HERSHEY, Pa. — Hersheypark Halloween's haunts for all ages open for the 2024 season today, Friday the 13th.
Organizers say the park will be open for more days and hours than ever before over the next eight weekends. Year three of Dark Nights also brings even scarier scenes and extended storylines, including an all-new haunted house, Estate of Evil.
"I did not [sleep after it]," Amanda Polyak with Hersheypark laughed, detailing her experience previewing Estate of Evil before it opened. "Which means that it is a very good haunted house."
For those who like the scares, there are four other haunted houses and three designated scare zones. Those who prefer for their screams to come from thrill, not fright, can hitch a ride on the 50 rides that will be up and running during Hersheypark Halloween. It's the only time of year the park turns off the lights on select rollercoasters like Wildcat's Revenge during the last hour.
Kids can enjoy Hersheypark Halloween along Avenue of the Afterlife's scare-free zone, which features a dance party, character meet and greet, food and shopping.
"It's a great time for families to come, especially with young kids," Polyak said.
Of course, Halloween wouldn't be complete without trick or treating! Kids 12 and under are invited to Treatville to fill up their candy bags; costumes are not requires. Families can soak in the "Shake, Rattle and Glow: Monster Ball" show at the Music Box Theatre.
Hershey Halloween activities will run each weekend, including Friday evenings, through Sunday, Nov. 3. Tickets can be purchased online.