Hersheypark concludes its 120th season for the summer as limited operations begin (2026)
Hersheypark reopened on Friday, April 3, kicking off its 120th operating year and the start of its 2026 season. The Pennsylvania park’s regular hours started at 11 a.m., launching a series of spring weekend operations before transitioning into full daily schedules in the summer. Now that season is coming to an end.
Hersheypark concludes daily summer operations Sept. 7 during its milestone 120th season, marking the final day for The Boardwalk water park and the permanent closure of Tidal Force. The park reopens Sept. 12 for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.
This article was originally published on April 3 at the start of the spring season, and is updated to include the fall season.
A sweet legacy: 120 years of Hersheypark
Originally opened in 1906 by Milton S. Hershey as a leisure park for employees of the Hershey Chocolate Company, Hersheypark has grown into the largest amusement park in Pennsylvania. Over the decades, it has evolved from a simple picnic ground into a major regional destination known for its coaster lineup, family-friendly attractions, and signature candy-themed environment.
Today, the park features more than 70 attractions, including 15 roller coasters. Among them, Comet continues to make history as the park’s oldest continuously operating coaster, now celebrating 80 years.
Photo provided by Hersheypark
Tidal Force takes its final plunge
Hersheypark’s 120th season also marks the end of Tidal Force. The Boardwalk water ride will permanently close after its final operating day Sept. 7, concluding a 32-year run.
Tidal Force carries riders up a 100-foot incline before plunging downhill at speeds exceeding 50 mph and creating one of Hersheypark’s largest splashes.
Fall season brings Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights
Hersheypark’s daily summer operations and The Boardwalk water park conclude Sept. 7. The park will then reopen on weekends from Sept. 12 through Nov. 1 for Hersheypark Halloween and Dark Nights.
Most fall weekends follow this schedule:
- Fridays: Hersheypark from 5 to 10 p.m.; Dark Nights from 6 to 11 p.m.
- Saturdays: Hersheypark from noon to 10 p.m.; Dark Nights from 6 to 11 p.m.
- Sundays: Hersheypark from noon to 9 p.m.; Dark Nights from 6 to 10 p.m.
Fall admission includes five Dark Nights haunted houses and five scare zones, family-friendly trick-or-treating through Treatville, nighttime coaster rides,Creatures of the Night experiences (which start Oct. 16 at ZooAmerica) and seasonal food and entertainment.
Dark Nights haunted houses and scare zones are included with Hersheypark admission, although Fast Track access and tasting passes cost extra. Hours and attraction availability are subject to change.
Hersheypark’s spring and summer seasons
Hersheypark began its 120th season April 3 with seven weekends of spring operations before moving to a daily summer schedule May 21. Summer admission included more than 70 attractions, including 15 roller coasters, The Boardwalk water park and ZooAmerica. The summer season concludes Sept. 7, which is also the final operating day for Tidal Force after 32 years.
The park introduced new seasonal food and beverage offerings, including additional flavors for its popular King Size Shakes, which celebrated their 10th anniversary this year.
Photo provided by Hersheypark
Why regional parks follow a seasonal calendar
Unlike major destination resorts such as Walt Disney World or Universal Orlando, regional amusement parks like Hersheypark typically operate on a seasonal schedule. This approach reflects colder winter temperatures in the Northeast and creates time for large-scale ride refurbishments and infrastructure upgrades.
This seasonal cadence allows parks like Hersheypark to reopen each spring with refreshed attractions, updated offerings, and fully serviced rides.
Recapping the 2026 season
With its milestone 120th year transitioning from spring and summer to fall, Hersheypark continues the 2026 season with a strong mix of classic attractions, seasonal entertainment, and evolving culinary offerings. As spring weekends led into the peak summer travel season, the park once again serves as a key regional draw for families and thrill-seekers across the Northeast.
Daily summer operations began May 21, 2026 and conclude on September 7, 2026.
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