holiday season.
Hershey Sweet Lights continues to be a beloved holiday tradition, offering a magical and convenient way for families and friends to celebrate the season. With its mix of classic holiday scenes and Hershey-specific displays, it provides a unique experience that captures the spirit of both Christmas and the iconic chocolate town.